At Studio West, we love a good launch. New offers, fresh websites, product drops, brand pivots; we’ve helped bring a lot of things to life over the years. But before we design a single graphic or write a single caption, there are a few things we make sure every client understands.

Because a good launch isn’t just about what you’re launching. It’s about how you show up, when you start, and what you’re prepared for along the way. Here’s what we always say before the big go-live moment:

Start earlier than you think

One of the most common launch mistakes? Rushing it. The truth is, building excitement and awareness takes time. We typically recommend a minimum of 4-6 weeks of lead time before a launch, with at least a few of those weeks dedicated to teaser content, waitlist sign-ups, storytelling, and education. The more time you give people to get curious, ask questions, and feel invested the stronger your launch day will be.

Show the process, not just the polish

Whether you’re launching a physical product, a new service, or a digital offer, don’t wait until it’s “perfect” to start talking about it. Your audience loves to see behind the scenes: early prototypes, messy sketches, mood boards, samples, sneak peeks. Document the process and invite your people along for the ride. It builds trust and makes them feel part of the story, not just a target for a sale.

Posting randomly isn’t a strategy

We get it—when you’re busy building something, showing up on social can feel like a nice-to-have. But consistency is key. A last-minute flurry of launch posts isn’t enough to make the impact you want. Think of your social content like a slow drip… warming people up, giving value, creating familiarity. That momentum matters more than one flashy post.

Cast a wide net

Instead of pouring all your energy into one tactic, spread the love. Put a little bit of marketing into a lot of different places. Your email list, social media, partnerships, in-person events, your website, even your packaging or receipts if you have a physical product. You never know what’s going to catch, and often the magic is in the mix.

Don’t panic if it’s quiet at first

We’ve seen so many clients feel discouraged if things don’t take off on day one. But traction often takes time. People need multiple touchpoints. They need reminders. They need social proof. Keep showing up. Keep experimenting. The first week isn’t the full story.

Organic reach alone isn’t enough

Gone are the days when a few Instagram posts could carry your launch. If you’re serious about getting eyes on what you’re offering, you need a paid media plan. That doesn’t mean spending thousands. But even a small budget for targeted ads can extend your reach, boost engagement, and get your product in front of people who actually need it—especially if your organic following is still growing.

Launching something new is exciting, but it’s also a strategic process. We help clients not only build beautiful things, but bring them to market with clarity, confidence, and staying power.

Want support on your next launch? You know where to find us.