Finding the right name for your brand might seem challenging at first, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach, it can even be a fun and creative process!
A strong name can open doors, build trust, and help your brand grow — while the wrong name could create confusion or even hold you back.
In this blog post, I’m sharing 8 practical tips that will help you find a name that truly fits your brand and gives you the best possible start.
1. Flexibility: Choose a name that leaves space to grow
Your brand name shouldn’t limit you to just one product.
When I came up with the brand ayoa, I made sure the name didn’t directly include “Water” or anything that would imply I only sell water bottles.
Why? Because I might want to expand the brand one day – maybe by selling vitamins or even opening a community café.
This would still match the healthy lifestyle concept I talked about in my last blog post about brand positioning.
Choosing a flexible name gives me the opportunity to grow the brand beyond just water bottles, even though that’s where I started.
👉 If you want to know more about the story behind ayoa, feel free to check out my earlier posts, linked down below!
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Avoid hard-to-spell names
Choose a name that is easy to say and easy to remember.
I always imagine asking a friend about a brand: Can she say the name quickly without thinking? Can she remember it after hearing it just once?
If a name is too complicated, people might forget it or hesitate to recommend it. A simple, natural-sounding name will stick much better!
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Give your name a meaning
A good brand name often carries a story or a feeling.
You can get creative: collect adjectives that fit your brand, translate words into other languages, swap letters, or combine two ideas into one new word.
For example, you could replace an “i” with a “y” or a “j” to give the name a fresh twist.
You can also mix a describing word with a product name to create a new playful combination.
When I chose ayoa, here’s what was important to me:
- “Ayo” feels like a positive shout, like “Hey!” or “Let’s go!”
- “Ayoa” sounds soft, flowing, and almost meditative – like water: light and refreshing.
- The name is short, internationally understandable, and flexible for different product lines.
⚡ Important:
If you get creative with languages or wordplay, always double-check the meaning!
In some languages, a name might mean something negative without you realizing it. A quick search can save you a lot of trouble – and make sure your brand stays safe legally.
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Check if the name is already taken
Before you get too attached to a name, make sure to search for it online.
If there’s already a brand or business with a similar name, especially in your industry or area, it’s better to choose a different one.
Having a unique name will not only make your brand stand out — it will also help you avoid possible legal issues, like trademark conflicts.
Taking the time to check early can save you a lot of trouble later!
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Check domain availability
When you plan to build a website, it’s important to check early if the domain name is available.
I recommend trying to get a .com domain if possible — it’s widely recognized, works easily with most hosting platforms, and is often the first thing people expect.
(Of course, depending on your brand and audience, a local domain like .ch or .de can be just as professional and effective.)
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Get feedback on your name
Sometimes, when you’re deep in a creative project, it’s hard to stay objective.
Write down your favorite name ideas and ask friends, classmates, or family members for honest feedback.
Explain quickly what your brand is about and see which names feel strongest to others.
Outside perspectives can help you find the best fit!
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Use creative tools to help you
Everyone approaches the naming process differently.
You can use tools like name generators or AI brainstorming apps to help you come up with ideas.
However, I personally recommend first thinking clearly about what you want your name to represent – then using tools as extra inspiration, not as a shortcut.
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Are you happy with your name?
At the end of the day, this is your brand.
You’ll be saying, writing, and sharing this name for a long time, so it’s important that you really like it.
If you feel proud and confident when you say your brand name out loud, others will feel that energy too.
A name that feels right to you will make your brand much stronger and more authentic over time.
Conclusion: Your brand name is your first impression
Choosing the right name is an important part of building your brand’s story.
Take your time to explore different ideas, trust your instincts, and don’t rush the process — it’s worth it. A strong brand name will grow with you, support your vision, and open new opportunities along the way.
Wishing you lots of creativity and fun as you find the perfect name for your brand! 🚀
