When I was newly married my husband and I decided that if I am at home it would be best for our (then future) kids. However, I am a designer, and I needed to design, so in 2004 Jagged Daisy Design was born. This gave me the opportunity to be at home as a wife and mom (since 2008), while staying active in the design industry.
Is this easy? I won't lie to you, not really. Making sure that I spend quality time with my son and with my design "babies" is a challenge. As with so many things, it's about finding balance. Hours can also be irregular, because neither deadlines nor toddlers like to wait :)
Is it worth it? Yes and yes. From a Jagged Daisy point of view I get to interact with many different people and get to be involved in many diverse projects. From a parenting point of view I get to share in moments I would have missed had I not been working from home.
The CV stuff: I am graphic and web designer and an enthusiastic amateur astronomer. My interest in art and technology led me to studying advertising art, copy writing and graphic design: which I see as "mathematical art". Although I did toy with the idea of becoming a physicist, electronic engineer or lawyer (my brother's idea), art won out in the end. I started out as designer and general "doer of things" for a music distribution company and then became in-house designer for an international direct selling company. I have also worked with various publishing companies doing research, writing, technical editing and layout. Being a mom also gave me the recent opportunity to work as a freelance writer for Parent24.com. I also love music, and write and record my own songs in my home studio.
I also get to work with wonderful suppliers that enhance my ability to deliver quality design projects. See all services for more information on them.
the design process
Background information and setting up a quote:
Since I know time is precious, I am set up to work in cyberspace. After some questions to make sure I understand your needs, a custom quote will be sent to you. If you prefer a personal consultation, we can have meeting at a coffee shop at Willowbridge*.
Getting to work:
After the quote is accepted and the deposit is paid, you will receive different design options (normally 1 - 3) based on your requirements. The design of your choice will be modified according to your feedback, and sent to you to review. Normally 3 revisions are included.
Finalising the design:
Once the design is reviewed, final alterations will be made. After your approval the design will then be "finished" for either print purposes if for example a brochure or poster, or coded for loading onto a web server.
The final product:
Once the project is completed you will receive an invoice for the outstanding balance. Upon payment you will receive your files electronically. I can supply the files for print material directly to your printers or upload your website to your server if you prefer.
* The first meeting is free, but meetings outside the Bellville/Durbanville area is subject to a travel fee. Addional meetings are charged at an hourly rate.