The Process
What to expect during a project
Jump to a section:
Communication | Contracts | Deliverables | FAQ | Forms | Homework | Payment | Resources | Timelines
ONBOARDING & ADMIN
INTRODUCTION
Let’s get to know each other! In a call or video chat we’ll talk about you, your business, and what you need and want out of this project. We’ll go over goals, visuals, timelines, budgets, deliverables, and any next steps. You can always come back to this page as a reminder about what’s coming next, and easily find resources.
DISCOVERY & CONTENT
PREPERATION
To get started, I’ll need a few essentials like your finalized content, images, and project dimensions. While you tackle that "homework" and the questionnaire, I’ll dive into the research and sketching that fuels the creative process. This is our most collaborative phase, with your assets in hand, the "magic" will officially begin!
DESIGN & REFINEMENT
DESIGN
You can sit back and relax while I get to work bringing your vision to life! I’ll be busy behind the scenes researching and ideating unique concepts just for you, reaching out only when I have proofs to share or need your sign-off. The review process is vital to ensure everything aligns with your goals, so I’ll provide resources to help you feel confident in your feedback.
FINALIZATION & TRANSFER
COMPLETION
This is the exciting part! Once all items are approved and you’ve signed off, I’ll get to work preparing all the files and getting them in tip-top shape for you. You’ll be provided with all the deliverables in various formats and resources to make sure you’re set up for success.
Communication
Clear communication is vital to our project's success. I've meticulously prepared for your project, and you'll have access to project details every stop of the way.
Office Hours I’m available to collaborate and chat during my standard office hours, Monday through Friday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm. To stay refreshed and give every project my full creative energy, I step away from the studio on weekends, major holidays, and bank holidays. If you reach out during those times, I'll be sure to get back to you as soon as I’m back at my desk the following business day!
Communication Channels For project-related discussions, I prefer using meetings, Zoom calls, email, or the client dashboard. I don't always see messages on social media or other platforms quickly, so please avoid those for urgent communications.
OOO notices No worries if you're stepping away from the office for a bit, planned or unplanned! Just give me a heads-up here so we can chat about deadlines and avoid any unexpected delays or fees.
Response Time I'm usually quick to respond and will get back to you within 24 hours. To keep your project moving along, please try to respond in a timely manner. Even a brief acknowledgement is helpful, as delayed responses can impact project timelines
Expectations I put a lot of heart into projects, and I want to ensure the final result is something you love! Once a project officially begins, there are a few expectations to keep us moving forward smoothly: Detailed Feedback: To reach the finish line efficiently, I rely on your honest, detailed feedback throughout our milestones. Since I haven’t mastered mind-reading just yet, I’ll provide resources to help guide your creative review. This ensures every revision is intentional and the final version is spot-on. Clear Communication: Because I don’t know the inner workings of your specific field as well as you do, please be as clear and specific as possible in your notes. This helps bridge the gap between your industry expertise and the design process. Timeliness: Per our contract, staying mindful of timelines ensures the project stays on track and retains its creative momentum.
Deliverables
All project deliverables are listed in your Estimate or Invoice for easy reference. If you need to add or change anything once we've started, please reach out so we can discuss adding new items to the project.
What are some common file types I can expect? Depending on the item, different file types can be provided. A logo, for instance, might be provided in an eps, svg, png, or pdf. A document would likely be provided in a pdf. If you need a specific format, please let me know before beginning the project.
How will I receive final files? Upon completion and payment, all final files will be shared through Google Drive. The link will be active for 1 month for you to download all files.
FAQ
Do you offer additional services? In addition to my core services, I also offer a variety of additional services, including illustration, website design, event planning, systems and processes development, typography and lettering, and consulting. I am always happy to discuss your needs and see how I can help you take your business to the next level. If there’s something else you’re looking for, let me know! I’m always interested to help where I can.
Do you charge hourly or a flat rate? My work is primarily a flat rate based on the estimated hours it takes to complete. This includes research, concepting, editing, and behind the scenes work. However, there may be instances where past a certain point, work may be charged on an hourly basis. (This will be confirmed prior to beginning each project, or if a project approaches its due date and requires additional hours to complete.)
Do you do quick-turnaround jobs or last-minute projects? I’m open to quick turnaround projects, as long as my schedule allows and the scope of work is reasonable within the time frame. A rush fee will be applied to all projects that fall outside of a typical project timeline for your set of deliverables. I will work with you to get your project rolling as quickly as possible, and I will be transparent about any potential delays or additional costs.
Homework
I love a good collaboration. While "homework" might sound like a chore, it’s the secret to a successful project. Whether it’s gathering existing files or creating new ones, having your content in hand is what allows me to start the creative work and keep us on schedule.
I’m here to help you get your ducks in a row—once I have your assets and info, I can officially start the work.
What are some tasks I might be assigned? If we didn't get all your information gathered in our Introductory meeting, I'll have you provide some information. Depending on the deliverables, this might look like: • Gathering all assets/imagery needed to create each deliverable • Providing dimensions and required finishing details for any printed items • Providing written content for each digital or printed item. Don't worry, you'll be provided with a clear guideline on what's needed, and an easy way for you to relay this information.
What if I can’t get my “client homework” done in time? If there is a delay in getting the homework to us, this may result in a delay in the project schedule and final delivery date. Please be upfront if you think you can’t make the deadline.
Payment
I understand that you may be putting a good amount of money into a project and I want you to feel comfortable doing so knowing that you’re getting value out of what you’re putting in. For more information, see my Pricing Page.
Fees & Refunds Estimate & Invoice: Upon the Client accepting the Estimate, an Invoice will be sent and an upfront payment of 50% will be required for work to begin, 25% upon logo approval, and 25% upon project completion. Payments will be sent through a secure website. Pause Clause: If the Client has not responded to contact from the Designer in 5 business days, (and 24 hrs after a Pause Clause notice), the project will be paused and the Client will be responsible for a $250 restart fee. The Client agrees to notify the Designer immediately if they are unable to meet a deadline or, need additional time. If the Client does not pay the restart fee within 20 business days, the Designer may terminate the contract and the Client will be responsible for all remaining fees. Late Fee: The outstanding amount will be subject to a 2.5% late fee each month if the invoice is not paid by the due date.
Resources
Whether you’re currently working with me, or have worked with me in the past, here are some shortcuts that you may find helpful.
Do you do quick-turnaround jobs or last-minute projects? I’m open to quick turnaround projects, as long as my schedule allows and the scope of work is reasonable within the time frame. A rush fee will be applied to all projects that fall outside of a typical project timeline for your set of deliverables. I will work with you to get your project rolling as quickly as possible, and I will be transparent about any potential delays or additional costs.
Timeline
Understanding the scope of a project is key to a smooth and successful collaboration. While every project is unique, projects typically follow a similar format. Below are examples of a standard project timeline.
Small Project Example
How long should I expect my project to take? Please note these are estimates, and the actual duration can vary based on project complexity, client responsiveness, the number of revision rounds, and if the content is ready to go. Invitations: Typically, you can expect a turnaround of 1-2 weeks from initial concept to final files. Social Media Packages: A comprehensive social media graphic package usually takes 1-2 weeks to develop. Small Logo Design: For a logo design, projects generally range from 4-6 weeks. Large Logo Design: More extensive logo projects, involving deeper strategic exploration, these usually span 6-8 weeks. Small Branding Project: A foundational branding package often takes 8-10 weeks to fully develop. Large Branding Project: Comprehensive branding initiatives, including extensive guidelines and multiple applications, typically range from 10-12 weeks. Rush Projects & Quick Turnaround: I’m open to quick turnaround projects, as long as my schedule allows and the scope of work is reasonable within the time frame. A rush fee will be applied to all projects that fall outside of a typical project timeline for your set of deliverables. I will work with you to get your project rolling as quickly as possible, and I will be transparent about any potential delays or additional costs. Please contact me if you have any questions or would like to discuss a quick turnaround project.