Shifting Focus: Building Partnerships, Not Projects
Over the past year, I’ve been on a journey of discovery as a freelance graphic designer in Stirling. I’ve always considered myself a ‘Jack of All Trades’, bringing a wealth of experience across logo design, branding, web design, photography, and more. While this versatility has been my strength, my approach to freelancing was, admittedly, lacking direction.
Initially, my goal was simple: cast a wide net, offer a variety of services, and work with as many businesses as possible. And it worked, sort of. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating on a range of projects with fantastic clients. But as time went on, I began to notice something wasn’t clicking. The work was fragmented, the relationships were fleeting, and I was often jumping from one short-term project to the next.
While I enjoyed helping businesses solve specific creative problems, I realised I was missing the deeper satisfaction that comes from truly understanding a brand and contributing to its growth over time. The lightbulb moment came during recent meetings with potential clients who were looking for a long-term design partner. It hit me—this is where I need to focus my energy.
Jack of All Trades, Master of Partnership
Freelancing is often about casting a wide net, and that’s where I started. Offer everything, say yes to anything, and figure it out as you go. And it worked—for a while. But here’s the thing about wide nets: they catch a lot of small fish, and you’re constantly rowing to new waters. The problem with odd jobs isn’t the work itself—it’s the stop-start, surface-level nature of it. You don’t get time to really dig in. To understand the brand, to find its voice, to push it forward.
Long-term partnerships, though? That’s where the magic happens. When I get to work with a client over months or even years, I’m not just another designer-for-hire. I’m part of the team. I know the quirks, the values, the vision. I’m on call, sleeves rolled up, ready to tackle whatever comes next. And because I’m not stuck in the day-to-day grind of their business, I’ve got that outsider’s edge—the fresh perspective to challenge ideas and keep the work bold, not stale.
It’s not just about what’s good for me. It’s better for the client, too. Here’s why:
Deeper understanding: Over time, I learn your brand inside out. No guessing games, no onboarding headaches.
Consistency: Every piece of work fits seamlessly into the bigger picture.
Creative partnership: I’m not here to tick boxes, I’m here to help shape your story.
Studio Off Kilter 2.0
So, what does this mean for Studio Off Kilter? It means I’m shifting gears. The services stay the same: branding, logo design, packaging, photography, web design but the focus is different. I’m looking for a handful of clients who want more than just a one-off design. I want to build something bigger, bolder, and more meaningful.
That said, I’m not shutting the door on smaller projects. The world moves fast, and sometimes you just need a quick fix. I get it. I’ll still take on short-term gigs when they come up, but my energy is going into partnerships—real, lasting collaborations.
Let’s Get to Work
If you’re in Stirling, or anywhere else, really and you’re looking for more than just a designer, let’s talk. I’m not here to be a cog in the machine. I’m here to challenge, to create, and to make your brand stand out like it damn well deserves to.
Whether you need someone in your corner long-term or just want to chat about how I can help, drop me a message. Let’s build something that lasts.
