April 25, 2025

063: Designing Your Studio Brand with Erica Neubauer

32 minutes

Today, we are joined by brand and web designer Erica Neubauer shares practical advice for piano teachers looking to create a polished, professional studio brand. With over 15 years of experience, Erica breaks down what makes a strong brand—from knowing your story and defining your niche to choosing fonts, colors, and a logo that truly represent you. She explains why consistency matters, how to avoid common DIY mistakes, and what to consider when deciding between a personal name or studio name. Whether you're just starting out or ready to rebrand, Erica’s insights will help you design a studio brand with clarity and confidence.

Erica shared a brief overview of her background as a designer working with creatives, small businesses, and nonprofits.

She explained her work helps businesses communicate who they are through visuals.

The importance of telling your story was emphasized as the foundation of strong branding.

She encouraged teachers to define what makes them unique, not try to appeal to everyone.

How clear branding attracts the right students and builds trust.

The value of consistency across social media and marketing was emphasized.

She warned against using Canva logo templates or Etsy graphics due to copyright issues.

Erica explained that logos should be custom and vectorized for clarity and flexibility.

Tips for using your signature as a logo and keeping things simple when DIY-ing.

She recommended having a website, business cards, and one piece of print collateral.

Discussed between using your name or a studio name for your brand.

The benefits of hiring a designer to save time and ensure quality.

Guest Links Mentioned

Erica's Website: EricaSNeubauer.com

Erica's Facebook: Erica Neubauer Graphic Design

Erica's Facebook: @ericasneubauer

Erica's LinkedIn Page: Erica Neubauer

Today’s Guest

Erica Neubauer is a brand and web designer specializing in high-end branding and WordPress websites. She has a Masters in Graphic Design and has over 15 years of experience as a self-employed designer, working with small businesses, solo entrepreneurs and non-profits.

About Rachel Ehring

Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.

Visit her website at RachelEhring.com

Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring

Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694

Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

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By Tim Topham

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