I’ve spent a lot of time looking at your work, and I’ve decided that I want you to design my blog. What do I do now?
I would suggest you start by reading my “Getting Started” guide. This will give you lots of information on how the design process works, and what you can expect. After you’ve read and reviewed that, you can contact me with any more questions.
Do you design blogs and/or designs for everyone who submits a Potential Clint Questionnaire?
This varies month to month. As of right now (September 2011) I am accepting most everything that comes through my queue. However, as my clientele increases and my workload grows, there may be months where I can’t accept every single client who contacts me. If this is the case, I will gladly refer you to a few of my preferred designers who I trust will do a fantastic job on your design.
I have a dot com name. What else do I need to get started?
A dot com name is a requirement for a Blog design through Media Mom Creative, but you will also need to set up hosting if you haven’t already. I prefer Blue Host, and all clients who purchase their hosting packages through one of the Blue Host Affiliate links on my blog, will receive 20% off of their design.
Do you design on the Blogger Platform?
Designs on the Blogger Platform are rare. While I do design the occasional Blogger Blog, I prefer to design on the Self-Hosted WordPress Platform. If you’re interested in a Blogger design, please contact me for pricing and information.
I want to include a Graphic or cartoon that resembles me in my blog. Can you design one?
Unfortunately, I do not have the skills or the software of an Illustrator. However, you can choose graphics from iStockPhoto. These graphics are not included in the design Package Price and are the financial responsibility of the client. I can, however, change the colors of the characters hair and eyes to match yours. Depending on the graphic, sometimes I can add things or remove things to better suit you.
I want a Music Player/McLinky/other plugin installed on my new Self-Hosted Blog. Will you do it for me?
I do install some basic plugins with each of my designs (depending on the package that you purchase) such as Social Media Icons, Twitter, RSS Subscription, and Spam Filters. Other plugins, such as Facebook “Like” Boxes, Affiliate Links, or other site enhancing widgets can be installed at an additional cost. Inquire about this plugin enhanced option in your Potential Client Questionnaire.
Okay, I’ve filled out my Potential Client Form and paid my deposit. How long before my design is live?
This varies depending on my waiting list. If the queue is empty, you can expect your site within two (2) to three (3) weeks at the latest (barring any unforeseen circumstances that arise on my end). If there is a wait list, you’ll receive an estimated start date via email upon receipt of your deposit.
How will you communicate with me while you work on my design?
Clients will receive a special invitation to a Project Management Database that will allow them to communicate with me quickly and effectively. You’ll also be able to upload your choice of color schemes and images, as well as stay up-to-date with where we stand on your design progress.
I love what you’ve done so far, but there are a few things that I want to change. Will I be charged extra?
That depends. In general the process works as follows:
- I design two or three (depending on your design package) header/logo designs for you to choose from. You then decide which one you like the best and suggest any changes (fonts, colors) that you would like to see made. You receive two rounds of revision on your logo free of charge. Any changes requested after the second set of revisions will be charged hourly.
- Once you choose your main logo/header, the rest of the design process begins. Clients who are already on WordPress.org will have their site generated on a test blog before it goes live. Clients who are not on WordPress.org will need to have their hosting account set up before hand, as their sites will be generated on the live site and placed in an “Under Construction” mode during the set-up. When your design is complete, you will be notified via email and given a link and/or password to access the site’s preview. Once the test site is up, you will have 48 hours to request changes. Each client will be allowed two (2) minor rounds of revision [changes to font color and size, repositioning of icons and images, etc.] and two (2) major rounds of revision [changes to graphics, backgrounds, icons, images, etc.]. Clients will be notified when they have used up their revision rounds. Changes made to the site after these revisions are used OR changes made outside of the 48 hour time period will be charged an hourly fee of $60.
What can I do to make the design process move quicker?
I think the most helpful thing any client can do to make their design move along quicker, is to know what you want from your new site ahead of time. I love to offer insight and look forward to helping you come up with a design that reflects who you are and what you or your blog/business is about. But, if you could know ahead of time a general color scheme, or just have a selection of a few sites that you like the design elements from, that would be a tremendous help. Some clients prefer to create a Pinterest Folder full of color schemes and designs they like. (If you need a Pinterest invite and want to use their site for your design ideas, contact me for an invite).