How do I get started?
The steps to get into the queue are:
- Read my terms of service and make sure you are comfortable with them.
- Choose the services you need and browse some common layouts to get idea of how you want your space.
- Fill out the new project questionnaire.
- Wait for project approval and quote – usually given within 1-2 business days.
- Pay a deposit as quoted. A la carte items are paid in full.
Do you accept all projects / clients?
No, unfortunately, that’s no longer possible. After you turn in your questionnaire, I will look it over and make sure the project is a good fit for my style and project queue. I will make recommendations elsewhere, when possible, if I feel the project isn’t a good fit.
How do I pay you?
I accept Paypal in US dollars only. Once you turn in your New Project Questionnaire, you will be given a quote and an approximate start date. Please remember, this is a guesstimate based on the timing of those before you. In some cases, we may need to schedule a time to chat before I can quote you, to make sure I understand the scope and needs of your project. You do not need a Paypal account to pay with credit card. I also accept cashier’s check or money order. I accept personal checks but you will not be placed in the queue until the check clears – this may delay your project start date. Once you accept those steps and pay the deposit, you will be placed in the queue.
How long is your queue?
The length of my queue varies from week to week, sometimes even day by day. In 2010, the entire year was booked between the dates of March 1 – March 6. If you have a deadline for your project please email me prior to getting in the queue to make sure I can meet your deadline. Otherwise, I will give you an approximate wait time when I get all the parts and you are in my queue. Please remember this is only an estimate and my queue will move along faster with prompt email responses. I also offer a rush order for $420 + the cost of the project.
On which platforms do you design?
I only design complete blog and web packages for self-hosted WordPress (.org) CMS. Why WordPress? It allows for total freedom and control of your files, content, and graphics, as well as an unparalleled amount of support, plug-ins, apps and community. I do not design templates for Blogger / Blogspot, WordPress.com or Typepad blog platforms. It is the client’s responsibility to make sure their hosting choice meets WordPress’s minimum requirements – in addition to running on a Linux machine.
I am happy to offer headers, buttons, branding guides and graphics for any platform! If you need help finding a host, I use and recommend a Graphically Designing affiliate, DreamHost. They have reliable customer service and one-click installs and upgrades of WordPress and your plug-ins.
Where can I see examples of your work?
I have a few selected examples of my work highlighted in my Portfolio. I have done hundreds of blogs and my clients can be found on 5 continents: North America, Asia, Europe, Africa, and Australia. I sure would love to make that 7 continents! 
I have yet to work with any clients from South America or Antarctica (bbrrrrr!). But I sure would love to!
I bought a dot com name. Can you design a blog on it?
Yes, absolutely! You will need to have both a host and a domain name. I use and recommend DreamHost.
I don’t even have a blog yet! Can you help me?
Absolutely! Please do the rest of the steps to get in the queue. I recommend that you add an hour of blog consult time in addition to your web services and design package. When it is your turn in the queue, I will work with you to set up hosting, introduce you to how the blog works and talk you through the steps needed to get started. I will teach you the basics to get you off on the right foot in the blogosphere.
What is your work schedule?
Graphically Designing is a one-woman design operation. I am a full-time photographer, and studio time varies week by week. Design office hours are typically Monday – Thursday afternoons and evenings. I do not check design emails Friday – Sunday. If you have an emergency during these days, I welcome you to email me, send me a DM on twitter or find me on Skype (darcym3b). I try to devote those days to my family, so your email may be returned the next business day.
