Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Scott Jackson.
Melissa, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
From an early age, I’ve always had a love for art. Teachers would always ask me to produce any posters or artwork they needed. While employed in the traditional corporate world, I began to receive design requests from friends, mostly from those starting their own businesses.
At first, after working 9-10 hours a day at the office, I took on a limited number of projects. As my skills developed with each project and my friends were impressed with the outcomes, I took on more work and began to really enjoy this newly found “paid hobby.”
Soon word of mouth spread with momentum, and I was getting continuous referral work. I was getting compensated for doing something I loved! It slowly dawned on me that I was building a business that was making money. When I was laid off from my corporate job, it was a natural and easy choice to transition into this business full-time.
Being a graphic designer is more than just a job – it’s a way of life for me. I have an understanding of the principles of good design and I look at everything differently, from signs and magazine covers to pieces of furniture, buildings and the gadgets I use every day. As a designer, we are naturally curious animals, and I have found myself thinking differently about the world around me and admiring the smaller details that go into beautifully designed products. I am driven by passion, creativity, and love. I particularly enjoy working in this industry because no two days are the same. I do it because this is something I love doing – day in and out, pulling late nights but throughout, filled with purpose and inspiration.
Has it been a smooth road?
At times, my biggest challenge is the problem of finding clients who actually value good design for itself – clients who don’t perceive design as just another expense, but a worthwhile investment. Your logo is the first impression your potential clients will see. It must be memorable. So many business owners have no idea what goes into a logo design. Especially now that social media engagement is so important to your business, your logo must be prominent and memorable. Businesses need attractive images to promote the products. They must understand its importance. If my client is ecstatic with what I’ve have produced, it builds into engaging, ongoing work.
Please tell us about Cranberry Blue Websites + Logos.
I have a thing for fonts, drool over drop caps and go crazy for color. I live and breathe what I do! I specialize in branding. My services include website design, custom logos, business card design, brochures, product packaging, signage and more. With more than 20 years design experience, I pride myself on building solid relationships with my clients. The better I get to know them and their companies, the easier it is to read the pulse of their own customers and client base.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I see my design studio growing more and more each day. I have such a passion for what I do. I feel I make such a difference in my client’s businesses. Cranberry Blue will soon employ designers in the next few years.
Pricing:
- Custom Logo Design starts at $200
- Website Design starts at $500
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cranberryblue.com
- Phone: 404.788.9999
- Email: hello@cranberryblue.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/cranberryblue
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/cranberryblue/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/cranberry_blue/
Image Credit:
Melissa Scott Jackson
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