Hiring An Agency vs Freelance Designer In Denver
You've got a business that you work hard on day in and day out, and you're ready to take it to the next level by developing your brand + website design. Now, you're faced with a crucial decision: do you hire a local freelance designer here in Denver, or do you go the agency route? Before you start summoning the corporate cavalry, let me share a few of my thinking-est thoughts on why hiring a freelance designer might be your best choice — or not!
Freelancers Won't Break the Bank
Let's face it, hiring an agency can sometimes feel like meal planning for a family of 5 when you were just craving a simple dinner. Service-based freelancers tend to have lower overhead costs, while still providing high-quality design work. I assess my pricing based on my own skill level and how much value I'm providing. Plus, I can tailor packages to my client's needs to bring costs down if needed.
The Flexibility Factor
Ever tried to get a hold of a massive agency when you're stuck in a tough spot? It's like trying to find Waldo in a sea of red beanies. Freelancers are often more flexible with their schedules, so you can reach out, chat, and get things rolling without the red tape of corporate bureaucracy. I always offer the option to schedule a call to touch base or review when I'm working with clients at any time during their projects.
Freelancers Are Your Creative Comrades
When you hire a freelancer, you're not just getting a designer; you're getting a creative partner. My favorite projects are the ones where I get to have one-on-on collaboration with a client to develop a deep working relationship. It's like having a design BFF who knows your brand inside out!
Local Denver Love
Supporting other mile high businesses is always a win-win. When you hire a local freelancer, you boost your community while also ensuring easier communication. And perhaps you may even get the chance to celebrate your launch face-to-face (remember that?). Anyone up for margs and tacos?
Networking With Other Denver Freelancers
Us freelancers often have an extensive network of partners with complementary skills. Need some killer copy to go with your stunning design? I've got you covered! Looking for a local photographer for some gorgeous new brand pics or headshots? Let me share my favorites! Need a videographer to explain exactly what you do? I know someone!
When to Go with a Freelancer
If you're a startup, entrepreneur, or a small business owner watching every dime, a freelancer can be your ticket to professional design without breaking the bank. You'll enjoy personalized attention and creative collaboration, without agency prices.
When you've got a unique project that demands a specific set of design skills, freelancers often specialize in niche areas. That makes them your go-to experts for those distinctive tasks. I don't offer every design service under the sun, but over the years I've honed in on brand + website design in my own unique style. So, you know I'm an expert in those areas because they're my primary focus.
If you need to mix and match services on an as-needed basis, a team of independent freelancers could be your solution. Maybe you've already hired a copywriter, and now you need a designer to bring your content to life. I work with clients everyday that come to me with work from other providers that we can seamlessly incorporate into my process.
When you have a clear vision and a solid business plan, a freelancer can help you turn that vision into a reality without unnecessary hoops to jump through. You have an idea of what you want, so you can leave the expert execution to me.
When a Freelancer Might Not Be the Right Fit
If you need a full-service team and your project requires a diverse range of services like marketing research, copywriting, design, and development, you might be better off with a full-service agency that can handle the complexity in-house. I don't shy away from complex projects, but being just one person, not all skills are in my wheelhouse.
When you want a more hands-off approach and simply want to have your project taken care of without much collaboration. Nothing wrong with that! But that may not align with a freelancer's work style. Personally, I know that I really want and need involvement from my clients for the best results.
If you're working for a large corporation with more complicated needs, intricate marketing strategies, and/or high-volume work, you might find it more efficient to work with agencies equipped to handle big-scale projects. I've been parts of teams working with corporations, but taking on the whole enchilada myself would be too much.
When money is no object. If your pockets are deep and your budget is limitless, you might opt for the convenience and prestige of a high-end agency.
Ultimately, the choice between hiring a freelancer designer in Denver or an agency boils down to your project, your goals, and your budget. Whichever path you choose, remember, it's about creating something amazing together. Happy hiring!
