Generation X Finance Needs a Logo

I've been running this site since 2006, but all this time I've never established a logo that can be used to solidify the brand. With increasing media mentions both in print and online, it's time to develop a high-impact and unmistakable logo that can represent the site.

Generation X Finance

Design Goal: Generation X Finance is looking for a new logo that can stand the test of time while conveying strength and trust.

Background: The site is currently used to discuss a wide range of financial topics tailored to the needs of Generation X (basically 30-somethings give or take a few years) although many topics are applicable to any age segment. Common topics include: saving money, investing, frugal tips, taxes, getting out of debt, and so on. You can see a sample of discussion topics at http://genxfinance.com

One thing to note is that proposed logo designs should not take into consideration the current website design or color scheme. I will be changing the design and colors, so don't feel you need to focus on the current colors. The new design will ultimately work around the new logo and have nothing to do with the existing colors or layout of the site.

Tagline: Helping a unique generation achieve financial independence.

While I have a tagline, I'm undecided as to whether or not I want to incorporate it into the logo. I wouldn't mind seeing logos both with and without the tagline incorporated. As the contest progresses I'll provide feedback one way or the other as to which way I want to go.

Design Style: I'm looking for something bold, yet classy. Try to avoid cartoonish styling and florescent colors. The design should ultimately look good on not only a web site, but in print, on t-shirts, mugs, etc. The total number of colors used should be kept to a minimum. The overall design size/shape should be relatively square to a modest rectangle format that's slightly wider than it is high. I don't want a logo that's really long and not very tall.

Deliverables: I'm looking for a high quality vector format that works with Adobe products. If non-standard fonts are used, the font should be included as well.

Feedback: I'm going to be very active in the design process. I will be checking submissions multiple times a day and will be rating all designs. I'll also provide regular feedback and answer questions and help designers brainstorm if I see something that catches my eye. Initially, I'm trying to limit the restrictions and requirements so I can let the creativity flow since I don't have a particular design theme in mind just yet. As I begin to see design elements that I like or dislike I'll provide the guidance needed to ensure you're focusing your efforts on where I see the end result going.

- Professional design that will look as good 10 years from now as it does today.
- Original content.
- Simple color scheme.
- Vector format.
- Square to modest rectangle in overall shape.

- Too many colors or a rainbow scheme.
- Serif or other "frilly" fonts.
- Reflection under the logo.
- Generic clip art.