Can YOU Speak Design?

REVIEW: Portrait Professional

2011-04-04T21:46:00.002-05:00

Seeing that it has been a LONG time, I figured I'd do an update and a review just to keep the readers current. It's about time for another review and since I left off on the Picture Perfect Series...I'm thinking this is a great choice.

The long awaited update...

Things have been SUPER busy with me lately. I am currently teaching Art at a small private school and getting the kids ready for an Art Show in June. Although I have been a substitute teacher before, this is my first time teaching my own class. I'm having so much fun and it seem as thought they are having just as much fun learning. It's interesting because these kids do not have any for of art in their school except on Tuesdays. The teachers try to implement art, but they don't have a set playlist of types of projects to choose from. So, too me, the students get bored with drawing trees and things on paper.

So, instead of complaining about it...I figured I'd step in and do something about it. Hence, I am now an Art Teacher for grades 5-8.

Melgmo Designs is moving rather slow these days with business. The crazy thing about it is...I'm pretty happy about it. I finally get to get some things done with my business. I'm working on contracts, logos, stationary and other forms of advertisement that has my name on it. I'm currently working with an established graphic designer in the area who is teaching me the ropes to having a business. I am learning so much and it is an awesome experience so far. We work as partners and he directs clients to me and vice versa...or we split the commission.

That's pretty much everything that has been happening with me. I'm thankful for every great day and learning from every bad day. What do you think would improve Melgmo Designs?

Portrait Professional

Portrait Professional is a portrait enhancing software that has been "trained in human beauty". The product reads that it is "exceptionally fast and easy to use, and capable of the highest quality touch up, it lets you improve your photos instantly, just by moving sliders".

Click here to see it in action

I decided to check this program out to see if it is better than Photoshop, as it stated. I downloaded the free trial and I agreed to the license and agreement and them installed it onto my Mac. At first I was a bit hesitant because I hadn't heard of the program. It looked like spam, but, as usual, I did my research. I saw a few videos on YouTube and I read the profile on the website.

Before/After Photo using Portrait Professional

After downloading Portrait Professional, it was simple and easy to use. It loaded right up to the home screen and asked me to either grab a portrait or use the sample pictures they already had. I chose to use my own. After loading my photo, the program asked me to click the corners of my eyes, nose and mouth. After it figured the position of my face, it allowed me to use the sliders to enhance the lighting, fix my blemishes and whiten my teeth.

As easy and fun as this program was, the only negative is that the trial allows you to fix, whiten, darken and enlarge things on the picture...but it has a HUGE trial watermark over the photo. The program also will not allow you to save in trial mode. I wish, at least, the program allowed you to fix one picture and save that one picture.

If you want to try the program out then visit Portrait Professional's website to try the program out. Then if you think that it's worth it...buy it for only $39.99 ($40).

Picture Perfect Series: Whiter Teeth

2010-12-15T08:00:00.012-06:00

Introduction

Halle Berry on InStyle Magazine Cover

Have you ever looked in a magazine and wondered how these models have bright, white smiles? How do their teeth get so white? Have you ever paid CRAZY money just to get your teeth whitened before a photo shoot? What about the Crest Whitening Strips...ring a bell?

Well, I know I have! It's so amazing how we try to do everything we can to get white teeth to make our photos shine brighter, but instead we tend to make matters worst. Trust me, I know! I have spent countless hours researching ways to get whiter teeth in a matter of days. I mean, the easiest thing is to just brush but brushing is only half the battle.

So, you ask, what can I do to impress those talent scouts and photographers when flipping through my head shots?

The only answer that will turn a brown smile into a white smile in a matter of minutes is following this tutorial on Teeth Whitening and Photoshop. We are going to learn how to make teeth whiter by

Ok, so, the first thing that I did was found a nice picture of a smiling couple. They both appear to have nice white teeth, but they both could use a little whitening just to be Picture Perfect!

Step 1:

We're going to open Photoshop and select the area around the woman's teeth with The Lasso Tool. You can do this by selecting the Lasso Tool from the Tools Palette or you can press the letter L on your keyboard as a shortcut.

Now that the Lasso Tool is selected, we can draw a selection around the woman's teeth. It doesn't have to be precise because this is just a temporary selection. All we have to do is get those teeth inside of the selected area.

Don't worry about being precise because this selection is temporary.

Step 2:

With the area around her teeth selected, we will now click the Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer. This icon will be located at the bottom of the Layers Palette.

Then we'll select a Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer from the list that pops up.

Choose "Hue/Saturation"

Step 3:

Now that we have our Hue/Saturation Dialog Box opened we will begin to change the color of the woman's teeth. Now, obviously, her teeth are not white enough because she has too much yellow in them. So, we need to remove the yellow from her teeth. In order to accomplish this is to click in the "Edit" drop down box and click on Yellows from the list. This will enable us to only edit the yellow in the picture.

With our yellows selected, drag the Saturation slider all the way to the left. This will desaturate or remove the yellow from the woman's teeth which will make them whiter. Your Saturation should be -100.

Drag the Saturation slider to the left to remove yellow from teeth

Look at her teeth....don't they look whiter?

Ok, well, maybe not yet, but keep going. You're halfway there!

Her teeth after removing the Yellow Hue

Step 4:

Ok, so now, with the Hue/Saturation Dialog box still opened, we will now fix the Lightness of the teeth. This will now brighten her teeth to give her that whitening effect as if she just came from getting them bleached. We're going to need to go back to the Edit list at the top of the dialog box and select Master from the list. The Master option allows us to make changes to all the colors at one time.

With Master selected, we're going to drag the Lightness slider to the right. This will brighten the teeth and you will see the effects of this immediately. Now, the further you drag the slider, the brighter the teeth will become. I stopped at +25.

Click OK when you're done to exit out of the dialog box. If you used your Lasso correctly from Step 1 then your image should look like this:

Remember, we're going to fix this, but so far....so good!

Step 5:

Now, we can see the Layer Mask that we have created in the Layers Palette on the right. You will see that we have created two layers. The original image is called our Background. It is the one with the lock next to it and it is usually located on the bottom. The second layer is our Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer which is also called our Layer Mask. If you are looking at a black square with the small white area then you are looking at the correct layer. This is a preview of our mask and the small white area is the woman's teeth.

Make sure that the Layer Mask is selected and you do this by clicking on the preview (the black square) and then you will see an white border around the thumbnail.

We will now remove that initial selection from around her teeth by filling the layer mask with black. We won't be able to see the work that we have done so far, but it will still be apparent that we did it. With your layer mask selected, find the Edit menu at the top of the screen and select Fill, which in turn will bring up the Fill Dialog box. For "Contents", click on the drop-down menu and choose Black from the list.

Select "Black" for the Fill contents

While Black is selected, click OK to exit out of the Fill Dialog box. Now we will see that Photoshop has filled the Layer mask with Black:

Layer Mask is now filled with Black

If you look back at the teeth, they will look yellow again as if we hadn't done a thing! Don't Fret! The work is still there, but we can't see it because it is hidden. We're almost done and we will be fixing her teeth so that they will be nice and white! Now it's time to paint on that purrrrty smile.

Step 6:

So now we will select the Brush Tool in the Tools Palette, or you can just press the letter B on your keyboard as a shortcut.

Step 7:

You must select White as your Foreground color, seeing that we are going to paint over the Layer Mask. This will reveal the effects of the Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer over the woman's teeth. You can either select it by clicking on the double-headed arrow or easily pressing D on your keyboard. This will make your foreground white and your background black:

Step 8:

So here is the FUN part! With our Brush selected in the Tools Palette, the Layer Mask selected in the Layers Palette, and White as our foreground color, we can now begin painting over the teeth with our brush to bring back the whiting and the brighter smile. You may need to change the size of the brush as you are painting by pressing the Right Bracket on your keyboard to make the brush larger and the Left Bracket to make the brush smaller.

If you still aren't quite sure where the brackets are on your keyboard then look beside the letter "P".

[ ]=Brackets

Just simply paint over the teeth with the brush to show the Hue/Saturation that we have created over those areas. It may be easier to zoom in on the teeth to paint. You may not be able to see it very well, but if you look closely within the red circle, there are two shades of white where I began painting over her teeth.

Can you see the difference between the two shades?

If you accidentally paint over an area you didn't mean to then just press the letter X on your keyboard to swap you Foreground (white) and Background (black) colors. You can also change the Opacity in the options bar located at the top of the screen. This will help you not to over brighten the corners of the teeth and give your photo a natural look.

Continue painting over the teeth until you see pearly whites! And this is what you will end with....

The Final Result

Stay Tuned for a new tutorial on Trimming Body Weight! They say the camera adds 10 lbs, but I'm gonna show you how to loose it all in a matter of minutes. YOU DON'T WANNA MISS IT!

Picture Perfect Series: Clear Complexion

2010-12-14T08:00:00.005-06:00

Introduction

I'm the girl that has to make sure that I have a great face for photo opts. When I find out that I have to take picture I make sure that I do everything I can to get that clean complexion. I drink water, take me vitamins, exercise and do my daily ritual of washing my face and keeping it clean. Well, this daily regimen doesn't work 100% of the time. I end up with a zit or blemish the week of or the day before because of ALL the stress trying not to get a blemish.

Sometimes, I wish I had a wand that could zap ALL the zits and pimples away. Well ladies and gentlemen, there is a way to rid those problematic areas. It's called Photoshop. Yes, you can use technology to remove blemishes, zits, spots and wrinkles and today is the beginning of our FIRST tutorial called, Clear Complexion.

Step 1:
Open the photograph that you are going to give a clear complexion in Photoshop.

Step 2:
Go to the Spot Healing Brush Tool and click on it.

Step 3:
Choose an appropriate brush size and make sure that the "Content-Aware" Type radio bubble is chosen at the top and begin painting over the discoloration and blemishes of the skin.

Step 4:
You have now painted over the original photo with the "Content-Aware" Type brush. Remember to ONLY paint over the skin of the face, such as the cheeks, forehead, etc. DO NOT paint over the eyes, mouth, nose, or any areas with fine edges or else they will look blurry and unnatural.

Step 5:
Go to the Dodge Tool and click on it.

Step 6:
By default, your Range should be set to Midtones. Set the exposure to 8% and paint over the red or dark areas of the cheeks, forehead and chin. This should lighten the areas up a bit.

Step 7:
When you are done, you should have a photograph with a clearer complexion. Those problem zits will be gone, well, on paper.

Congratulations on the First Step to a clear face! Tomorrow we will continue on making the face Picture Perfect using a new technique, Teeth Whitening.

Be sure to try the technique and if you have any other additions then post your answers in the comment box.

Picture Perfect Series: Introduction

2010-12-13T08:00:00.002-06:00

***************WELCOME TO THE PICTURE PERFECT SERIES***************

If you know me then you know that I LOVE taking pictures. I love being able to look back on the moment and only photos or paintings can make this happen. In essence, my face isn't always picture perfect meaning I don't have a blemish free face all the time. This can hinder a single moment because I don't want to remember that I had blemishes. I just want to see a perfect smile.

One thing that I have learned using Photoshop was to fix my blemishes. I don't like to use this technique all the time but it does help when I need it most.

I will be presenting series on Photoshop Tutorials that will teach you important techniques to create professional looking photographs. At the end of the series you will know how to fix blemishes, create a glow, add lashes, whiten teeth and MORE!

So stay tuned for more Picture Perfect Series! I'm dying to show you what I've found. ========

You're a ________ DESIGNER?

2010-10-08T17:22:00.001-05:00

I was talking to a fellow designer the other day and comparing our line of work. We both draft concepts. We both deal with creativity and transformation. We both have very detailed and high paying jobs. In all the things similar, there are HUGE differences.

Her line of work deals with conceptualizing the wall which divides the large room, formulating special lighting effects. Where as my line of work deals with conceptualizing images.

So what is she? An Interior Designer!

Interior designers design spaces by portrayal surfaces, updating furniture, bringing in different styles and decor. Interior design is a multi-faceted profession in which creative and technical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built interior environment.

The interior design process follows a systematic and coordinated methodology, including research, analysis, and integration of knowledge into the creative process, whereby the needs and resources of the client are satisfied to produce an interior space that fulfills the project goals.

Now that you have the meaning and description of an interior designer, maybe this is something you've always wanted to look into. Maybe you like decorating you house or watching HGTV shows like "Design Star" or other shows out there. If you feel you are an interior designer at heart, then you should test your ability. I searched some websites that will allow you to create and decorate a living space FOR FREE!

Check out MyDeco to get some practice. This website allows you to design a 3D room, design a motherboard and decorate a photo that you upload. MyDeco has been a really fun site so far. I'm trying it out as we speak! You can also see other designers motherboards and compare or get inspiration form them. This is a very cool site! Check it out here.

Also, go to IKEA for design inspiration. The showrooms always having something whether you view a nightstand or a funky couch design. It is always a breath of fresh air to visit IKEA and also get a hotdog on your tour. If you are not able to travel to IKEA and look around, you can always order a catalog by clicking here to order and here to view online. Then you can enjoy the rooms in the comfort of your own home. That's always nice!

Design is inspired by everything! Anywhere you go and it can be used for inspiration. What's stopping you from using creativity?

If you have a need to read and want more information on Interior Design, check out Becoming an Interior Designer: A Guide to Careers in Design. This book will give you tips on the types of careers you can get doing interior design. It give you salary information also. I wouldn't pass up on this book if I were you! Check it out.

What Makes You Deserving?

2010-10-01T07:42:00.002-05:00

So, you heard about the FREE Website design that Melgmo Designs is giving away, huh? If you think you are deserving and you should get this FREE service then tell us why. We would like to know what makes you so deserving? Why should we pick you to receive a FREE website?

Maybe you're not thinking about yourself. Do you know someone else that may deserve it? Tell us why they should get this FREE website. Whether it is for their business or just for personal use, we need to know who should have a FREE website and why.
NOTICE: This offer ENDS October 20, 2010. So, you have until then to submit your information.

Please click on the link below to access the website application:

http://fs21.formsite.com/melgmodesigns/form704310439/index.html

If you are unable to access the link above, please copy and paste the link directly into your browser's address field. You can also contact support@melgmodesigns.com with any questions on how to access the application for a FREE Website Design.

Thank you,
Melgmo Designs Support

Somethings in Life are FREE

2010-09-29T14:08:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I was approached by an old client of mine who I hadn't seen a while. We talked all about his business and how well he was doing. He asked me about Melgmo Designs and how the projects were coming. I told him that things are slow, but still existing. Then we laughed.

He talked to me about volunteering my services to non-profit organizations; which was a past blog that I wrote. Check it out here. I told him that I had done a few Pro Bono designs and hadn't done any in quite a while because business had been pretty good on my end. Well, as we talked, I learned that going Pro Bono didn't mean that I was giving up on the funds, but rather getting my name out there...which I knew. I told him that I was volunteering at a school once a week to teach art. He said, "That's good, but how does that get Melgmo Designs out there? A bunch of kids will not tell like an online website client can." Although I understood what he was saying, I still felt that I had the volunteering "thing" in the bag and that I was fine. I didn't realize that EVERYTHING I did as a designer was supposed to help someone else and myself in the same instance.

That has been my goal and dream since I began designing! I've always wanted to use my talents to help someone else. That is what makes sense in my career. That is why I LOVE doing what I do as a Graphic Designer.

OK, so, I went home and tried to figure out what I could do to help a business succeed. I know that I design websites and create flyers, but many people are learning how to do these same things daily. Then I thought, "Even though EVERYONE can create a website these days and make a flyer, can they market it? Do they know how to set up their web address up for google? Is their website being crawled? Is their name showing up on the biggest sites search engines like Google or Yahoo!? What does their metadata say?"

I could go on....and I did.

The point is, if your website is not set up to be recognized, then all you have is a portfolio. See, that's where I come in as a Web Designer. I can design your site, get it recognized by search engines, fix your metadata and more! That's why you work with web designers. They know what they are doing and they know how to optimize your website.

Well, here is the point of the story....

Melgmo Designs is offering 3 Lucky Winners a FREE Website. This website is yours for FREE! Now, I know you're wondering....What's The Catch? NOTHING in Life is FREE!

The website design IS FREE! You will have to have your own domain name. If you don't you will have to get one. GoDaddy.com has a special for a domain name AND email (ex. yourname@yourwebsite.com) for $7.49 or just a domain name for $1.99 a year! 1&1 offers domain names for 99 cents a year! You can't go wrong with that!

You will also need web hosting (up to a year). GoDaddy.com will host your website for 1 year for $3.99 a month.

So, your package will be:

FREE Website (Valued at $800)
Domain name for $1.99 w/o tax yearly (FREE if you already have a registered name)
Website Hosting for about $50 per year.

That is only about $53 for your website, hosting and domain. The extra services are FREE!

Now, this is a 3 month trial offer. If you like your new FREE website and you want to keep the website up and current your payment will be $30 a month after the three month trial is over. That's all....ONE Lucky Winner Will Get This ENTIRE Package for FREE!!!

Will that winner be YOU? Stay tuned to enter....

The SKY Is The Limit!

2010-09-22T18:03:00.001-05:00

THE SYDEBhaR:

If you're looking for Photoshop brushes, I have found a few sites that offer FREE brushes. Check out these sites:

Just download and insert them into the Photoshop Folder. They should be placed inside of the Brushes folder which is found in the Preset folder inside of the Photoshop folder. If you have any questions then you can email me at support@melgmodesigns.com. I would be glad to help!

MOVING ON....

Ok, now that we have the Photoshop stuff out of the way, I wanted to talk to the artist that read this blog. I have written about school and what it takes to go back to school and get a degree in business, but I haven't spoken about getting your art degree (at least I don't remember...).

Having a passion for art and wanting to be an artist are two different things. When you want to be an artist you will learn and maybe plan to draw. You will eventually find yourself holding a brush and dipping it into paint and placing it on canvas. Suddenly you have a painting! You then begin painting and you have fun. You continue reading, but eventually you get bored. All of the sudden you quit painting. You paint jars dry out and your brushes stink. You haven't read a book in weeks and your canvas is beginning to rip. The end.

When you have a passion for art you respond differently. You're always looking at new ways to recreate. You always fill a void with paint. You carry around a sketch book and you speak nothing but artistic forms of art. Your paint brush can never leave you because you have never put it down. You breath art. You live art. You are art.

Same thing with school. You can develop a love for it, but if it is not your passion to learn you will have a hard time focusing and eventually give up. It is great that you can paint or that you can draw, but if you are not willing to go the extra mile and venture out different artistic mediums then you will just be a painter. The more you learn and open yourself up the more you fall in love. Then it becomes who you are.

If you are ready to venture into the artistic world and want to dampen your learning brush with some school art then check out http://www.artschools.com to pick and choose what art you're interested in and also which state you would like to be in. This website has all the information on art schools that you will need like: location, Top Ranked, Degree, Program and many other choices to make your decision easier and well-informed.

I hope that you have been enlightened by this blog. I just want you to remember that you don't have to let your talent go to waste. It's always great to learn something new daily, so why not go to school and learn MORE!

The Sky Is The Limit!

If you would like more information about Top Art Schools, the National Review College Guide: America's Top Liberal Arts Schools gives you more information for Liberal Arts Degrees. This is just a review of the different schools in the country.

How to Create a Fantasy Photo Manipulation

2010-09-09T21:28:00.001-05:00

How to Create a Fantasy Photo Manipulation

This post is all about merging images to make one whole picture. I found this tutorial to be so interesting because it deals with fantasy, which is one thing I have a hard creating. I'm more a realist, but art is fantasy. This tutorial is a bit of a challenge for me but I'm using my own pictures and incorporating my own ideas.

It is created with Photoshop, so if you don't have the program you're going to need it. There are a few FREE programs that are used like Photoshop, but are not up to date as Photoshop is. Programs like:

Gimp
Paint.net *voted to have more of a similarity to Photoshop than Gimp
Picasa

It's not Photoshop, but I think you could play around with it and maybe get the same affects. Paint.net has more of a Photoshop layout, so you would probably have an easier time using this program and doing the tutorial.

Please send in images of your designs. I'd really love to see how it came out.

The Wacom Intuos4 Medium Pen Tablet

2010-09-03T18:16:00.003-05:00

There is a new product for designers to play with. It's The Wacom Intuos4 Medium Pen Tablet. Designers, photographers and artist are gonna LOVE this because it is so versatile to use. It allows you to quickly edit photos, create digital artwork with the easy grip pen and eight ExpressKeys and illuminated ExpressKey displays that provide easy reference to your assigned functions.

The Intuos4 pen provides 2,048 levels of pen tip and eraser pressure sensitivity, tilt sensitivity, is battery-free and cordless. Seems like the Intuos4 is the next big tablet product from Wacom since the Bamboo Fun Pen and Touch. The Wacom Intuos4 Medium Pen Tablet offers better graphics and functionality than any other graphic tablet in out there.

The price seems a pretty good for the functionality and sleek look of it. It ranges from $309.00 - $405.95. I've seen it on Amazon for $279.99 which was at a used price.

What do you think about this new tablet? Would you consider buying The Wacom Intuos4 Medium Pen Tablet?

Click the link to view the Wacom Intuos4 Medium Pen Tablet in action.

Out with the Old...In with the NEW

2010-08-31T19:58:00.000-05:00

If you are reading this post, then you see that my blog is under construction. I'm currently working on it and trying to update my links. It's pretty hard.

See, I know a lot about php, css, html and java...but I know little about templates. I'm learning as I go and am trying to find one that is best suited for this graphic design blog. Hopefully I find something creative and interesting.

I would LOVE some help. I'll give you a few templates that I am currently looking to use and would love to get some opinions. So, comment on these specific links and tell me why they are a nice fit.

You can find all of these templates here.

Thanks and sorry about the construction!

VIEWED in 29 Countries!!

2010-08-30T20:57:00.000-05:00

Melgmo Designs Map Analytics

I've been very impressed to let you know that Melgmo Designs is growing. I'm very excited about the little things in my life. Melgmo Designs has been viewed in 29 countries and I'm VERY excited about that. It may not sound like a lot to some, but this is VERY HUGE for me to see that we are seen in other places that just America. It may be one or two viewers, but that just shows that the internet broadcasts and is shown EVERYWHERE.

One thing that I'd like to add to the website is text in another language. Maybe Spanish and French. It's a work in progress, but it will happen.

Anyway, just wanted to share a personal update with the viewers!

You guys keep us going.

Photoshop Tutorial: Slicing & Exporting a Website using Photoshop

2010-08-24T18:36:00.000-05:00

I have been working on my HTML website using Adobe Dreamweaver. It is perhaps my FAVORITE program to use lately because of its functionality. Dreamweaver seems to be user friendly for me to use, but then, I also have to remember that I did take C+ and Programming classes in college so I have a bit of an advantage. It is still user friendly if you have the book. I guess you can call me an "oldie" because I have been using Dreamweaver 8 and it does everything I need it do do as in PHP, Javascript, Flash, CSS Style Sheets and many other things.

Well, as much as I love Dreamweaver, I'm still having some issues with using tables and inserting the menus that I have created with Adobe Photoshop CS5. It really isn't hard, but I'm learning that I can make my website using Photoshop by slicing images and adding HTML to them, individually.

Photoshop Toolbox

The Slice tool allows you to divide an image into smaller sections which fit together like a jigsaw (but with straight edges). The slice tool is located in the top section of the Photoshop Toolbox.

Select the slice tool in the toolbox.
Click and drag over the area you wish to make into a slice.
Release the mouse button - Photoshop automatically creates the necessary number of slices, with the active slice highlighted.
Using the slice select tool, you can move and resize slices by dragging inside a slice, or by dragging the handles.

Here is a Tutorial video from tutvid. This video shows you more in depth how to slice images and export them into Dreamweaver. Hope you enjoy!!

11 Questions A Graphic Designer NEEDS To Know

2010-08-11T17:07:00.001-05:00

"Questions"

I was just think about how often I get asked questions about what I do or how much are my services. It's funny because I stumbled over most of the questions when I first started out. I couldn't figure out how to interpret my business to my clients without looking like I had no clue to what I was talking about. I learned, over the years, that clients really don't care about how often you design or how many colors you use in you logo or how many times you downloaded an update for Photoshop. They just want the basics.

I wasn't prepared for all these new questions then, but I think I have a bit of an advantage for some of the newbies. I jotted down a few questions that Graphic Designers MUST know and some answers to follow.

Tell me a bit about yourself?

I think that Leslie Tane Hannus, owner of Leslie Tane Design says it best. She states that you should sum yourself up in no more than two minutes. Your answers should be work related and not personal. It doesn't look professional to talk about other thing other than your job. You could talk about you past experience, another designer that you have worked with, a social club that you have joined that relates to your profession. No one wants to hear your personal stories.

When and how did you get started in your profession?

This question was not as hard as I thought it would be. I did have some trouble answering this question at first, only because I wasn't sure how long I had actually been in business. I mean, do I count the years when I doodled on paper and gave the designs off to friends and family? This is where you sell the history of your work. It tells your client that not only have you been in the industry for a while, but you have experience. This question should also be short and to the point. Give a short personal story, date it and move on.

How much are your services?

Now this question is hard for a graphic designer to answer off the cuff, unless you have been in business for a while. I have jotted down some base prices, but, as you know, it fluctuates for graphic designers. My basic answer is that you should request an estimate from your client and work from there. This will allow you to figure out a price while keeping your professionalism.

What is your specialty?

What do you love to do that you are VERY good at? It helps to have some experience or completed work in this area because the next question would probably be, "Can I see your portfolio?"

How long will it take for you to complete my project?

You should know how long it would take in any given project. If you don't, just give the project a week by week timeframe. EX. About 2-3 weeks.

Can I see some samples of your ideas for my project so that I will understand your work a bit better?

I refer them to my portfolio. This is where samples of my work are located. You should also refer your clients to someplace the showcases your designs and talent. If you need more portfolio art then you should do some pro bono work or work to help other clients so that you could built your portfolio. Check out Adding Designs PRO BONO to get a better understanding on how to accomplish this.

Will you email me samples of the project?

Not without a Non-Disclosure Form, Contract and Terms. They all need to be signed. If you don't have a signature, you really have nothing. Sending your work via email without those forms is just like getting on a roller coaster without the safety bar. You have no protection.

Could you give me a discount if I have my friend design the flyer and you just redo it?

Now, some designers would probably say no to this question. I do offer discounts to many of my clients and it seems to work out in the end. The thing is, they are returning clients. I also offer first time client discounts, but to try and get a discount ON TOP of the discount if not fair to me, as a designer. I still have to get the job done, regardless of the discount. So, it just depends on your services and what you will provide as a bonus for your client.

How many concept do I receive and how many revisions are allowed?

This question was best answered by The Kona Impact Blog. It's a question that you are asked a lot in this industry. First off, you should know that unlimited concepts or revisions, on a project cost basis, are out of the question. It's just unheard of! Basically, the writers state that clients should ask about original concepts and revisions PROIR to choosing a designer. This is something that the client and designers should agree upon, for an hourly charge. Sounds fair to me!

What do I need to provide to you for my project?

Whatever is needed. Do you need photo's or documents to include in a brochure? Whatever is needed for your project. Just make sure you have it jotted down before having to call your client every time you think of something new. You may end up loosing that client just because you are unorganized.

Why should I hire you for the job?

This to me is the ultimate question at hand. This is where you sell yourself and what you are all about. You don't want to come off arrogant to your client, but you don't want to sound as if you don't know what you are talking about. So, write it down and make sure you show your client that you really ARE here to help them.

Having the answers to these questions figured out keeps your clients well informed and allows them to trust you with any of their advertising needs. You won't believe the feedback you will get! Trust me.

If you need more assistance and want the "Inside Scoop" from other Graphic Design Professionals, check out the book Inside the Business of Graphic Design where 60 Leaders share their graphic secrets. Very informative book and it has helped me out.

Happy Graphic Design!!!

Adding designs PRO BONO

2010-08-06T10:41:00.001-05:00

Woodgrain Portfolio made by Veer

When I first started out doing graphic design I realized that I needed to have a portfolio. Now, seeing that I was just starting out in the graphics field, I didn't have "a pot to piss in"...excuse my language. I had the knowledge and the creative spirit, but nothing to show for it. This is where I had problems getting big clients. I had no work to show and this stalled my growth and experience as a graphic designer.

Eventually, I began working on projects pro bono just to add work to my portfolio.

Pro bono. Huh?
Pro bono (taken from the word Pro bono publico) is a phrase derived from Latin meaning "for the public good". The term is generally used to describe professional work undertaken voluntarily and without payment as a public service. Unlike traditional volunteerism, pro bono uses the specific skills of professionals to provide services to those who are unable to afford them.

Interesting huh?

I had taken many projects, free of charge, because I needed to work on my portfolio entries and also build up my clientele. Many of my clients didn't know too much about what my graphic design services could do to help them. I was out there helping others and they, in return, helped me.

So, where should I begin?
Typically, I would tell many people to begin helping individuals. You have to crawl before you can walk. It helps to work with someone who has an eye for creativity and it also helps if they know a little about graphic design. I started off helping a friend of mine who had a music group and they needed fliers and other advertisement. I didn't really know anything about designing for music artist, but I was willing to learn.

I began researching and using my creative mind and eventually my art went from mediocre to good. The thing that really helped me grow artistically was that my friend always told me the truth. If it looked sloppy, he told me. If the design wasn't what he depicted, he told me. Many times, I thought I did a great job with his project. I worked hard and I just knew that I was on the right track, but he said it could be better. It often hurt my feelings that he didn't like my work, but I had to make sure my client was satisfied and I began strategizing on how to get this project done right.

At this beginning stage, you have a lot to learn. You are just now learning to work with a client who has an opinion. They may not like the work you worked so hard to create. That's the business. This stage helps you to handle criticism, work creatively and work on managing and maintaining your redrafts. If you get it right the first time, you won't have to redo a project and then you can establish working in a timely manor.

After helping your individual client, I would then begin working with small businesses and small non-profit organizations. Usually the larger corporations are more likely to work with graphic design firms rather that an individual newbie fresh out of college or 1 month into designing. You should try searching online and through a telephone directory in your city. It helps to stay local because you can meet with these clients face-to-face. Many of my clients also have Skype and this helps when we can't meet face-to-face.

A lot can come out of having local clients. You have more availability to them and this will help boost your confidence in meetings and you can network. That's the best part. It's all a learning experience.

So, what do I say?
I used to email new potential clients and I never got the response that I wanted. Then, after noticing that email wasn't working, I started calling new clients. I would ask for the owner or manager and would offer my services. I got some pretty good responses, but not like I liked. I wanted to have consistent clients that would grow with my business.

I then began going to their place of business and speaking to them, one-on-one. I would ask for the managing director or visual director and would pitch myself to him letting him know that I am about to graduate from school in design. I also let him know that I am an entrepreneur and that I would like to work on a project with him pro bono and that it was my passion to help small businesses with identity branding.

I also had a game plan. I wanted to keep him as a client for the future, so I made sure that I had figures drawn up on my competition. I wanted to show him how much he would be saving in this project (which would be 100%), but also offered him a discount on stationary or something small. This allows him to come back for more. You also want to make sure that this "show and tell" is brief. I would arrange a short meeting (preferably 20-30 minutes) to get the rest of the ideas for this project.

Meeting?
In the meeting, you would want to have your questionnaire. Just a list of questions to ask your potential client, your "handy, dandy notebook" (too much "Blues Clues"), a pen, and your business card.

In my meetings I wanted to make sure I had all the answers before my client asked the questions. I jotted down the specifics as far as timeframe or turnaround time, price (which is zero because we are working pro bono), what is included in the project, who owns the design after it's paid for, and why they should hire me for the job. I want my client to feel as if I have their trust. It like putting you life in someone else's hands, it's very stressful especially if you don't know that person. So, I tell them all about me so that they feel a bit more at ease.

I try to stay within the 20-30 minutes that I had promised the meeting would be because I want to keep their trust. If you can't be trusted in the small things, as far as keeping you word, what makes you trust worthy with the large things, as far as their business? So, if the time is passing, I will wrap the meeting up and tell the client that I will email the decisions made with the current meeting and I will call or email them later for any other information.

You will have a very appreciative client.

SYDEBHAR
Being a beginner graphic artist has its trials. The worst of them all is figuring out a price and what your skill is worth. One book that helped me out in the beginning of my entrepreneur journey was the Graphic Artist's Guild Handbook of Pricing and Ethical Guidelines. This book helped me to price materials according to what it was worth. This book can never go out of style and will be invaluable 10-20 years from now. It's a MUST HAVE for any designer.

Art is EVERYWHERE

2010-08-04T15:30:00.001-05:00

"Art is everywhere you look for it, hail the twinkling stars for they are God's careless splatters."
— El Greco

"Starry Sky" created using Photoshop

This quote is true in every form. I have had many hours of just sitting twiddling my thumbs because I was not inspired or motivated. It's hard to find inspiration when you are not inspired in your medium, whether you draw, sing or act. The quote means a lot to me because is says that inspiration is EVERYWHERE; from the the stars in the sky to the discolored spot on your wall. The more I figured out the meaning of the word..I began to feel bad. I have no reason to not be inspired by art because it is all around me.

So, I began searching for different forms of art. Not the classic art by artist like Gogal, Dali, Monet, Picasso and Da Vinci. Nothing that you would expect to see hanging from the wall, no. I searched for inspiration through art to share with you today and I wanted to post pictures from some of my favorite blogs. I hope this helps bring inspiration and a bit more notice to the world around you.

Metal Tree Wall Art by The Garden Gift Box. Inspired by nature to make interior art.

Dancing Tree thanks to Roseann Collymore found on joe-ks.com. Using nature to inspire your senses.

String Jewelry Art found on How-to-Make-Jewelry

Paper Portraits found on Photo Pumpkin Blog. Creations done with colored paper and scissors using a picture.

Hand Painting Art by Mario Mariotti courtesy of Toxel. Italian artist famous for hand painting art.

Paper Sculptures by Helen Musselwhite at helenmusselwhite.com. Extraordinary scenes built from paper and card.

Paper Art by Peter Callesen at petercallesen.com. All he uses is acid free A4 paper and glue.

The Alphabet Photo Gallery by Abba Richman at pbase.com. Using the world around you to form a creative palate.

Yes, we have the materials needed to be creative. Don't waste another minute of the day because you feel your inspiration has left you. Why?

Art is Everywhere.

If this blog is not enough and you need more inspiration please check out Are YOU Inspired? to get more creative design ideas.

PROJECT:
I want you to look at the pictures and pick one that inspires you the most and post your creative design or idea in the comment section. Be inspired and create something unique to show other readers.

Note: To view the Photoshop Tutorial for the "Starry Sky" background click here.

Let's GET Motivated!

2010-08-01T00:04:00.000-05:00

OK, so I'm ALL into motivation. I've looked into getting having a bigger and better attitude towards blogging. I'm just not into it recently. It's not even because I don't like to write. It's just because I don't really have too much to talk about. So, I look for inspiration and motivation. Now, I'm trying some new things and I'm really excited to share some things with you.

First of all, I think we should just recap the "good" and informative post that I really think you should check out:

Are YOU Inspired? - This post was basically seeing if you are inspired by what surrounds you. You saw some cool shopping bags that were different that what we normally see. Read:Stick-to-it-iveness: Inspirations to Get You Where You Want to Go. This will pull your inspiration from within.
Photography Challenge #1 - This post was for my photographers. It was challenging and showed you how to play with your camera to produce light painting. There was a prize towards the end that was given away.

Read:

Outdoor Photography: The Art of Painting with Light

10 Steps to Starting a Business - This was specifically for those who want to be their own business owners. It gave advise from Franmarket.com.

Read:

The Small Business Start-Up Kit: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide

Rome WASN'T Built in a Day - This was about young entrepreneurs. I haven't seen this list posted, but it was inspiring to see.

Read: Entrepreneur Magazine: Starting an Import/Export Business. This is awesome and has lots of advise on other entrepreneurs that have made businesses without startup cost.

Now, I would go in depth, but you have to read the rest of the post to get the valuable information. This is just a small bit of information that is already posted in this blog, so read past blogs and stay update. I also want you to inspire yourselves by getting information. Here is information that I have found and I will continue posting MORE information to for you so STAY TUNED :)

WordPress or Blogger? YOU Decide....

2010-07-28T19:30:00.000-05:00

Many of you are debating whether to move your blog to Wordpress or keep your Blogger account. I can honestly say that I am contemplating the same thing. I'm planning on merging over to WordPress and creating my blog from there, but I haven't found reason to...yet. Well, I was looking for some answers and I came across this blog: 7 Reasons Why Blogger Is Better Than WordPress. I didn't rewrite this, I'm just the messenger. So, please read this and comment on which blog is better for you.

New blog writers everywhere are faced with a serious dilemma when they first reach the Internet and must decide which blogging platform is best for their new website. There are actually dozens of options on the market, ranging from the basic blog settings of the social networks to the self-hosted open sources software solutions.

However, for most new bloggers and those who don't want to pay for their blog, the choice boils down to one of two websites: Blogger and Wordpress. These two services have become synonymous in recent years with the blogging phenomenon, making up a massive percentage of the Internet's most popular blogs. For that reason, there has been a bit of discussion over which service is better.

Provided here is a solid answer to that question once and for all, 7 reasons why Blogger is in fact better than Wordpress. These comparisons relate to the free accounts available from both Blogger and Wordpress.

Integrated Login with Your Google Account
With the ability to easily connect all of your Google accounts, this is a big plus for Blogger. Many of the most useful features for a website are offered by Google, including AdSense, AdWords, and Webmaster tools for Google indexing. Instead of adding code into your templates, something that can quickly become confusing and result in broken websites, Blogger allows you to simply click a button and integrate AdSense or banners into your site.

This allows you to use the same login information for all Google services and that sets Blogger a few steps ahead. Wordpress is an open sources solution, meaning that all extra services must be manually integrated into your blog after you have signed up for your account.

Backed up by Google
Along the same lines, Blogger has the backing of the largest and most powerful Internet Company in the world. For some this might seem like a negative, but it means the most money and development time can be placed into creating new features for Blogger that Wordpress may need to wait for. Historically, features such as widgets, add-ons, and templates have been enhanced first by Blogger. Wordpress is usually a step or two behind the curve. For the best features as they are developed, Blogger is the winner.

Change Visual Appearance and Code of Templates
Blogger's options for making changes to the visual composition of your blog are numerous and easy to use, something that Wordpress has had problems maintaining in the past. In Blogger, there are a number of pre-built templates as well as thousands more available from any number of websites. Simply copy and paste them into your blog's template page and you have a new look. Additionally, the style sheets and HTML code for your template (if you are willing to do so) can easily be changed and enhanced to suit your specific needs.

Indexing Time
Whether it is because of the link with Google or because of the sheer volume of Blogger blogs, your posts will be indexed in the Search Engines much quicker with Blogger. Usually within a few hours of posting your newest page will appear, allowing you to receive the most traffic as quickly as possible. This is especially important as most blogs strive to talk about the newest and most relevant news as it breaks. If that news does not index for two days, it will already be old when people start to read your posts.

Ease of Use
Blogger is truly a plug and play design for a new blog owner. Signing up takes seconds, allowing users to use their Google login and asking only for a few basic pieces of information such as blog title and description. From there, blog posts can be typed up and entered with two or three clicks and are automatically indexed. For newcomers to the blogosphere especially, Blogger is the best choice when it comes to ease of use.

Integration of Multiple Accounts
Blogger makes it easy to view all of your blogs via a dashboard feature that links directly to your Google login. When you login, all of your blogs will display, with one-click options to post, edit, or alter posts. The number of blogs and accounts available is nearly endless and makes blogging on multiple topics easier than ever.

Massive Blogging Network
Because Blogger is the first stop for many new bloggers, it is also among the largest blogging networks in the world. The millions of blogs already created in Blogger are helpful to the new member as well because of how Google has integrated their search features into the site. Not only can visitors search Blogger blogs via the search bar at the top of the page, they can click "random" or "next blog" to visit a different Blogger blog. This increases your exposure by directly connecting you with existing blogs. And if you decide to hide this feature, you can do that too in Blogger.

Ultimately, Blogger is an ideal solution for anyone who is just starting their first blog. It is also a great platform for those who are serious about blogging, but do not want to hire a technician to set them up and make regular adjustments to their blog. It is easy to use, quick to start, and offers a host of features that the free Wordpress blog and its other competitors do not.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/branding-articles/7-reasons-why-blogger-is-better-than-wordpress-262287.html#ixzz0ukyn0Ghk

THE Journey

2010-07-25T23:03:00.000-05:00

Well, I understand it has been a while since I have posted. I want you all to know that I am working behind the scenes on my blogs. I will be updating the blog and posting more information regarding art, graphic design, blogging and MONEY!!! Oh yes! Money, money, money!! Who doesn't LOVE money!! I will let you know so just keep the questions coming and I'll keep finding new information and posting it here.

Stay Tuned!!!

HOPE

2010-05-26T02:19:00.000-05:00

One thing that I have learned in this process of growing my own business was keeping hope up. I've had to endure nay-sayers and just being on my own. I've had the help of my family, friends and loving boyfriend but there was always something that I missed. I don't know about you, but I am very religious. I just like the fact that I have something to depend on. Something that keeps me grounded. I LOVE God and know that He is who makes me successful.

It's funny because you can have all of this and still feel unsuccessful or unaccomplished. It's something that has to begin from within. Something that keeps you when you can't keep yourself. That's where hope comes in. The definition of hope is a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen. It's an expectation. I KNOW something is going to come out of my drive to succeed because I want it. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not looking to be rich and have Prada and Gucci...not that I wouldn't like it. I just want to be successful at something that I LOVE to do. It's cool because it's coming...slowly, but surely.

Anyway, I just wanted to leave my readers some hope. I hope that you have been inspired by my blog. Please keep reading and keep posting comments. I enjoy the feedback.

Are You A Bit BORED??

2010-02-03T17:07:00.000-06:00

THE SYDEBhaR:

Have you ever been searching on the web and come across something so FANTASTIC, but you forgot to write down the web address? Well, that actually happened to me. I was searching for some ideas for a party and I cam across some invitations. Now, these were no ordinary invites. They were Wedding Invitations! I couldn't help but compliment each design made by Lela New York. Lela New York is a custom design studio who specializes in luxury couture wedding invitations and custom invitations and stationery serving New York and worldwide. Lela New York is known for creating awe-inspiring, stylish designs for the discerning client.

When I cam across these designs, I couldn't help but wipe the drool and admire the work that I was viewing. So, if you are engaged and haven't picked out invitations, you should definitely check Lela New York out. Fantastique!!

Well, I am having a wonderful day! I have completed my business plan (after sometime...) and I'm looking for funding. That's the only update that I can give you as far as my business in concerned. I do believe that I have been neglecting the "Artistic Adventures" this blog has to offer and this blog has...well, become a bit dull. I mean, we need the information that I have been sharing, but where is the creativity? The laughter? The awe?

I guess I have been trying to educate you on all the news that I have received. I want you, as an artist or artist at heart, to learn what I haven't been taught. Well, we are in a new year and I want to give more fun advice as well as business advice.

I hope to open up the floodgates of ART and show you a GOOD TIME!!! HA!!

Starting a Business VIDEO

2010-01-28T22:04:00.000-06:00

Hi Guys!

I realize it has been a while since we've talked, but I've been working on a few projects. I am so tired, but it's worth it. Anyway, I came across a website that I felt I should share with my readers. It's called My Own Business, Inc. It has so much information about business start-up costs and what to do as an entrepreneur. I really learned a lot just from the video below. Feel free to watch and keep the emails coming!!

WATCH Melgmo Designs Grow!

2009-12-27T18:54:00.001-06:00

The days after Christmas have been pretty busy for me. I'm actually working with a new company. They are looking to expand in their advertising and want me to come aboard. I'm excited and a little bit nervous. I'm not worried about what I can do because I know my ability. I know that I am a perfectionist and that I LOVE what I do. I just happen to be a little more excite that I have to and it just makes me a little nervous.

Anyway, I've been working non-stop on slogans, logos and business cards and I feel more business-like every day. It's really cool! I've come up with a few ideas and I showed them to my client. It was nice because he loved them and has been really supportive. This year is almost over, but GREAT things are happening for Melgmo Designs. Next year I'm looking to do BIGGER and BETTER things! I'm looking to travel more and advertise more and hire an assistant. I want to knock out the odds and ends before I get acquainted with anyone else. I want to make sure I know what I'm doing before employing someone else. It's gonna happen. I'm looking forward to the changes of Melgmo Designs. This is only the beginning.

Thank you guys for listening and just being there. You have been great. I really appreciate your emails and calls. Just your support has been keeping me sane in spite of the chaos. Thanks a lot and watch Melgmo grow in 2010!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from Melgmo Designs

2009-12-24T21:23:00.000-06:00

FREE Education...Are You Serious??

2009-11-17T10:23:00.000-06:00

THE SYDEBhaR:

Thank you to those of you who completed the Photography Challenge! I've gotten a lot of responses and it was fun viewing your designs and concepts! I loved it!

There has been a winner!

"Colorful Rain" by Sarah H. from Dallas, TX

Congrats Sarah! This light photo is at a really nice angle. I like the way you blended your colors together and still made the road visible. You will receive a NEW Apple iPod Touch. How's that for a Christmas Gift?

Thank you all for completing the challenge and STAY TUNED for the next challenge! Every prize won't be the same and some challenges won't receive a prize, but PERSISTENCE IS KEY! Keep submitting your ideas and questions to melgmodesigns@gmail.com

On, to the blog...

Have you ever wanted to take a business class, but you just didn't have the money, time or location? Well, today "Can YOU Speak Design?" will share the top 10 places to get FREE business education!! I mean, who wouldn't want to know how to negotiate a loan or business deal...or maybe just the insurance rates for your used car. A business sense is something we ALL need to have this day and age. Especially, with the economy on the fritz! So, i hope that you take advantage of this FREE offer. Only YOU can take away the will and drive to learn...

10 Places to Get a Free Business Education Online

Getting a business education doesn't have to be expensive. An increasing number of colleges, universities and even nonprofit organizations offer free business courses online. Find out how you can sign up for these courses and what you can get from them.

1. MIT OpenCourseWare - Sloan School of Management (mit.edu)

MIT OpenCourseWare might be the next best thing to getting an MIT education for free. Through this free online publication you can find bachelor-level business courses, as well as master-level courses, offered by MIT's Sloan School of Management. The curriculum includes lecture notes, videos, labs demonstrations and more. Registration is free and more than 50 courses are available.

2. The U.S. Small Business Administration (sba.gov)

The Small Business Administration has one of the best selections of business courses on the web. Topics include everything from starting a business and business management to government contracting and international trade. Most courses take only 30 minutes to complete.

3. The Free Nonprofit Micro-eMBA Program (managementhelp.org)

Complete Nonprofit Management Learning Coursework

Free Management Library's Free Nonprofit Micro-eMBA(SM) Program is a great resource for students wishing to learn more about nonprofit management. Completion of this program will not result in an MBA degree, but enrollment is free. The amount of time it takes to complete the program will depend on how fast you learn, but you may expect to spend at least 200 hours on coursework.

4. 'Business Week' Free Online Courses (bwcourses.com)

Business Week's registered users will soon be able to take advantage of instructor-led online courses offered free through Business Week's website. Courses include:

All courses consist of four to eight lessons and last an average of two weeks.

5. My Own Business - (myownbusiness.com)

Overview of the 14 Sessions on Starting a Small Business

Nonprofit organization My Own Business, Inc. offers a free online business administration course that would be beneficial to new managers and to anyone who is interested in starting a business. This comprehensive course is split up into 14 sessions covering topics like business plans, accounting, marketing, insurance, e-commerce and international trade. For under $100, students can also acquire the accompanying textbook and a certificate of completion.

6. Business Entrepreneur Courses (trumpuniversity.com)

Overview of Business Entrepreneurship Courses

Trump University offers a number of free online business courses geared towards the entrepreneur. Courses include How to Start a Business on a Shoestring Budget, Write a Business Plan, and Find Start Up Funding. Many courses can be completed in an afternoon. Enrollment is free, but you'll need to enter your name, email and address information before getting started.

7. Kutztown University - Small Business Development Center (kutztownsbdc.org)

Strategic Planning and Execution Course

SmallBizU eLearning University at Kutztown Univeristy of Pennsylvania offers an online business course that can take less than one week to complete. The course name is Strategic Planning and Execution. As the name implies, this course presents strategies for crafting and executing business visions, mission statements and goals. SmallBizU also provides strategic planning software free to all course participants.

8. iLearn Small Business Courses (ivillage.com)

iLearn Small Business Courses, courtesy of iVillage, are free general business courses that are available 24/7. The instructor-led courses are split into four or more lessons and include special features including interactive message boards and one-on-one tutorials with course instructors.

9. Financial Management Training Center Courses (exinfm.com)

Course Samples include:

The Financial Management Training Center provides 20 free downloadable business courses for people who need to learn the finer points of financial management. All courses offered can be taken online; courses include full exams as well as evaluation forms for people seeking Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.

10. State of Maine - Small Business Development Center (mainesbdc.org)

Overview of Small Business Courses

The State of Maine's Small Business Development Centers offer a few free online workshops that are great for current small business owners as well as for would-be entrepreneurs. The workshops include Starting Your Small Business, Developing Your Business Plan, and Marketing for Small Business. Each workshop takes a few hours to complete and results in a Certificate of Completion.

PLEASE check out this information. It is very informative and if you learn more or have more suggestions please comment.

Thank you and have a WONDERFUL day!!!