It’s Valentine’s Day, and here at 341 we’re seeing red! (and magenta, crimson, scarlet, and every shade under the “red” tree). As graphic designers, we understand how versatile the color red can be, with brighter shades conveying energetic vibes and darker shades being associated with power and bold elegance. However, the interpretation of colors is subjective—what evokes one reaction in someone can create a totally different feeling in someone else—here are a few tips to help you embrace the right red for your business:

• Red embodies some of the most beautiful and inviting hues, but many people steer away from using it for their business logo, website, or even office decal in fear that it’s too dominating. Incorporating just the right amount and degree of red can actually aid in your company to attract and communicate with potential customers.
• The various shades of red are associated with a plethora of meanings including energy, strength, power, femininity, determination, and (or course) love.
• Red can be a powerful accent color, but it can also have an overwhelming effect if used too much in a design. Instead, consider using it to bring a few text boxes and images to the foreground.
• Red is often used to attract attention and stimulate people to make quick decisions—it’s the perfect color for “Buy Now” or “Click Here” buttons on Internet banners and websites.

Love the meanings but feel the color is still too strong? Something as simple as changing the hue or saturation of a color can evoke a completely different feeling and meaning that will result in a perfect match for your business.