All
Art
Back in the day!
Branding
Business
Creativity After Hours
Design
Design
Graphic Design
Home Work Life
Non-Profit
Social Media
Tips and Tools

Where you work!

admin

I am very lucky to work in a thriving office space in downtown Brunswick, Georgia called The Wick. However, that wasn’t always the case. In the beginning, I worked in a little den space in my son’s nursery from home. Equipment all worked the same of course but my brain didn’t. I never left work, it was always right there, and I felt like I was never off the clock. I made myself too available, and I think I suffered creatively more than anything else.

When we moved from Florida to Georgia, I had actually found an office space outside of the home some years later before we moved. I was attached to it, and it was hard to leave. I met a few office mates and enjoyed having a destination to go to every day where no one touched anything, haha! So childish right? As a mom, with two kids having my drawing pens in the same place I left them the day before was worth its weight in gold!

Moving to Georgia brought new challenges for me and the business, new clients, new friends, new surroundings, and finding a new office. It took some time before things fell into place but did I get lucky! Not only is my office bigger and brighter here in The Golden Isles but the views are spectacular. My office mates are inspiring, and I feel more creative than ever. I routinely take kids to school, and I am in the office daily from 8 am to 2 pm everyday. I have a creative space at home, but this place in a historic old building is where I find most of my inspiration. Once The Royal Hotel here on Newcastle Street this community working space is the perfect fit. The owners have certainly taken the time to think about what our needs would be in regards to a full kitchen, a copy room, and a 14 person conference room. The accessibility is perfect, I can walk to lunch every day if I choose.

What does it all mean? First off that I am grateful. Secondly that you should consider somewhere down the road getting out of the house IF it’s something you desire to do. Rent of any magnitude is scary, I get it. I am here to tell you the rewards might actually outway the worry. As a mother, getting this little bit of “mine” made me more creative. It also gave me a space to display my work so that when clients come here, they have a visual view of the things I am explaining to them. I think it helps they understand my services so much more. Be open to what might make you better in your business. Be mindful in your daily practices. Most of all, be ready to take a risk if it feels like it’s the next step for you. Growing is change, but for me, it was worth it!

17.10.2018 0

My Favorites

admin

I recently was asked to make a list of favorites and although I thought to myself, what does that mean? It soon became quite clear I was ready to have fun with it. Here are some of my favorite things, I would love to hear about yours!

Favorite Color: Green, Indigo is a close 2nd
Favorite Book: A Land Remembered
Favorite Graphic Designer: Charley Harper
Favorite Sporting Event: The Kentucky Derby
Favorite Artist: There are too many to list, Frida of course, Andrew Wyeth, the list is very long.
Favorite Animal: Elephant
Favorite Flower: Hydrangea
Favorite Drink: Coffee
Favorite Scent: Clove, Satsuma
Favorite Place: The Blue Ridge Parkway
Favorite Flavor: Butterscotch
Favorite Movie: Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, anything Harry Potter is a close second. My 10-year-old self is not afraid to come out.
Favorite Store: Anything that is eclectic and has old antiques or old books in it.
Favorite Plant: All of them
Favorite Sitcom: Big Bang Theory
Favorite Saying: Good better best never let it rest until your good is your better and your better is your best. Thanks to Mr. Klauder, 6th grade science teacher for that.
Favorite Childhood Memory: My first concert, John Denver, I have loved live music ever since that concert.

05.09.2018 0

BRAND + EDUCATION = BRANDUCATION

admin

BRAND + EDUCATION = BRANDUCATION

The education one receives after having a new brand created. Let’s face it, a little knowledge never hurt anyone!

Yes, I know, I made all the English majors cringe and I apologize but it got your attention right? However, for me, Branducation is an actual thing. Through the years I have helped many small businesses start or refresh their business story with a mark, a logo if you will. The thing that is missing is what to do with it once you get all the little goodies that make up your brand story.

What is the main logo used to accomplish? When is it appropriate to use the submark logo and how often can you use it? How do I insert my Facebook icon? How often should I change it out? Do I need a Pinterest page? Do you know a product photographer? The list is long.

What I want to accomplish with this concept is that once your brand is created, I don’t send you out into the world with an unsettled mind. We have an opportunity to discuss all these questions and more with your new brand board in front of you for reference. A new brand and a little direction, the world is your oyster!

To learn more about my brand packages, click here!

29.07.2018 0

Brand Therapy, Do You Need It?

admin

xxx

Who Needs Brand Therapy?

xxxxxx

Do you have a name for your business?

Do you feel clueless about creating a name for your business?

Do you have a domain in place?

Do you know what a domain is?

Do you know your target audience?

Do you have your social media handles in place?

Do you have an idea of the competitors in your market?

Do you know what your mission will be?

Do you have a niche?

Do you have to have the color purple in your logo because it reminds you of your Memaw?

Okay, the one is a trick question but will cover those sort of questions too!

xxx

If you said no to three or more call me! You need to know why a hiring someone to craft a timeless brand will serve you and your business for many years to come and I am happy to explain it.

What is Brand Therapy?

xxx

Brand Therapy is something I designed just for you.

xxxxxx

It’s a telephone call or a visit to my studio where we sit down and I answer all the questions you might have that have built that wall in your mind that has made you stop moving forward with the dream of opening your own business or refreshing what you already have built. What is it that is holding you back? My goal is to mentor you through the creative process and most importantly to make you feel more confident in your existing business or the new business you plan to begin.

If you are starting your new business adventure there are a variety of things to worry about such as budgets, the name you have chosen, domain names, social media, research, who is your competition, how you will set yourself apart, is your story good enough, are you in the right niche in your field? It can immobilize a person and I know this because I have been there!

With ten years of experience owning my own small business, I can provide some great insight to your questions. There have been occasions where I knew something felt right and other times when something was missing. Once I consulted another colleague things became clearer. The light turned on again and I felt confident to move forward. I want to be that light for you!

xxx

What does it cost?

xxxxxx

$65 for the hour of consultation and nothing more.

If you choose to hire Typebird Creative to style your brand, this fee will automatically be credited to the brand design package of your choosing. If you decide you aren’t ready, then pay the consultation fee and walk away feeling more confident in what you know. My goal is to help entrepreneurs from day one. This program is designed just for that.

To learn more about my branding packages, click here!

29.07.2018 0

Is the business card dead?

admin

Interesting thought about business cards, are they really dead? I think this one is a matter of opinion, but in this graphic designers mind, they are most certainly not.

Social media dominates our world. All you have to do is look at the phone book that was recently delivered. That book is an old dinosaur to most folks. I used to sit on the directory as a child when I needed to be higher up to the table, and it weighed quite a few pounds. The recently delivered telephone book was about the size of a journal. The bigger questions is how many times do you refer to that book in your daily life today? Never would be my answer because I go online and search for what I need.

This leads me to the topic of conversation, the business card. Will it soon join its friend in the land of the dinosaurs? I don’t believe so and here is why.

Let’s do a little scenario. You are at a networking event and have to introduce yourself quickly to multiple people. What is the quickest way to do that? Business card.

Second scenario. You have been invited to speak at a monthly meeting, and these people could be your potential clients. You have 3 minutes to leave a lasting impression, and you can hand out materials. Leave the brochure, leave the rack card but make sure you leave the business card too because that is what will get kept. It may go in a bowl or a Rolodex, maybe even thrown into a drawer but it will be there and when they think of you and what will they search for? Business card.

Third and final scenario. An existing client has a meeting and meets someone who could use your services, but you are not there. They chat about you, talk about what a fantastic business you are, it’s a perfect fit. Luckily what does the supporter have to pass on to this possible new customer? Business card.

Ok, I think that is all the role playing we need for now. Hopefully, you are beginning to see my point. In our world today I still firmly believe you need a card to identify and remind people what you do. A friend recently told me she heard a podcast where they were discussing why you no longer need business cards because social media was your story. I believe that is partly true. Social media is a great tool for showing people what we do on a daily basis. However, the beginning of the story, the cover of your book starts with you and your business card.

07.09.2017 0

Netwerk Like it Ain’t Work!

admin

Networking. Some of us love it, some of us hate it. Either way, it is essential in your small business!

I have been very lucky to have many clients through word of mouth over the years that I didn’t have to face the networking crowds when I lived in Florida. It wasn’t until our recent move to Georgia when I found myself needing to get out there and meet my new community. I didn’t want to work here without being involved in the local area and knowing what clients needed out in the low country.

Here are some helpful tips to boost your confidence and get you on the right track for networking in your community. You will be a pro in no time and remember, everyone, is just as nervous as you are so werk it!

Where to Go
There are many networking groups in every city, the number one place to start looking is the Chamber of Commerce if you are interested in starting with a trusted source. You can also google networking groups in your town. I highly suggest asking locals for advice; there may be smaller groups you didn’t even know that fit your niche better. The bigger the city, the more choices you will have. Choices are a good thing! Most groups allow you to visit once for free if they require membership dues. They get to meet you, and you get to see if it’s the right fit for you too. When trying out a group ask yourself after, did I meet enough people who might need my services? Was there anyone interesting I would like to get to know more and possibly use their services? Does the time of this meeting work for me monthly? Being able to attend regular meetings after you join is paramount so make sure you can benefit from the membership fee you will have to pay. With this in mind take advantage of these one-time expeditions. Network with the folks you meet, don’t pass up any opportunity.

Find an Event
Ok, hopefully by now you have picked the right networking group; it’s time to breathe! Let’s talk about going to your first event within that group. Make sure you dress the part. If the event is a formal one don’t show up in casual attire, impress them, so they remember you! If it is a monthly meeting, feel free to wear day to day work attire but try to amp it up a bit. I can’t stress this enough; you need to be you but still look professional! I sit in front of a computer all day. I wear jeans because they are comfortable and I love them. Attire for an artist is just as important as it is for anyone else in the business world. However, when I go to a meeting I still wear jeans, but I certainly like dress them up to make an impression. Fun jewelry or scarves can certainly make any outfit pop so get creative and be memorable!

Ask a Friend
Know someone in the group? Ask them to join you! Friends make things more fun so why not use this as an opportunity for you both to mingle together. It’s a lot less painful I assure you. Plus it is a great way to cross network, they may know business owners you don’t and vice versa.

Have Enough
When I say have enough I mean have enough on all accounts. Have enough business cards, have enough courage to talk to people, have enough energy to be present, have enough skills that you can openly talk about and look knowledgeable in your field, have enough confidence to know you’ve got this! There have been many times when I have gone to an event and walked in the room and though, wow, I should have gotten better sleep and I probably should have ironed this shirt a little better. If you don’t feel 100% you probably won’t perform your best so give yourself some slack. Know in your heart this just might not be the right day to show up, it’s ok to miss one meeting, don’t beat yourself up for it.

It’s not over yet
So the event is over, and you feel pretty good about it. You have passed out business cards and have received some in return. Now, what do you do? Go back to the office and get to work? Of course, but don’t forget to carve out some time later that day or the next morning to email those kind folks who connected with you and gave you a business card. Even if you email them and they do not respond, even if you probably don’t see yourself doing business with them directly…they will remember that email and maybe down the line need your services or know someone else who might. If you do get a response from them, ask if they would like to meet for coffee to learn more about them. You can advertise as much as you like, but word of mouth clients are truly priceless. You can only obtain them through your ambition and drive to make your business the best it can be. Remember to be polite and available to connect and it will be rewarded, I promise!

Photo by Hope Farm Co.

In closing I would like to say, I got really lucky. When I started looking for that perfect group that would fit me best in my new community I found a creative group that made me a better. A better businesswoman and a much better artist! They inspire me and I am so excited each month when I get to see them all at our monthly meeting. There is a constant feeling of support and collaboration, they want to lift each other up which is a true gift. I have been honored to help some of them with their branding and in return, they have helped me so much as well. I also recently joined the Chamber of Commerce in our area too and I am looking forward to meeting more businesses in the future.

I will leave you with this last piece of advice, don’t be afraid. Others in the room are just as nervous as you are, know this when you walk in. Make eye contact with someone and just say hello to start that conversation. Now, put on your big girl pants and get out there, it’s time to NetWerk!

26.01.2017 0

Grateful

admin

Grateful is a word I use often. When I say it, I mean it with my whole heart. I have owned my small business for eight years, two months and a hand full of days. It is because of my clients that I can do what I love, design and help other small businesses in the process.

Without you trusting me I would not have people who were once clients that I can now call friends. Without you, my beautiful portfolio would be less exciting. Without you, there would be a part of me left without a purpose.

In doing this job it has given a mother great hope, you have made me a whole person again. A sense of independence and pride in being strong and intelligent enough to make all of this happen without ignoring the most important thing in my little world, my family.

I am honored to know each and every single one of you, I am more honored that you had the faith in me to help you. During this holiday season, I am giving thanks to all you. My clients, my colleagues, those of you who read my newsletter and give me feedback every month, my friends and my family. Thank you for all the encouragement and kind words through the years. Thank you for being on board with my creative ideas even when you were skeptical and then pleasantly surprised. Thank you for letting me teach you and for you teaching me. Thank you for being kind and understanding. Most of all, thank you for working with me. It’s a gift that I don’t take lightly.

I wish you all a wonderful holiday season and all the little fun things that bring family and friends closer together.

02.12.2016 0

What Do Graphic Designers Do?

admin

Many people have said to me lately “I don’t know exactly what you do.” When I hear that I get worried. I think to myself am I not doing something right to communicate to my clients what I actually do? What can I do better? Have they not been paying attention to my posts on social media? But then it dawned on me, I truly don’t think people understand all that graphic designers do.

zzz

If you Google this question here is your answer: “Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports.” But what do graphic designers, freelancers like myself actually do? There is a long list so get a cup of coffee, sit back and be ready to be amazed! Ok, we don’t have to go that far but here is the list.

zzz

Logos. Branding. Business Cards. Packaging. Menus. Brochures. Rack Cards. Promotional Items. Consultation for Non-Creatives. Invitations. Blog & Website Concept Design. Digital Banners & Ads. Letterhead. Custom Stationary. Billboards. Appointment Cards. Post Cards. Surface Pattern Design. Signage. Folders. Mailers. Stamps. Stickers. Posters. Printables. Thank You Notes. Tote Bags. Wrapping Paper. Gift Boxes. The Label on Your Favorite Salsa. Your Favorite Dress. Umbrellas. T-Shirts. Get Where I Am Going With This? We Are Literally Everywhere.

zzz

My, my where do I start. There are truly so many things we are capable of. However, many of us have a strong point. Something we love in this crazy design world more than anything else. For me, it’s a logo. But it doesn’t just stop with a logo, I love all the things need for creating an entire brand such as business cards, letterhead, I love to make it all work together. Many times before people ask why I enjoy it so much and the truth is, I can’t stop it. I drive by businesses every day and think to myself, “How would I have done it differently.” I know that sounds crazy but I do believe there are some things you are just really good at in life. This is mine. Now, with this being said, this does not mean I won’t do anything else. Of course, I will! I have the skills needed to design and have printed many items on paper or digital or any surface really. We are the folks who set up the things you need for your life with programs you have no idea how to use. Like a plumber who comes to fix a leak in your house that you also would not attempt to do yourself. Hire a designer, be proud of your results. Hire a designer who is an actual person you can talk to and not someone somewhere who you will probably never meet or know their name. Hire someone who wants to make you and your business better, who invests in you equally as much as you invest in them.

Graphic designers have a skill set of style cultivated through many years of education, along with many aches and pains…kidding. Critiques are rough y’all! But we are flexible, we want to help you with various projects, not just your logo but also that menu that has the logo we helped you create on top of it. We know a lot about printing and could probably give you some money saving advice without compromising the vibe of your business. I highly encourage you to create a relationship with a designer you know. You just might find a sensible friend at the other end of the line.

zzz

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Digital

04.10.2016 0

My Branding Process

admin

Listen. Learn. Communicate. Create.

Each graphic designer has a different process and it’s important to find the right fit for you. My expertise is in brand design because I enjoy the story. Finding a way to bring your style into your branding is essential. Research is where I begin. With a creative consultation, we begin to discuss your mood board which is a great tool to get you thinking visually. Once we discuss your likes and dislikes I begin to work. Logo choices are created and we decide what works best for you. Revisions are made, advice is given and soon you are off to promote your new or existing business!

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little more about my process. Designing a quality logo is an investment in your business. As a small business owner myself, I understand the importance of marketing. However, sometimes it is hard to get past that initial investment. I think choosing the right graphic designer is paramount. We may all have the same goal in mind, to make you stand out. Our approach to our craft and our sense of style is certainly unique to who we are as designers. My approach to design is very hands on, and my design style is clean and fresh. If you choose to work with me, I honor that trust and in turn want to do everything I can to make this a great experience for you. From our initial creative consultation to the mood board all the way to your complete brand, rest assured I am here to communicate through your entire experience and beyond. I am also very confident that your brand will be unique and a true reflection of who you are. I joke with my clients often that this experience is a little like therapy. Scary at first to take the plunge then the transition happens in the middle when you are finally understanding words like submark or one color logo, and then you come to the end with flying colors feeling so much more confident! With twelve years of experience and a genuine love of art in general, I promise to help the creatively challenged get creative, the already creative to continue that creativity in their brand. Be brave, be bold, be true, but most of all, be you in everything you do!

26.08.2016 0

Clients, I have favorites, shhh!

admin

There are many types of businesses and many types of customers. After years of owning my own business, I have discovered my favorite type of client, and I am not afraid to share why. Are they the only client I have? No. But there is one type of client that I enjoy working with from start to finish. Graphic designers do have favorites, but don’t tell anyone, shhh!

My most favorite type of clients are the creative entrepreneurs, non-profits and the clients who get the brand.

I love my Etsy folks and small, local businesses alike! Working with other creatives is so rewarding for me because I understand the hard work it all takes. I appreciate their process, and I make it a point to learn as much as I can about their product and what they care about their clients seeing. Every business man or woman has an idea, a dream in their head, I am always grateful to be a part of that moment. It’s the excitement in their voice after seeing something on paper with their name that makes it come to life for them. And when the logo is finished, the website is launched, and the product it launched it is still important that I promote them every step of the way. Here are a few of the many creative small business owners I have had the pleasure of working with.Creative

Entrepreneurs Unite!

One of my favorite makers is Caroline Randall Made. I have spoken about this business before with her beautiful Mason Jar Tumblers, but now she is making stunning monogrammed pillows! We created her logo together awhile ago, and I am always excited to see what she comes up with next. Make sure you check out Caroline’s Etsy shop online for handmade gifts. She creates everything from the pillows we spoke about earlier to mason jar tumblers, pencil cases, organic baby teethers, key fobs and more.

Do you meditate? Did you know you can learn how to meditate properly to relieve stress in your everyday life? You can at Meditation Buzz! So many of us could certainly use this technique for ourselves. I think this is a brilliant idea that will help so many people manage the day to day stress. Melissa has various types of classes and will teach you how to take a moment and breath, the correct way. I encourage you to take a look at her website, and if you are in the Jacksonville, Florida area you might want to check it out!

Non-Profits Make You Feel Good!

These kids, WOW these kids! I have been so honored to work with this group of kids out of Immokalee, Florida. Once a project, now a business. We started working together not so long ago designing the logo and brand for Taste of Immokalee, my how it has grown. They went from creating a tasty salsa to an entire line of products! Recently the line was picked up by various Winn-Dixie and Publix stores in the Lee County area of Florida. A friend messaged me on Facebook today saying how they love these products and will continue to buy them because of the taste and quality. Completely made my entire day! If you see these products, please grab them and open them up as soon as you get home. I promise you the story of how all it all came to be will inspire you, and the taste of the products will delight you. If you are out of the area and want to purchase the products online, they ship and make great gifts for any occasion!

You Get Me, You Really, Really, Get Me!

I love the client that fully understands the purpose and need for a brand. It is important that no matter what you promote for your business it has a consistent feeling in everything you do from your logo to your social media, it matters. Many people starting a business have a budget, and I am always aware of that but using your money wisely in your marketing budget to create your image is so important from the get go. Working with a designer can guide you in the right direction in telling your story. Don’t miss the opportunity to ask questions before you take a huge step in this process. Be you, be consistent and be unique!

17.02.2016 0