The HVD Studios Blog

Flexible Payment Plans for Logo Design & Websites: Ideal for Startups and Small Businesses

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 17:28:07 GMT

Now available:

Payment plans featuring Affirm and Klarna

Launching or improving your brand no longer requires a large upfront investment. In an effort to assist new start-ups and growing businesses who like the option of payment plans, HVD Studios now offers flexible payment plans on select design services to support startups and small businesses ready to improve their visual identity.

For a limited time, Flex Websites , Logo Design , and Brand Identity Packages are eligible for installment payments through Affirm and Klarna, allowing you to spread costs over time while still receiving professional, strategy-driven design.

This option is ideal for entrepreneurs, startups, and growing businesses looking to strengthen their brand presence with confidence.

To learn more about each payment provider, visit:

Affirm: https://www.affirm.com

Klarna: https://www.klarna.com

Blueprints & Breakthroughs: 6 Free Tools to Elevate Your Brand in 2026

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 19:27:04 GMT

Free tools to help your business thrive

At HVD Studios, we believe every brand deserves clarity, confidence, and creative momentum. Whether you're a small business, nonprofit, or entrepreneur, your brand should reflect your values, resonate with your audience, and inspire people to take action. But too often, design feels overwhelming, inconsistent, or out of reach.

That’s why we’re launching six free initiatives, one each month, starting this January and continuing through mid-2026. Each tool is designed to help you assess your branding blueprint, uncover hidden gaps, and take action with purpose. From logo design to social media kits, these downloads are practical, beginner-friendly, and built to help you grow.

What’s Included in the Series?

Each initiative includes:

A downloadable worksheet, checklist, or planner (depending on initiative. Many are done online)
A short survey to help us tailor future tools
Early access to our special event series

The 2025-26 Initiative Lineup

December 2026

Website Rescue Checklist: 10 Fixes in 10 Minutes
Available December 1, 2025. This quick audit helps you clean up your site, sharpen your message, and improve usability.

Includes: Printable checklist + scoring guide - This series has expired.

January 2025

Logo Launchpad: Design That Speaks Before You Do
Your logo is often the first impression you make. This worksheet helps you define your brand tone, choose the right visual elements, and avoid common design pitfalls.

Includes: Logo planning worksheet + brand tone selector - This series has expired.

February 2026

The Brand Identity Decoder: What Your Visuals Are Really Saying
Are your colors, fonts, and imagery aligned with your message? This tool helps you decode your brand’s visual language.

Includes: Brand audit worksheet + tone alignment survey

March 2026

The Design Inventory Audit: What’s Missing from Your Toolkit?
From business cards to social templates, this checklist helps you identify gaps in your visual assets.

Includes: Editable inventory tracker + priority planner

April 2026

Apparel That Speaks: Messaging for Merch That Moves People
Whether you're printing shirts or launching a product line, this guide helps you craft messaging that resonates.

Includes: Merch messaging matrix + mockup planner

May 2026

Social Media Starter Kit: Build a Month of Meaningful Posts
Stop guessing what to post. This kit helps you plan, write, and schedule content that resonates with your audience.

Includes: Content calendar + caption writing guide

June 2026

Inbox Impact: How to Design a Newsletter People Actually Read
Your emails should feel like a gift, not a chore. This blueprint helps you design newsletters that get opened and acted on.

Includes: Layout tips + subject line swipe file

Why We’re Doing This

We’ve worked with hundreds of small businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs who are ready to grow but unsure where to start. These tools are our way of saying: You don’t have to do it alone. Let’s build your brand blueprint together.

How to Get Started

Join the HVD Studios Email Club to get early access to each initiative, downloadable tools, and exclusive surveys that shape what we create next. ↓

Why you shouldn't use a personal Facebook page to market your business

info@hvdstudios.com (HVD Studios LLC) — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 21:47:40 GMT

Promote your business or company using a Facebook Business Account.

Using a personal Facebook profile to market your business may seem convenient, but it comes with several drawbacks and limitations. Here are some reasons why you should avoid using a personal Facebook page to grow and market your small business or company:

1.Lack of Professionalism

Personal profiles are designed for individual use, and using one for business purposes can appear unprofessional to potential customers. A dedicated business page provides a professional platform to showcase your brand and offerings.

2.Limited Features and Functionality

Personal profiles have limited features compared to business pages. For instance, you cannot access insights and analytics, run ads, or utilize business-specific tools and features like scheduling posts or creating custom tabs. If you plan to run an ad campaign, it needs to be done using a business page. The same holds true for Instagram, the parent company of Facebook.

3.Violation of Facebook's Terms of Service

Facebook's terms of service prohibit using personal profiles for commercial purposes. Violating these terms could result in penalties such as account suspension or removal of content, jeopardizing your online presence and reputation. We've known family and friends who have been put in "Facebook Jail" for these violations.

4. Privacy Concerns

Sharing business-related content on your personal profile may raise privacy concerns among your friends and family who may not be interested in your business activities. Maintaining a separation between personal and professional interactions is essential for preserving personal relationships. This may also turn off people who don't share your personal, religious, or political views.

5.Ineffective Targeting and Branding

Personal profiles lack the targeting capabilities and branding opportunities available on business pages. With a business page, you can tailor your content and messaging to specific audiences and maintain consistent branding across all marketing efforts.

6.Limited Growth Potential

Using a personal profile restricts your ability to scale your business's online presence. A business page allows you to grow your audience, reach new customers, and engage with followers more effectively through advertising, analytics, and other growth strategies.

7. Difficulty in Managing Business Activities

Managing business-related activities on a personal profile can become cumbersome over time. As your business grows, you may find it challenging to keep track of customer inquiries, feedback, and other interactions within the confines of a personal profile. Having a business Facebook page helps to control your correspondence.

8. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Depending on your location and industry, there may be legal or regulatory requirements governing how businesses can engage with customers on social media. Using a personal profile for business purposes may result in non-compliance with these regulations.

Conclusion

While it may seem convenient to use a personal Facebook profile for business marketing, the drawbacks and limitations outweigh the benefits. Establishing a dedicated business page provides a more professional, effective, and compliant platform for promoting your brand and engaging with customers on Facebook.

Want to learn more about setting up a Facebook Business Page?

Why email marketing is a good idea for your small business

info@hvdstudios.com (HVD Studios LLC) — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 21:47:36 GMT

Update your visitors with sales, promotions, and events with Newsletter Marketing.

In today's digital age, where social media platforms and search engines dominate the marketing landscape, email marketing remains a powerhouse tool for businesses of all sizes. With its unparalleled reach, effectiveness, and return on investment (ROI), email marketing continues to prove its value as a cornerstone strategy for driving engagement, nurturing leads, and fostering customer relationships.

While we encourage our clients and readers to research the best email newsletter providers such as Constant Contact, MailChimp, and others to use, we wanted to discuss why your business should consider email marketing, the compelling reasons behind its enduring relevance, and how it can possibly bring in new customers.

1. Direct and Personalized Communication

Email allows you to communicate directly with your audience in their inbox, providing a personalized and targeted experience. By segmenting your email list and tailoring your messages based on subscriber preferences and behaviors, you can deliver content that resonates with each recipient, increasing engagement and conversion rates.

High ROI and Cost-Effectiveness

Email marketing consistently delivers one of the highest returns on investment compared to other marketing channels. With minimal overhead costs and the ability to reach a large audience at scale, email campaigns offer exceptional value for businesses looking to maximize their marketing budget and drive revenue growth.

3. Builds and Nurtures Customer Relationships

Email marketing is an effective tool for building and nurturing long-term relationships with your customers. By delivering valuable content, exclusive offers, and personalized recommendations, you can establish trust, loyalty, and brand affinity, turning subscribers into repeat customers and brand advocates.

4. Drives Website Traffic and Conversions

Email serves as a powerful driver of website traffic and conversions. Whether it's promoting new products, announcing upcoming events, or sharing educational content, email campaigns can direct subscribers to your website, landing pages, or online store, where they can take desired actions such as making a purchase or signing up for a service.

5. Measurable and Trackable Results

Unlike traditional forms of advertising, email marketing provides detailed analytics and insights into campaign performance. From open rates and click-through rates to conversion metrics and revenue attribution, you can track the effectiveness of your email campaigns in real-time, allowing for data-driven optimization and continuous improvement.

6. Enhances Brand Visibility and Awareness

Consistent email communication keeps your brand top-of-mind among your audience, increasing brand visibility and awareness. By regularly engaging with subscribers through newsletters, promotions, and updates, you can reinforce your brand identity, values, and messaging, strengthening your position in the marketplace.

7. Supports Sales and Revenue Generation

Email marketing plays a pivotal role in driving sales and revenue for your business. Whether it's generating leads, nurturing prospects through the sales funnel, or re-engaging lapsed customers, email campaigns can influence purchasing decisions and drive conversions, directly impacting your bottom line.

Conclusion

Email marketing remains a vital component of a comprehensive marketing strategy, offering unparalleled benefits and opportunities for businesses to connect with their audience, drive engagement, and achieve their marketing objectives. By harnessing the power of email, businesses can unlock a world of possibilities for growth, profitability, and success in today's competitive marketplace.

Want to learn more about email marketing?

How to Earn Money on Etsy and Why People Love It

info@hvdstudios.com (HVD Studios LLC) — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 21:47:33 GMT

A go to platform for creative entrepreneurs looking to monetize their talents

Whether you’re an artist, craftsperson, vintage enthusiast, or designer, Etsy offers a marketplace that connects you with a global audience. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can earn money on Etsy and why so many people are drawn to this unique platform.

How to Earn Money on Etsy

1. Identify Your Niche

The first step to success on Etsy is identifying your niche. This involves figuring out what you’re passionate about and what you can create that others will want to buy. Popular categories include handmade jewelry, personalized gifts, home decor, vintage items, and custom art. By focusing on a specific niche, you can tailor your products and marketing efforts to attract your ideal customers.

2. Create High-Quality Products

Quality is key on Etsy. Buyers come to the platform looking for unique, well-made items that they can’t find anywhere else. Invest in good materials, perfect your craft, and ensure that every item you list meets high standards. High-quality products lead to positive reviews and repeat customers.

3. Optimize Your Listings

To attract buyers, your product listings need to be optimized for search engines both on Etsy and beyond. Use relevant keywords in your titles and descriptions, provide detailed information about your products, and use all available tags. High-quality photos are also essential; they should be clear, well-lit, and show your product from multiple angles.

4. Set Competitive Prices

Pricing can make or break your success on Etsy. Research what similar items are selling for and price your products competitively. Consider the cost of materials, time spent creating the item, and any shipping or packaging costs. Don’t undervalue your work, but be realistic about what customers are willing to pay.

5. Promote Your Shop

Marketing your Etsy shop is crucial for driving traffic and sales. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook to showcase your products and reach a broader audience. You can also invest in Etsy ads to increase your visibility on the platform. Engaging with customers through excellent customer service and prompt responses to inquiries also boosts your shop’s reputation.

6. Keep Learning and Adapting

Etsy trends and buyer preferences can change, so it’s important to stay informed and adaptable. Participate in Etsy forums, follow successful sellers, and keep an eye on marketplace trends. Continuously improving your products and strategies will help you stay competitive and grow your business.

Why People Use Etsy

1. Unique and Personalized Items

One of the main reasons people love Etsy is the availability of unique and personalized items. Shoppers can find handcrafted goods, custom designs, and one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that aren’t available in regular stores. This uniqueness makes gifts and purchases feel special and meaningful.

2. Support for Small Businesses

Etsy provides a platform for small business owners and independent creators to reach a global audience. Many buyers appreciate the opportunity to support individual artisans and small businesses rather than large corporations. This sense of community and support is a significant draw for many Etsy shoppers.

3. Creative and Diverse Marketplace

Etsy’s marketplace is incredibly diverse, offering everything from handmade jewelry and art to vintage clothing and home decor. This wide variety means that there’s something for everyone, regardless of taste or budget. The creative energy of the platform attracts both sellers and buyers who value originality and creativity.

4. Trust and Transparency

Etsy’s review system and transparent seller policies help build trust between buyers and sellers. Shoppers can read reviews from previous customers, see detailed product descriptions, and understand the seller’s return and shipping policies before making a purchase. This transparency fosters a positive shopping experience and encourages repeat business.

5. Ease of Use

For both buyers and sellers, Etsy’s platform is user-friendly and straightforward. Setting up a shop is relatively easy, with plenty of resources and support available for new sellers. For buyers, the search functionality, filters, and personalized recommendations make finding and purchasing items a breeze.

In conclusion

Etsy offers a fantastic opportunity for creative entrepreneurs to turn their passions into profits. By identifying a niche, creating high-quality products, optimizing listings, setting competitive prices, and effectively promoting your shop, you can build a successful business on Etsy. For buyers, the platform’s unique offerings, support for small businesses, creative diversity, trustworthiness, and ease of use make it a beloved marketplace. Whether you’re looking to sell or shop, Etsy has something special to offer.

Interested in learning more about ETSY?

Can your personal credit score affect your business?

Fri, 31 May 2024 15:59:44 GMT

If you are serious about starting and growing your business over time, this quick read is for you!

When embarking on a business venture, entrepreneurs often focus on business plans, market analysis, and financial projections. However, one critical factor that can significantly influence the success of a business is often overlooked: the personal credit score of the business owner. Understanding how your personal credit score can impact your business is crucial for making informed financial decisions and securing the necessary resources for growth.

The Connection Between Personal and Business Credit

Your personal credit score is a reflection of your creditworthiness based on your financial history, including credit card usage, loan repayments, and other financial behaviors. This score ranges from 300 to 850, with higher scores indicating better creditworthiness.

While personal and business finances are typically treated separately, there are scenarios where your personal credit score can directly affect your business. Here are some instances:

Business Loan Applications

When you apply for a business loan, especially if your business is new or lacks substantial credit history, lenders often assess your personal credit score to gauge the risk associated with lending to your business. A strong personal credit score can enhance your chances of securing a loan with favorable terms, whereas a poor score can result in higher interest rates or even denial of credit.

Credit Card Approvals

Business credit cards are a common financial tool for managing expenses and cash flow. Issuers frequently evaluate the personal credit score of the business owner to determine eligibility. A high personal credit score can lead to higher credit limits and lower interest rates, providing your business with more financial flexibility.

Vendor and Supplier Relationships

Establishing credit terms with vendors and suppliers can be vital for maintaining inventory and managing cash flow. Many vendors may review your personal credit score to assess the reliability and risk of extending credit to your business. A strong personal credit score can help negotiate better terms and foster trust with suppliers.

Lease Agreements

If your business requires office space, retail locations, or equipment leases, landlords and leasing companies often review the business owner's personal credit score. A favorable score can make the leasing process smoother and potentially reduce the need for substantial security deposits.

Building and Maintaining a Strong Personal Credit Score

Given the impact of your personal credit score on your business, it is essential to actively manage and improve it. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Monitor Your Credit Report: Regularly check your credit report for errors or discrepancies and address them promptly. Tools like annualcreditreport.com provide free access to your credit reports from major bureaus.

2. Pay Bills on Time: Timely payment of bills is one of the most significant factors affecting your credit score. Set up reminders or automatic payments to avoid missed or late payments.

3.Reduce Debt: High levels of personal debt can negatively impact your credit score. Focus on reducing outstanding balances, particularly on credit cards, to improve your credit utilization ratio.

4. Avoid Opening Multiple New Accounts: Each new credit application can result in a hard inquiry on your credit report, temporarily lowering your score. Be strategic about applying for new credit.

5. Maintain Long-term Credit Relationships: The length of your credit history also influences your score. Keep older accounts open and in good standing to demonstrate a long-term, positive credit history.

Leveraging Personal Credit for Business Growth

Understanding the interplay between personal and business credit allows you to strategically leverage your personal credit to support and grow your business. While building a separate business credit profile is essential, a strong personal credit score can serve as a valuable asset in the early stages of your business journey.

By maintaining a solid personal credit score, you can access the financial resources needed to drive your business forward, negotiate better terms with lenders and suppliers, and create a stable foundation for long-term success. Remember, your personal financial health is intrinsically linked to your business's financial health—nurturing one can significantly benefit the other.

Plan on working from home, spending your own funds, or using your personal credit cards?

The points listed in this article may not apply to you. At some point in the future the time may be right for you to expand in which case, these terms can apply. Just something to think about.

Do I need a website if my business is already on social media?

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 15:10:41 GMT

Why Every Business Owner Needs a Website Alongside Their Social Media Presence

This is a question we get often. Many people are curious to know if they even need a website if they are successfully using their social media to get new clients and grow their business. To us, we would need you to define the word successful .

For some, social media is an integral part of their daily business operation. Most who are using these platforms with much success are actually influencers and for that reason, this makes sense. They are using their fame to branch out to other mediums such as Youtube and even Pinterest and typically don't have problems getting new customers, clients, and followers.

Most influencers STILL have a website because it helps to solidify their brand. When you only use social media as your primary source of marketing, you can't perform actions such as blogging, creating members only pages, password protecting certain areas of your pages, or selling products directly on your page (you actually can put products on your social media pages, but they just link to your actual website so it's misleading in a way).

Do you have more than 10k UNPAID followers

If you don't have more than 10,000 followers, you will need a better way to attract your target audience, unless you want to spend money running sponsored ads or boosting your social media posts. Note that we put the word unpaid in BOLD text. This is because if you are paying to get followers and have very low engagement to your posts, this can often be seen as a red flag to someone who may be interested in you. We can always tell when a company paid another company to get likes just by looking at their engagement. For example, we once saw a company that had 32k followers which is very respectable. Their posts only got about 35 likes and very few comments. If you do the math, they actually got less than .5% of followers noticing and reacting to their posts which is extremely low. We don't recommend paying for likes but if you are a numbers person, we understand.

Have less than 10k followers on any of your social media platforms? In this instance, we highly recommend a website.

With a website, you can clearly articulate your business, products, and services and have as much real estate as needed. With most social media platforms, you only have about a paragraph to do this, and prospective customers need to scroll through sometimes hundreds of posts to learn more about you. With a website, you can put your images in a tidy gallery, allow your customers to book from your pages, and can customize the look of your website to suit your needs, where social media platforms allow you to upload simply your logo or album cover art/video.

The bigger bonus is that you can still leverage social media and get new followers just by placing your social media icons on the header or footer of your website. Essentially you can have your cake and eat it too!

Todays technology and algorithms are getting sophisticated. Here are 8 reasons why you also need a website

In today's digital age, having a robust online presence is crucial for any business. While social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (also known as X) offer excellent opportunities for engagement and marketing, they should not be your sole online presence. A dedicated website is a fundamental asset that can provide numerous benefits that social media alone cannot. Here's why every business owner needs a website in addition to using social media.

1. Complete Control Over Your Online Presence

Customization and Branding

Your website is your digital storefront, where you have full control over the design, layout, and content. Unlike social media platforms, where you're limited by the platform's design and functionality, your website can be customized to reflect your brand's identity precisely.

No Algorithm Dependence

Social media platforms often change their algorithms, affecting the visibility of your posts. With a website, you have a stable platform where you control the visibility of your content without worrying about algorithm changes.

2. Enhanced Credibility and Professionalism

Establishing Trust

A well-designed website lends credibility to your business. Customers often view businesses with professional websites as more legitimate and trustworthy compared to those relying solely on social media profiles.

Showcasing Expertise

Your website allows you to showcase your expertise through detailed content such as blog posts, case studies, and client testimonials. This demonstrates your industry knowledge and builds trust with potential customers.

3. Improved Customer Experience

Centralized Information Hub

Your website serves as a centralized hub where customers can find comprehensive information about your products or services, business hours, contact details, and more. This convenience improves the overall customer experience.

Seamless Navigation

Unlike the scattered nature of social media posts, a website offers structured navigation. Visitors can easily find the information they need without sifting through a feed.

4. Better SEO and Discoverability

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Your website can be optimized for search engines, helping you attract organic traffic. With effective SEO strategies, your site can rank higher in search results, driving more potential customers to your business.

Long-Term Content Value

Content on your website has long-term value and continues to attract visitors over time. Unlike social media posts, which have a short lifespan, your website content remains accessible and relevant.

5. Ownership of Your Content and Data

Data Control

With a website, you have full ownership of your content and data. You can collect valuable insights through analytics, which helps you understand your audience and improve your marketing strategies.

Independence from Platform Policies

Relying solely on social media means you’re subject to their terms and policies, which can change unpredictably. Your website gives you independence, ensuring your business isn't vulnerable to platform changes or shutdowns.

6. E-commerce Capabilities

Online Store Integration

A website allows you to set up an online store, offering a seamless shopping experience for your customers. You can integrate various payment gateways and manage your inventory, sales, and customer data efficiently.

Custom Shopping Experience

You can customize the shopping experience to suit your brand and customers’ needs, offering personalized recommendations, discounts, and more.

7. Enhanced Marketing Opportunities

Comprehensive Marketing Tools

Your website can integrate with various marketing tools like email marketing platforms, CRM systems, and analytics tools. This integration enables more effective and personalized marketing campaigns.

Retargeting Potential

With a website, you can use retargeting strategies to reach visitors who have shown interest in your products or services, increasing your chances of converting them into customers.

8. Building a Mailing List

Direct Communication

Your website can host sign-up forms to build a mailing list. This list is invaluable for direct communication with your audience, sharing news, promotions, and content updates.

Greater Engagement

Email marketing allows for targeted and personalized messages, leading to higher engagement rates compared to social media posts.

Final Thoughts

While social media is an essential component of a modern business's online presence, it should complement, not replace, a dedicated website. A website offers complete control, enhanced credibility, better customer experience, improved discoverability, and robust marketing opportunities. By combining the strengths of both a website and social media, you can create a comprehensive online strategy that drives growth and success for your business.

Invest in a professional website today and watch your business reach new heights. Your customers will appreciate the convenience, trust, and value it brings, and you'll benefit from the increased visibility, control, and growth opportunities it provides.

Are DIY Website Builders The Best Option for your business?

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 15:05:21 GMT

Should you make your own website or hire a website designer to do this for you?

As a business owner, one of the biggest decisions you'll have to make is deciding the fate of your virtual space. Do you hire someone to create a website for you or by default, will you have to make your own due to your current financial situation?

We've come up with 5 things you'll need to consider before making the leap. They aren't solutions to your decisions, just something to think about.

Let's get started...

1. Are you computer literate?

This question is first for a reason. There are many business owners who simply aren't comfortable enough with personal computers outside of using one to check emails or do online shopping. As a website owner, it will be your responsibility to first determine which do it yourself website builder is best for your needs and from there, you'll need to find the right template, modify it, buy and connect your domain name, purchase hosting, launch the site, and then make updates as they are needed.

2. Are you patient enough to make your own website?

There are many things that go wrong when using a do it yourself website builder. They are marketed as "easy to use" but believe us, we had to devote an entire studio to assisting customers who struggle doing this. Do you get frustrated easily? Does sending off emails or calling an 800 number to get help something that seems like a burden to do? If you lose patience easily (patience is needed when making your own website), you may need to keep this in mind.

3. Do you have the time?

It takes your average person about 2-3 months to make a website that they feel comfortable enough to show. Using templates seem easy enough, but when you start substituting your own images with the placeholder images, and when you start learning your way around the various options and features of the editor you are using, the website ends up taking on a look of its own and to many, this look isn't a good one. One day turns into a week and a week turns into a month.

You'll also need to learn the non technical aspects of making your own website such as SEO. Since you are the owner, you'll need to spend time troubleshooting when issues arise.

4. Do you have the eye for design?

When working from template, one thing to keep in mind is that they are basically the frame to your new home. It's up to you to add the drywall, plumbing, electrical, and roof to make it yours.

Choosing the right colors and right images can have a huge impact on how your website will look. Images that are blurry or fuzzy will instantly make your website unattractive and using the wrong colors can either uplift of dampen the mood of your customers. You also need to consider visitors who are colorblind or visually impaired.

5. Can you afford it?

So you saved thousands of dollars by making your own website which is great but you also need to factor in the other costs. Most website builders run around $20/mo or so to host. If you are selling items (e-commerce) or maybe have a booking system on your website, these are additional costs that can easily increase your monthly investment an additional $45 or so. Just something to consider.

Get the help you need

We are certified and experienced trainers using the Wix Platform. If you are using a do it yourself website builder and are struggling, we can help. Visit us at Studio D or contact us and we'll be more than happy to assist.

What your branding says about you

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 15:55:39 GMT

Can we borrow your mind for about 2 minutes? This is important. This is a really quick read and we want it to soak in.

We've written about this topic many times before and will continue to reinforce its' importance. We're talking about branding .

If your personal brand were a car, and for the sake of this discussion, a new car, what model would you want to drive? A entry level compact car that doesn't turn heads? a luxury SUV with all the bells and whistles? A sports car that goes from 0 to 60 in 4 seconds, a luxury sedan that looks more like a spacecraft on the inside? The commercials alone make us want to save up for the next year just for the down payment because we are so motivated to drive one of these models. Pure head turners.

This is how we want your clients to feel when they visit your website or see your logo. They'll feel motivated to work with you or to at a bare minimum inquire about your services.

For us, we like to have our clients look at if from that standpoint. Why? because prior to working with us, so many of them turned a blind eye to the importance of their brand in exchange for a cheaper option. They desired to attract the right audience but didn't invest enough into the messaging they wanted to promote.

What does any of this mean? You get what you pay for so if you are looking to launch a business and decide to use a ready made logo in Canva or decided to dish out $50 through a graphic design marketplace, you are already damaging your credibility. Credible companies charge considerably more for a logo to develop a brand because we have the experience and expertise to craft your vision and will provide you with the files necessary to then put them on virtually any type of item.

Starting a business is never easy nor is it cheap. The more time and effort you invest in doing it the right way, the better chance you have of success.

If you went this route, it's never too late to make a u turn and go in the right direction. Visit one of our studios to see what we can do for you and your brand.

Improve business credibility with real reviews

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 22:07:04 GMT

One very important aspect that many small business owners skip is the importance of testimonials. I you have less than 2 minutes, this quick read will help grow your business.

Step outside the box for a second .

If you look at how we judge where we eat, shop, or how we choose a hotel, the first order of business is to see how many good or bad reviews that particular establishment got. Usually, if it's over 3 and a half stars, it's worth a shot. Below that and you are taking a chance but well aware that it may not meet your expectations. Sometimes decisions are purely financially driven. We get that.

A quick tip on how to get a good review.

If you are a relatively new business owner, give your clients the attention they deserve. In the beginning, keep the communication high, make sure that you respond back to a question or inquiry within 48 hours, and most importantly, deliver what you promised. Not only will you get a repeat customer, you'll also likely get a few referrals. We treat our clients like family. Because they are.

Where to ask clients to review your services

The best source for trusted reviews are Google. You may also see reviews on sites like Yelp so if you don't get an unsolicited review, make sure you are sending your clients to these pages and don't be afraid to ask them for one. Chances are that they will be more than happy to write one for you.

Struggling with starting your business?

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 18:24:44 GMT

If you are tired with your current job or career path, the next logical step is either finding another job that will pay the bills and bring absolutely zero joy to your day or working for yourself. The bigger question: What are you good at, and what services will you provide?

You'll need to answer each of these questions before you can proceed to the next step → creating the foundation to your next venture.

Creating a foundation, or taking notes/coming up with a business plan as to what venture will consume your time, is a necessary step. You'll have to know what type of structure you'll be (sole proprietor, LLC, etc.). where you'll operate (online), and how you'll market on either a zero budget or a low budget.

Next → you'll need to start thinking about your brand. This part is important. Don't cut corners here. So many of our clients have been victims of making their own logos using Canva or will even pay $25-$75 for a logo in a marketplace such as Fiverr and others. Your first impression needs to be a good one.

Finally, you'll need to get your business cards, website, and other print collateral items together. There are several directions you can go here. Some start off using social media as their platform but ultimately you'll need a website to establish credibility.

We hope this helps but if you have any questions, feel free to email us to discuss your next idea or any of our services.

What's more important. Price or quality?

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 23:24:44 GMT

So, you are in the market for a new logo, t-shirt designer, or website designer and want to go with the least expensive and most affordable option in order to save money.

We'd like to remind you that not all that glitters is gold. We are constantly faced with this friendly reminder each time we work with a new client who came to us because they were less than thrilled with the outcome of their new logo or website.

It makes sense in a way. You don't have the budget yet you need someone's expertise because you aren't skilled enough to create what you have in mind. In our honest and professional opinion, we recommend that you save the money and get it done right the first time, or end up having it done again somewhere else. We want to save you the time and money. Don't hire a designer until you have either researched the price of the project or can work with a company that provides flexible and convenient payment options.

At HVD Studios, we provide quality and a price that works for all. Payments over time help ease the burden of coming up with a large sum of money, and quality helps you to better communicate your message to your market. We're proud to work with so many new start ups, minority, and women owned business.

If you are in the market for a logo, graphic designer, website design, a website designer, and live in the Baltimore area, check out our Studio C , designed for start ups, and our Studio B for growing companies.

From Cancer Survivor To Author

Sat, 01 May 2021 20:43:14 GMT

One part of our job that we thoroughly enjoy are our clients. Each one has their own unique story, whether they went from rags to riches, or being featured on a national program like ESPN. When we started working with our client Tonja Ancrum, we were beyond impressed. She fought cancer not one, not two, not 3, but 4 times!

Her new book discusses her struggles as well as how she's rebounded to pursue many of her life goals, including the military. Grounded by faith, she lives for every moment and enjoys spending time with her kids and her husband.

Please take a moment to visit her personal site: www.tonjaancrum.com and her non-profit site: www.eaessi.org . Both designs were created in house.

Why it's important to update your website monthly

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 18:23:29 GMT

SEO, short for search engine optimization , is the process of adding relevant keywords and text to your website to attract the right audience (the right customers). While hiring an SEO expert to optimize your site can be expensive, there are a few adjustments you can make on your own to get found organically (naturally).

We don't believe in repeating information you can find easily on the internet so we're giving you a few straightforward tips to show you just how easy it is to keep Google happy and to update your website in the process.

Add A Blog

Adding a blog accomplishes two goals: It shows visitors that you are active in what you do and it also provides valuable information to them as well. What many don't realize is that when you write in a blog, you also have the opportunity to use keywords in your blog's title and in the body of the text.

For example, let's say you are a newly licensed plumber located in Baltimore and you are growing your business. Your title could read "Tips from a licensed plumber in Baltimore on how you can unthaw frozen pipes in your home".

In the post itself, you can list steps consumers can take to unthaw their pipes and at the bottom mention that you are available for immediate service by adding a call now link or button. Anyone searching for ways to unthaw their pipes will find your post and possibly contact you. Make sure you are using your location somewhere in the post as well. This logic can be used for any business or industry.

Add a feed from your social media page to your website's homepage.

By adding 2-3 post per week to your social media page and synching it to the website, you are showing that you are active and engaged.

Add a weekly contest or promotion to your website, but mention it on social media

Adding a contest or a promotion is a quick and easy way to get traffic from your social media pages to your website. Believe it or not, some social media pages fail to link back to a website. By making the visitor visit the website to either enter the contest or to take advantage of a promotion you'll generate more website traffic.

Add a share button to your homepage

Below this post is a share button. When you add one to your website, a visitor may be inclined to send your information to a friend or family member who may also be interested. While we use our share button for a different reason (to educate others on our blog) you should use it to get visitors to share your business information.

Is this still a bit complicated and you want some assistance with your own website?

Feel free to contact us by clicking on the contact tab below ↓

Changing how you do business

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 17:24:30 GMT

Covid may have permanently changed how people do business. As a company, we've adjusted by spending part of our time working from our home offices and also at the studio location.

Our consultation process is different as well. Clients have the option of meeting us in person, over the phone, or through Zoom or Google hangouts. This, for us, is now permanent. We even have our in-person services (Wix training) online as well.

How are you adjusting to the change? Are you terrified of technology? If so, maybe its time for you to learn how to use Zoom or any online software that allows you to expand your services online. Personal trainers have found new ways to teach their clients, opening a new way to do business.

Doctors now offer virtual appointments. Major companies have allowed permanent telework for employees. Some industries are immune to online services (barbers, dentists, etc.) because these are tactile services that require in person maintenance.

Are you self employed and have seen a drop in business do to social distancing? Get in touch with us to explore some alternatives to pick up your business.

Click the contact button below to get started.

Gone The DIY Route and now you're stuck?

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 15:53:22 GMT

Smile. One thing we're passionate about is trying something yourself, even if it doesn't look right or make sense. It's good to go through experiences before learning that maybe it's not your cup of tea, or that you don't have the necessary skillset for that particular need. We call this effort and when the DIY entails building your brand by means of a website, attempting to make your own logo, or print collateral such as a flyer or postcard, things can get a little dicey.

For many, going the DIY route is a financial one. You have an idea and can put it together and the next step is for you to get the word out. During this phase, you are trying to save money.

For the few, its a matter of having control of your own brand. In other words, it may not be about the money, its about you making a name for yourself the brick and mortar way. You accept the outcome of what you made and move on from there. Down the line, you'll eventually hire a professional to spruce up your name.

That's where we come in. Many of our clients fall into both of these scenarios while some have already determined that they have no desire to attempt such feats. We don't necessarily dig in right away without first viewing what our clients have already done. In some cases, we'll blow it up and will start from scratch and others, we'll fix what they've already done.

Working with us doesn't necessarily mean that you are getting a website or graphic design. We also offer one on one services to help assist you during your DIY phase.

ARE YOU READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?

Recently Released Project: Paul DelGrosso, LICSW

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 04:10:21 GMT

MD Based licensed therapist hires HVD Studios to develop brand

One of the Washington D.C. Metro Area's most experienced clinical social workers and therapists, Paul DelGrosso, hired HVD Studios to develop a new logo and revamp his website for his personal practice. Paul is an Advanced Schema Therapist based out of Bethesda, MD as Washington, D.C. and is highly skilled and trained to work with people from all walks of life.

After not having a face for his brand, we took the time to have a couple of branding strategy calls to get a solid direction Mr. DelGrosso preferred to go in for his practice. Ultimately, the plan was to develop a logo that was simple, clean, minimalist and featured subtle nods to a luna moth which has significant meaning to his services and beliefs.

His website was in need of a visual and functional makeover that gave him a more professional online presence. We made sure the website was eye catching, easy to navigate, mobile responsive and displayed the most important information immediately. Relevant and calming images aided in this goal as well as properly flowing structure.

We also found it imperative to have our resident photographer conduct a local and professional photo shoot to capture some updated head shots that we used throughout Paul's website. Examples of these head shots can be found above.

You can click here to view Paul's brand new website.

Are you in need of professional web, graphic and/or photography services for your brand? Set up a call or shoot us an email and let us know how we can help!

5 Quick Important Lessons The Covid-19 Pandemic Taught Us As Business Owners....So Far

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 16:07:22 GMT

Adjusting to life during a pandemic hasn't been easy for some

Worldwide, Nationwide and Local restrictions have forced all of us to alter our lives in ways we never imagined. The Coronavirus has impacted so many lives in circumstances that extend far beyond the world of business, but in life itself. Our hearts go out to the multitude of small businesses that have had to shut down because of the pandemic due to not being able to offset the monetary losses they've incurred in light of the shut downs and millions of people losing their jobs and not being able to patronize businesses like normal.

Many lessons have been born from life’s current state, none more important than the brevity of life. We are living in a time of uncertainty, loss, and unprecedented adjustments to our daily lives. However, there are some things that we’ve learned from a business standpoint that just may change how we do things here at HVD Studios in the future.

Always expect the unexpected. Plan for yesterday, today and tomorrow….Today.

Always, always, always expect and plan for the expected. No matter how small the preparation or steps may be. Start somewhere that has the future in mind. Whether that is implementing a new rule or service, creating a new savings account or even developing an emergency plan that you hadn’t considered before.

It has been officially confirmed — not every meeting needs to be held in person

We’ve said this in a few previous entries before in regards to other topics — there is absolutely no true substitute for human interaction. We know. BUT — I am 1000% sure that everyone reading this at some point in their life has sat through more than a few dozen fruitless meetings that could’ve been handled via email. Nowadays, meetings held via video conferencing have sky rocketed tremendously and become a “new normal” that we don’t believe should disappear once the world returns back to normalcy in the near future (crosses fingers, knocks on wood and prays).

Teleworking should to be a regular occurrence, for good

Our team has made teleworking a perk that we’ve always appreciated. Post-Covid life has shown many employees and business owners that they can indeed fight through the distractions of a constantly barking dog or kids asking for snacks every 15 minutes with a little bit of adjusting and rescheduling. Not having to go through a whole routine of having to rush and fuss before hopping into the car and making the commute to work has saved a lot of people time, effort and money that can be used wisely in other ways.

De-stressing techniques are even more important than we realize

We wrote a blog about six months ago, which you can read here , that talked about ways to beat burnout and relieve stress as an entrepreneur and business owner. There is so much worry and anxiety running rampant among the entire nation and world right now, which just adds to load that is shouldered when operating your own business or even building a brand. Please read over the article and see if there are a few techniques that may help you get through your day with less stress and anxiety . If you think you may be in need of therapy services to deal with the pressures caused by the pandemic, don't hesitate to reach out to some of our clients that are therapists ( www.lavantedorsey.com and www.pauldelgrosso.com ) to see if they can help.

Develop the ability to adapt to any adverse situations

As humans, we are stronger (and smarter) than we think. Increasing your skill set and offerings in case you need to pivot your business is key to handling the unforeseen as a business owner. Maybe you only operated from a physical location and now providing your goods or services online is the only way you can sustain your business. And maybe, just maybe, being forced to do so could change the forecast for your business for good and become a blessing in disguise. We’ve seen our favorite restaurants do this in a successful manner by now offering delivery and providing family bundled meals when they hadn’t before.

What ways have you extended your company's services to adjust to the pandemic?

New Service: Website Appraisal

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 16:43:08 GMT

Do you need a 2nd opinion on your website?

To many businesses, their website represents the first step in securing new customers. What happens when customers visit and quickly leave? We call this a bounce rate and the lower the number, the better. If you are experiencing an extremely high bounce rate (anything over 65) it could be both good and bad.

Good generally means that they are taking a quick and decisive action by clicking on a button to visit another area of your site. Bad means they are taking no action and simply closing their browser without exploring your website.

If you fall into the bad category, it could be that there are structural issues, functionality issues, or even aesthetic reasons visitors aren't sticking around.

HVD Studios now offers website appraisals. Simply schedule a time to meet with us online and we'll go over your site together. Will provide you with both positive and negative feedback and will help you assess your next steps.

To schedule your consultation, click on the orange calendar icon to the right.

Featured Client Of The Week: LaVante' Dorsey & Associates

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 19:41:33 GMT

We are pleased to announce the launching of one of our most recently completed website designs for LaVante’ Dorsey, owner of LaVante’ Dorsey & Associates!

Ms. Dorsey has been a part of the HVD Family for the past few years and initially hired us to design her company logo and help her with 1-on-1 Wix Training, as well as to design the bulk of her marketing materials for her Licensed Therapy practice based in Delaware.

Her company has grown tremendously over the last couple of years which led her to reach out to HVD Studios to completely revamp her entire website, including an E-commerce add-on. In addition to her new website, we have executed the following items:

Project Deliverables:

Company Logo
Apparel Line Logo
Website Design with eCommerce
1-on-1 Wix Training
Business Card Design
Apparel Design
Packaging Design
Yard Sign Design
Various Flyers
Various Postcards
Speaker One Sheet
Social Media Graphics
Banner Stand
Table Cover

Click here to view the new and improved LaVante’ Dorsey & Associates Website. Since you’re here, don’t forget to view our website design gallery to see what else we’ve been up to. If you see something you like while viewing our website that suits your needs, please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us.

Recently Released Project: VAR540

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 19:41:36 GMT

The talent & consulting firm assigns HVD Studios a major task

It’s been a very busy month for the talented group over at VAR540. The talent and management firm’s featured artist — Columbus, GA based rapper Self-O.N.E . recently released the deluxe version of his 2019 studio album “218” and commissioned HVD Studios to create the digital cover art for the new “218 Deluxe Edition” project -- available for purchase or streaming on all major digital platforms on November 3rd.

We also outfitted the firm with promotional motion graphics to use on all of their social media platforms. The work didn’t stop there.

VAR540 was also in need of a retractable banner stand to promote Self-O.N.E.’s deluxe as the backdrop for his live series on YouTube entitled “Covid 218”. The series features a 5-part on stage performance of a selection of songs from the new album, along with special guest appearances.

Additionally, HVD Studios created and manages the company’s website — www.var540.com . Be sure to stop by the website and take a look (and listen) around!

Can you get a mortgage on a home when self employed?

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 16:59:53 GMT

Navigating the Mortgage Landscape as a Self-Employed Professional

We realize this topic is completely unrelated to what we do, but still, don't let your status as a self-employed business owner prevent you from pursuing a dream of home ownership. It's very possible to get your own home with diligence, patience, and hard work!

As a website design and graphic design company, we get asked our fair share of business related questions but one client who was a bit nervous venturing out on her own mentioned her ability to get a mortgage. While we consider ourselves experts in the arts, we are, by no means, experts in real estate so we reached out to a client who provided a few pointers regarding this topic.

Getting a mortgage is often seen as a daunting task, even more so if you’re self-employed. Lenders typically favor applicants with regular paychecks and employment stability, which can make securing a mortgage as a self-employed individual seem challenging. However, with the right preparation and understanding of what lenders are looking for, you can successfully navigate the mortgage process and secure the home of your dreams. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.

1. Understand What Lenders Look For

Income Stability

Lenders want to see that you have a stable and reliable income. Unlike salaried employees, self-employed individuals need to demonstrate that their income is consistent over time.

Credit Score

Your credit score plays a crucial role in mortgage approval. A higher credit score can not only increase your chances of approval but also help you secure a better interest rate.

Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)

This ratio compares your monthly debt payments to your monthly gross income. Lenders use this metric to determine your ability to manage monthly payments and repay the loan.

Financial Documentation

Self-employed applicants need to provide extensive documentation to verify their income. This typically includes tax returns, profit and loss statements, and bank statements.

2. Prepare Your Financial Documents

Tax Returns

Lenders usually require two years of personal and business tax returns. These documents help verify your income and assess its consistency.

Profit and Loss Statements

Prepare up-to-date profit and loss statements for your business. These should be professionally prepared to ensure accuracy and credibility.

Bank Statements

Lenders may ask for personal and business bank statements from the past few months. These help verify your current financial status and cash flow.

Other Financial Records

Be ready to provide additional documentation such as 1099 forms, proof of business ownership, and a business license if applicable.

3. Improve Your Financial Profile

Boost Your Credit Score

Pay off debts, make timely payments, and avoid opening new lines of credit in the months leading up to your mortgage application.

Lower Your Debt-to-Income Ratio

Increase your income or pay down existing debt to improve your DTI ratio. This makes you a more attractive candidate to lenders.

Save for a Larger Down Payment

A larger down payment reduces the lender's risk and can improve your chances of approval. Aim for at least 20% to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI).

4. Choose the Right Lender

Specialized Lenders

Some lenders specialize in working with self-employed individuals. They might have more flexible requirements and a better understanding of your unique financial situation.

Compare Offers

Shop around and compare mortgage offers from different lenders. Pay attention to interest rates, terms, and fees to find the best deal.

5. Be Prepared to Explain Your Business

Write a Letter of Explanation

Prepare a letter that explains your business, its history, and its financial stability. Highlight factors that demonstrate your ability to repay the loan, such as long-term contracts or consistent revenue streams.

Provide Client Contracts

If possible, provide contracts or letters from clients that indicate ongoing and future work. This can help establish the stability of your income.

6. Consider a Co-Signer

If your income alone isn’t enough to qualify for a mortgage, consider asking a close family member to co-sign. A co-signer with a strong financial profile can boost your application, but remember, they’ll be equally responsible for the mortgage.

7. Be Patient and Persistent

The mortgage process for self-employed individuals can be longer and more complex. Stay organized, respond promptly to lender requests, and remain patient. Persistence and thorough preparation will pay off.

Final Thoughts

Securing a mortgage as a self-employed professional requires extra effort and documentation, but it’s entirely achievable. By understanding what lenders look for, preparing your financial documents, and choosing the right lender, you can successfully navigate the mortgage process. Remember, the key is to demonstrate financial stability and reliability, which will reassure lenders of your ability to repay the loan.

With diligence and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to owning your dream home. Happy house hunting from the design team at HVD Studios!

Your Logo Is NOT As Important As You Think It Is. Yup, You Read That Right.

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 15:08:32 GMT

Contrary to most thoughts and opinions, your logo is not your actual brand.

Based of the DC area, our client Munchy The Barber is one of the most requested and reputable celebrity barbers in the country.

Considering the fact that logo design is one of our most requested services and something that we absolutely love to do, it seems very contradictory to make the next statement we’re about to make, but we’ve got news for you….

Your logo isn’t as important as you think it is.

Don’t get us wrong. Your company’s logo says A LOT about your business if it’s executed properly. But it is also true that there is and has been a wide misconception that your logo is your brand, when it is simply a visual representation of your actual company.

A brand is more than just a primary or secondary icon or text mark featuring your favorite colors. It is all about your company’s penchant for excellent customer service and satisfaction, quality, professionalism, variety, atmosphere, dependability, pricing, efficiency and the emotional impact you create for consumers. That’s just a handful of attributes to name a few.

Think about some of the most popular brands that people love and live by daily. The quality, customer service and efficiency of Chick-Fil-A. The variety, dependability and pricing of Amazon. The trustworthiness, professionalism and atmosphere of Target. These companies market(ed) properly, tell us who they are, and they also show us by delivering on their promises to us as first time consumers who evolve into loyal customers.

We don’t flock to them because we love their colors so much, or because their logos are so visually captivating. But I’m sure that when you see a particular shape, color scheme, image or font, you easily recognize these successful businesses in an instant, which makes the logo design process extremely monumental in the grand scheme of your company.

The "Munched" brand symbolizes quality, style, professionalism, energy and dependability. Follow @munchythebarber .

A number of our clients have hired us to design logo concepts for them before they’d even considered developing their business plan or revising their existing plan upon the rebranding process. Which can sometimes be a cause for concern as they move forward in terms of competing within their industry’s market.

It is in creating your business plan where you will determine what your brand is all about and what promises you intend to make and uphold as you go about developing a solid brand strategy that emotionally connects and draws in your targeted audience. One of the most important questions we ask our prospective clients is “what separates you from your competitors?”. This has been a question that has stumped quite a few people, surprisingly. However, the answer(s) is what will essentially help you create the framework to how you want your company to be perceived by the public eye.

When we create logo designs, we always ask our clients during the discovery phase what 3 attributes they want to visually communicate on sight so that we can creatively come up with ways to have them integrated into the overall look and feel of the final output. Typography, symbolism and color psychology all play a huge part in conceptualizing effective logos that stand out among the crowd.

So while we are stating that your logo isn’t as important as aspiring business owners and individuals may seem to believe if they haven’t established an effective brand story first — having a logo that impresses upon first glance, is memorable and professional ranks extremely high in importance when it comes to following all of the steps to establishing your personal or company brand.

Take a look at the logo design section of our portfolio to get a glimpse of the brands we’ve helped launch and consulted on how to choose the right imagery, colors, fonts, tag lines, slogans and visual messages to stay true and consistent to their brand. Let us know if we can help you get started in establishing yours!

What are you worth?

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 20:19:48 GMT

Are you a small business newbie who doesn't quite know how to price your service, or an experienced veteran who's looking to better position yourself for a salary increase?

It's a question that many of our clients struggle with. Based on looking at their competitors pricing, they are intimidated to change their pricing for fear of not getting new customers. By charging a lower price for their services, they feel that they will attract customers who can afford them, but is this the best way to go?

Spoiler alert....no, this is not the best way to price your services.

There are 5 factors that help determine your worth:

experience

body of work

referrals

testimonials/reviews

branding

Let's quickly dive into each.

Experience

You'd be surprised to know that customers don't necessarily go with the most affordable or the cheapest option. The go with the person who has the most experience and who displays their services in a manner that's attractive and motivating.

This doesn't mean that you can't compete with that businesses because there are other factors such as your resume, certificates, and in some cases, your education. In the end, a customer will go with the business that best meets their needs. Some may choose one company over another based on experience, while others may use certifications and education to make their decision.

Body Of Work

If you have a website, are samples of your work available for all to see? Images are a huge selling point. We recommend that you use recent images (no older than a year) with captions. We don't recommend that you alter or photoshop your images and use high quality photos without filters or added effects. Videos are very impactful so if you have a Youtube channel, make sure your customers have access to your videos.

Referrals

One sure fire way to learn how to price your services is customer satisfaction. Do your clients leave satisfied and want to schedule the next appointment, or do you ever hear back from them again? If you can't retain customers there's a chance that you haven't satisfied their needs.

Testimonials & Reviews

Clients who leave glowing testimonials are setting you up for success in the future. Testimonials are a key factor when prospects search the internet and can be placed directly on your website as text copy.

The more honest reviews you have online (via Google, Yelp, Facebook, etc.), the more inclined consumers are to contact you. These reviews (or links to them) should be present on your website.

Branding

Does your brand motivate people to reach out to you? In many cases it can be a deal breaker. If your product is not impressive or looks like an amateur created it, chances are that it could discourage others from contacting you.

If you operate using social media, we highly recommend that you get a website. Need help with this? We can assist you. Check out our studios to learn more.

Next up:

Homework. Do a search for your industry and locate pricing. If you can't locate pricing, don't be afraid to pick up the phone and find out.

Make sure that you are comparing yourself to a comparable company. Determine how much money you need to earn in order to pay your bills such as rent/mortgage and other expenses.

Provide a "new client" package to entice your prospective clients. This package should contain a nice discount for trying you out. Adding all of the steps above, provide first class service and follow up with a thank you and kindly ask for a testimonial. It takes just 1 happy client who will tell their friends about you and before you know it, you've built a loyal following.

So, how much should you charge? This is a matter of confidence, plain and simple.

Charge what you are worth, and not a penny less!

When clients LOVE you, they'll pay what you ask BUT you have to prove that you are worth it.

Provide world class customer service and remember to ask for a testimonial or referral!

Three Tips To Becoming A Walking Billboard For Your Brand

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 18:44:19 GMT

Pictured: LaVante' N. Dorsey, LCSW -- founder of LaVante' Dorsey & Associates dons an apparel design by HVD Studios

Do you ever think about the fact that everyday you get dressed to go about your day, that you’re doing free advertising for million and billion dollar companies? Or just a different brand than your own altogether? Have you ever thought about all of the various ways you could promote your business without even saying a word? The more eyes that can be laid upon your logo, slogan and company URL, the better.

How cool is it to know that you can control how the outside world perceives your brand just by seeing you walk down the street or by simply having a casual 3 minute conversation with someone while on the go? And all without having to spend a crazy amount of money in marketing.

Below are a few key reminders of how you have the power to represent your brand and divert attention to your business every single day.

Tip#1: Wear Your Brand -- At All Times

This is the #1 and most impactful way to act as a walking billboard for your business. Believe it or not, we even have a few clients who have tattooed some of our designs and logos on their bodies. That is the epitome of becoming a walking billboard.

As we mentioned before, while you’re out wearing your favorite name brand clothing, accessories and shoes, why not sport your very own brand? You don’t have to have an apparel line to do so either. Headed to a networking party that requires professional attire? Get a custom lapel pin made with your logo to wear on your blazer. We are in the midst of a global pandemic that requires the wearing of a mask at all times, why not get a custom mask made with your company logo?

If you’re running errands, grabbing a bite to eat, headed to the gym or out walking your dog, try to make a concerted effort to wear something that promotes your brand. Make it recognizable and trendy at the same time. It makes us incredibly proud to see our clients really grasp and understand the importance of branding and drive home the walking billboard concept. You can check out a few examples below.

Tip#2: Deck Out The “Company” Car

This point may not count as “walking” but hey, it still counts towards advertising on the move ��. Depending on your marketing and operating budget, wrapping your vehicle or a company vehicle is a great idea for added exposure to your business. If that’s a bit too much to handle financially, consider getting a car magnet designing. Car magnets should be consistent with your brand and should have the business name, logo and phone number and/or URL bold, large and clearly visible while driving.

Tip #3: Speak With Confidence, Smile And Look The Part

If you are the Founder and Owner, CEO, COO, VP or some type of representative of a business, it's imperative to always carry yourself in a professional, respectful and approachable manner. Remember, a cool logo isn’t the only thing that represents a brand — YOU are also the brand. Be prepared at all times to be able to strike up a conversation with a stranger who inquires about your business or who sounds like they may be in need of your services. If you’re personable and engaging, it's a guarantee they’ll remember your name, face and what it is that you do. Oh, and don’t forget to hand them a business card . ��

Do you need a custom business card? No, not the one that you get from Vistaprint that a million of other people have? We mean one unique to you? Schedule a time to speak with us.

Are Business Cards Obsolete? We Don't Think So.

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 16:30:17 GMT

The key to an impactful business card design is creativity, color, consistent branding and memorability.

With so many impressive advances in technology, especially in the day-to-day business operations, it feels as if the old fashioned way of sharing contact information while networking has disappeared like the wind. Because of this, trusty little slips of colorful 16 pt card stock with our pertinent contact information as know as business cards, have gotten a bad rap.

We aren’t just wholeheartedly disagreeing because we offer custom business card designs or because we’ve some pretty cool ones if we do say so ourselves ��. We disagree because of the impact business cards can have while out at a networking event, trade show, business meeting, conference or just a random run in with a stranger while out in public.

Nowadays, digital business cards are all the rage, same with simply verbally sharing your LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram profiles and following each other on the spot. However, a well designed and functional business card can leave a lasting memory on someone upon discussing and pushing your brand. The quality and look of a card can give off a true sense of professionalism and state that you mean business and you take your brand seriously.

We created a card for our clients at iLLustratiVe Cre8ions (IIV8) who once handed a card to a friend, and said friend was so enamored with the look and feel of the card, that they wanted to actually purchase the business card. Crazy right? ��

You’ll see that we matched the look of this particular business card with the customized retractable banners we also created for the IIV8. The design of this card heavily represents elements of the brand and also creatively shows some examples of the company’s work.

Whether it's through the use of your brand’s colors, themes, your image, an image of what you do, a specific printing style (foil, metal, die cut, metallic, spot UV raised, velvet, linen, wooden, plastic…..Did we leave anything out? ��) you can create a business card that actually makes people want to keep it instead of throwing it away after they store your information.

The bottom line is, no advancement of modern technology can replace the human interaction and face-to-face conversations while passionately discussing your line of business and how you can help others. We truly believe in designing to leave an impression and have seen how a well designed, quality printed business card can turn into a wealth of business or a pipeline of consistent clientele.

Is it time for you to upgrade your business cards? Check out some of our business card designs and additional print design items here . If you’re in need of an impactful and custom designed card that is unique to you and your business, feel free to reach out to us so that we can assist you!

The Importance of Updating Your Company Website

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 19:25:28 GMT

As we sit in our studio working on another website redesign we're reminded of how important it is for clients to refresh their websites. We can only wonder why so many business owners don't do this. Sure, we get busy and can't always get to it. But not updating it after 3 years? That's a sign to visitors that you are stuck in the past. Why risk the chance of alienating potential customers when your links are outdated or lead to 401 pages (meaning the page no longer exists)?

Here’s why keeping your company website up-to-date is indispensable for business success:

Enhancing User Experience

An updated website ensures a smooth and engaging user experience. Outdated content, broken links, and slow loading times can frustrate visitors and drive them away. Regular updates help you:

Improve Navigation: Simplify the user journey with intuitive menus and clear calls to action.
Optimize Speed: Ensure your site loads quickly, keeping bounce rates low and satisfaction high.
Refresh Design: Keep the look and feel of your site modern and aligned with current design trends.

A well-maintained website provides visitors with a seamless experience, encouraging them to stay longer and explore more.

Boosting Search Engine Rankings

Search engines, especially Google, prioritize websites that offer fresh and relevant content. Regular updates can significantly improve your search engine optimization (SEO) efforts:

New Content: Adding blogs, articles, and other content helps attract search engine crawlers and improves indexing.
Keyword Optimization: Regular updates allow you to refine keywords and stay competitive in search results.
Fixing Errors: Identifying and correcting issues such as broken links or duplicate content boosts your site's credibility and search engine ranking.

By maintaining an up-to-date website, you increase visibility and attract more organic traffic.

Reflecting Brand Evolution

Your website should mirror the growth and evolution of your brand. As your company develops new products, services, or brand values, your website must reflect these changes:

Showcasing New Products/Services: Keep your audience informed about the latest offerings.
Updating Visual Identity: Align your website with any rebranding efforts, including new logos, color schemes, and messaging.
Highlighting Achievements: Share milestones, awards, and other significant achievements to build credibility and trust.

An updated website communicates that your brand is dynamic and continually progressing.

Strengthening Security

Website security is paramount, particularly for sites that handle sensitive information or conduct transactions. Regular updates are essential for:

Patch Management: Applying security patches and updates to protect against vulnerabilities.
SSL Certificates: Ensuring your site uses HTTPS to secure data transmission.
Regular Backups: Keeping backups up-to-date to restore your site quickly in case of an attack.

Maintaining strong security measures protects your business and builds trust with your audience.

Enhancing Mobile Compatibility

With the increasing use of mobile devices to access the internet, ensuring your website is mobile-friendly is critical. Regular updates help you:

Implement Responsive Design: Ensure your site looks and functions well on all screen sizes.
Improve Load Times: Optimize images and code for faster loading on mobile networks.
Test Functionality: Regularly test and tweak the mobile experience to keep up with new devices and browser updates.

A mobile-compatible website expands your reach and provides a positive experience for all users.

Staying Competitive

In a crowded market, maintaining an updated website can give you a competitive edge. It shows your commitment to providing the best possible experience and staying relevant in your industry. Keep an eye on competitors’ websites to ensure you offer more value and stay ahead of trends.

Conclusion

Regularly updating your company website is not just a technical necessity but a strategic advantage. It enhances user experience, boosts SEO, reflects your brand's growth, strengthens security, ensures mobile compatibility, and keeps you competitive. Make website maintenance a priority to keep your business thriving in the digital landscape.

By committing to regular updates, you not only safeguard your website's functionality and security but also ensure it continues to serve as a powerful tool for attracting, engaging, and converting your audience. Your website is the digital face of your company—keep it fresh, secure, and reflective of your brand’s values and offerings.

As we sit in our studio working on another website redesign we're reminded of how important it is for clients to refresh their websites. We can only wonder why so many business owners don't do this. Sure, we get busy and can't always get to it. But not updating it after 3 years? That's a sign to visitors that you are stuck in the past. Why risk the chance of alienating new and potential customers when your links are outdated or lead to 401 pages (meaning the page no longer exists)?

Here are a few tips to keep your website fresh:

Hire a company to make them for you. Determine what your budget will be on a monthly basis and see what can be done.
Add a blog. All it takes is 1 new blog entry per week. Talk about things that interest you or discuss your business. Google loves blogs.
Go through and make sure you don't have any broken links (links that go to pages or articles that no longer exist) and that your contact information is up to date. This is a bare minimum requirem ent but helps to ensure your visitors are looking at the most recent information.

What are you good at?

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 19:03:53 GMT

Find your passion and take the next step

Are you working a job that brings you absolutely NO joy? Do you dread going to work or even need to force yourself to go? As creatives, we work with start-ups on a daily basis. That's what we do. We hear the stories on how our clients have been ready to make a career transition but were either afraid to do so or didn't know how. Others find their niche after recently losing their jobs or being terminated.

Earlier we proposed a question. What are you good at?

Businesses are born when one person loves to do something or has an idea and they pursue it. We call it passion. In some cases, yes, a college degree (or 2) are required but in most, skills can be accumulated any number of ways. Our economy thrives when small businesses are created and with COVID-19 putting many companies out of business,now could be the time for you to think about what you do really well and take the next steps to get there.

We specialize in small business consulting and infuse it with our design services. Have an idea? Get in touch with us to see how you can take your idea from conception to reality.

Tagline or Slogan? What’s The Difference And What Does Yours Say About Your Company?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 02:11:48 GMT

Did you know that the average person sees up to 5,000 brand messages per day?

A good tagline helps consumers feel more connected to your brand and leaves an important, lasting impression.

You can admit it -- more often than not, you’ve involuntarily found yourself humming or reciting a major brand’s slogan from the tail end of a commercial jingle. Whether you’ve joyfully sang “Ba Da Ba Ba Bah....I’m Lovin It” on the way to the kitchen from your family room, or telling somebody randomly to “Just Do It…” -- both are catchy, longstanding taglines from major corporations that the entire world will recognize in an instant. And those reasons there, define the mark of a great tagline.

We’ve learned that our clients and just people in general often get the difference between a tagline and a slogan a tad bit confused. Understandably so, since the term and their purposes are interchangeable within the world of marketing and branding. So today we’ll prove a quick and hopefully helpful explanation of a slogan and a tagline, why yours is so important and share a handful of the most popular company slogans.

A slogan is defined as “a catchphrase or small group of words that are combined in a special way to identify a product or company” according to Entrepreneur.com’s Small Business Encyclopedia .

A tagline is defined as “a catchphrase or slogan, especially as used in advertising, or the punchline of a joke.”

Sounds pretty similar, no? The biggest difference in the terminology is when and how long this catchphrase is being used.

Taglines are designed to permanently stand the test of time and briefly describe a company’s mission, purpose and identity in order to quickly grab the enamored mind of the consumer and communicate their message in a catchy way. These short phrases represent a company for the long haul whereas a slogan is typically used for a campaign to promote a product, service or an event which could be used for a few weeks, months or even years.

Let’s use Disneyland as the example. Their tagline “The Happiest Place On Earth” goes all the way back to its development in the 1980’s, but in 2006 they ran a global campaign commemorating their 50th anniversary in which the slogan was “Where Dreams Come True.” Both statements co-existed but as the campaign ended, the happiest place on Earth, was still the happiest place on Earth.

Hopefully if you’ve been following us long enough, you would’ve noticed the HVD Studios’ tagline is “Your Business. Our Passion” . That phrase stems from our major core values and the level of customer service and care we extend to our family of clients. We aim to be an extension of their business and in turn become intricately passionate about their success during the infancy stages and beyond.

Below are 10 of the most famous taglines/slogans of major corporations that we’re sure you all know and love:

Apple: “Think Different”
Nike: “Just Do it”
McDonald’s: “I’m lovin’ it”
Coca-Cola: “Open Happiness”
L’Oreal: “Because you’re worth it”
KFC: “It’s finger lickin’ good”
Dunkin’ Donuts: “America runs on Dunkin'”
Lay’s: “Betcha can’t eat just one.”
Walmart: “Save money. Live better.”
American Express: “Don’t live life without it.”

When coming up with your company’s tagline, simply ask yourself if it's memorable, direct, different, catchy, descriptive, short, sweet and to the point. Does it connect with your targeted audience and demographic? Would you find yourself wanting to change it in a few years or is it something you can proudly represent and stand for?

Do you have any further questions or need more clarity and examples of amazing taglines and slogans or need help developing yours? Get in touch with us for a strategy session. Leave a comment and let us know!

Help Us, Help You: Navigating Through The Initial Design Discovery Phase Process

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 17:59:10 GMT

The journey to starting a business can oftentimes be a scary one for some. There are months of planning, research and decisions to be made that are extremely pivotal during the infancy stages.

Finding just the right designer can make or break the visions you've had set in your mind since the day you woke up and decided to chase your dreams of establishing your brand and taking a leap of faith.

Whether you've found a talented individual or a reputable design firm that can help bring your vision to life, a number of consultations and conversations will have to take place throughout the design process in order for everyone involved to be on board. But there are a handful of very important keys to keep in mind regardless of who you entrust your brand to and locating just the right team is half the battle.

In this blog we will highlight the notes and thoughts to have ready and keep in mind during the very first phone call, video conference or in-person meeting between you and your new best friend -- aka your graphic designer ��.

Get your elevator speech ready

Any designer who truly cares about their clients' success will want to get the deepest understanding of their brand’s identity, the industry and the client as a person. Pitching your business idea and genuinely explaining the passion you have for your eventual brand will allow your designer to be able to understand exactly what it is your brand should visually say to the world and sift out the keywords to communicate to your target audience.

Have a plan, even if it isn’t set in stone

We understand the plight of entrepreneurs and small business owners, so we know the amount of overwhelming information you have to learn and obtain just to get started. Having a business plan is a great way to organize the plan for your business. While it’s not necessary to have one before you contact a designer, it’s recommended to help outline your business so that they can get a clear idea of what you do and how they can extend their most important services to you to help establish and grow your business. We often ask our clients questions that we think are simple, but are ones they never even thought about. This can be an eye opening experience which is good, but can also delay the design process of your project.

Know your budget, and don’t be afraid to say it
We always ask our clients -- prospective or current -- what their design and marketing budget is for a project, whether it’s starting out on a design or monthly marketing expenses. It’s a question that many aren’t comfortable answering for fear that the budget will be too low for the work they need done or it will be higher than what the designer charges and they’ll be taken advantage of. But the reality is, many don’t properly prepare for the cost to be the boss, be it big or small, that’s required to run a business. From as small as the monthly cost for a business email address, CRM software, inventory, rent payment for an office or storefront to employee payroll. Most people do not actually consider the cost to actually market their business and how vital it is to the success of growing your brand. That includes anything from monthly website hosting, running ads, sending off email blasts and newsletters and paying your designers to develop graphics and marketing materials. So knowing your budget for marketing helps you help your chosen designer figure out how to allocate your funds to the most important items you need to market your company.

Be patient and decisive
Greatness can’t be rushed, so it’s important to remember that starting, launching, operating and sustaining a business is a marathon, not a sprint. In order for designers to really create to the best of our abilities, it takes time to research your industry, conceptualize your logo, develop your brand’s look and feel and effectively build around it. AT HVD Studios, we totally believe in allowing our clients to be hands on during the beginning stages of establishing a brand you will be proud of.

When we are hired to do a job, we are trusted to utilize our skills and expertise we've spent years to learn, develop and fine tune. But one thing we can’t do, is make decisions that ultimately impact and effect the bottom line to your business and its forecast for the future. Of course, we will provide you with the best advice we can give when asked in regards to the project you specifically hired us to complete, but at the end of the day, you control your company’s destiny.

Wix Training via Zoom coming soon to HVD Studios

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 16:33:59 GMT

Wix Virtual Training is coming to HVD Studios

Were you interested in our 1 on 1 Wix Training Services?

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, HVD Studios has temporarily postponed in-person training using the Wix Editor. This service was valuable to start ups and small business owners who needed a website, but didn't have a large start up budget to have one made professionally, and don't have enough experience or comfort level creating their own. We worked 1 on 1 with students to ensure they had a better understanding of how to make their own websites.

We're excited to announce that starting in August, we will now offer this training via Zoom. Now, we can work with clients throughout the United States.

Our new online scheduler will be available starting in August, 2020.

Why we ask you what your budget is

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 17:28:21 GMT

And the true reason we ask this question

Creative companies are finding new ways for small business owners to become more independent. There are popular website builders such as Wordpress, Wix, and Squarespace that help people make their own websites while saving thousands in the process. Recently booming creative marketplaces such as FIVERR are gaining in popularity because customers can submit their budget and designers from all over the world bid to get the customers business.

Both options are appealing to most and it makes sense. You can make your own website yourself and save money, or let freelance designers do the bidding on your behalf. In return you can get a new logo or graphic design for your business that you may or may not like.

We've been down this road before. Those who try and do it themselves quickly realize it's a little harder than they expected and doesn't look that good, or perhaps end up paying $25 for a logo eventually learn that sometimes it's not good to go the most economical route and that in fact hiring an experienced design company is the best course of action.

We wanted to help you understand the process of using your budget to keep you in alignment with our services. So many customers get sticker shock when receiving quotes from website and graphic design companies in Baltimore, Maryland and other states. It makes sense in a way. You saved up your money to get a professional design design, only to find out that its several thousands of dollars over your budget.

The reason we ask prospective clients what their budget is quite simple. It helps for us to understand their needs and allows for us to determine which one of our Studios are the best fit. We're no different than anyone else...we don't believe in wasting anyone's time if what they need can't be accomplished.

It's important to keep in mind that like most experienced companies, we know how to do the work that most people can't on their own. Our knowledge of what we do will look 1000 times more professional that someone who's learning as they go. We consider our experience, labor, and customer service when coming up with pricing.

Always remember....when we ask the question, we're asking for to better assist you. Many prospective clients don't want to "show their hand" which actually hinders what options we can provide them and will literally cut short our consultation because we can go any further without knowing this information.

Beating Business Burnout: Helpful, Fun & Creative Ways To Relieve Stress For Entrepreneurs

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 16:55:21 GMT

Whether you work from a home office or have your own brick and mortar location -- running a business when you have to wear multiple hats within your operation, attack various day-to-day tasks, and balance your business with home life can be quite the daunting feat.

It’s so easy to get caught up taking care of everyone else around you and neglect your own mental and physical wellness, but the most important thing to keep in mind is the importance of setting aside a little time to take care of yourself, relieving stress and reaching for your favorite hobby that brings out the creative side of you so that you’ll be refreshed and still in “go mode” even after you've taken a small hiatus from business as usual.

Don’t hesitate to make it a point to take a break (or 3) throughout your hectic day and do any of the following:

Get tuned in: Music therapy is a major player in stress management and one of our favorite vices and escapes while taking a break or working period. Make a playlist featuring your favorite songs or artists to start your morning with or for your commute to work. Try picking a theme. Or listen to a playlist you’ve already made that takes you to a happy, calming or inspirational place. Checkout a new podcast that’s centered around your area of expertise, hobbies, current events or self help and motivation. Just for fun: here’s a playlist we love for any R&B lovers out there reading this.

Get active: We are fitness enthusiasts and dog lovers (you knew this tip was coming ��). Get up and stretch, walk your dog, circle the block for a power walk in an effort to grab some fresh air and get your heart rate going. Take the opportunity to hit a safe trail and take some eye-catching nature flicks while you're at it that you can possibly print and hang in your office. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water through out the day to keep your brain hydrated, which improves your concentration, memory, cognition and overall mood and physical health .

Get educated: Take a break from your work day to pick up that book you've been meaning to read, or watch a YouTube video or two for laughs, information or inspiration. One mark of any goal driven entrepreneur is one who spends time actively learning and looking to improve their knowledge and skill set within their industry, but don’t be afraid to dig into a new venture altogether that has NOTHING to do with (your) business.

Get really relaxed: Light a candle, sip some herbal tea, go run an errand that makes you go out for a drive, pray or meditate and zone out for a little while to ease the tension of the day (oh, and put your phone away while you’re at it). Hey, sneak in a power nap if you need to -- just remember to set your alarm. Minimizing or avoiding stressful situations, thoughts and feelings can be accomplished by simply giving yourself time to breathe and concentrate on nothing but re-centering and refocusing your mind. Face your stressors and see if you can solve the root of any problems you may be facing at the moment.

Get creative: The theme of most of these tips is to take stress relieving productivity breaks and being creative while doing so. But there are tons of unique, fun and artistic outlets to dive into within a 15-20 minute time frame that feels like a complete escape from business. Take up crocheting, grab yourself an adult coloring book (we thought this on e was kind fun), journal your innermost thoughts, do some fun doodling in a sketchbook, get into jewelry making or even vlog about something you feel the need to get off of your chest. Possibly even jot down some notes relating to a new business venture.

Let us know if these ideas and tips help or if we missed any other fun, creative or helpful ways to reduce stress and still be productive when taking productivity breaks at work!

You Get What You Pay For: Top 3 Reasons You Might Want To Avoid Using Fiverr (Or Any Other “Gig” Website)

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 15:22:16 GMT

Cutting corners to save money or time can be your greatest mistake when starting or rebranding your business.

For the past decade or so, online outsourcing has been a fast growing trend for consumers who have been in search of creatives to deliver services that they either don't know how to execute or their own, or simply don't have the time to do it. It has also been the go-to option for those with an extremely limited budget. The popular online freelance marketplace "Fiverr" got It's name for it's design and multimedia services that could be purchased for no more than -- you guessed it -- five dollars. That original model has since been altered and you will now find those same services may cost an upwards of $1,000. However, cheap alternatives are still readily available.

Being able to purchase any type of original graphic design or a specific creative service for such a measly amount of money should immediately become a red flag for anyone who is looking to start a business and wants to seriously invest in themselves. Now don't get us wrong, we are not knocking the hustle or the talent of all freelance designers. Some of the most amazing designers are freelancers who are one (wo)man bands. In fact, we were once considered to be freelancers once upon a time. However, we understood that we had talents and a level of customer service that rightfully demanded worthy compensation for the endless amounts of time, learning, efforts and practice required to be considered professionals whose work was in high demand.

We've had clients who’ve utilized Fiverr for logos, book covers, podcast art, you name it -- only to come to us in need of professional help. About 5 years ago, we were sent a referral who paid $5 for a logo only to realize there was no way she could start a company with the design she was given. During our initial discovery consultation, we had to let her know that for what she got, she paid $5 too much (ouch). When all was said and done, we developed a quality brand for our client that she could walk away proud to show, for what is considered a more than competitive price for the crucial task of giving a face to a brand.

Below, we’ll outline the top 3 reasons we believe it's best to avoid online freelance gig websites.

1. Having to sift through an over saturated freelance designers market
As of today, Fiverr has over 7,000 freelance designers who are capable of designing a multitude of graphic and digital design needs. But sifting through thousands of creative artists who are all clamoring to be your choice can be quite the headache. Especially with having varying skill levels. Understanding how to truly read and trust their "5 star" reviews can be yet another headache. We encourage our prospective clients to do their due diligence in finding the right fit during their search for a reliable and affordable web and graphic design company, even if that means it ultimately isn't us. After a discovery conversation or two and studying our work, the majority end up joining our HVD family after developing a comfort level and trust one may not find when patronizing an online marketplace.

2. You might be sacrificing quality to cut corners
Creating a brand identity, developing a website, designing a brochure, flyer or even a business card requires high levels of experience, skill and expertise. To entrust just anyone with these key building blocks during the infancy stages of starting a business or even rebranding and refreshing one, can be tricky. The last thing anyone wants to do is waste money on an awful design that they don't like, only to turn around and have to spend more money just to finally get it right. And it happens every single day.

We'll show you the perfect example of what we mean below. More recently, our clients from the "Off The Record" Podcast needed our help to redesign and refine a podcast logo and cover art design that they admittedly cut corners on, trying to keep their cost low when starting their podcast when searching for a designer. The end result from a design they received on Fiverr was less than admirable in their eyes, to say the least. So we swooped in to help upgrade their design after obliging the request for a cartoon-like, vector drawing of the 4 podcast hosts front and center of the cover art.

3. You’ll become just a number

We pride ourselves on carefully crafting and customizing our designs specifically to our clients needs, wants, market, and personality. We build all of our websites from a blank canvas and the chances of finding a designer from a freelance gig app to develop a website that isn't using a template from a GoDaddy, SquareSpace, WordPress, Weebly or Wix are very slim. Also, beware of picking from an already created logo design where you will simply swap your company name in where a logo template says "Your Company Name" and changing the colors to your company's palette, only to see that exact same design used elsewhere.

Most importantly, we view our clients as a part of our HVD Family and growing network once they sign on to work with us. That’s not to say that one can’t enjoy excellent customer service from a site like FIverr, because you can. On the other hand, we make sure that we connect our clients with one another with the intention of growing their business or simply their network. You can visit our Instagram page to see how proud we are of our clients and make it our business to share, support and encourage them even after we've completed a project. Once you receive your logo package from a designer you most likely won't forge a business relationship with them and have them act as an extension of your business, like what we ultimately offer with our Studio A services.

As the saying goes, “If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it again?”. That quote certainly applies here. It will take more time and money to recover from cutting corners or rushing than it will be just to get it right from the start. We’ve been in business long enough to have heard countless horror stories of designers skipping town, changing contact information and running off without delivering promised goods or services. Our ultimate goal objective is to change that narrative by providing quality, reliable, trustworthy and professional work and services you will be proud of and get results from.

Do you need a degree to become a graphic designer?

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 17:59:55 GMT

Explore your options before making your choice

There are many aspiring designers who are confused about the best way to get into the field. For most, it's a matter of learning the craft of designing using various software programs and for others, it's a matter of creating a portfolio to show off your work to future clients and employers.

One age old question is do you need a degree to get a job as a designer? Well, it depends on answering a few questions:

Do you like structure?
Do you mind sharing your ideas and working as part of a team to create a brand?
Do you like to work alone?
Does the through of being restricted on a project turn you off?
Does the thought of becoming your own boss excite you?

If you can answer "yes" to more than 3 of the questions above, you have the makings of a sole proprietor. Self employed designers create their own hours, call their own shots, and claim 100% of the work invested into a project. The down-side is that you need to be talented, organized, good at marketing yourself, develop a client base (that in turn will get you referrals) and have adequate hardware/software to do the job.

Being self taught, innovative, and up to date on the latest programs (including the Adobe Suite) is sufficient enough for you to be on your own boss. In this instance, we recommend getting a certificate that verifies your expertise as a graphic designer.

If the thought of you going to a 9-5, working as part of a team, taking direction from the lead designer or project manager, getting benefits, and having job security appeals to you, we recommend either a 2 or a 4 Year degree. Most employers require these bare minimum, while promotions within a company require a Master's Degree.

By spending under $5000 to get a certificate, you cut out the fluff (electives, etc.) and get to the substance (learning how to become a designer). At the same time, you can work for yourself while having the potential for uncapped income.

Option B is finding a school that specializes in graphic design or has a very strong graphic design program, getting a student loan (or receiving a scholarship/PT job/contribution from your parents), earning your degree in about 4 or 5 years, and battling it out with other recent and experienced grads searching for the same opportunities.

We've worked with several very talented designers who don't have degrees, and know from experience that even designers with degrees may not have a design style that suits most companies. With that being said, choose the best path for you.

We hope this article helps!

Hot topic: Does race matter when you are a black-owned graphic and website design company?

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 21:36:27 GMT

The answer shouldn't surprise you...

As a minority business, we were asked if race played any part in the type of clientele we have. It's something, that until recently, we really never focus on because as a small business, our services are available to anyone, regardless of their race. At the end of the day, a majority of our clients are referrals so we've been able to build our business that way.

So we sat down over coffee and talked about it and came to the easy conclusion that yes, our race had definitely had in impact on our business . When visitors learn that we are a black company, they quickly exit our site and opt to go elsewhere. This might explain why over 98% of our clients are black or another minority race.

It's a sad and unfortunate reality but it's our reality. We had to do some digging and in our 15 years in business we have only had 7 caucasian clients, and went a whopping 10 years before we got our first! We were deeply appreciative that these companies, who did quite a bit of research and also interviewed other companies, decided to hire us.

We wish it weren't this way but we can't force visitors to hire us or stay on our site. We're more than qualified to do any job and take a great deal of pride in providing the best customer service to our clients.

It's a conversation we hate having, yet it's a reality we face daily. We don't quite call it designer discrimination and have yet to come up with a proper name. At the end of the day, we just remind ourselves that we love what we do and provide our services to those who trust in our abilities.

Are you a minority business who has had similar experiences? Let's connect and have an honest conversation.

This post is short because we are in the process of making a video so that we can have a round table discussion to better share our thoughts. Stay tuned.

5 ways to get new customers for under $30

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 19:08:58 GMT

Use your expertise to grow your business, then market it for under $30.

Now more than ever, starting a business makes sense. Why? It helps to re-build the economy after the devastation from the COVID-19 Virus, and a number of business have closed to never re-open. This may include businesses in your very own field. Take advantage of this opportunity by building your company with less competition.

Here are 5 things you can do to attract new customers and market to your audience for less than $30

Get reviews

It always helps to put yourself in your prospective customer’s shoes. When you are looking for reviews on products, and even services, the first thing you’ll do is read the reviews. Now ask yourself, do you have reviews on your page (website or social media)? If not, reach out to your clients and customers and ask them to write you a review and also ask them to write a review on your Facebook page, as well as your Yelp page if you have one. This will help visitors feel better about a future relationship with you.

Update your digital space

We’ve written how important it is to have a website. Here’s why. Prospective customers will want to learn more about you, your credentials, your pricing, and more by visiting your website. They’ll want to know your experience, work you’ve done, and your services. If you give them credible and verifiable reasons why they should hire you, you’ll surely receive a few phone calls and inquiries from your website.

Show your expertise.

We briefly touched bases on this in a previous post but showing your future customers what you do is pivotal. By posting a few videos on youtube, adding an image gallery,and combining this with reviews or testimonials only gives your future customers reasons to contact you. Product or service photos or a work gallery/portfolio will help to demonstrate your recent work.

Offer discounts, specials, etc.

Don’t be afraid to offer a special promotion, discounts, or a featured bundle. By no means does this mean that you should cut your prices. Instead, keep it a one time deal to show your future customers how well you take care of them. If they like your service, they’ll continue their relationship with you. Remember to add an expiration date to the offer as well as terms of the promotion.

Run a sponsored ad on Social Media with a simple hook

By this, we mean to run an ad on either Facebook or Instagram. Use a simple line asking a question, or get directly to the point. Here, you don’t want to add a long paragraph. Keep it simple. The question could be something like “looking for an affordable handyman?” This intro is only 5 words and the use of "affordable" and "handyman" tells viewers you are both.

The next thing you'll need to do is to boost the ad to reach your customer base. A boosted ad can cost as little as $30 for about 6 days and could reach as many as 30,000 depending on the search terms you use. Make sure your product imagery and graphic design is professional and that it links directly to a special page on your website, not your social media pages.

Take Our 30 Day Challenge-5 easy ways to start a business

Mon, 25 May 2020 22:37:20 GMT

Thinking about starting a business? Take our easy 5 step challenge!

At HVD Studios, we encourage anyone with a viable idea to start their own business. From June 1-July 1 2020, we're giving aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners a reason to start their business, even during the pandemic.

The challenge is simple. Complete the tasks below in 30 days and fill out the form below.

The first 5 people who can follow the 5 super easy steps below with receive $300 off any project!

Register your business name
Reserve a business domain name
Set up your business email address
Set up your social media pages (Facebook and Instagram)
Submit a brief business plan (2 pages minimum)

Once you have completed these tasks, fill out the form below. Upon verification of your documents, we will send you a voucher by email that can be used in our Studio B.

Good luck!

Virtual Design Internships available for aspiring Graphic Designers, Website Designers, and Branding Experts.

Mon, 11 May 2020 14:55:07 GMT

Pursue your passion for design at HVD Studios

At HVD Studios we believe that designers are created in all types of molds. Some are self taught, some are college educated, and some are certificate holders. Regardless of your method of training, we are interested in meeting you!

About our positions

All of our positions are freelance. Essentially, we are adopting a new policy which allows for applicants to work virtually from anywhere in the United States, so regardless of where you live, you will be valued. Local designers are asked to attend monthly strategy sessions. At this time, we are not looking to hire or collaborate with companies. Our focus is on developing talent.

If you are interested in this opportunity, view all of our openings. If we like your work you'll be invited to participate in a virtual interview.

Improve your marketing: 5 reasons why you can't get new clients & customers

Mon, 04 May 2020 15:11:05 GMT

Owning and operating a business isn't for everyone but if you are determined to become a successful business owner, ask yourself if you are guilty of the following...

Here are the facts:

Thinking small and not spending adequate time developing your business plan are 2 fundamental reasons why so many entrepreneurs fail to earn a living income and ultimately give up their dream of becoming their own boss. Many unfortunate dreamers end up going back to something they didn't want to do in the first place...working a 9-5. Sound like you?

At HVD Studios, we'd like to give you something to think about by providing 5 doses of reality that many of our clients have gone through at some point. How many of these points can you say "yep, that's me" to?

Reason #1: You are just like everyone else

If I'm new in town and looking for a barber, the first thing I'll do is go to my smartphone and google search "Barbers in my area". Seems pretty logical, correct? The next step is combing through the results. I'm looking for reviews, location, and most important pictures of the barbers work. Barbers who really get it have a website, reviews, and up to date gallery. They have enough information for you to learn who they are, what they do, and how much they cost.

Very experienced barbers will have a Youtube channel with tutorials, an online reservation system to book clients, and may even sell organic and homemade hair products in the store. They don't stay content with making just enough money to pay the bills. They think big and bring on other barbers, stylists, and have a shop with regular operating hours. This is the mindset of a true business owner.

If you are still using Instagram/Facebook or Craigslist to operate your business, you would fall into the "Just like everyone else"category. We get it and understand, trust and believe. Money is tight but if money is always tight and you've been doing it this way for years that's gotta tell you something isn't working quite well with your particular business model. The question is, what is it and what can you do to fix the problem?

You can use the example of the barber and apply it to your own business. You are very likely to come off as credible when visitors can get a firm understanding of what you do by evidence of your carefully worded services, testimonials, images, certifications, education, experience, and of the knowledge you possess of your field.

Visitors are more likely to take you serious if they can visit your online "home". It's equally important to note that your online home should also be mobile friendly since this is most likely the way visitors are going to find you. Already have a very strong following and don't feel like you need a website because business is booming? Our hat's off to you sir or mam. You are one of the very fortunate.

Reason #2:You are marketing to an audience of no one

This one is simple. You have a couple hundred followers and do a very respectable job posting on social media. The only issue is that most of these people are your friends and family so your message is falling on deaf ears, unless they tagged or forwarded your post to a friend. Without new and organic followers, it will be very difficult to grow your brand. Learn more about hashtags and how they can help you gain followers. More on this in a future post.

Reason #3: There's nothing compelling about you

Using the example in #1, if you are a barber, what makes you different than other barbers in your area? Do you offer exclusive services such as hair dying, shaving, loc repairs/maintenance, or even a bundle of services to present value to your customers? Offering a unique product or service is truly the only way to draw attention from other barbers to your business and if all you do is "cut hair" it makes it difficult to grow outside of your existing client base.

Reason #4: You are too into yourself

Don't take this point the wrong way. Here's what we mean...If you do have a website does it reflect YOUR personality and what you like or does it cater to your customers? From a design standpoint, it should cater to your customers and shouldn't have your personal touches on it. Using darks because you like black or certain types of animations because you think it looks cool may work for you but to others, it will certainly become a distraction.

If you have a website that has a ton a movement, pop ups on every page, or begging a visitor to "join your email club" do yourself a favor and disable these features or use them sparingly. We're not going to just "give" you our email unless we like what you offer. Don't try so hard to make new friends.

A little movement is okay (we use animation ourselves) but to animate every single item on every single page is enough to make your visitors dizzy and may also cause your website to load slower than usual. Keep your website static, simple, and clean. It's not just a design trend, it's the best way to present your services and portfolio to your clients.

Reason #5: You keep a dirty house

We get it. You don't have the budget to hire a professional to make a website so you did it yourself. As designers, it's very disturbing when we visit websites that are poorly made, old, outdated, or have poor navigation.

This is generally a result of the business owner using a do it yourself website builder without having the knowledge of spacing, functionality, and the overall understanding of how important a website is to brand credibility. If a visitor happens to find your website, clicks on the link, and is welcomed to grainy and blurry images, graphic design made using your phone, or poorly written text, there's a 90% chance they'll leave. We call this a bounce rate and it's devastating to building clientele. We call this "having a dirty house" Clean up your house immediately.

We recommend using a landing page (also known as a coming soon page) to get basic information out to the public and collect leads, while you develop a cohesive plan to make a website behind the scenes that is easy on the eyes, easy to navigate, and appealing to your guests, clients, and visitors. Keep it simple and remember to use a large, clean image of what you do. It's amazing how important imagery is in conveying a message.

Once you tackle this challenge, then you can remove the landing page and open your business to the public. If you decide to go this route, make sure, bare minimum, that you place social media icons on your site so that are are able to promote your pages and increase your followers.

Did you find this post helpful?

Let us know by sharing it with a friend using the buttons below. Need help with developing a brand that reflects who you are? Contact us to learn more, or visit us at Studio C (for Start Ups), Studio B (For Growing Businesses), or Studio A for Professionals.

Are you starting a business? Apply for a small business design grant at HVD Studios

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 18:56:18 GMT

We're donating $5000 worth of design services to deserving entrepreneurs.

For many of us, Corvid-19 has impacted our financial lives. This is especially true to entrepreneurs and other small businesses who were in the process of launching a business, and others who have recently opened their doors.

While all signs are pointing towards a recovery in the coming weeks, we're pleased to announce that we working with small businesses who are looking to introduce their services locally and nationally.

On a first come, first served basis, we are contributing $250 worth of design services from our Studio B. This grant can be used towards:

A website
Branding
Marketing

Of course, prospective clients will have to schedule a consultation with us to discuss their needs. At that time, we'll explain how you can take advantage of this grant.

Applying is simple and only takes a few minutes. Full terms of the grant can be found by clicking here.

5 Ways to Start A (Or Jumpstart) Your Business During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 02:02:30 GMT

At HVD Studios, we want to provide our visitors with ways they can either prepare to launch a business, or improve the quality of their existing business. Don't let COVID-19 discourage or distract you from your goals. Here's a quick list of things you can implement during your down time.

1. Update your social media pages

As business owners, it amazes us how many of our clients use their personal Facebook and Instagram accounts (2 of the social media platforms we recommend minimum) to market their businesses. As the old saying goes, “don’t mix business with pleasure”. This is no different.

The reality is that you should set up business pages for both, even if you are a sole proprietor. This allows you to run sponsored ads and shoppable posts if you are using Instagram or Facebook to sell merchandise, services, or other items. This can’t happen using your personal account.

After you open your business accounts, go through your pages and use the various tabs to your advantage. Be sure to add an updated description of your business, update (or add) your services, and make sure all the other areas of the page are current.

If you accept online appointments, install an online scheduler so followers can book from your Facebook page, and if you currently use e-commerce, connect it to your Facebook page for an additional way for visitors to purchase your products or sign up for your services.

You’d be surprised how many people have old hours, outdated contact information, or link to a website that no longer works on their pages. While you are at it, update your banner to breathe new life to your page. Instagram is very easy. Just make sure all of your contact information is accurate and if not, update it! Most importantly, if someone sends you a message through your page, respond promptly. Facebook scores you on how fast you get back to customers and this helps with providing confidence on your page.

2. Find the perfect domain name

The next order of business is securing a domain name (if you don’t already have a website). The rule of thumb here is to make your domain name short and memorable. If you have a long domain name, it makes it difficult for customers to remember who you are.

If you own a domain name that falls into this category, there’s nothing stopping you from owning another. In fact, most people own between 2-4 domain names. If your domain is long or hard to remember, you can use the new one and forward traffic from the old one to the new one.

If you are confused about which way to go or how this works, feel free to email us and we’ll be more than happy to assist you in finding the right domain or explaining the process better.

3. Learn how to make your own website

We’ll get to this point in a minute. During the pandemic, many small business owners have seen their businesses flat line while others who have been thinking about opening a business are very apprehensive to start one. The assumption is that getting new customers is going to be difficult with so many people filing for unemployment. We don’t subscribe to this thought process.

Prospective customers have nothing but free time on their hands and if anything, are searching for the right professional for their specific needs. They'll search the internet and will contact the right company when the time is right (or when the economy re-opens).

If you don’t make yourself visible, you won’t be able to get clients. Plain and simple. Don’t let this pandemic stop you from earning an additional (or main) income. In fact, use this time to promote a “coming soon” or a landing page to collect leads. At some point, life will get back to normal and you’ll be ahead of the game.

Making good use of your free time

Use this down time to make adjustments to your website (if you have one), do some additional homework on pricing for items you may need such as business cards, uniforms, etc. or how much it will cost for you to market your business (or run ads on social media/google).

Before the pandemic, it was hard for everyone to find time due to their busy schedules. Now, most people have nothing but free time. Use it to clean up your desktop, clear out old emails, discover new productivity apps, write some social media posts, or even formulate ideas and start writing in your blog.

Make (or revamp) Your Own Website

We finally get to the main point of #3. Learning how to build and operate a website is important if you don’t have the capital to hire a professional company to make one for you. This will help you build your brand while you grow your business.

Down the road, we definitely recommend having a professional company to make one for you.

While creating a website yourself may not look as professional as you would like, it’s better than not having a website presence at all. Find an easy to use website builder such as Wix, Squarespace, or GoDaddy and give it a shot. For some, there is a learning curve and for others it’s easy to figure out.

Confused about how to build a website for yourself? We launched Studio C to provide training, education, and template customization services for those who honestly don’t feel like making a website, very inexperienced with using computers, or have a very small start up budget. For your convenience, we provided a link for you to visit us at Studio C.

4. Fine tune your services

What separates you from your competitors? Are you more experienced? Are you certified? Do you offer free training, seminars, or workshops? Do you have an up to date portfolio/photo gallery? Do you have 5 star ratings on Google, Facebook, or Yelp?

These are all areas that successful entrepreneurs and small business owners excel in and possibly the reason you are struggling to grow your business. Most consumers will pay a little more to get better quality. Nowadays, it's not good enough to just state what you do without having the ability to prove it. Visitors will want to learn more about you and how you've helped others. Prove it to your customers with a coherent list of services, testimonials and images. You’ll gain the trust of your visitors and will increase your odds of gaining new customers by recording and promoting your expertise on Youtube.

5. Come up with a marketing strategy

By far, this is the most difficult part of a business because marketing requires money. Or does it?

Well it depends. If you don’t have a large following on Instagram or Facebook, you won’t be able to market your services. If you don’t have an email marketing list you won’t be able to send off newsletter blasts. So what will you do?

For starters, you can spend this time doing some homework. Do an internet search and see what professionals in your fields are up to. At HVD Studios, we call this recon. It’s free to start a blog. Come up with a list of topics that you feel others would benefit from and find interesting. Write a post once a week and remember to include images. This will show readers that you are a professional in your field and as a result could become a great referral source for you.

Next, start growing your social media audience. Make sure that when you post, your images don’t have a lot of graphics on them, or have been heavily Photo-shopped. It's never good to mislead fans. It’s important to use the right hashtags to attract the right followers. If you don’t have a website, we suggest you get one. There, you can collect leads and show visitors why they should contact you.

Finally, scrape up about $30. This is how much it costs to run an ad on Facebook (Instagram Included) for about 6 days and honestly, this is very inexpensive. The most important thing is determining the purpose of the ad. Are you soliciting your services? Are you trying to drive traffic to your website? Are you trying to grow your social media pages? These are questions you need to figure out because Facebook and Instagram will ask when building your campaign.

Did you find these tips useful? Let us know!

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