Goodbye Blogger, Hello Wordpress

I've been wanting to switch to Wordpress for quite a while now and finally, over the past few days, I've programmed my way to a new blog. All posts can now be found at http://13thirtyone.com/blog/.

Client Appreciate: 2008 Holiday Gift

Last year I sent my clients a bottle of wine for the holidays with a custom designed label. It was a great way to share something I love (wine...) while showing off some skills. Because I received such a great response last year, I decided to carry on with the promotion this year.

For 2008, I chose a Cabernet Sauvignon (as opposed to last year's Merlot). The label created last year was vintage-looking and very layered. In contrast, I wanted to create a clean label with the emphasis being placed on the words "Happy Holidays" themselves. The finished product is below:



A close-up of the artwork itself can be seen here.

What I Decided to do With the Blank Wall

When I was getting settled into my office, I had absolutely no clue about what to do with the huge blank wall that faces my desk. I wanted to be sure I put something there that really inspired me, as I'd be looking up from my desk to peek at it constantly. So I asked readers what they thought I should do.

A comment suggested that I should create an "inspiration board"; a place where I hung different pieces of art and design that really inspired me. The idea was brilliant! Though I've put this up a while ago (and I do apologize for not showing photos sooner), I have pics of the finished wall below.





The first is a close up of one of the boards. As you can see, I just attach random bits of bags, packaging, brochures, etc., that I find to be good design and inspiring. Many thanks to the reader who's idea this was!

Get Your Head on Straight for 2009

We're closing in on the end of 2008 and quickly approaching the new year. If your goal for 2009 is to start your own design firm or to just do a little freelancing on the side, I highly recommend The Business Side of Creativity: The Complete Guide for Running a Graphic Design or Communications Business by Cameron S. Foote.

This book walks you through the ins-and-outs of being self-employed at any level. Foote offers suggestions and advice for formatting contracts/estimates, learning how to defend your pricing and just promoting yourself and your business in general. Here's the formal summary from Amazon.com's website:

A comprehensive business companion for those just starting out or expanding operations in the design field. It covers getting launched to running a multi-person shop to retiring comfortably, and is aimed at freelance graphic designers, art directors, illustrators, copywriters.

Keep in mind that this book isn't just for designers. It's for any creative profession. This is a must-read and a great resource that I refer to time and time again.

Note: The above cover reflects the 2002 edition of the book. I believe there is a more recent version for purchase.