You've done all the legwork to start your own company. You picked a name, put together a business plan and successfully launched it. But now you need marketing materials, including business cards. Where do you start?

There are a few factors to consider before diving into the design process. For starters, are you going to use a template or design it yourself? If you are designing your cards, you need to keep things like layout, format and sizing in mind before sending it off to the printer.

If you're not a design pro, using a business card template may be a better option. With templates, you can save time and won't run the risk of making mistakes with the sizing or layout of your card. Regardless of which option you choose, here are a few business card design tips to keep in mind.

Everything's Better in Color
While traditional white business cards with black text are simple, clean and timeless, consider adding a pop of color to your cards to stand out and showcase your brand personality. Color grabs our attention. It changes our perception. It even affects our mood.

Demographics
Not everyone will react to a particular color the same way. Studies have shown that bright, bold colors can be a powerful motivator for men, while women prefer warm, soft colors. Think about your target audience before committing to a color scheme.

Emotions
Color can have a profound effect on our mood and emotions. Cooler tones, like blue and green, are associated with trust and dependability, while warmer colors, like orange and red, connote confidence and cheer. What message do you want your brand to convey?

See more design tips on business card colors, backgrounds and fonts.

Get More Face Time
A photo on your business card is a great way to get your face, as well as your name, out there for the world to see. It especially makes sense if you're in a profession where image really matters — like sales, real estate or PR — and a photo could help clients remember you. If you choose to go this route, be sure to use a professional-looking headshot.

Logo
Your business card is the perfect place to showcase your company logo. Not only will it increase brand awareness, but it can also add credibility. Don't have a logo? Talk to an expert at Staples® Design Services, who will help you take your logo from concept to creation.

Ready to create your own eye-catching business cards?