What to Expect During a One-on-One Packaging Design Process

If you’re considering hiring a professional packaging designer, you may be wondering what the process looks like. Many small business owners feel uncertain about collaborating with a designer, but rest assured—it’s an exciting, creative journey tailored to your brand’s specific needs.

In this post, we’ll break down the one-on-one packaging design process, so you know exactly what to expect every step of the way.

Step 1: The Initial Consultation

Every successful design process begins with a conversation. During the consultation, you’ll discuss:

  • Your brand story, mission, and values.

  • Your goals for the packaging redesign (e.g., improving shelf appeal, increasing sales, or launching wholesale).

  • Details about your target audience and competitors.

You’ll also share any brand assets, such as your logo, color palette, or packaging inspiration, to ensure the designer understands your vision.

Step 2: Concept Development

With the initial consultation complete, the designer will create design concepts that align with your brand and goals. This phase includes:

  • Exploring layouts, typography, and colors.

  • Mockups or digital renderings of potential designs.

  • Considerations for functionality and practicality (e.g., ease of use, sustainability).

You’ll receive drafts to review and provide feedback, starting the collaborative process of refining the design.

Step 3: Feedback and Revisions

Your input is crucial to the design process. After reviewing the initial concepts, you’ll work with the designer to:

  • Refine colors, fonts, or layouts.

  • Adjust messaging or placement of product details.

  • Ensure the design reflects your brand personality and resonates with your audience.

The designer will revise and polish the design based on your feedback until it’s perfect.

Step 4: Finalization and Production Prep

Once you’ve approved the design, the designer will prepare the final files for production. This includes:

  • Creating print-ready dielines with precise measurements.

  • Ensuring compatibility with your chosen printer or manufacturer.

  • Providing guidance on materials, finishes, and other technical details.

Some designers also coordinate directly with printers to ensure the production process runs smoothly.

The one-on-one packaging design process is designed to make your experience stress-free, collaborative, and rewarding. You’ll end up with custom packaging that not only looks amazing but also works for your business goals.


“Ready to start your one-on-one packaging design journey? Let’s create packaging that reflects your brand and drives results!


At Hidden Path Creative, our mission is to support product-based businesses with a standout packaging design that grows their brand recognition and sales. 

If you want to work together, please drop us a line here. We love connecting the creators of innovative products. 

Oh, and come say hi on Instagram, and join a community of like-minded product entrepreneurs!

Download our free packaging ROI Calculator to see exactly what kind you can expect from a brand refresh.

Kelley Kempel

Kelley Malone Kempel is a brand-obsessed, packaging guru on the lookout for adventure. In 2020, she founded Hidden Path Creative, a boutique design studio focusing on branding and packaging design for start-ups & emerging brands. Kelley is passionate about helping entrepreneurs find the path for their brands.

http://www.hiddenpathcreative.com
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