Separate the colour reference from the viewing conditions
Start with the brand guidelines and the colour specification they provide. Keep that reference attached to the artwork rather than relying on a screenshot or a colour name in a message. If more than one logo version is approved, identify the version proposed for each item. Ask the supplier which reference and file information are needed for the chosen decoration method.
Review the product colour and finish alongside the proposed mark. Note whether the surface is light or dark and describe any visible texture or shine. Ask how those characteristics affect the proposed treatment instead of assuming an image of one surface predicts another. Compare physical samples together under agreed lighting, and record the viewing conditions when they influence the decision.
Decide what consistency means for the complete set
Some projects depend on a particular brand colour; others need a balanced overall impression. Decide which requirement applies before approving several pieces independently. A notebook, drinkware item and box can create a coherent set without being judged as interchangeable colour samples. Explain which differences are acceptable and which would require a change, using the actual products as the reference.
If the first proposal does not meet the brief, compare a controlled alternative. This might be another available product colour, a different approved logo version or a simpler treatment that the supplier confirms is suitable. Change one relevant variable at a time so the comparison remains understandable. Do not solve an uncertain match by inventing a new shade and describing it as the approved corporate colour.
Hypothetical approval: one identity on three surfaces
Imagine a company choosing a blue notebook, a bottle and a printed outer sleeve. The design team initially approves three photographs taken separately. Before committing, it requests a combined comparison and checks each item against the recorded reference. The purpose is to see the relationship between the pieces, not to assume the camera has supplied a reliable final colour judgement.
Brandkom's catalogue can establish the exact product references, and its free Gift Design Studio can organise an initial direction for discussion. Confirm the real surface, decoration proposal and approval method with the team. Keep accepted samples or clearly identified approval records together. When a material, finish or supplier reference changes, review the affected colour decision again rather than treating the earlier approval as universal.
Before you move forward
- Supply the approved brand colour reference and artwork version.
- Identify each product colour, material and finish.
- Compare samples together under agreed viewing conditions.
- Record acceptable differences and the current approval reference.
- Recheck colour when the product or treatment changes.
Common questions
Can I approve a brand colour from my phone screen?
A screen can help review direction and layout, but it is a weak sole reference for a colour-sensitive decision. Agree how the supplier will demonstrate the proposed result, and identify a physical reference or another documented approval method appropriate to the project.
Should I reject every difference between items in a gift set?
Use the criteria agreed for the complete set. An accepted variation should be deliberate and recorded, while a difference that undermines the identity should be reviewed. Make that decision using the actual products and approved reference, not disconnected images.
Ready to turn the brief into a shortlist? Explore the catalogue or start a project in Brandkom’s free Gift Design Studio.