I am so excited to launch this site and announce these services. My one goal is to use my design and writing skills to help authors look good.

My design work began years ago, when I was part of the advertising team at my university newspaper. Working in black and white print using now-archaic software, I was able to create award-winning advertisements that thrilled my clients. Really fun work.

From there, I moved into website design. I taught myself HTML in order to create web pages to communicate with my family while living overseas. (It was cheaper to upload a web page than make a phone call!) I enjoyed web design so much, I continued to learn and gain experience, eventually turning it into a full-time career.

When my children were born, I took the skills I’d acquired and turned them into a freelance business I could do from my home. During this time I also began to take my love for writing seriously, and pursued publication. (If you’d like to read more about my journey as a writer, please visit my author website and blog.)

So here we are in 2012, and the publishing industry is evolving at break-neck speed. Brave and ambitious authors are using the new indie platforms to publish their books. It’s exciting to watch and be involved in the change, and to see how my skill set of writer and designer fits into the puzzle.

One thing I notice again and again: many authors make the mistake of thinking they can go it alone. That they can edit and proofread their own work. That they can design their own book covers, websites and marketing materials. Some of them can do it and do it well. To them I give my applause. But there are many who can’t, and they are crippling their own careers as a result.

Here’s the simple truth: people judge books by their cover. If you have an amateurish cover, people aren’t going to buy your book.

Here’s another truth: people see typos and grammatical errors as the sign of an amateur, and they will judge your books as such.

I may or may not be the designer you choose to assist you on your publication or marketing project, but I hope you’ll hear me when I say: don’t go it alone. There are many professionals who offer affordable services to help you put the best face on your publication and marketing presence.

Feel free to contact me if you’re interested in discussing rates or learning how Quirky Girl Media can assist you.