7 Ways you can Build a Design Biz from Scratch and Work with Aligned Clients as a Brand Designer
Building a design business from the ground up isn’t for the faint-hearted, but if you’re here, chances are you’ve got the drive, a spark of creativity, and the hunger to make it happen. Starting out, I knew one thing for sure: I needed to give people a reason to want to work with me. That meant developing a style and aesthetic that was uniquely mine, something recognisable and distinct.
Spoiler alert: It didn’t happen overnight. I wanted a business that felt sustainable, intentional, and built on solid foundations - slick processes, an organized client experience, and a unique, valuable set of design skills. Let me walk you through the steps I took to create my dream design biz, one that not only reflects my vision but also attracts aligned clients who feel like the perfect fit.
1. Design Education: Building the Basics
Let’s be real, when I left my full-time job, I had zero design skills. But I wasn’t going to let that stop me. I needed structure, so I invested in a three-month intensive design course at Shillington School of Education. This was a game-changer for me. I learned to use the tools of the trade (hello, Adobe Suite and Figma) and mastered the process of taking a concept and turning it into a polished client project.
Education looks different for everyone. Maybe you’re self-taught, maybe you take a course, or maybe you just dive in and learn as you go. Whatever your path, the key is to equip yourself with the skills you need to provide value. For me, this structured course gave me the confidence and tools to start offering design services.
2. Social Media & Passion Projects: Creating Your Own Opportunities
As soon as I completed my design training, I launched an Instagram page ( designgals) and started showcasing my work. Here’s the kicker - I didn’t wait for real clients to come knocking. I created self-initiated projects pretending to be the client and designed about ten brand identities before landing my first paid gig.
Why? Because you have to give people a reason to want to work with you. Show them what you can do! Sharing those self-briefed projects helped me refine my style, build my portfolio, and attract attention from small business owners. Social media became my playground for experimenting, connecting, and growing.
3. Mentorship: Finding Your People
This step was transformative. I joined The Daring Designers Club and invested in coaching with Cat from Gatto. Through this community, I connected with other designers, learned how to run my business like a pro, and built processes that made my client experience seamless and enjoyable.
Working with aligned clients isn’t always easy. There are hurdles, miscommunications, and plenty of lessons to be learned. Being part of a supportive group helped me navigate these challenges while improving my mindset and systems. To this day, I’m still part of that community, and it’s been invaluable.
4. Designing for Friends & Family: A Safe Space to Grow
With my newfound skills and processes, I needed to test everything out in a low-pressure environment. So, I offered discounted services to a couple of friends who ran creative brands. This gave me the chance to refine my client presentations, work through my processes, and build confidence.
If you’re just starting, don’t underestimate the power of working with people you trust. It’s a great way to practice and get feedback without the pressure of a paying client’s expectations.
5. Getting Visible: Putting Yourself Out There
Visibility was key to my early success. Even with just 100 Instagram followers, I consistently shared my work, services, and availability. I attended free events, networked with other small businesses, and even slide into DMs to introduce myself.
It wasn’t always comfortable (hello, imposter syndrome!), but putting myself out there led to my first paying project with a small biz owner I had no prior connection with. From there, the momentum built as I continued to share my work and testimonials.
6. Running with Momentum
Once I had my first client, I kept the ball rolling by consistently sharing my projects, gathering testimonials, and staying true to my unique style. Being authentic in how I showed up online attracted aligned clients who resonated with both my aesthetic and my personality. The more I leaned into my style, the more my dream clients came to me.
7. Taking It One Step at a Time
Building a brand can feel overwhelming. There’s always more you could (or “should”) be doing. My approach? Stay intentional and take it step by step. Early on, I created a simple downloadable service guide. Two years later, I launched my first website and rebranded as HEY GIRL. If you want to read my story, this is where you can read more. I waited until it felt truly aligned with my design style, and it was so worth it.
The secret to working with aligned clients is all about showing up authentically, sharing work that reflects your style, and putting yourself in the right spaces. Yes, it’s uncomfortable at times, but that’s how you grow and attract the clients who feel like you.
Ready to Build Your Own Dream Design Biz?
If you’re feeling inspired to take the leap, know this: it’s possible to create a design business that feels authentic, sustainable, and aligned. Take it one step at a time, keep refining your skills, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
Come say hi to me on Instagram (@heygirl_studio), or if you’re ready to take your brand to the next level, I’d love to help you make it happen. Check out my portfolio, and let’s create something magical together 💖
Loads of Love,
S xx
