What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Most of my pricing starts at a base price for all simple services. Since there are many variables included with our services the prices vary across the board. We start with a quote and as the services are rendered we adjust the pricing.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
As a designer, especially, our industry is constantly changing and advancing. It is imperative to stay informed of any new technology introduced to our programs. In addition we are always required to keep up on new styles and changes in the industry as far as products and services. I am a member of a number of design groups and forums, and I continually read to further my knowledge of the design field.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I began as a Journalist major in college, and I had every intention of starting my own magazine for high school students and college students. We were required to take a design and layout course and I instantly fell in love. I was able to take my artistic abilities to the screen!
What types of customers have you worked with?
The most common jobs I do for clients entail start-up business items such as logo designs, business cards, brochures, and web sites. For the social department, my most popular items are Wedding invitations.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
Recently, I was able to help a local Pizza Shop launch their new web site. We come from a smaller town where most everyone knows one another. I knew the owners and their five children; they had very busy lives to say the least! It was a great feeling to help a local business get their business online.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Ask these questions to everyone you interview. Don't just hire the first designer you come across with the best prices. Ask to see their work! Ask for testimonials. Ask for pricing and ask why they charge what they do.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
I think it is very important for customers to know more about the process of design and the time and skill that goes into creating a unique design with strong appeal. It is easy for anyone to design, with hundreds of programs available to the online world; but it truly takes talent and learned skills to produce an appealing layout with a strong purpose to every element.
