Process

This is a general guideline to give you an idea of what you can expect while working with us. Our process may vary from project to project. Our estimated project timelines cover the whole process, from the deposit being paid to the finalization of the project. To keep projects moving efficiently, we ask our clients to communicate regularly with us throughout the entire design process. Please contact us to check on our current timeline estimates.

Getting Started

Before you discover how we do things, you should first verify that we can help you with your current design needs. If you do not see your project listed in our services, please contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Here is a very general process guideline to help you get started with us. For more specific process details for logos, graphic designs, websites, or online listings, please see the sections below. Please note that this general process guideline pertains to all project categories below.

Step 1:  We will discuss your project so we can first determine whether or not we can help. We’ll go over your specific needs and expectations and we’ll talk pricing and turnaround time.

Step 2:  We’ll present you with a formal estimate so we can organize the project details. Once you’re ready to move forward with at least one project, you must agree to a formal set of terms and conditions. These terms and conditions were put in place to protect both MaryZDesigns and you, the client. When ready, we will provide specific instructions on how to execute the agreement online. In the meantime, check out our policies page.

Step 3:  In order to secure your design time, we require a project deposit. This is normally 50% of the total cost of the project. If the project is less than $100, we require 100% to be paid up front. We handle most payments through PayPal, a secure online payment processing company. Clients can use all major credit/debit cards online with PayPal without having a PayPal account. After we receive authorization to proceed with the project, we will send you an invoice via PayPal. You will receive the invoice notification via email from PayPal. The email will contain a link to complete the payment online using PayPal. We will automatically be notified when the payment was processed.

Step 4:  When we receive your deposit, your project has officially started! At this time, we ask that you send us all of the remaining information we may need to get started on your project. This might include your ideas/inspiration, copy, photos, etc.

Logos & Brand Identities/Print & Digital Designs

Whether you are working on a logo or a new business card, banner, or brochure, the process is very much the same.

Step 1:  To get started with a logo or a design for print and/or digital use we will discuss your project and ask you to provide your ideas/inspiration, copy, photos, etc. for use in the designs.

Step 2:  We will complete the initial design concepts and provide a proof. In layman’s terms, a proof is a rough draft of the design. Proofs are generally sent via email, or they may be presented in person. After you receive your proof, you will have the option to make revisions. We include a set number of revision sessions with every project. This number can always be found on your estimate and invoice. If you go through the included number of revision sessions, additional revisions will incur an additional fee. The fee for additional revision sessions is generally between $35 and $65 (depending on the type of design). The fee structure for additional revision sessions may also be found on your estimate and invoices. We will send a new proof after each revision session and we will wait for you to review and provide feedback. When the design is approved, we ask that you let us know so we can move forward.

Step 3:  After the design has been completed and your final approval has been received, we will invoice/bill the remaining project balance. After payment has been received, we will export all of the final files and provide you with them. File types are always specified in the estimate and invoice. You can always request specific file types as well.

Step 4:  If anything needs to be printed by MaryZDesigns, we will begin the printing process. For more information on the printing process, see the printing services section below.

Project Timelines:

Logo Package: 5-18 Days

Business Card:
Design Only: 5-14 Days
Design & Print: 12-27 Days

Other Designs:
Design Only: 5-14 Days
Design & Print: Varies

Websites

Websites don’t have to be intimidating. Let us put our skills and experience to work for your business.

Step 1:  To get started with a website, we will discuss what you have in mind for your website. We will also discuss the domain name, hosting, and website infrastructure. At this time, you will be asked to provide any ideas or preferences you may have for the site, as well as any photos, copy, etc. that you would like to include.

Step 2:  After discussing, we will setup the backend of the website. This includes the domain name purchase or transfer, implementing the hosting package, and setting up the main website infrastructure (pages, menus, etc.).

Step 3:  We will complete the website build (first draft) by designing each page using copy and imagery (logos, photos, illustrations, etc.). At this time, we will also set up any special features and plugins. While the website is under construction or undergoing maintenance, Maintenance Mode will be active. Maintenance Mode is used to hide the website from the public while the site is under construction or undergoing maintenance. It also displays a message that may contain contact information, so viewers can get in touch with the website owner directly if needed.

Step 4:  After completion of the first draft, we will make the site live so you can review it. At this time, you may submit revisions for the site.  Revisions may include changes to copy, imagery, special features, etc. We include a set number of revision sessions with every project. This number can always be found on your estimate and invoice. If you go through the included number of revision sessions, additional revisions will incur an additional fee. The fee for additional website revision sessions is generally $55 per page where revisions are needed. The fee structure for additional revision sessions may be found on your estimate and invoices. After each revision session, we will contact you when progress updates are available, and the site has been made live for viewing. When the website is approved, we ask that you let us know so we can move forward.

Step 5:  After the website has been completed and your final approval has been received, we will invoice/bill the remaining project balance. After payment has been received, we will finalize any remaining loose ends of the website and make it live for the public to view.

Project Timelines:

Landing Page: 8-14 Days

Full Website: 30-51 Days

Ecommerce Website: 30-51 Days

Online Business Listings

When inquiring about our online marketing services, we highly recommend moving forward with online business listings for the best results.

Step 1:  To get started with online business listings, we will collect the information we need to get your business online. We will discuss your ideas and any specific copy and images you’d like to include.

Step 2:  Once we have the information we need to get started, we will begin construction of the online business listing. When completed, we will notify you to review the listing online. At this time you may submit any revisions you may have. Revisions may include changes to information, copy, imagery, etc. After each revision session, we will contact you when progress updates are available, and the listing has been made live for viewing. When the online listing is approved, we ask that you let us know so we can move forward.

Step 3:  After the listing has been completed and your final approval has been received, we will invoice/bill the remaining project balance. After payment has been received, we will finalize any remaining loose ends of the listing and ensure that it is live for the public to view.

Step 4:  For most online listing services, free updates are included for 1 year. Please get in touch with us if you need assistance with updating your online listing.

Project Timelines:

Basic Online Business Listing: 7 Days

Premium Online Business Listings: 7-14 Days

Printing Services

If we are working on a design project together, you might be in need of printing services. We are happy to discuss your printing needs and provide estimates for your project.

Step 1:  When requesting an estimate, please specify quantity, sizing, and any other specifics you may have in mind. If you are unsure of what you need, we can provide guidance on printing methods, paper stocks, and more.

Step 2:  You must submit final approval for the project in order to proceed with printing services. We will invoice/bill the remaining project balance. 100% of the total cost of the project must be paid in order for printing to take place.

Step 3:  Once your print order is ready, we will carefully package and ship it to you. We provide tracking details when they are available. UPS Ground or USPS Priority Mail are typically used to ship print orders. If you are a local client, we may also offer in person delivery or pickup.

Project Timelines (Print & Delivery Only):

Standard Paper Materials: 7-13 Days

Signage & Vinyl: 12-21 Days

Other Printed Materials: Varies