Do you do in person consultations?
I do consultations in person if you are in the Kansas City, MO / KS area. Or I also do online consultations via skyp, screenshare, or online meeting venues.
How long have you been doing Graphic Design / Illustration?
Over 21+ years now, as it's been a passion my entire life. I knew what I wanted to do when I was in high school. I was lucky enough to have many teachers and mentors to push my passion on to education in the field and eventually a career.
Where did you recieve your education?
I received a Bachelor of Arts degree with an emphasis in Graphic Design in 2003 from University of Kansas City, MO. (UMKC)
Are you open to new projects not listed on your service list?
Absolutely! Bring it, I love new projects.
What are your policies reguarding payment & process?
An invoice will be sent via email for payment request. All payments will be accepted via Paypal, Venmo or Check & cash is acceptable with recipt (for tax purposes - hand written is totally fine). All branding project payments (even if it's just a logo) are due in two parts; a 50% non-refundable payment is due prior to work beginning and to hold your spot in line. The 2nd half of the payment is delivered at completion, before final files are delivered and/or website is launched. Depending on the complete total cost, various payment options are available, if necessary. Please reach out for more info if you need assistance on this. All print costs are due before items are sent to the printer or delivered to client.
Do you require a contract for your work?
Yes, I do. It will be sent using HelloSign a company that allows online signatures and this will protect me as well as you. It states scope of work and what is expected from me and you. This also will have both of our addresses, legal names and business names. I want us both happy and this way we both know what the plan is & everytihng is clear.
Typical turn around times for work?
Project time frames will vary due to client response times {revisions, scope of work, content, etc} and require a set schedule prior to starting your project. I request that all necessary items to start a job are in hand before I start; such as photography, copy & paste text documents, wanted colors and or inspiration board. Rush services are available at an additional cost when needed, but generally this just creates unnecessary stress.
Who hosts the website you design?
I design websites soley through squarespace. I require that you purchase your domain, select plan and provide me with your login information so I can work on the website project. You will be in charge of your website once my work is complete; this is basically why I choose squarespace as it's very user friendly and you as a client can navigate and do tasks very easy. Squarespace also has 24/7 support when you need help with anything. No excessive costs from me to tweak something or change something. It's in your hands right fromt he launch.
If I am not satisfied, what can be done?
Before I start the designing process, I consult with you to make sure our styles are meshing well & we will be able to work together to create your brand/website/logo/etc. This can be in person, a video chat, email back & forths or a phone consult; depending on the clients availability. When you purchase a package you will pay a 50% non-refundable deposit, so if you feel we are not creating the design & style to your liking you will not be required to pay the remaining balance. This rarely happens; I can usually tell right off the bat if I can complete a job to the clients liking with consult.
When can we start on?
I can start immediately, in most cases! This is my full time job and love doing it. I manage a few clients at a time and if my availability becomes delayed I will discuss this with you in our consult. I try to be as straight forward as possible.
What all do you do?
You need it; I most likely do it. I have been working in Illustration & Graphic design for 21+ years and have done many things within the scope of design. Branding (logos, submarks, squarespace websites, packaging, social media guidance, signage, marketing items, such as catalogs), custom artwork/illustrations, wedding/special occasion stationery (invitations, thank yous, maps, registered at cards, misc other items such as tags for gift bags.), communications with printer, photo styling, editing of current branding/packaging/etc, mood boards, custom stamps, wax seal stamps, embossing files and media kits.IF you don't see it, just ask.
How do you stand out from other graphic designers/illustrators?
I am not trying to get as many clients as I can to make as much money as I can. My goal is to do what I love everyday and make my clients happy. I listen to what you want, need and feel is right for you. I don't try to convince you of things you don't feel serve you & your business. I actually hate that. I am very concerned with budgets, time constraints and clients needs. I am not pushy at all, and know most people's businesses are their babies and mean the world to them. I respect that. Mine is as well.