Authenticity vs. Getting Attention: Where’s the Line?

You’ve undoubtedly heard about the Supreme Court case “303 Creative LLC v. Elenis” by now. Lorie Smith, the founder of 303 Creative and a Christian web designer, told the court that she shouldn’t have to design sites for LGBTQ+ customers because it’s against her religious beliefs. And, horribly enough, the Supreme Court ruled in her favor.

But here’s the kicker: she made it all up. In fact, the man who Smith claimed reached out to her never did, and he’s been married to a woman for 15 years. In my opinion, this case was such a waste of the Supreme Court’s time and resources. They could do countless more important things instead of granting protection to a bigot. The implications of that case will only fuel more people like her to discriminate against the LGBTQ+ community.

There’s no doubt in my mind that she just wanted attention. However, she lost all credibility and integrity by pushing this case all the way to the Supreme Court. It calls into question the reasoning behind one’s brand. Do you brand yourself a certain way because it’ll get your attention or because it’s authentically you? The thing is, most people have a pretty keen bullcrap detector. They’ll align themselves with what’s most authentic. So, why do it? She could’ve kept her narrow-minded views to herself instead of advertising them on such a public platform.

Perhaps she doesn’t know herself well. As a designer, if you really know yourself and harbor strong principles, you can become a conduit for your client’s desires. When you operate from a place of integrity for yourself, you can wholeheartedly do it for others.

So, you have to ask yourself why you’ve picked a particular brand or why you’re trying to present yourself in a certain way to your customer base. If it’s not rooted in authenticity, it’s a load of bull.

Don’t be like Lorie Smith. Be you, and you’ll attract customers who need what only you can provide.