This week Cas interviewed graphic designer, Natalie Souprounovich. Natalie shares her story of how she started her boutique design business after being made redundant, and her tips for working around family.
Tell us a little about the person behind the business?
I am a senior level designer with 15 years experience. My passion is designing creative and effective visual communications pieces. My extensive experience as a graphic designer has given me the knowledge to cover all stages of the design process – from concept development right through to pre-press management – and within all aspects of graphic design including typography; web design; advertising and illustration.
And now a little about the business itself?
Natalie Souprounovich Design Services specialises in creative solutions for small business. I can create graphics for all small business needs including business cards, swing tags, logos, magazine advertising, brochures, banners, flyers, postcards, facebook graphics, websites and much more.
How did you come up with your business name?
I decided to use my own name as part of my business name because it is memorable and I feel that is shows that I am confident enough to endorse my own services.
What made you want to begin a WAH business and how did you get started?
I have been thinking about starting my own business for a few years now, but was recently made redundant, so it seemed like it was meant to be. Now I am very excited to be helping small businesses achieve their dream brands.
What inspires you to keep your business going?
I love working with businesses that share my passion for creating a good, consistent message. Whether it is a simple business card or a completely new brand design, I love to see the excitement each client shows when they are presented with their new design.
Do you have a current best-selling product or service?
My current best selling service is logo design. I have a set of questions that helps the client explain what they would like as a logo. The answers give me an interesting insight into what they really like and I can usually come up with a concept first time. Logo design is something I really enjoy because it is the face of the business and it needs to be eye catching and memorable.
How do you advertise your business and which methods have proven more successful?
So far, Facebook has been the most successful method to advertise my business. I have also tried goodie bags and handing out flyers–both have received interest but generated little business. I am currently working on a new marketing plan that will include banner and press advertising. I think the important thing to remember about advertising is that you have to try many different avenues until you find the right one for your service/product.
How do you juggle your family and your WAH business? Any tips for other WAHPs?
I usually work when my kids are sleeping, otherwise I find that they are climbing over me and pressing buttons on the keyboard. Sometimes it means late nights, but I have been blessed with children that like to sleep in so I can usually catch up on the lack of sleep in the morning. My best tip for other WAHPs is don’t think you are alone, there are lots of WAHPs out there and they have the same dreams and difficulties as you. Sometimes it helps to talk about issues with others in the same situation.
And finally, what advice would you give to anyone wanting to start a WAH business?
Don’t be afraid to spend money on good quality graphic design. You can buy cheep premade logos and create your own flyers or press adverts but spending the money on professional design services will send a consistent, original message to your audience and endorse the professional service or product behind your business.
Connect
| Name | Natalie Souprounovich |
| natsouper [at] gmail.com | |
| Business Name | Natalie Souprounovich Design Services |
| Website URL | |
| Facebook URL | |
| Location | Brisbane – Qld – Australia |
About Cas McCullough
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