First: A Modern Display Font That Elevates Any Branding Project
Testing First in a Bakery Packaging Design Project
Recently, I was working on a rebrand for a local artisan bakery looking to refresh their packaging and online presence. I opened the first packaging mockup with a blank canvas and started testing different display fonts for the product label. I dropped in First as a placeholder, and immediately noticed how its clean, modern lines and slightly geometric structure gave the design a polished, contemporary edge. Unlike many display fonts that can feel overly stylized or trend-driven, First struck a perfect balance between sleek and approachable—ideal for a brand wanting to feel premium but not stuffy.
First for Logo Design: Sharp, Memorable, and Versatile
I tried First on a logo concept for the bakery, using it for the main brand name treatment. What stood out was how well it held its shape at different sizes. Even in a smaller format like a business card mockup, the letterforms remained crisp and readable. The font’s subtle contrast and open counters gave it a modern sophistication that worked beautifully for a logo meant to be both printed and used digitally. It didn’t scream “trendy,” which is a big plus when designing for long-term brand consistency. Compared to other display fonts I’ve used, First felt more timeless—like a well-designed suit that doesn’t go out of style.
Using First in Web and Social Media Design
Next, I placed First in a website header layout and a few Instagram story templates. On the web, it rendered cleanly across browsers and devices, which is always a concern with display fonts. The font’s high x-height and generous spacing made it surprisingly legible even in larger, bolder weights. On social media layouts, First added a strong visual punch without overpowering the imagery. It worked especially well in hero banners and promotional posts where bold, short text is key. As a display font, it’s ideal for drawing attention without sacrificing readability.
First in Print: Business Cards, Posters, and Brand Boards
One of the most revealing tests came when I applied First to a set of business cards and a brand board. In print mockups, the font’s clean lines and confident structure translated beautifully. It gave the business cards a boutique-level feel—sharp, intentional, and just a little edgy. On the brand board, it held its own next to more traditional serif and sans serif fonts used for body text. I found myself using First not just for headlines but also for key brand values and taglines. It became a subtle but consistent visual anchor throughout the identity system.
When First Isn’t the Right Fit
While First performed admirably across most branding applications, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s definitely best used as a display font or headline typeface. I wouldn’t recommend it for long-form body copy or small-size editorial text. Its stylized forms and slight geometric flair can become distracting in extended reading. It also may not be the best choice for highly formal or corporate branding environments where tradition and restraint are valued over modernity. But for creative studios, lifestyle brands, boutique shops, and digital-first brands, First is an excellent fit.
Pairing First with Other Fonts
Font pairing is always a key consideration, and First played well with others. I paired it with a clean sans serif for body copy and a light script font for accents, and the contrast worked beautifully. The modern edge of First was softened by the simplicity of the sans and elevated by the elegance of the script. If you're using First in a broader modern typography system, aim for supporting fonts that balance its visual strength without competing. It also works well as a solo typeface in minimalist designs where the font itself becomes the focal point.
What to Check Before Using First in Client Work
Before finalizing any client project with First, make sure to review the font’s licensing terms. If you're creating brand assets that will be used commercially—like packaging, merchandise, or web templates—it’s essential to confirm whether the font license allows for those specific applications. Also, check what file formats and webfont options are included. Most modern commercial fonts come with extensive support, but it’s always better to double-check before delivery. Also, test the font across platforms and sizes to ensure consistency in both digital and print outputs.
