You’ve worked hard on your brand. Your logo, your colour palette, your tone of voice – all carefully crafted.

So why are your customers still getting emails from your Shopify store based on the default settings from 2008?

Shopify’s notification emails (like your order confirmation and shipping confirmation) have incredible open rates – often over 70%. That’s higher than most marketing emails will ever dream of.  It’s actually higher than most Instagram posts or even the majority of your website pages!

These notifications are not just receipts. They’re free branding real estate and an easy opportunity to:

• Build trust
• Keep customers engaged
• Encourage repeat purchases
• Create a seamless, on-brand experience
  
  

And the best part? You can customise them without any coding.

Step 1: Add Your Logo and Brand Colours

Let’s start with the basics.  Inside your Shopify admin, go to:

Settings > Notifications > Customize

This opens up Shopify’s Email Editor, which lets you update the look and feel of your notification emails with a few clicks – no code required.

• Upload your logo (ideally a transparent PNG)
• Choose your brand colours (background, buttons, text)
• Match the font to your website style (where available)
  
  

Pro tip: Keep your header background white if your logo has colour, so it stays clean and legible.

Step 2: Customise the Wording

Shopify’s default email copy is… fine. But it doesn’t sound like you.

Edit the text in your notification emails to reflect your brand tone:

• Friendly and casual? Add some warmth and personality
• Professional and polished? Tighten it up and add your usual sign-offs
• Got a brand mascot or signature phrase? Work it in

It’s a small touch that goes a long way in building connection.

Step 3: Add Helpful Links (Like Your FAQs or Contact Page)

Reduce post-purchase confusion and cut down on “where’s my order?” emails by linking to:

• Your FAQ page
• Shipping & returns policy
• Contact form

Drop these into the footer or as a gentle “Have questions?” note near the bottom of the email.

Your customer service team (even if it’s just you) will thank you.

Step 4: Tempt Them Back With an Offer

Don’t miss the chance to turn a one-time buyer into a loyal customer.

Here’s what you can add to make your emails work harder.

Related Product Upsells

Link to a popular add-on or “complete the look” product – especially in shipping or delivery confirmation emails when excitement is high.

Your Referral Program

If you offer rewards for referrals or future purchases, mention it.
Example: “Love your new purchase? Share it with a friend and get $10 off your next order”.

A Message from You

Include a short, genuine note from the founder or team. Something like:

“I’m so glad you’ve chosen to support our small business
We pack every order with care, and we can’t wait for you to enjoy your new goodies
Thanks again – you’re helping us grow something special”

This brings warmth and humanity to a transactional email.

TLDR – Your Shopify Emails Are a Branding Opportunity

Let’s recap:

• Add your logo and colours
• Customise the wording to reflect your tone
• Link to FAQs or helpful pages
• Add upsells or popular product links
• Mention your referral program
• Include a personal thank-you

These emails aren’t just receipts, they’re your digital shopfront, after the sale.

Want to see what a high-performing Shopify email looks like?

Check out my latest Instagram post where I break down a real-world example – and point out the easy wins most stores are missing.