Building a Brand That Lasts: What Big and Small Brands Can Teach Us

When we look at big brands like Apple, Nike, Louis Vuitton, or Gucci, they always seem fresh and innovative, right? But here’s the thing—they’ve been around a long time. They didn’t grow overnight. It took years of hard work, creativity, and consistency to become the brands we know today.

How Old Are These Brands?

• Apple: Apple was started in 1976—almost 50 years ago! It began in a garage with Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak building computers. Now it’s one of the most famous technology companies in the world.

• Nike: Nike has been making sneakers since 1964. That’s more than 60 years! It started with one guy selling shoes out of his car and now it’s everywhere.

• Louis Vuitton: This brand is over 150 years old! It started in 1854 making fancy luggage. Now, it’s one of the biggest luxury fashion brands in the world.

• Gucci: Gucci started in 1921—that’s more than 100 years ago! It began as a small leather shop and grew into a luxury brand loved by celebrities and everyday people alike.

  
  

What About Smaller Brands?

You might think, "Well, I can’t compare my small business to those big companies." But guess what? There are smaller brands out there that look HUGE because of great branding. Here are a few examples:

• Crumbl Cookies: Crumbl was started in 2017, just a few years ago! They make cookies but have grown super fast because their branding is fun, consistent, and unique.

• Glossier: Glossier is a beauty brand that started in 2014. It doesn’t have a big store everywhere, but its branding makes it look like a giant in the beauty world.

• Made with Local: This company focuses on local, community-based food products. It’s not huge, but its branding makes people feel connected and excited to buy.

  
  

People as Brands

Some businesses are built around a person—someone who becomes the face of the brand. Here are a few examples:

• Tony Robbins: He’s been inspiring people for over 40 years. He didn’t just show up one day; he built his brand step by step by helping people improve their lives.

• Brené Brown: She’s been talking about courage and vulnerability for more than 20 years. Her books, talks, and social media presence have made her a trusted voice.

• Eric Thomas (The Hip-Hop Preacher): Eric Thomas has been motivating people for years, speaking from his heart and connecting with people in a real way.

  
  

What You Can Learn

Building a brand that lasts takes time. Even the brands that feel "new and cool" now have put in years—sometimes decades—of work to get to this point. Here’s how you can do the same:

1. Be Patient: Success doesn’t happen overnight. Keep showing up and doing great work every day.

2. Be Real: Share your story. People connect with authenticity. Let them know why you do what you do.

3. Think About Branding: Your designs, colors, and how you communicate all matter. Great branding makes even small businesses feel big.

4. Keep Improving: Brands like Apple and Nike stayed fresh by always improving. You can too—listen to your customers and make changes when needed.

   
   

Big brands weren’t built in a day and neither will yours. Whether you’re a small business or a one-person show, you can grow into something incredible with time, consistency, and a clear focus. Keep going, keep improving, and one day, people will look at your brand and say, “Wow, they’re amazing!”

You’ve got this. Start building your brand today—it’s worth it.