Knowing how to design a business card is essential because it’s often the first impression someone gets of you or your brand. A forgettable card gets tossed, but a well-designed one tells a story, grabs attention, and keeps you top of mind. In this post, we’ll guide you through how to design a business card to stand out, from smart layout choices to creative ideas and key dos and don’ts that help you leave a lasting, professional impression.
This is the business card I currently use. Here are a few things I have done to make my business cards stand out. I can’t tell you how often I have heard how unique my cards are. I have had several businesses ask me where I get my cards so they can order some, because they are that impressed by them!
Here’s how to design a business card? to stand out effectively:
Shape
Switch up the shape of your card. Most business cards are standard rectangles, which is easy to forget. Want yours to stand out? Put some thought into how your card is designed. Try rounded corners, a fold-out design, or an unconventional layout—anything that makes someone pause and take a second look. A creative shape can turn a simple card into a memorable conversation starter.
Material
The material you choose for your business card can make a huge difference in how it’s perceived—and how memorable it is. Most people go with standard cardstock, but knowing how to design a business card using premium or unexpected materials instantly sets your card apart. For example:
- Thick, textured paper gives a luxe, professional feel.
- Matte or soft-touch finishes make the card feel smooth and upscale.
- Glossy or spot UV accents highlight logos or key details.
- Metal, wood, or plastic cards feel bold, modern, and impossible to ignore.
- Recycled or eco-friendly paper sends a strong sustainability message.
The material doesn’t just affect look and feel; it also communicates something about your brand’s personality and values. Knowing how to design your card with a unique texture or finish can make people stop, look twice, and keep your card.
Photos
Include a photo of yourself. This is especially helpful if you’re a blogger or personal brand. After meeting you at an event, it’s much easier for someone to remember who you are (and connect you to your blog) when they can put a face to the name. A friendly, professional photo adds a personal touch that helps your card (and you) stand out.
Socials
Include your social contact options. Not everyone wants to pick up the phone, so give people other ways to connect with you, like your email, Facebook, Instagram, or X (formerly Twitter). Understanding how to craft the card to include various contact options is smart because the easier it is to reach you, the more likely they will.
Your Name
Don’t forget to include your name. You’d be surprised how many business cards only list a blog or brand name, especially at conferences and blogging events. If someone wants to follow up or reach out, they need to know who you are. Make it easy by clearly putting your full name on the card.
Be Creative
Make your card uniquely yours. The image on the front of my business card is one I use across all my blogs, and people have told me it even looks like me! It creates a sense of familiarity and helps jog their memory later. Knowing how to design a business card with something that represents you makes it instantly recognizable, whether it’s a logo, photo, or custom graphic. This is crucial in knowing how to design a business card that reflects your identity.
Keep It Simple
Your business’s about page should not be on the card. Consider how to design your business card to efficiently communicate key information without overcrowding it.
Use Your Business Cards As A Marketing Tool
Turn your business card into a mini marketing tool. For my direct sales business, I attach a sample nail wrap to each card, and people love it! You can also include a discount code, a QR link to a freebie, or a small giveaway. Adding something extra grabs attention and gives people a reason to hold onto your card.
Use All Of The Card
Make the most of both sides of your card. Don’t let that extra space go to waste! On my Jamberry cards, I place a nail sample on the front along with my contact info, and use the back for simple application instructions. It’s a great way to share more value and make your card twice as effective.
Double Check
Finally, proofread everything twice. Ensure your name, phone number, email, and web address are correct. A single typo can make your card useless or unprofessional. You want your card to stand out for the right reasons, not because of a mistake!
Learning how to design a business card that stands out goes beyond just making it look good; it’s about creating a lasting impression. Every element matters, from unique materials and eye-catching shapes to personal touches and practical information. Think of your card as a mini billboard for your brand. It’s something people will want to keep. With creativity and attention to detail, your business card can become a powerful tool that does more than share contact info; it can open doors, making it essential to master how to design a business card skillfully.
I wold feel awkward handing out business cards with my picture on them. I have my logo on mine and am very happy with the way they look.
I recently switched from Blogger to WordPress and really need to order new business cards with the new url printed on it. I just love the look of these. They are different than the regular ‘ol boring versions!
What a cute way to tell people to remember you. I went to first blog conference last may and saw some really cute ones.
These are great ideas. When you’re self-employed, you have to stand out on EVERYTHING.
I love this post. Business cards are a primary marketing tool for face to face business. You need something unique to make people remember you.
You know, I really love this article. For so long, I had bland business cards, and I really think they hurt me. People need to remember you.
Your business cards definitely stand out! That would certainly give you a unique advantage over everyone else.
Your business cards are too cute! Mine are in need of an update but I really didn’t know what to do but your tips are going to be so helpful in creating new ones.
I think having your photo on the business card helps people remember the face to the name sort of thing. I LOVE yours – the foldy part is awesome.
I would suggest not making the card shape too unusual, because you want it to fit in a Rolodex or business card holder. I wouldn’t also want a persons mug on the card, unless maybe it was being handed out at a conference and you want to recognize them. I think the brand image logo is more important than the face of the owner. I don’t want to see glamour shots or selfies.
Your cards are awesome! Thank you so much for the tips, I currently have plan business cards with my picture and info, but am looking to do something completely different once my name changes with marriage this year. Will definitely be coming back to this post, thank you!
I am really loving these business cards! I love how the flap flips up and your pic is there! Cool!!
I’m re branding and I am going to need some B cards again too. I like the photo idea. Maybe I can put a photo of me with a camera in my hand.
My current business cards are from Tiny Prints and they are open up cards just like yours! They do get a lot of buzz when I hand them out because they are so unique compared to most others.
What great tips. It is definitely a must to have a photo on there.
Thanks for reminding me that I need to update my plain, boring business cards. I’m an affiliate for Tiny Prints, so you’d think I would have done so by now. 🙂 Your cards are the bomb, by the way. I need to get busy with this ASAP. All of your tips are excellent.
Your cards do stand out. I use the Moo services and loved them, too.
I love the flip card! I think the key to good marketing is to be memorable no matter what you’re doing. That includes business cards!
Those are awesome business cards! Thanks for these tips too. I need to order some new cards soon!
Such great advice! I love when business cards don’t look like that typical business card that everyone seems to have. Yours is so cute and fun!
Love your business card. Thanks for this great tips to help make mine even better.
Great ideas! I love the pics of the business cards you posted. They definitely stand out!
Oh those are really neat! I need to update my business cards, mine are a couple years old and it has an outdated theme to the cards. Yours look very nice.
Your Cards are truly unique. I like that you put your face on it which is great for personal Branding. Great Tips by the way
Thank you for the inspiration! Your business cards are super cute, and unique. I’m always out and about and NEVER have my cards on me when I need them. You did an amazing job designing yours 😀
I totally agree! I re-did my business cards about a month ago and it was nerve wrecking going back and forth to make sure that I chose the right design! Thanks for sharing your tips!
I need to create new business cards soon!
Love your business cards. Definitely unique!
I do most of those things! But I’ve always used ‘normal’ sized cards. I need to order new ones – so I guess I’ll be changing the size/shape this time!
I think these are so cool! In fact, I want to order some that are very similar!
I have never seen a business card like that but that’s beautiful. I love your nails by the way.
I like your cards and I think having personal photos really help especially at events as I think the PR’s can remember you better by putting a name to the face.
Unique business cards are definitely the way to go. I hate getting tons of plain business cards because they don’t stick out in my mind, and then I have to flip through to find what I’m looking for.
Good advice. I like yours. Unique shape is good.
What great ideas. I love your cards. I have never thought about doing mine any different, but want to now. Thanks for the ideas.
Oh, I love your business cards. I made some up last year but looking into getting nicer ones. Will have to check out Tiny Prints.
This is very good advice. I have gotten 2 different kinds of business cards made in the last 2 1/2 years, and while I have not heard much from people by passing them out, I do tend to leave them at random places such as bulletin boards, benches outside, and more.
Great tips. Having a picture is so important, pr people tell me all the time how much they appreciate that!
I’ve had people ask me for a business card before for the blog. It’s so rare though (for me) that I haven’t had any made. Maybe someday. 🙂
I didn’t even know TP did business cards! I love my cards- I get them done by MOO, who I used to work for. I think what makes them stand out is the amazing cardstock!
I like TIny Prints. They’re an awesome company with great designs.
I like how you included a photo of yourself inside. What a great idea!
I think the card with a picture on it is great if you are in the entertainment world. I have two separate cards. One for business and one for theatrical!
I LOVE Tiny Prints! I just ordered new business cards for my next conference and they’re the best business cards I’ve ever had for my blog. I think these are some really great tips for creating business cards.
Your business cards are adorable! I would definitely remember them!
Your cards are fantastic looking. I need to design and print cards for my business.
These are great ideas for business card ideas, thank you! I have yet to ever give someone a card, but I hope to someday!
I love all these suggestions! I’ve been dragging my feet on getting new business cards for a couple of different business ventures I have going on, but I think I’m finally going to sit down and get busy on it 🙂
That is such a creative business card. It really looks awesome. I’d love to do something fun with mine.
I think I would love some of these cards! They are so unique!
These business cards are great for making yourself stand out! Thanks for telling me about them!
I have never considered a business card with my picture on them. Sounds good to me!
Very nice business cards, and I am in need of some. Thank you for this timely post. I will be giving them an order very soon.
These are great tips. I love that your card folds, lots of extra room for information or images. Its important to have a business card that stands out!
These are very nice business cards. I still haven’t gotten any and keep meaning too. I’ll have to check out Tiny Prints.
I just redid my business cards. I like your first image card that one’s cute
Think I might have to redesign my business cards! I’ll take one of your tips!
What a fun and unique card. I love all the bright catchy colors.
I like your design on your business card, and I really love to design my own card it makes me so much fun.
I’ve really been looking into making business cards lately! I love this fold out option!
Tiny Prints is my go-to online destination when I want unique business cards to stand out! I prefer the rectangular ones, though, especially since they’re easier to spot out on business boards in public places, such as the grocery store. However, I may consider something more unique if I ever decide t o attend a blog conference.
My husband keeps telling me I need business cards. I love the ones that you made. I will have to look into doing this.
These are such cute business cards! I can’t wait to try one of the featured designs for my own card!
These are great tips…I’m definitely bookmarking this post. I’m in the process of developing new business cards!
Your business cards are so stinkin cute! How did you get the cartoon version of you made?
Thank you for this! I’ve actually never had a business card, but I’ve been meaning to get some made.
Very nice business cards – the picture is a great idea.
Those are super cute. I need to purchase new ones. They look very unique and stylish to your theme. I bet you love them!
The cards are cute, but let’s talk about those nails! Adorbs!
These are great tips. I’ve heard lots of amazing things about Tiny Prints. I will have to use them!
That’s great idea! Having a good business card is very important in business now a days and people will get a first impression by looking at it first.
Great tips for business cards. I have always included my picture because I know that I remember faces over names!
I love Tiny Prints and their business cards! Yours are adorable!
I will have a business card made for my blog when I do my final redesign though I just finished making a mock up copy just to see what I could do. Thank you for the very useful tips.
I wish I cold of read some of these tips when I made my business cards last month. I will definitely try making my set of cards differently shaped.
I love your business cards! They are so unique! We made a switch on ours as well I love how people have become more fwd thinking with their own PR.
Glad to read this post today. I have to have new cards printed and I want to switch it up. Great tips!
What cute cards! I need to get some done! I love the one that opens. That’s an awesome and creative one!
All of these are great ideas! My husband once made a spelling mistake and saw it after we received the 100 cards he ordered. We won’t forget to look for misspelled words anymore. I love your cards! The flip up with a photo is a nice touch.
These are some pretty awesome business card ideas!! I’m trying to brainstorm up a cleaver one for myself for the blogging conferences I’m attending this summer. Definitely wanna stand out 😉
You shared some wonderful tips! Thank you! I love designing my business cards, and I only order in smaller increments, like 50 because I want to have a fresh design on the next. 🙂
I have not gotten professional business cards yet, but they are on my list of things to do. I look how yours came out!
I love your card, it’s perfect! I need to get some business cards made soon and now I have inspiration and the tips to make them great! Thanks
These are some awesome tips! I’ve been meaning to get a business card made up for my site so this will be very helpful! thanks so much! 🙂
Tiny Prints are great. I used them for my daughter’s graduation announcements. These are great tips!
A lot of great tips for business card buyers! I especially agree with including social media contacts. Some people would rather not have to deal with a phone call!
I love these! They are really fun! I need to order new ones too!
So pretty! I ‘m planning on updating the design of my business card, and yours rocks! 🙂
These are great tips and I really like your card! I think most important for creating business cards is the uniqueness as well as the simplicity.
This is awesome indeed. I love your business card and it is unforgettable because it is so unique. These are awesome business cards for sure. Thanks for sharing .
I like getting crafty cards. I once got one that was handmade with a stamp and washi tape. So cute!
I love those little skinny business cards but I am always scared someone will lose it because it’s so small!
Those are all great tips. I like that you included to spell check. I would probably do it a few times and still find an error after printing!
I love your last tip! I used to work closely with a printer and was shocked to learn how many people approved their own business cards with errors in them.
These are cute! I got some real thick cards made last year that I really like that stand out.
That is a cute business card – something that I would actually choose for mine. I’m still thinking though if I really need one. We’ll see.
SO SO true for all of these tips! Something I remember from traveling is that certain cultures find it disrespectful if they hand you their card and you simply slip it into your pocket or wallet without looking at it so I ALWAYS make sure to look it over in front of them to show I care about their business or our future working relationship!
These are great tips. I agree, business cards are so important in standing out!
THANK YOU! My husband just started a job that he needs business cards for (he was a teacher from the time he graduated, until now)!!! We have been trying to find the best way to make his business cards different than the rest!
Love your business card. I love when I get business cards with a photo on it as it helps me remember who the person is. Which is the point of giving a business card, right?
Your business cards are so cool! I like that they have your picture on them, but knowing me I would despise my cards after a few months because of my picture.
This is a great list of practical stuff that people should consider to make their business cards stand out. While back-to-back cards ( at least for me ) give you more room to put more info it really isn’t cost-efficient. It’s always best to have everything that you want to say ready all in one look. It saves time and money.
I’m in the UK and I used TinyPrints because they were so amazing – their customer service was just out of this world. I’ll be buying more this month!
These are really great tips. Thank you for sharing!
Your business cards turned out super cute! These are definitely some great tips when it comes to creating business cards. Thanks for sharing.
I LOVE your cards! I would love to put my picture on mine, but I just couldn’t make it happen. I do like mine though (for my blog) although I need other cards now for my other business. I’ll need to follow these tips.
This post came at a prime time for me. I just got a blog redesign and we’re in the midst of making huge changes to the blog, and I really need to order new business cards. These are some very valuable tips too. Thanks for sharing about Tiny Prints. I had not heard of them before.
Great tips! I need to order more cards soon and will keep these ideas in mind!
Thanks for the tips! I didn’t know tiny prints made business cards. Going to check them out now! 🙂
Over the years I’ve learnt that it`s important to have a great looking business card. Even today in the age of digital contact cards. I think a good card should stay simple and be somehow memorable. It`s a good idea to make it associated with you (i.e. if people think you’re fun use bright colors). Remember, today very few people still use business cards and that mean you can have an advantage. Use it.
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