10 Things
I thought it would be fun to start a little segment on here called 10 things. I have been following Amber Fillerup for a long time now and she does something similar on her blog and I just cant get enough. It is a fun and easy way to dump all my design, mom, lifestyle, random thoughts in one place.
So, let’s start it off with 10 things - graphic design edition.
We can start with my backstory. After graduating Azusa Pacific University with a degree in graphic design, I immediately started working at an agency to get my foot in the door. I loved this because I got to test the waters at multiple companies to see where I wanted to plant my roots. Later I found myself in the clothing and lifestyle industry becoming the Senior Designer at Lspace. I spent more than 5 years learning all things graphic design and digital marketing while pursuing a wedding stationary business on the side. After covid and becoming a mom to my little dude Grey I decided to branch off into the world of freelance and never looked back.
After I got married I realized how much I loved creating everything from our invitations to the seating chart and table numbers that I wanted to help others do this as well. I started a freelance business called The Wilde Palm (we even got featured on The Knot) which later became Wilde Stories and have been able to help dozens of people get the wedding suite and details that they have dreamed of. Yes, Minted might be cheaper but it is really special to create something one of a kind for your day.
These days I know everyone is obsessed with Canva because it really does make life simple and customizable for clients, but I am a forever lover of the creative suite. Controversial, but photoshop isn’t my favorite.
I love google fonts for amazing free fonts, but I think my favorite place to purchase fonts is Creative Market
The ONLY computer you should have is a Mac and the best hard drive I have found is this one (I’m cool with investing in this because its so important because you never know when the cloud could give out).
Even though I’m a graphic designer I am okay with having people help me. I was not always great at web design but wanted to have an online portfolio so I hired someone to help me. Now when I have too much on my plate I am okay with outsourcing the things I don’t want to do. It is always okay to hire help, but let’s remember to give credit where it’s due.
My favorite place to source imagery is unsplash. I can do a whole post later with a ton of free imagery sources (that are actually good).
I LOVE print magazines to help inspire me. Lately my favorite is this one. I am obsessed with Leanne Ford’s design style. Be cautious because this magazine may have you wanting to redecorate your house.
It is always important to stay up to date on design styles, trends, and new creators in the space. I like to follow other designers on IG or even subscribe to their newsletters. I also love to collaborate with other designers instead of making our jobs a competition.
Lastly, a great way to find new freelance jobs is to reach out to brands or influencers on IG. I actually got one of my favorite freelance jobs from messaging the owner of the brand. Don’t be shy because the worst they can say is nothing or no.
