Elevate Your Packaging Design Presentations with 5 Steps

Elevate packaging design presentations with storytelling: from mood boards to mockups, engage clients and turn them into enthusiastic collaborators in your creative journey.

Creating a successful presentation for clients is an art form in itself, especially for a packaging designer. The structure of your presentation can significantly influence how your clients perceive your hard work and creativity. To truly engage your clients and make them feel like part of the design journey, it's essential to start with a well-thought-out structure. In my Domestika course "Packaging Design through Analogue Experimentation”, I have prepared an additional resource file which provides a comprehensive visual overview, making it easier to grasp the entire design process. You can download it and access a more detailed visual guide of the steps mentioned below:

1. Begin with a Moodboard
The journey begins with a moodboard – a visual collage of ideas and inspirations. Your moodboard is your compass, guiding you through the creative process. When presenting to clients, sharing your moodboard helps them step into your world of inspiration. They can see the colors, textures, and themes that have fueled your imagination.

2. Unveil Your Sketches
Next, take your clients on the path you walked while crafting your design. Share your sketches, letting them see the initial sparks of creativity. These sketches serve as the blueprint of your thought process, demonstrating how your design concepts evolved and took shape.

3. Discuss Logo, Typography, and Color Palette
Now, dive into the details. Explain your choice of logo design, typography, and color palette. This step helps your clients understand the strategic thinking behind your design elements.

4. Present Flat Designs
Move on to the flat designs, the artwork files that showcase every facet of your creation that includes all the design elements. If you're working on multiple products, present one finished design and then share the color palette and copy intended for the remaining products. Alternatively, you can unveil all designs, ensuring your clients grasp the full scope of your work.

5. Bring Designs to Life with Mockups
One of the most exciting moments in your presentation comes when you show your designs in mockup form. A mockup makes the client feel like their product is about to become a tangible reality. Take a printed version of your design, create a mockup, and capture it from various angles. Share these photos during your presentation – they don't need to be professional; a smartphone camera will suffice. Be sure to showcase all sides of your mockups.

At this point as the client sees your designs come to life through mockups, you'll notice the unmistakable smile of excitement on their face. It's a moment of shared enthusiasm, where they can almost touch and feel their final product.

In essence, a successful presentation isn't just about showcasing your design skills; it's about storytelling. It's about taking your clients on a journey from inspiration to creation, making them feel like valued collaborators in the process. So, remember to start with a mood board, share your sketches, explain your design choices, reveal your visuals and flat designs, and bring your designs to life with mockups. Your clients will not only appreciate your hard work but also become enthusiastic partners in bringing your creative vision to reality.

You can explore my Domestika course, "Packaging Design through Analogue Experimentation." and join me on this creative journey, where I'll share in-depth insights, practical techniques, and hands-on guidance. Enroll today to unlock your full potential as a packaging designer and take your skills to the next level.