Branding is visually communicating your unique story, using a design system for a singular look that defines your brand's identity. A branding project begins with defining your story and values, which the design system is then based on. Your brand's design system has to work across multiple platforms, from digital to print items large and small, and it isn't just a logo! Brand design includes fonts, colours, logo, any illustrated icons or patterns, photographic style, etc. and how all these elements are used together. It has to work as a small social media icon, to large scale signage - and easily recognisable across all.
What's the difference between branding and marketing?
Branding defines who you are, your look and story, whereas marketing is the tools and strategies used in the promotion of your story and offering – without branding you can't do marketing. Good branding (unique to you, consistent and resonates with your customer) increases your chances of marketing successfully.