Big Belly's BBQ
Big Belly’s BBQ started with a simple menu design but quickly expanded into a full branding package after the client’s passion for BBQ became clear. I created a hand-drawn logo, designed packaging, menus, and more, ensuring a cohesive identity that would grow with the business.
PROJECT OVERVIEW:
Big Belly’s BBQ began as a home-based BBQ business selling platters, with the initial request being a simple menu design. However, after the client committed to growing his BBQ venture, we decided to expand the project into a complete branding package. This included logo design, packaging, menus, aprons, napkins, a website, and additional elements like a food truck mockup.
OBJECTIVE:
The objective was to create a fun, yet professional brand identity that reflected the hearty, flavorful nature of the BBQ offerings. As the business was evolving from a small operation to a full-fledged BBQ brand, it needed a visual identity that could grow with it—appealing to customers while standing out in a competitive market.
DESIGN PROCESS:
The project began with a hand-drawn logo, which captured the fun and inviting essence of the business. This logo was then refined in Illustrator, resulting in a memorable character—a playful, round image representing a “big belly” after a satisfying BBQ meal.
Once the logo was established, I expanded the branding to include a menu that matched the brand’s lively tone. I used bold typography, playful colors, and a simple layout to keep it easy to navigate while staying visually engaging. The design was extended to the packaging, aprons, and napkins, all featuring the Big Belly’s BBQ logo to create a consistent brand experience.
The website design carried the same visual theme, with a focus on user-friendly navigation and clear messaging. I also ensured that the designs were adaptable for future applications, such as a food truck mockup that would extend the brand to the streets.
CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS:
The challenge in this project was taking a simple menu design and transforming it into a comprehensive branding package that reflected the growth of the business. The solution was to build on the initial elements and consistently apply the logo and design principles across all touchpoints.
One of the other challenges was creating a balance between fun and professionalism, especially for the food packaging and website. I maintained a playful tone with the logo and imagery but ensured that the typography and layout remained clean and easy to read.
RESULTS:
The final branding package established a strong, cohesive identity for Big Belly’s BBQ, making it clear that the business was serious about delivering high-quality BBQ with a fun, inviting atmosphere. The hand-drawn logo and vibrant branding materials helped the business stand out, while the website provided a seamless digital experience for customers. The food truck mockup will further expand the brand’s visibility, ensuring it resonates both on the street and in the digital space.