From wallpaper design via interiors, Kersty Jordan now operates as a successful freelance graphic designer with her business G Design. As she looks to extend her client portfolio, Kersty talks through her plans for social media as well as her passion for collaboration with other businesses.
What’s the story behind your business? How did you get started? 

I have worked in design for many years – my dad was a wallpaper designer and producer and I began my design career working with him, then moved into interiors, followed by graphics in the printing industry. After a printing firm I worked for ceased trading suddenly, I decided to work as freelance graphic designer and within two weeks I was set up at home and had my first client and first job in production. I am now in my eighth year.

What’s a typical day like for you?

I am a (single) mum of two, so my day starts after the school run. I spend most of my time on my iMac in my home office, which is actually just a corner of my kitchen, and I’m generally still there until school pick-up time, and often there again after the kids are in bed! I do sometimes get out of ‘the office’ to meet up with clients.

What’s the toughest part of running your own business?

The toughest part is budgeting for an irregular income – especially in the first couple of ‘start up’ years. Also, being able to switch off completely is very difficult. My computer is generally only turned off at the weekend.

And the best part?

The flexibility that being your own boss gives you – scheduling work around the children, and having the freedom you don’t get with a 9-5 office job. I also get a great deal of pleasure seeing things that I’ve designed out there in print.

What are your top three business goals for next 12 months?

  1. To extend my client portfolio. I work mainly for local businesses and would like to reach a little further afield – most communication is digital, so where a client is based doesn’t matter.
  2. To be the first point of call when people think they need design and printing of marketing materials.
  3. To boost my website and social media presence, which I’ve only just recently stepped into.

What’s your top marketing or social media tip?

Well, like I say, I’m very new to social media and I haven’t actually done any marketing as all my work so far has been recommendations, so I’m only just getting the hang of Instagram myself now… however, I’d be grateful to receive any tips!

How can people find out more about what you do?

Get in touch via the website, Instagram, email or a good old-fashioned phone call. I’m always happy to meet up for a coffee and a chat to show some samples of work I have produced, and to find out more about other businesses and how we can work together – it’s good to get out of my kitchen now and again!

You can follow G Design on Facebook and Instagram, and visit the website. You can also connect with Kersty on LinkedIn.