The Story Behind Irish Eyes Design (And Why Logos Are Allowed to Evolve)
I've been designing logos for other people for over 20 years. But my own logo? That's evolved three times—and I'm not embarrassed about it.
If you're wondering whether it's "allowed" to change your logo, or if doing so means you got it wrong the first time, let me tell you: logos are allowed to grow with you. Mine certainly has.
So, where did "Irish Eyes Design" come from?
First: I'm a Gallagher. It’s a very Irish name. There's even a castle in Ireland tied to some story about a princess and a commoner, but I'll save that for another time.
Second: I went to Notre Dame. So being Irish is part of my identity—probably more Fighting-Irish than Ireland-Irish, though I'm hoping a trip to the Emerald Isle will change that perspective someday.
Third: Once you figure out how to pronounce my French first name (it's OR-lee—easier than it looks), the next thing people notice about me is my eyes. They're very light blue, and they shift color depending on what I'm wearing.
So really, how could I not be Irish Eyes Design?
How my logo has evolved (and why that's okay)
My first logo files date back to 2004. The logo was green then—obviously, right? Irish and all that.
The symbol was large and heavy, and “design” was way too small!
In 2012, I switched to blue. It felt more professional, more versatile, and honestly, more me.
Then in July 2024, I changed it again. Someone called me a "dot connector" and I realized that's exactly what I do—I connect ideas, people, and brands through design. I wanted my logo to reflect that.
Here's what I learned from rebranding myself twice:
Logos are allowed to evolve. You're always changing and growing. Your business changes too. If your logo no longer represents who you are or what you do, it's not "wrong" to update it—it's smart.
Small changes can make a big difference. Sometimes a rebrand isn't a complete overhaul. Sometimes it's just refining what's already there until it feels right.
A good logo works in multiple formats. Notice the gradient in my current logo? It's optional. A well-designed logo should work in one color, two colors, or full color. Versatility matters.
What this means for your logo
If you're struggling with whether to update your logo, ask yourself:
Does it still represent who you are today?
Does it feel authentic, or are you trying to fit into someone else's idea of what your brand "should" be?
When you look at it, do you feel proud, or do you cringe a little?
Your logo is an extension of you. It's allowed to grow.
Thinking about a rebrand? Let's talk. I've been through it myself (twice), so I know exactly how it feels to need something different.
Do you have an idea for a blog topic or a question you’d like to ask? Send an email to: aurelie@irisheyesdesign.com
