How to come up with a business name

How to Come Up with the Perfect Business Name

Choosing the right name for your business is one of the most exciting—and challenging—steps in starting a brand. Your business name is the first thing people see, and it’s a huge part of what makes your brand memorable. If you’re stuck or unsure where to start, here are some tips to help you come up with the perfect name for your business.

Start with your story.

Your business name should reflect who you are, what you do, and why you started. Think about your journey and what inspired you to launch your business. Is there a personal connection, a moment, or a value that you want to highlight? For example, I named my business Doodle Zoo as a tribute to my dog, Dotty, my creativity, and my love for animals.

Brainstorm words and ideas.

Make a list of words that relate to your business. These could include what you sell, your brand’s personality, or your target audience. For instance, if you’re starting a dog brand, words like “paws,” “fur,” or “tails” could be a great place to start. Combine words, play with spellings, or even try rhyming to see what sticks.

Keep it simple and memorable.

A good business name is easy to spell, pronounce, and remember. Avoid overly complicated or long names that might confuse potential customers. Short, catchy names are often more impactful and stick in people’s minds.

Check availability.

Before falling in love with a name, make sure it’s available. Check domain names, social media handles, and business registrations to ensure your chosen name isn’t already in use. Having consistent branding across all platforms is essential.

Think about your future.

Choose a name that grows with your business. If you plan to expand your offerings, make sure your name isn’t too limiting. For example, I wanted Doodle Zoo to reflect more than just dog accessories, leaving room for the brand to grow into general animal products in the future.

Ask for feedback.

Sometimes, an outside perspective can help you decide. Share your top ideas with friends, family, or trusted peers and see which ones resonate with them. Make sure the name aligns with the emotions or image you want your brand to convey.

Test it out.

Say your business name out loud. Write it down. Imagine it on a logo, a website, or social media. If it feels right, that’s a good sign! A name should feel natural and exciting to you—it’s something you’ll be saying and seeing every day.

Coming up with a business name takes time and creativity, but when you land on the perfect one, it will feel like the ideal match. Your name is the foundation of your brand, so choose something that feels authentic to your vision and resonates with your audience. Remember, the best names tell a story—and that story starts with you.