Don't 'look at competitors' because you'll follow their traits and trends; you'll end up with nothing that differentiates between you and them.

For inspiration, avoid the Internet especially Pinterest. Go to a gallery; see a range of styles, colours and forms that predates the Internet.

For the love of god don't just choose a font because it's 'web safe'.

And if you care about your business don't crowd source the design; you and your brand will look cheap.