my journey into freelancing

My path freelancing wasn’t something I planned from the start—it happened kind of by accident. I was 23 and working full time in an agency in a position that started as an internship. I *loved* my job as a studio artist and learned some invaluable skills (and met some amazing people!) while there.

On a whim, I opened an Etsy shop without a clue in the world what I was doing. I wasn’t even intending to list my graphic design services on that platform and the first item I sold was a pair of polymer clay earrings. Just to see what happened, I posted a listing for “Logo Design” and it sold within two days. I had unintentionally booked my first real client—for a whopping $65. 😅

As a relatively recent college graduate who had no real-world experience pricing or marketing my services, I was thrilled. After that, I started to make more sales via Etsy and my freelance career took off. And that was that—I think once you get a taste of the freelance life, you can never truly work a 9 to 5 again without missing the freedom of self-employment. Within a few months, I had [slightly] raised my prices and left the agency position to focus on my freelance endeavors.

That was around 2008. Fast forward to now, and I know without a doubt that I could not logistically work a 9 to 5. I’m a single mom to my four boys, and our life is BUSY. Between sports, field trips, school, and all that comes with parenthood, at this point in my life there is no way I could work normal hours and pay the bills while keeping up with my herd of wild boys! I’m forever grateful for the opportunity that freelancing gives me. I get to be present and involved with my kiddos’ lives and school events.

So yeah, it might feel like I work 24/7 as a freelancer, but the reality is that my career allows me to do something I love while being an active and present mom to my boys.

Since then, I’ve been dedicated to helping businesses build their brand identities through thoughtful, strategic design. Every project is an opportunity to tell a story and make an impression, and that’s what keeps me inspired every day.

The look in Harold’s eyes says it all: Coffee, work, repeat.

Honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way! I love what I do (and I love coffee). ❤️