Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Helen Harter.
Hi Mary Helen, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m Mary Helen — owner and designer behind Helenly Design Co.
My design career started back in 2015 as the design director at an architectural sign company, where I learned the value of thoughtful, intentional design and how much it translates into real life; not just on a screen. Fast forward to 2023, when I decided to start my own graphic design business…with a five-year-old at my side and a baby on my hip. Helenly Design Co. was built during nap times, late nights, and in-between snack breaks – and truly wouldn’t exist without motherhood, when I felt called to build something that was truly mine, on my own terms.
Since then, I’ve had the joy of branding small businesses that are growing right alongside mine and designing luxury bridal suites for North Georgia brides who care about beautiful details and timeless design. Whether I’m creating a brand from scratch or wedding pieces meant to be cherished long after the day is over, my heart is always in the details.
At the end of the day, I’m a mom first and a designer second, and I bring that same care, patience, and intention into every project I take on.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Smooth? Absolutely not. I would describe it as a road trip with no instructions, and an unknown destination. I am constantly either smooth-sailing and taking on new clients, or taking the twists and turns (and scary downtime) in stride. Trying new things and scrapping what doesn’t work for me. There is always something to be learned.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in design that is timeless, and it can often be tough to tell someone that what they want isn’t always what is best for them. Two years ago, I would have caved into every little chaotic and random design ideas my client asked for. Today, I understand my clients’ need for direction and intent. Timeless can still be fun, which is something I love to play around with in branding.
When it comes to my wedding stationery, timeless is of course a MUST because it also serves as a beautiful keepsake that can be cherished forever. Signage has a bit more leeway and can be more on-trend and/or funky, but for bridal invitation suites I definitely tend to stay more conservative and elegant. In an overly-trendy saturated Canva/Etsy template world, I do think that brides are starting to revert back to more traditional designs. These are the brides I hope to find me.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
So I am actually based further north in Dawsonville, Ga but serve clients from all over the state. I do enjoy a night out in one of the surrounding cities, but also love the the country feel of living in between the city and mountains. It’s really the best of both worlds. My only negative thoughts about traveling to the city is crime + traffic.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://helenlydesignco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helenlydesignco/
Image Credits
Lane Collins Photography
Sabrina K Thomas Photography
Christina Kelley Photography
