The Name Game: Our Search for a Project Identity
At one point every project needs a great name.
But holy moly! This chapter was quite an undertaking! Not only took it very long to find something we were both psyched about. No, we also had to put up with a lengthy research. After all, we didn't want to step into a faux pas, even before our project got off the ground. Eventually we got there and we are excited! Learn more about how we faced this task.
You can imagine that in a world where thousands of ideas, names and trademarks already exist, it’s quite a challenge to find a catchy name. At one point we asked ourselves, if it was even possible to find a good sounding one? Ok, let’s take it on!
Don't fall in Love with your Ideas!
Early in the project we discussed a few possibilities. However, each time either Sandrine or Adrian was convinced. Well that wasn’t an option and so we had to try harder because we’ve set ourselves the goal that both should be thrilled about the name. Makes sense doesn’t it? In the end it represents the core of our idea. If the name alone is based on a compromise, then everything else is doomed to fail.
One important lesson we’ve learned was not to fall in love with our ideas. Initially we tried to convince each other, knowingly that the other didn't like it. Still we kept working on, discussed and tried to get excited about them. The solution is not to convince the other, but to build upon our ideas and create a product together. The aim should be to inspire each other so that in the end both can identify themselves with the result.
At first, we fell for two particular project names. In one of them we replaced a letter by a symbol such as a fork or a wine glass. Looked great we thought. But at the same time we weren’t sure, if such symbols would be well received or whether this made some people feel “excluded”. To be on the safe side we tried to avoid names that could possibly cause a fuss, but instead be well disposed to all people 🙂.
The other proposal we had in mind was a French name which funnily enough is similarly pronounced in English. We were seriously considering this option. French words sound chic but we were doubtful, whether it would reach the same popularity like an English name. And seriously - who wants foreigners pronouncing French names 😉!?
No way, is this possible?!
After six months of travels some magic happened. In Oaxaca City, which is considered the gastronomic capital of Mexico, we were in our favorite coffee spot, sitting, working, discussing. Fed up with what we had so far, we took a pen and paper for one last brainstorming session and it went like this: “Eating”, “Traveling”, “Hosting”, “Culinary”, “Food”, “Nomad”… Hold on… That’s it...! Quick, google it! No way the name is available!! www.food-nomad.com is available!!
We are super happy that we finally found a nice project name. Our identification with and commitment to the project has vastly increased ever since. Everything has become more concrete and tangible. In short, the project is taking shape.
FYI: Now that our name is revealed, we will rename our Instagram account soon. Keep you posted😉
