...answers to your questions

I realize that I have had my FAQ section in my navigation bar for a good 6 months and have never answered any of your questions. I am sorry! Today is the day, though. I am finally adding the list of questions I have been compiling! I don't have time to answer them all today, so I will add them little by little. Also, feel free to ask away. Anything you want to know about me is free reign.

I am going to start with my most frequently asked questions. A couple of these questions are asked weekly, so I hope this will help some of you who are wondering!

Q: How did you get into graphic design? Did you study it in college?
A: Actually, I didn't study it in college, but I did take some computer marketing classes that introduced me to the programs. I have always been a computer nerd. ALWAYS. I love computers and I understand them, so graphic design came a little naturally to me.

I actually graduated with a in Bachelor's Degree in Social Health Marketing and was a health counselor for 2 years before getting into my current profession. (I love health. It is my second passion...)

My neighbor was a fabulous graphic designer and I always admired her work. She helped me learn the programs and most of my current "style" can be attributed to her. I was very fortunate to have such a wonderful mentor. As soon as I learned enough to be an asset to the company she worked for, she offered me a graphic design job at the magazine she art directs. My career grew from there. I was lucky!

Q: I am interested in becoming a graphic designer. How would you recommend I begin?
A: There is always room for more graphic designers! The world is turning electronic, so there is a high demand for talent! Adobe is an important medium for graphic designers. No matter what kind of design you want to do, you will need to become familiar with Photoshop, Indesign and Illustrator, and then become an expert at at least one of them.

You need to build your portfolio before anyone will hire you on for a good amount of money. I started by doing free/cheap work. I worked for a couple non-profit organizations designing websites, logos, handouts and fliers. I advertised on craigslist.com and got quite a few jobs that way. After you build a good-sized portfolio, you can start charging more money for your freelance work or start working for a larger company.

Q: What kind of camera do you use?
A: I use a Canon Rebel XSi with a 85mm f/1.8lens and a 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 II lens. It is a great little camera and I love my lenses. Especially the 85mm!

Q: You look too young to have 2 kids. How old are you and how long have you been married??
A: I think it is funny how often I get this question. (At least once a month...) About 4 months after my oldest was born, I went on vacation with my parents to California. We had at least 4 people ask my mom how old "her" baby was. They thought I was her teenage daughter and that E was HER new baby.

I DO look young, but I actually am fairly young. I married J when I was only 19 (7 years ago), had my first baby at 22 and C was born when I was 24. So...yes, I am young, but I am as happy as can be. No regrets. I married the sweetest guy in the world. Everyday of my life is the happiest day of my life.

You have a question? Please comment or email me.