If you’re a growing brand or small business, you likely rely A LOT on design to communicate your goals, values, and offerings.
But managing all of your design needs on your own can be a challenge. A big one.
That’s where design retainers come in, offering an answer for brands looking for consistent and reliable design support.
How does a design retainer work?
Design retainers are a great way to secure discounted design services every month. And so you’ll have access to a trusted, go-to designer in your corner.
With a design retainer, you’re not commissioning individual projects. You’re creating a cohesive visual identity that genuinely connects with your audience. You’re gaining a design partner who’s an extension of your team.
Read more about the benefits of a retainer here.
5 Signs That You Might Be Ready for a Design Retainer
- Your design needs are consistent and ongoing, requiring regular maintenance to stay consistent and relevant.
- Design tasks take up way too much of your time, distracting you from focusing on other areas of your business. Like the things you do best.
- You’re looking for more consistency, reliability, and overall higher quality in your design work.
- Your design process isn’t so much of a process as it is a last-minute scramble. You want to streamline this area of your business. To eliminate the hassle of doing the work yourself or sourcing separate designers for each project.
- You enjoy the relational aspect of working with a design partner. You want to work with someone who can grow and evolve with you and your brand. Someone who can provide strategic insights and creative solutions along the way.
Feel like you’re ready? Here are 4 steps you can take to prepare
- Audit of your current design workload, specifically by looking for recurring tasks and areas where you need ongoing support. (I.e. marketing collateral, social media creative, new client guides, workbooks, etc.)
- Get clear on any challenges you have in managing design tasks. For example, lack of consistency, delayed deadlines, slow turnaround times, or difficulty finding reliable designers.
- What budget and resources are already allocated for design? Consider potential savings and benefits of a retainer.
- Look at the scope and frequency of the design work you need. Then make sure it aligns with the goals you’re reaching for this year.
Design retainers aren’t just another business expense. They can be a game-changer when it comes to finding a creative solution to your ongoing design needs.
By finding the right design partner, you can start seeing consistent, high-quality results that truly reflect your brand. It’s all about finding the best fit for your needs to start moving your business forward.
Want to talk more about the details of a design retainer? Complete my project inquiry form and I’ll be in touch!
Or check out my bi-weekly newsletter, Feel You Journal! This is where I share my journey as a designer and what I’m exploring currently, tools and resources, my creative process, behind-the-scenes, and gifts for those in my lil email community. ❤️
