About Lesley

by lesleywebb | Apr 16, 2021 | 0 comments

Here’s a little bit more about me, and what led me to working as a freelance designer and why I love what I do!

So what did I want to be when I grew up?

I wanted to be an interior designer, immersing myself in a world of colours, texture and spaces! But during my first year foundation studies at Unitec Design School, I quickly realised that my passion lay more with paper than paint.

After completing my Diploma in Visual Communications, I launched myself into the world with the other graduates, wondering where I’d end up on this career journey. My first role was at a busy multi-media centre in Herne Bay, where I was a desktop publisher and copy centre assistant. I quickly learned about the reality of clients and deadlines – and was fortunate to be mentored by two experienced graphic designers. They just can’t teach you that stuff at university (well, maybe they do now!?) I really enjoyed creating and producing items that made a such a difference to the local businesses we served – business cards, flyers, manuals and menus – it was real clients with real projects and I knew I was doing the right job!

I really enjoyed creating and producing items that made a such a difference to the local businesses we served – business cards, flyers, manuals and menus – it was real clients with real projects and I knew I was doing the right job!

What happened next?

I got a great opportunity to join the studio team at a large, established print firm in Freeman’s Bay. There I learned all about print production, from film and plates to offset printing and finishing. Our studio was busy, designing and printing a range of collateral for businesses in the public and private sector including hotels, hospitals and franchise groups. As the studio started to move towards digital pre-press, I knew it was time to move on and expand my experience.

Moving to an advertising agency was a real culture shift – long hours! Big projects! Pitching! Branding! Budgets! I was working with a wide range of clients and an amazing group of professionals. I got to learn from some great people, and work on some really nice projects. During this time I learned a lot about branding, what it means beyond a logo, and the value of storytelling.

Over several years I worked in the studio, then became studio/production manager, before making the move to client service. Our clients were diverse, from tourism to agriculture, with a range of needs and budgets. That was what I loved most – looking at the whole picture for our clients – managing their marketing, advertising and printing needs.

During this time I learned a lot about branding, what it means beyond a logo, and the value of storytelling.

Why did I leave?

Life happens in the background! The arrival of my two children saw me take some extended leave. During this time I did some freelance work and realised that I still loved design, and this was where I would ultimately return. It was such a privilege to spend lots of time with my little ones before they went to school, while still nurturing my design skills.

Working as a freelancer means I have low overheads and can offer a tailored service and fast turnaround.

Everyone deserves good design!

I feel lucky to have such a broad base behind me. I love that I can work with clients across a range of business, both large and small. I have a particular interest in not-for-profit groups, and always like to be working or helping someone in this space.

Why am I doing this?

I think good design can be accessible to all – no matter what your budget or the stage your business is at. Building and using a brand consistently across all channels of communication, both print and digital, is something that every business can achieve. Working as a freelancer means I have low overheads and can offer a tailored service and fast turnaround.

What’s my style?

Trends come and go, so I like to take a big-picture view and make sure I understand my client’s target market – so anything I produce has a clear goal for growth, education or sales.

How do I work?

As a freelancer I can step in as an extension of the team – doing one-off or ongoing work. I enjoy the flexibility this brings for both the client and myself! I work alongside marketing departments, agencies, and business owners, working to established brand standards (or creating them as we go!). I love doing the small jobs, and even making the most modest document look polished and on-brand.