Here are the answers to some of the questions I am asked most frequently. Hopefully this will help you have a better understanding of what to expect from working with me.
Why do you prefer to use email?
How much do you charge?
The most often asked question is “how much do you charge?” or “how much does a logo design cost?” I liken these questions to asking how much does it cost to buy a house or a car? There are a ton of variables that determine the cost of the house or car, right? The same is true for virtually all design work. Before I can tell you what it’s going to cost, I need to know the specifics. The more details you can provide, the more accurate your quote will be. Ultimately, you have way more control over how much your project is going to cost than you realize.
Can you do this cheaper?
You saw something on Etsy or on another Facebook page and you really like it and you’d like to work with me and hey, maybe save some money, too? You send me a photo so I can see what you’re talking about and ask “can you do this cheaper?” While I always appreciate being thought of and remembered and love that of all the places you could go, you asked me first, the answer is almost always no. Here’s why…
Let’s say you need some save the dates. You found a super cute design online and would like for me to design something similar for less. The design you found online is for sale 24/7 on a big box store web site. That design has been sold hundreds or thousands of times. It’s a cash cow. What I design will be designed just for you and no one else. I don’t resell custom designs. When you pay for it, it belongs to you. Completely original, completely unique, completely one-of-a-kind. You’re absorbing all the expense rather than splitting it with other customers that want the same thing you just got.
How long does it take?
While I pride myself on lightning fast turnaround, how long it will take depends quite a bit on you. Because my world operates on deadlines, all of the projects I juggle get prioritized based on the deadline of the project. If you need it same day, I will move mountains to accommodate your request. If you’re in no hurry, I will move mountains for someone else and circle back around to you as soon as I can. Replying to emails with feedback on the proofs I send is a factor as well. The quicker you get back to me, the quicker I can get back to your project. You tell me when you need it and I’ll likely be able to deliver.
How does this work?
It’s probably way easier and simpler than you think. We’ll start with a conversation about your project. Usually over email. Once I know we’re on the same page, I’ll get to work and send you a proof. If you would like revisions, we’ll work on that until you are happy with the finished product. At that point, I will send you an email with your invoice. I use Quickbooks so it’s perfectly safe to pay by debit or credit card but you are always welcome to send a check. After payment is received, I will email you all of your files. They belong to you. You own them. You may use or print to your heart’s content.
***Please note: As of January 1, 2024, I implemented a new policy regarding file recovery. Please save your files, back them up and keep them safe. There is a $5 file recovery charge, per file, in the event that you need me to resend your files.
why do you prefer to use email?
So many reasons. I have so many good reasons why email is my preference and it should be yours, too. Email helps me stay organized, all of my communication with all of my clients is in one place. It helps ensure that I do not miss anything important. It is also a huge time saver over meetings and phone calls which frees up more time for me to be at my computer getting the actual work done. Finally, with one email thread, we can easily and quickly go back and reference the timeline and instructions which is worth it’s weight in gold when it comes to larger, ongoing projects. I’m always open to a phone call or a meeting when the project warrants it or just because a new client feels more comfortable putting a face with a name but 90-95% of the time, email is the ticket.
***Please note: As of January 1, 2024, I implemented a new policy regarding telephone calls and meetings. There is an hourly rate applied to calls and meetings IF the project could have been communicated over email. This is to maximize my time at my computer. I DO NOT charge for calls and meetings when they are absolutely necessary.
Who owns the copyright?
By law, the copyright of an original artwork belongs to the artist/designer. However, I release that ownership to my client once the work has been paid for. I simply ask that you do not alter, edit or otherwise change anything. If you need something changed, please ask me first. Something as simple as a color change doesn’t always work like you think it will. It can destroy the integrity of the work.
I do reserve the right to use my design work to promote my business.
The Salty Ox: art + design 