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bmccamish

8 Ways To Increase Your Website Speed

by bmccamish March 29, 2021

written by bmccamish

Does your website take forever to load? When you only have a few seconds to grab a client or customer’s attention, then this can a problem. While there are numerous causes for a slow WordPress website, I am going to cover a few easy ways you can speed up your website today.

The Quick and Easy Ways to Increase Your WordPress Site Speed

1. Use JPGs Not PNGs

While it’s true that graphics often look better as PNGs, they can seriously slow down your website since they are bigger files. In general, the only PNGs on your site should be the graphics that require a transparent background like your logo and a few icons. They should always be sized appropriately to cut down on space too. In all other cases, it is best to upload JPGs to keep your site running efficiently. Just be sure to upload a JPG with decent resolution, as you don’t want to appear unprofessional with grainy photos on your website.

2. Compress Your Images

It’s generally a good idea to compress your images (JPGs and the PNGs you must use) prior to uploading them to your site. This is especially true if you are using a high-quality JPG, say from a stock photo site, that is rather large. You can do this quickly and for free on compressor.io.

Alternatively, if you have an independently hosted WordPress website you can install a plug-in that will automatically compress images (and even resize) upon upload. This can help increase your site speed by ensuring you do not have giant images and graphics bogging down your site. I personally like the Smush plug-in and have paid for the pro version on my personal sites.

(As a designer, I have a large amount of images on my site, but you may not need the pro version).

3. Delete Old Unused Images and Graphics

Your media folder on your website should not act as your photo storage. Its purpose is strictly to house graphics, images, audio, etc that is in use on your site. If you uploaded graphics and images that are no longer in use, delete them. Freeing up space on your site like this can increase your overall site speed.

Images are the first three for a reason- get those worked out first.

4. Delete Any Themes Not In Use

On your WordPress dashboard scroll down to Appearance > Themes and take a glance at what you have loaded on your website. If you have unused themes, you’ll want to remove those. I have an exception and I always keep the latest WordPress default theme, my parent theme, and my child theme. I keep the default theme in case I need to manually update my current parent theme and thus need one to temporarily activate. However, this is only my personal preference.

Not only do unused themes slow your site, but they can also be a security risk if you do not keep them all updated. Yikes! So it is better just to remove them and hopefully increase your site speed.

5. Use a Cache Plug In That Works Best For Your Site

A cache is a reserved storage location for data. Essentially, your cache holds your website information so it loads even faster for those visiting the site.

The first thing to note is that you should only be running one cache plug-in at a time on your WordPress website. There are many caching plug-ins and the right one for your site depends on your host. For example, Cloudways hosting recommends their Breeze cache plug-in and Siteground hosting recommends SG Optimize. While you could opt to use a different cache plug-in besides the hosts, it might not be as efficient in increasing your site speed. In this case you should do your research before you switch.

6. Keep Your Site Updated

I’ve said this before, but your website is like a plant, it will need some care even after the designer hands it back to you. Just like watering a plant, one of those essential tasks is updating your website. You will want to keep the PHP, WordPress Core, plug-ins, and theme updated. Often this is simple for the WordPress, Plug-ins, and themes- only requiring the click of a button. Updating the PHP can be a bit more complicated and you may want to seek technical assistance from your host.

Don’t forget to keep a backup of your site prior to pressing update. This way if something goes wrong you can always revert the site back to its original state. I like using the Updraft Plug-In to make sure I always have a backup.

If updating your site sounds like a chore you do not want to deal with, then consider hiring a website maintenance service. Monthly fees are typically about $50 and they care for your site and the needed updates.

I always refer my clients to a few website maintenance services after I have built their site to ensure it continues to work for them into the future.

Bonus Way to Speed Up Your WordPress Website

(A Little Harder, But Totally Worth It!)

While the following two suggestions for increasing your site speed are a bit harder, they can be totally worth it.

7. Change Themes

Changing themes typically leads to a total site redesign, but it can speed up your website if you have a heavy theme. If your theme is no longer able to be updated, then you will definitely want to change themes, preferably to one that has support, is light, and easy to update.

The Number One Way to Increase Your Site Speed: Get Quality Hosting

The expression you get what you pay for is very true when it comes to hosting. Hosts that offer shared hosting (like BlueHost) tend to be much cheaper, but you will pay for it in site speed. Instead, you can independently host or choose a hosting service like Cloudways where you can have your own servers. This process can be a bit complicated, but worth it. If it sounds like too much, then I have also found that Siteground is a decent shared hosting option that is very user-friendly.

Please note these are only my personal choices, and you if you choose to work on your own without a designer you will want to do your own research choosing hosts and ensuring your site will run efficiently.

March 29, 2021 0 comment

Design

6 Things That Instantly Repel Customers

by bmccamish March 23, 2021

written by bmccamish

Your website is your first impression, and it needs to be good. Your website design and copy should draw the visitor in and clearly explain how you can help them exactly where they are at. After years of designing and redesigning websites, I have noticed a few things that can instantly repel customers and leave a soured first impression. Let’s dive in so you can avoid these turn-offs!

6 Website Design and Copy Mistakes That Repel Customers

1. A Site That Is Not Mobile Friendly

Your site should function on mobile and there is no way around it. For most individuals at least half of all visitors will be coming to the site on their phones, meaning you need to make sure you have a responsive site. If your site doesn’t seem to be compatible with mobile, it might be time for a website redesign, in which case we should chat!

2. Low-Quality Photos

If your site is populated with low-resolution images it is not going to scream ‘professional you want to hire or buy from’. There are several sites, like Unsplash, that offer free stock photos which can quickly solve this problem.

If you’re thinking it is inauthentic for your brand, then find a local photographer and get a solid set of photos you can use everywhere and feel good about. Don’t forget to have the photographer take the photos in landscape orientation so you can drop them into the background of blocks too.

3. Mismatched Stock Photos

If you go the stock photo route (and there is nothing wrong with that) you want to be sure the photos all flow well together across the site. Having mismatched photos in opposing lighting and mood can throw off the whole site and leave your visitors confused.

Thankfully, there is an easy fix, most stock photo platforms allow you to see the published author of an image. So if you like the photo you can click on their name and see all images they have uploaded. Most stock photos are uploaded as part of a collection and then your images can be consistent across the site.

4. A Site That Is Only There to Sell, Not Solve

Your messaging is a crucial part of your brand, and it’s important that you position yourself as the person there to guide or assist your customer. You’re on the sidelines and they are the hero. That means your messaging and site need to be about a solution, a story, a way to complete their journey and get to their ideal selves.

It’s always about them, not you or your product.

5. A Confusing Process or Too Many Steps

Visitors do not read every line of your website, in fact, studies show most will just skim the site. I know, I wish it didn’t work that way.

But, to combat the skimmers, you need a simple and repeatable process throughout the site that leads them to work with you or make that purchase. The process or steps should never be more than 5 and ideally 3.

6. Bad Grammar

Even if visitors are skimming, they are still reading (even if in segments). Your grammar should be spot on and easy to understand. If it helps, write your copy in a doc and use a service like Grammarly to check the copy prior to having it on the site. This will ensure no spelling mistakes or bad grammar.

Feeling Like You Might Need a Website Redesign?

I would love to help you create a stand-out website that leaves the best first impression on your visitors. Tell me about your project today.

March 23, 2021 0 comment

how to make your business look professional

Branding

6 Essentials To Make Your Business Look Professional

by bmccamish January 21, 2021

written by bmccamish

Growing a business is a journey. There are so many things to learn, processes to put in place, not to mention attracting the right customers so you can still pay your bills. I want to help you get where you need to go with your business and that’s why I am sharing six essentials to make your business look professional.

1. A Scheduling Platform

You need a way for clients to book a quick discovery call or have a strategy session without the back and forth of emails trying to nail down a time that works for both of you. A scheduling platform, like Calendly, can save you and your client time and encourages immediate bookings. You can even connect your scheduling platform to a payment method if you offer coaching sessions, readings, or any other type of paid one-on-one meetings.

2. A Clear Contract

After a call, your clients will hopefully want to book your services and that means you need a contract. Frankly, not having any kind of a contract is not an option in the professional world. Take the time to put together a contract that is thorough but also easy to understand. Go the extra mile to make your business look professional, and send over the contract for electronic signature via a platform like Honeybook or HelloSign, so the process for your client is as seamless as possible.

3. A Portfolio or Sample of Your Projects On Your Website

Your potential clients need to see your work. This will give them an idea of your overall aesthetic and help sell your services. You probably already knew that, but you want to have a portfolio in more than one place. Your website needs to have samples on multiple pages, you should have some client work on social media, and you could even have some larger projects, like advertisements, stored in a digital folder that you share with clients looking for a specific offering.

4. A Good Headshot

No matter what type of business you have, you need a good headshot. One that will highlight your brand and your personality. It is also a good idea to have this headshot in various places across your platform so people have an idea of who you are. They should feel like they have already met you by the time you have your first call or point of contact.

5. An Invoice System

Paying invoices should not be difficult for your client. You need to have a professional invoicing system in place using software that allows individuals to pay you in whatever way is easiest for them. I personally use Quickbooks, but there are many other options including Freshbooks and PayPal Business invoicing. The invoice should include your business details, your logo, and a distinct description of the services rendered. Not only does this legitimize your business, but this also helps with bookkeeping.

6. A Consistent Brand

I know, I am totally biased when it comes to branding, but having your brand established and consistent across platforms helps you solve problems. Let’s be honest, most clients are not looking for an ‘identity’ right off the bat. They are looking to work with a professional who can solve their problems. That said, having your brand identity will help set you apart from the crowd as that professional. If your brand is based on personality, you will be able to connect with the client who digs that personality making it a mutually beneficial match.

Build that brand recognition and keep showing up for your clients, especially in the visuals in order to shape your overall professionalism.

Your business will benefit from implementing each of these items on the list. I am rooting for you to take the first step towards building a professional-client experience today.

January 21, 2021 0 comment

Branding Design

5 Fatal Branding Mistakes You Want To Avoid

by bmccamish January 12, 2021

written by bmccamish

Branding mistakes are easy to make. This is especially true when you’re still learning how to build a stand out brand that clearly talks to your ideal customers and clients. Don’t fret, I’m here to expose 5 fatal brand mistakes I’ve seen people make so you can avoid them altogether.

5 Branding Mistakes To Avoid

1. Thinking that branding means a logo

I’ve said it before, and I will say it again, your brand is not your logo (although logos certainly are important). Your brand starts to form the moment you open your business, start an influencer account, or offer a product. Your brand is what people say and think about your business. It’s an identity and you have the power to shape it through messaging, visuals, and being uniquely you.

Branding is the active process of crafting this identity and story. Branding should find your business personality traits, core values, and mission in order to leverage them for messaging and convey them in visuals. It is a conceptual act that can help you stand apart from your competitors.

2. Not having an opt-in to build your email list

There are many ways to build client relationships, but offering free value is an effective way to position yourself as an expert and begin to build a connection with your potential customers. This can all be done with a freebie AKA The Opt In.

I have four freebies on my website and each one offers free value to potential clients and customers.

The Brand Quiz – identifies brand personality based on psychology and archetypes
5 Keys to a stand out brand
4 free brand marketing strategies
A brand road map for beginners

I want to have paying clients of course, but I also know not everyone is ready to invest in a branding package or custom website design at this very moment. While they save and build their business, I want to help! Why? Because I have totally been there as a struggling business owner. I also hope that when they are ready for branding or design work they will think of me because I helped them out (or even send my name to someone they know).

Bottom line, people need a reason to give you their email and people need to see that you know your stuff. Don’t make this branding mistake and miss out. A freebie is a perfect way to start building the foundation for individuals to become your super fans.

3. Positioning your business as the hero

This branding mistake is all too common. In fact, Donald Miller dedicated a good portion of his book Building A Story Brand to explaining this concept. Your business is not the hero, but your client is. They are the hero of their own story and you are put there as the guide. If you position your business as the guide then you’re inviting your client and customer to find the tools they need for their quest.

Ok, let’s take that analogy out of the Hero’s Journey for a moment. Your business is the solution to the customers’ problems. This means your language and messaging should speak to them about how you can help. It’s not about what you can do or when you were founded – it’s about what you can do for them and how you can help them. Keep the customer or client at the center of your brand story, because they are the hero, not you.

4. Not sharing exactly how to work with you

Really? Is this a branding mistake? Yes. Trust me, people need to be told exactly how they can work with you. They need to be called to action in more than one way on your website and platforms.

For example, I could have a button on my site that says ‘Services and Packages’ and expect that if people want to book one they will contact me. But instead, I have “Tell Me About Your Project” and a step by step list of exactly what working with me looks like. This is placed on my site in multiple locations. In addition, I share these steps on social media in a few different ways. This is calling individuals to action, or their next step. It is telling their brain how to respond.

5. Lacking consistency on all platforms

Having a cohesive brand that is consistent on all of your platforms is essential. If you have a different persona or even color schemes on every platform you use, it is truly confusing for the customer.

Here is an example. You gain a new follower on Instagram. They came across one of your funny meme’s with bright poppy colors and noticed your feed looked fun. After seeing 3 or 4 more of your posts, they decide to check out your website and use your service. When they get there, the site is full of neutrals and expert help. It’s nothing like your fun vibes on the gram. Confusing.

It’s important that your customers are met with consistency because this builds your relationship. When they have that trust, they are more likely to engage with your brand. Your brand guidelines and brand strategy help to provide a structure so that you can implement a consistent brand across your platforms.

My Major Branding Mistake And How I Turned It Around

If you’ve caught yourself doing any of these brand mistakes, it’s ok. You still have time to turn it around. I’ve even had to do it myself. Believe it or not, there was a time where I wasn’t a brand expert nor did I understanding the psychology behind branding (ha. ha.). I was a creative, an artist, a maker, but I was making brand mistake number four.

I had a website that started by introducing myself (eek, that’s branding mistake 2). It listed my services describing exactly what I can do. Of course, I had a contact button, but I did not direct customers where to go or tell them how they can work with me. I often wondered why my site wasn’t converting. I did good work. I made beautiful designs. None of that mattered if people didn’t know how to work with me.

Now my potential clients can follow these steps:

Define- They tell me about the project and I send a contract/proposal
Develop – I create and they have one less thing to worry about
Assess – We do a mid-way review as I want to be sure the client is always happy
Refine – I make any requested changes and deliver

Now there is a mini road map for clients so they can understand what the big picture of working with me looks like. Are there more steps for the work we do? Yes, but these are like the major milestones and craft a means to an end for a potential customer.

Ready to Put Branding Mistakes Aside?

Let’s work together to craft a stand out brand with a strategy so you can avoid these common branding mistakes. Tell me about your project. (See what I did there?) 🙂

Rooting for You!

January 12, 2021 0 comment

Branding

My Top Two Secrets on How to Make Your Brand Stand Out

by bmccamish January 5, 2021

written by bmccamish

Making your brand unmistakable is my specialty. I am going to let you in on my top two secrets for how to make your brand stand out anywhere you publish content. Why? Because I know you have worked tirelessly to make your business work and I want those efforts to provide a return for you.

How to Make Your Brand Stand Out – Secret #1

There is a reason that comic sans has a reputation as the ‘worst’ possible font for anything other than a 1st-grade teacher’s materials. That is because fonts, colors, and imagery all carry meaning. You want your brand visuals to line up with your unique brand personality and be backed by psychology. If they are, you are clearly communicating with your ideal customers in everything you put out there. Review your visuals and ask yourself what they say about your brand and brand personality.

The Secret: Your visuals use psychology and are backed up by a distinct personality.

Let’s dive into this a bit more. When I say your visuals use psychology, I mean they use human perceptions and beliefs intentionally. The perfect example of this is color. We as a species associate certain colors with specific feelings and moods. Blue is a color that promotes trust and dependability. Using this in your color palette and visuals will have an effect on the relationship you build with your audience and your brand voice.

That said, how do you know the color blue is really for you? This is where your brand personality comes in. If you’re The Human archetype you will likely use blue within your brand identity system because the human is there to create a sense of belonging with requires some serious trust. If you’re The Rebel archetype then blue isn’t really going to be in line with your raw and edgy personality. And that is how brand psychology is backed by a brand personality.

I want to clarify this is not to manipulate anyone with bad intentions. Your intentions as a business owner are to sell a service, product, or even yourself in order to help others in some way. As a designer, I know we can use psychology to help your business clearly communicate how and why you want to help people (i.e. you aren’t here to trick anyone).

How to Make Your Brand Stand Out- Secret #2

As Donald Miller says in his book ‘Building A Story Brand’ you want to always position your customer as the hero and your business as the guide. It is a fatal brand mistake if you don’t. Your paying customers are the main character of their own story and they are looking for a solution.

The Secret: Make Your Website or Platform about the customer not your business.

Your customer has a problem and you need to be the solution. This means your copy needs to direct your audience towards your offer by speaking to this problem. The visitor doesn’t really need to know when you started the business. They are not there for your bio, they are there to fill a need. You should identity that need clearly by pointing out the internal struggle, not the external one.

Take a look at your website copy. Do you clearly state what you offer at the top? Do you follow this up by speaking to the customer about their needs and what you can do to solve that problem?

Want More? I Have A Freebie with 5 Secrets to Creating a Stand Out Brand

I shared two secrets here, but I’ve got 3 more to give away. In the 5 Keys to A Stand Out Brand, I share the questions you need to ask yourself when crafting a solid and successful brand. Grab it here!

January 5, 2021 0 comment

Branding Design

8 Signs You’re Ready for A Rebrand

by bmccamish December 16, 2020

written by bmccamish

A rebrand can be an excellent strategy for increasing your engagement and attracting the right customers to your business. But you need to be sure it’s right for you and not just something you’re considering because you’re bored. (Hey, we all have those moments)

How to Know Your Brand Is Ready for a Refresh

The decision to rebrand is a serious one. Your brand is composed of the perceptions and feelings people have about your business or company. If people are familiar with your brand and you’re established, you wouldn’t want to strip that away.

Not to mention that rebranding is a process that takes time and money to be done right. You want to hire a designer who can reshape what people already know about you so that you can continue to keep your customers’ trust and confidence while also scaling.

That said, you need to be ready to dive into a rebrand with complete commitment knowing why you’re ready for a rebrand.

1. Your brand was trendy not timeless

Trendy brands tend to only do well for as long as that trend is around. A trendy brand might not be able to change with you and your business. If you’re looking at your brand identity and thinking it looks ‘dated’ that is a sign you’re ready for a rebrand- preferably one that is timeless and can grow as you grow. I like to tell clients to keep the trends on TikTok (or Insta) and make sure your brand can sustain you for a long period of time.

2. You have pivoted your business

If your business recently took a turn in a new direction, this might be a sign you’re ready for a rebrand. Pivots could be a change in the services you offer or a significant rate change. Both of these will affect the way clients interact with your brand and thus you may need new visuals to help clarify your pivot.

3. Your metrics are declining

I want you to be careful with this one. While a drop in sales, traffic or clients can be a sign you’re ready for a rebrand it’s important to consider the other factors that could impact these numbers as well. For example, seasonality can play a huge role in business metrics and a lull in your numbers doesn’t always mean you need to rebrand or shift. However, if you have noticed a stagnation for some time despite outside factors it is time to look at your brand.

4. You’re a little embarrassed by your visuals

If you’re not proud to hand out your business card or send an email with your signature graphic at the bottom you might be ready for a rebrand. Your visuals, including your logo and website, should be something you love and that your clients love. If you find yourself telling people to ‘only look at my Instagram’ and not your website, then it is definitely time to invest some money into your rebrand and website redesign to ensure you’re keeping your client traffic and not handing it off to another platform.

5. You moved or expanded

If you have changed locations or expanded your team it might be time for a rebrand. For example, if you named your business something like “Mel’s Designs” but you’re expanding to an agency or bringing on a team you might be ready to rebrand in order to encompass the team and not just the individual.

6. You’re unsure about raising your prices

Raising your rates is a major decision and your brand might be holding you back. If you feel like your business doesn’t ‘look’ as luxurious or high end as the rates you want to charge, then it is time for a rebrand. Your brand says so much about you including the type of client you want to work with. If you want a client with a bigger budget, we can rebrand to help get you one.

My client Melody was able to immediately book a client for her new higher rates after we rebranded her website.

“ I hired Bethany to update one of my website pages since it didn’t align with my brand and company. Bethany was quick to implement feedback, asked great questions to understand my needs, and delivered a high-quality website page. Her quick website update ended up helping me land a $2,000 contract. Needless to say, hiring her was a no-brainer. Anyone would be privileged to work with her.”
-Melody, The Course Consultant

7. You only have one version of your logo (and not much else)

An incomplete brand doesn’t help you scale your business. I have worked with numerous clients who only have a single logo in the form of a circle, two to three fonts they aren’t sure about, and colors that do not have exact hex codes. This is a recipe for brand chaos, not cohesion.

As much as the visuals are essential, so is the strategy you use to connect with your audience. If having a complete brand with every possible file type so you can launch on your platforms with consistency sounds like the dream, then it’s time for a rebrand.

8. You do not stand out from your competitors

A brand should be unmistakable. I think one of the best ways to make sure this happens is by identifying your brand personality to build your brand identity. People need something they can relate to and identifying your unique brand personality can set a solid foundation for your brand to grow because you stand out from your competitors.

Examples of Incredible Brand Refresh

Below are examples of a few rebrands done for large companies. Each one made the brand modern, but also ensured they were reaching a specific audience. You will also notice how each logo was able to transform and exist within advertisements without losing any of its visual power.

You’re ready to rebrand, Now What?

I would love to work with you. You can review my three brand packages on my services page to find one that works with your budget. If you need some time to save for this investment, then take my free brand quiz, which will help you identify your brand personality.

December 16, 2020 0 comment

Design

Your Guide to File Extensions and Color Codes

by bmccamish December 4, 2020

written by bmccamish

No matter what kind of project you are working on, knowing what kind of file type will work best for your needs will save you from headaches later on. I compiled a list of the most common file types for designers as well as the significance and use of each.

What is a File Extension?

A file extension simply means the ending of your file name, such as hello.xyz. The xyz aspect of your file is considered the file extension and will identify how exactly your file will be used.

Different file extensions can also only be opened by certain programs, so knowing ahead of time what file type you need is important. The last thing you want to have happened is to save your work as the wrong file type which may prevent customers or others from opening it effectively.

Common File Extensions and What They Mean

Below are common file extensions (file types), some of which you might come across when you work with a designer.

.png

PNG stands for Portable Network Graphics and are commonly used for graphics and icons. These low-resolution files are easy to edit and do not lose their quality. That said, you will not want to upload images, like a photograph, as a PNG on a website as they tend to be a heavy file size when compressed compared to compressed .jpg.

.jpg

JPEGs or JPGs stand for joint photographic experts group and are one of the most common file types. You can find JPGs all over the place from websites, documents, presentations, and more.

JPGs are great to use for most of your projects, but you always need to pay close attention to the resolution and size. These file types are known to lose quality as they decrease in size so being intentional about the size and resolution is important. It is also important to compress your JPGs before you upload them to your website.

.ai

AI file extensions are designs that are created in Adobe Illustrator and saved accordingly. AI extensions are typically used by designers first and foremost. That said, you may ask a design for the ‘working file’ and receive the .ai file as this is how you can quickly make changes to the design using the Illustrator software.

.psd

PSD file extensions correlate to a Photoshop document and can be opened by the Adobe Photoshop program.

If you have ever used Adobe Photoshop then you know you can create multiple layers for your different editing options. When you save your image or design as a PSD file you are also saving the layers that you created so you can easily go back and edit them. This is also a form of a ‘working file’ that a designer might supply if requested.

.pdf

PDFs which stand for portable document format are the most universal file extension that can be used and opened by anyone. PDFs make transferring content without any distortion easy and quick. Keep in mind, PDFs are hard to edit, especially when it comes to designs. These should be reserved for final documents and for print purposes.

.eps

EPS file extensions stand for encapsulated postscript and is a universal file type that can be used by designers everywhere. EPS files are image file extensions that allow you to save your work while also being able to open it in practically any design software.

.ttf and .otf font files

TTF files are true to type fonts and OTF files are simply open type fonts. Both are font files and are used when you need to install a new font on your device.

TTF and OTF files can be used universally on multiple operating systems. By downloading these files and installing the fonts on your computer, you will ensure your designs stay the same.

Understanding Color Processing Basics

Just like file types and extensions, the colors you use in your image are incredibly important. There are typically two main color choices, RGB and CMYK, and both are used for specific types of images

RGB vs CMYK

There is a major difference between RGB and CMYK and knowing the difference will help you save and display your best quality graphics.

RGB stands for red, green, and blue and are colors that are recommended to be used on the web. This includes your social media posts. Saving your images with an RGB color profile will help you display your images digitally without any issues.

CMYK, which stands for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black are recommended anytime your images are being sent to print at a company.

The Essential Hex Codes

Hex codes are made up of a combination of six letters and numbers to represent specific colors.

The amazing thing about hex codes is that it allows you to use the exact same color throughout every design, by simply copying and reusing the hex code in your design program.

When to Use High Resolution vs. Low Resolution?

Low and high resolution image each have their place in the design world.

For example, one way you can easily use low resolutions, such as 72 dpi, is when you are creating graphics for your website. Although most of the time 72 dpi is considered a very low resolution, it will not affect the quality of your images on the web.

When it comes to images that are made for print, having a high resolution will provide you with a crisp and clean image. For an image that is being printed, a high resolution of 300 dpi is recommended to ensure you have a great quality product.

Easy Ways to Resize Graphics and Images

Anytime you work with images you want to have multiple ways to resize your designs without compromising the quality and resolution. Below are a few easy (and free) ways you can resize your images and graphics as needed.

Canva

Canva is a cloud based design program. It offers a free and paid version and is the simplest way to create designs as well as resize your images. You can either pick a template or create a custom size and upload your image to the platform.

Compressor.io

Compressor.io is another free tool that will make prepping your images for your website e a breeze. You can upload your image and decide whether you want to save it as a lossy or lossless image. Lossy images will allow you to save for the web and keep the file size manageably while not changing the resolution.

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to lock the aspect ratio

Lastly, whenever you are resizing your images, it is important to always lock the aspect ratio. Lock Aspect Ratio simply means that if you change the height of an object then the width will automatically fill to maintain the proportion and prevent distortion. Or when you grab the corner of an image to resize, you can hold the shift key to prevent distortion.

December 4, 2020 0 comment

Branding Design

How to Know When to Outsource Your Design Needs

by bmccamish November 29, 2020

written by bmccamish

Hiring a professional designer to create your brand or build your website is a big commitment and a big investment. It’s also worth it. A professional designer will be able to connect your vision and mission with a visual solution that attracts customers. That is a powerful business tool.

I made a list of what you should consider before you take the leap and outsource to a designer.

1. Define Your Business Basics

You first what to consider where your business is at. By that I mean you need to take a big picture view and make sure you have your basics defined.

You should know:

Your niche
Your business name
Your top three values (core business values)
Your mission (the ‘why’)
Your ideal client or audience (an avatar)

If you have established these business basics, then a professional designer can step in and make your ideas and values look good. They can craft designs using clear visual communication with your mission in mind.

2. Take a Brand Inventory

Next, you will want to consider where your brand and take investory. Do you have any visuals established? Are they outdated? More importantly, are they working for you and providing results?

Your brand visuals exist in every medium including on your:

Website
Social media channels
Business cards
Signage
Stationary
Headshots, etc.

You will also want to take inventory of your brand messaging. Is your brand voice consistent? Does it match your brand visuals?

If the answer is no to any of the questions above, then you need to hire a professional designer and copywriter to help you establish your brand.

3. Review Your Financials

For any business owner, the cost of outsourcing is a top concern, and for good reason. You need to know that when you outsource it’s an investment in your business. Outsourcing to a designer should help you to stand out (and grow) in the long term.

If your designs are done with intention and strategy, then you will see that return on your investment. You will set yourself up for success because you know the value of branding and good design in business.

Once you know the value, then it is time to look at your budget. Ask yourself if you can afford to hire a professional designer right now or if you need to save up for this investment.

I do not believe in trying to cut corners when it comes to design because you risk being invisible. While there are many platforms that are ‘cheaper’, you get what you pay for.

Instead, create a plan to save for good branding, website design, etc. You should reap the benefits of working with a trained professional who understands strategy for growth and can implement this in visual communication.

5. Protect Your Most Valuable Asset: Time

Lastly, as a business owner, your time is your most valuable asset. Outsourcing to a professional designer can help you protect your time and keep your business running.

Trying to do everything yourself can be draining. Do you have the time to learn a new skill and the strategy? Do you enjoy design and the process? If the answer is no, hiring a professional designer should be on your business to-do list. Ideally, they have years of experience and professional education that informs their every design move. You don’t even have to think about it.

Ready to Outsource to A Designer ? I Would Love to Talk With You

I create visual solutions and focused content for clients who already have a full plate. I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts and have years of design experience. My work is backed by strategy, archetypes, and brand psychology so that your investment is worth it. I want to work with you! Send me a message and or book a call.

“When you run your own business, you have to quickly learn what to outsource. I hired Bethany to create my website and branding. I was immediately impressed by her professionalism and communication. While working on the project, she asked all the right questions, understood exactly what I needed, and created a high-quality website that will help my business grow. Honestly, I’ve never been more relieved to spend money.“
– Kim Porter Editorial, Branding and Website Design Client

November 29, 2020 0 comment

Branding

Why Branding Is Essential for Every Business

by bmccamish November 29, 2020

written by bmccamish

Brand Identity. You know you need it, but maybe you’re not clear on why it’s so important for your business or what it does. Let’s dive into branding and brand identity so you can implement this powerful tool for your business.

What is Branding (and Brand Identity)?

First, let’s get clear about these terms and define them.

Your brand is a distinct set of perceptions and feelings that other people (i.e. your clients and customers) have about your business.

Branding is the active process of shaping your brand. In order to clearly communicate with your customers, you will want to go through intentional and strategic branding.

The result of branding will be your brand identity. Your brand identity is composed of colors, imagery, fonts, a logo, and concise copywriting using your brand voice.

Why Your Business Needs A Strategic Brand Identity

If branding is done right, your brand will consistently communicate clearly with your customers. (Say that 5 times fast).

Your brand identity will quickly make a connection with your audience and tell them how you promise to provide for them. All of this without the client even contacting you yet.

In an age where the competition is tough and the market is saturated in many industries, you need a way to stand out from the crowd. You need a strategic brand.

A Good Brand Is About More Than Fancy Fonts

Your logo is not your brand. Your favorite colors or your headshots are also not your brand. Your brand is so much bigger than that. It needs to have a holistic approach so that your marketing efforts can actually work.

You need to be:

Relatable with a brand personality
Accessible with a well-designed website
Clear about your promise to your audience
Marketable with words that sell

And you need a brand and brand strategy that will make all of this happen for you.

Be Intentional About Your Brand

You have worked tirelessly to build your business. You understand why you’re doing this. But do your customers know your ‘why’? Even more importantly, do they know how you can help them? An intentional brand built with strategy and psychology will make sure you can have this connection with your customers and stand out from the crowd.

It will require that every visual and verbal communication be consistent. That means every medium needs to express your unique brand identity- from websites to your social media accounts.

Hire A Professional To Help Shape Your Brand

I think you understand how essential it is to get your brand identity right. If you don’t, you risk being invisible. That is why I highly recommend you work with a professional. Someone who knows it is about much more than a logo and backs their work with psychology and strategy used by some of the most successful brands of all time. (That someone is me.) Send me a message or book a call and tell me about your project. I can’t wait to hear from you.

Rooting for you!
-Bethany

November 29, 2020 0 comment

Copywriting Design

How to Capture Attention with Your Website Banner

by bmccamish November 18, 2020

written by bmccamish

The worst thing you can do on your website banner is say, “Hi! I’m Bethany.” Your customer or client doesn’t need to know you yet, they need to know how you can help them or their growing business. Below I am going to cover some website banner tips to help you craft concise copy that aligns with your brand.

6 Ideas For What You Can Write In Your Website Banner

You have worked incredibly hard on your business and you have reached the point where you are ready to attract the ideal customer to your website. One thing that greatly affects your ability to attract and convert customers and clients is what you place above the fold (or within your website banner). ‘Above the fold’ simply means the section of your website that is visible to others without having to move the scroll bar.

Note: The images below are all from websites I have designed and helped with copy.

1. Use the “Yes” Question

A quick copy strategy is using a “yes” question in the website banner. This immediately asks for customer engagement. Even if the question is unexpected, visitors will quickly wonder why they haven’t said yes to your product or service before (which is exactly what you want!).

website banner tips — Zina offers money coaching services.

2. Describe the Exact Services You Offer

You may choose to summarize your services at the top of the banner. Be direct and to the point in order to attract potential customers.

I help businesses stand out with my copywriting and branding services.

3. State How You Help Solve a Problem

People will scour the web for hours looking for answers to their most common problems. Use your web page banner to provide a solution. You do not need to overcomplicate the matter, just put your solution to a problem. You can always dive deeper into details on other pages of your website.

Ashley provides several courses and services to help you create better blog content.

4. Use “If You Work With Me… Then” Statements

Writing the end of an “If You work with Me… then” statement on the website banner answers why the customer should work with you.

If you work with me, then ‘you will build your confidence’. If you work with me, then you will be able to’ design your own website’. Don’t forget to only include the last portion of the ‘If-then’ statement. In the example below the brainstorm looked like this:
• If you work with me, then ‘change is absolutely possible.’

website banner copy tip — Kendall provides mental health services including counseling for those with a chronic illness.

5. Answer What Life or Business Will Be Like After Working With You

This copy strategy gives clients a visual to work with. It is a look into the future of how you can help them reach their full potential.

Janine provides leadership and life coaching.

6. Explain How You Are Different

Another copy strategy is to highlight your unique talents. This can be done in many ways, but stating why a customer will always come back to you has been very effective.

Remember to keep it specific. Finding your niche and setting your brand apart from others will ensure that you stand out among competitors.

Website Banner Design Tips

As you continue to perfect your website banner copy, it is important to make your banner visually appealing and not overwhelm the reader with an excess amount of fonts, graphics, and images.

Organizing your banner in a way that will continue to draw the readers eye across your banner and throughout your site will likely keep them on your page for a longer amount of time.

Below are my top website banner design tips.

Keep it Short

When people first arrive at your website the last thing they want to do is read a novel. Keep your banner short and get to the point.

Your Button Should Be Purposeful

After figuring out the copy you want to use above the fold in your banner, you will want to consider your first call to action (or button). By having a button on your website banner, you will give people the opportunity to act quickly. Common options include:

Link to you scheduling platform
Link to an email subscription
Link to a Opt-In Form (like my quiz!)
Link to a current offer
Link to your services

Your Image Should Not Be Distracting

Images should always be used with intention. Find an image that will highlight your product or service and show the personality of your brand. At the same time, this image should not overtake the copy. The copy is what converts and the image is there to support.

Why Your Website Banner Is Essential To Get Right

Your website banner sits ‘above the fold’ and is one of the most essential components of a website that converts traffic into customers and clients. It’s your first impression and that means it needs to be good.

Taking the time to figure out a website banner that will convey your brand and what services you offer will pay off.

Need Help With Your Website?

I can take all of the hard work off your hands and help you design and implement your website (including the banner) to ensure your brand is communicating clearly with your ideal customers. Review my services.

November 18, 2020 0 comment

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