Using our chosen typefaces consistently and thoughtfully is important for a cohesive brand presence. Use the following sections to learn which fonts to choose as well as when and how to use them.

Grand Valley has two primary typefaces: Open Sans and EB Garamond. Open Sans is our primary sans serif and EB Garamond is our primary serif. You may use these together or independently of each other.

Both type families are available for free download from Google Fonts:

Open Sans ↓   EB Garamond ↓

If you are unable to acquire and/or use one of Grand Valley’s primary typefaces, there are two system fonts approved for use: Arial and Times New Roman. These are typically available by default on most computers.

Consider these guidelines when designing with type:

• Limit the number of styles and sizes to create consistency and support the visual hierarchy
• Include plenty of surrounding white space
• Aim for balance when choosing your text's leading and kerning settings

Avoid these design choices that impede readability:

• Using all capitals in blocks of type of four lines or more
• Condensing or expanding text by stretching it
• Overusing emphases — if too many things are emphasized, nothing stands out
• Using drop shadows on blocks of text
• Using outlined type on blocks of text