Websites, logos, illustrations and such things

I am a Web and graphic designer based in Chester (but you could be anywhere, of course). I like uncluttered, attractive designs that make sense to use and are easy to update. I also enjoy designing print leaflets, logos and suchlike, and drawing with a (digital or physical) pen.

What have I done so far?

I've worked with many small to medium sized companies and charitable organisations, either doing a full job from logo to design through to website build and training, or part of the process as required. Here are just a couple of my more recent projects:

Great Wood Camp

greatwood.org.uk

This beautiful venue in the forests of Somerset needed to showcase the venue for groups and advertise a range of camps and holidays for individuals. The resulting website has a custom WordPress theme, bold images and colours, an availability calendar and holiday section with filters, and a re-worked contact form to funnel each enquiry to the person best placed to answer it. I helped them write and import content and selected photos for the greatest impact. Their logo is also one that I designed a few years ago.

LGM Products

lgmproducts.com

This global fire detection and signalling business needed to allow online ordering of its product catalogue, with a refreshed look and feel. The result was powered by WooCommerce in a custom theme, with specifically designed filters, search enhancements and numerous interface improvements to make product selection easy and the basket and checkout experience smart and consistent. I imported an intricate spreadsheet of products, and the prices and stock were dynamically linked to the on-site ordering and control system.

Moo Music

moo-music.co.uk

This successful network of franchised baby, toddler and preschool groups needed to present its offering in an engaging style to match the fun brand and existing illustrations and music. Visitors have an easy geographic search to find their nearest group, and each of the 160+ group leaders across the country, who don’t necessarily have technical expertise, can log in and manage their own highly customised area page with venue maps and embedded session booking, be contactable through an easy form, and access shared resources and a franchisee shop for merchandise and resources, powered by WooCommerce.

The Greenhouse Christian Centre

the-greenhouse.org

This popular Christian retreat centre in Dorset had a great existing branding and style which I incorporated into a new WordPress site with a custom theme. I created an easy-to-use section for them to add retreats and holidays for customers to browse and book via their third-party booking system, as well as forms for booking day retreats and making donations. I also imported and enhanced their existing photos and copy.

What can I do for you?

Here are some examples, but there are lots more possibilities. If you're not sure exactly what you need, I can help you decide, then create and test it in exactly the way you need, and show you how to use it, whatever your skill level. I have a degree and over 10 years' experience working with commercial and charity clients on both creative and programming projects.

A well-thought-out website that works on all screen sizes

Easy WordPress system to update your own content

A new logo, brand and visual style if you need one

Search engine optimisation (SEO) and visitor stats

Social media integration and help to get started

Customised contact forms and email newsletter lists

News sections and events calendars

Secure online shops and donations

Photo slideshows and galleries

Drawings, photos or illustrations

Interactive maps

Leaflets, brochures and print materials

How long and how much?

Some things seem simple but take a lot of effort to achieve; others seem intricate but are easier than they look. Once I've understood your needs, I'll give you a quote. When I give you a fixed price quote I stick to it as long as you don't change your requirements. Occasionally I might give an estimate instead, if it's not clear how big the job is in advance. My rate is £52 per hour (no VAT to pay), and you only pay for hours I actually spend using my creativity and energy for your benefit.

Most of the website projects I work on are between £2,000 and £10,000 and take two to five months, including a full design and build process resulting in a bespoke WordPress theme. I tend to work with small to medium companies and organisations, and I realise I won't be the best fit for everyone. If you are looking for a simple, more "off-the-shelf" site, I recommend WordPress.com.

I offer optional hosting and technical maintenance for sites I've built, at £27 per month. While updating the actual content of your site will be your responsibility, I'm happy to give friendly help, training and advice as needed.