Q & A With PowerBand Graphics LLC

Visit PowerBand on Facebook

The Downtown Lincoln Association sat down with the founder and head designer of PowerBand Graphics LLC, John Holtgrew, to find out more about his graphic design house that recently moved to its new home downtown on the 6th floor of the Gold’s Building on 10th and O Streets. The business got its start in January 2005 and does web design, email marketing, logo design, retail design, illustration and animation and print design for local and small businesses.

When exactly did PowerBand move into its new downtown location?

John: I moved in June 20th, 2011 after a few weeks of remodeling and hunting for furniture.

Are you enjoying being downtown so far?

John: I’m loving being downtown a lot! There’s a lot of energy and things to do here.

For those who have never heard of PowerBand before, describe it in one sentence.

John: PowerBand Graphics provides creative branding and graphic design for businesses.

What kinds of services does PowerBand offer?

John: Services we offer include branding, logo & identity design, website design, email marketing and advertising design.

What made you want to work in the field of graphic design?

John: Going to art school really solidified my love for art and working for a company after college providing marketing assistance for businesses helped establish my desire to help small businesses.

You’ve spent several years in the industry, what are some of the most important things you’ve learned thus far?

John: I’ve learned to always try something new, be passionate & knowledgeable about what you do and never get complacent.

Why do you think it’s so important for small/local businesses to have an established brand identity?

John: It’s important because it’s so easy for consumers to find a competing company and go elsewhere. Everyone has the same methods to market themselves. By creatively finding out what really makes them unique and branding themselves with it, it can make a business much more appealing than just a larger ad.

As you’ve undoubtedly learned, identities are critical for new businesses looking to thrive in their own markets. What was the inspiration behind the name, logo and positioning that has become the PowerBand identity?

John: PowerBand Graphics initially was created as a more general design service. As the business plan matured I realized that the “PowerBand” represented a point where a business’s identity, advertising and web presence are working together most efficiently for the company’s brand, much like the powerband of a performance engine.

Can you tell people a little bit about the blog you have on your website and what you write about?

John: The blog on http://www.powerbandgraphics.com covers topics that I think are important to a business that is looking to improve its brand. There are design tips, search engine marketing info, social media tips, branding information and also posts showcasing and promoting businesses that I’ve worked with. Basically, if I feel like I have knowledge that can help a business owner, it’s on there.

What types of clients have you had, and what are some of the things you’ve done for them?

John: I’ve had a variety of clients in many different industries. For a couple of my restaurant clients (including one opening here downtown soon) I’ve done logo design, identity, menu design and website design. I’ve provided affordable web design and branding to individuals starting their own companies that range from photography, home energy rating and insurance. I’ve also worked with more established businesses including local retail and landscapers that were looking to improve their image and professionalism with redesigned branding, ecommerce or the ability to reach more customers with email marketing.

Anything else you want to let people know about PowerBand Graphics LLC?

John: PowerBand Graphics doesn’t just sell a service, we help provide a way for businesses to tell their stories more effectively, inventively and in ways which reach more people. A professional looking, creative and consistently used brand can increase the value and bottom line for almost any business, we are here to help you do just that.
—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Stay up to date with PowerBand on their website, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn pages.