Would you drink a wine called “Herbacious Fruit?”
While I believe that a brand’s strategic needs should drive the type of brand name they choose, this #tellthetruths video shares some of my recent thoughts about how the category a name competes in will also drive whether the brand needs a cut and dried, descriptive name or something more evocative.
It’s hard to read, hard to pronounce and there’s no link to their positioning, but other than that…
There’s a lot to unpack in this pun-heavy brand name. Watch this #tellthetruths video and then tell me whether you think this name is showing youthful exuberance or just sucking.
No, not the bodice-ripper kind of romance. The kind with rich storytelling that draws you in and makes you feel something. This week’s #tellthetruths video explores a brand name that breaks quite a few naming rules. It’s not clear, not super pronounceable, and not immediately memorable. But the story shines through and that’s what makes it work! Surprisingly, even for someone who obsesses over clarity and memorability, I think this one earns its place through sheer emotional pull. Where do you land on names like this. Do you fall head over heels, or does the spark fizzle before the first date?
This week’s #tellthetruths video features one of my favorite kinds of brand name: clever, confident, and backed by a brilliant business idea.
Clutch Beauty Bar sits next to Girls Auto Clinic, where women can get their cars serviced without the condescension. While you wait get a mani, pedi, or blowout next door. Genius!
The name hits the sweet spot—automotive pun, beauty reference, and serious entrepreneurial vision. Now that’s a power move.
Know any other brands with names that snap into place this perfectly? Drop them in the comments—I always love to hear the good stuff.
We’ve got thoughts.
This week’s #tellthetruths video takes on a podcast name that left us… raising an eyebrow.
Is it clever? Is it confusing? Is it trying a little too hard to impress the word nerds? Watch the verdict and let me know if you’re buying it—or skipping the episode.
Normally, a name this maximalist, frothy, and extra would have me running for cover. But for this maximalist, frothy, and extra brand? It’s perfect.
LoveShackFancy isn’t my vibe—but that’s the point. A great name isn’t about what I like; it’s about what fits. And this one fits like a ruffled, floral-print glove.
Watch this #tellthetruths video to see why I think this name is just right—even if it’s not for me.
Sarah Blakely built an empire with Spanx, a name that snaps with energy. But her new high-heeled sneaker line, Sneex? Let’s just say… we think it sux.
Why? Because it’s a little too sneaky. A name should tell you something about WHY you need the product, and this one misses the stilleto point. Watch this #tellthetruths video to see whether you agree!
A brand name doesn’t have to be a work of art. Naming artistry is when a name just WORKS! Check out this #tellthetruths video about a recent brand name change that went from confusing to crystal clear. (In fact, the old name was so confusing that I say it wrong throughout the video. Oops! Good call to change it!)
The Super Bowl isn’t just about football—it’s the ad industry’s biggest night of the year. If you’re as obsessed with #superbowlads as BrandTrue’s Rebeca Arbona, follow her live on Bluesky during the game for the real play-by-play at @withonlyonec.bsky.social.
Rebeca’s expert commentary dives into whether these mega-pricey spots are touchdown moments for their brands—or just money thrown out of bounds.
