Graphic Design for Small Businesses: Where to Start

About me

I’m Barbara, a Calgary-based graphic designer who believes great design should make running a small business easier, not more overwhelming. I was raised in Calgary, and it’s also where my husband and I have raised our daughter. Growing up in Calgary and being part of our community has given me a deep appreciation for small businesses and the people behind them.

My Journey into Graphic Design

I’m a self-taught graphic designer, and my creative journey has been shaped by curiosity, hands-on learning, and a genuine love for visual storytelling. Over time, as my passion for design grew, I decided to further strengthen my skills by returning to school to study Desktop Publishing at SAIT.

Combining real-world, self-taught experience with formal training, I have a strong foundation in both creativity and technical skills. This has allowed me to better understand not just how design looks—but how it works across print, digital, and everyday business needs.

Working with Small Businesses

I work with small business owners who want to look professional, consistent, and confident—without needing a full-time designer or a huge budget. My goal is simple: to create clean, thoughtful designs that support your business and help you show up with clarity wherever your brand lives.

• Want professional design without long-term commitments

• Need help on an as-needed basis

• Value clarity, consistency, and simplicity

• Want their visuals to reflect the quality of their work

Whether you need a logo refresh, social media graphics, marketing materials, or occasional design support, we can connect (in whatever way is most convenient for you) and design with your goals in mind.

Why As-Needed Design?

Not every business needs a designer on retainer or in-house—and that’s completely understandable. As-needed design services give small businesses flexibility. You get professional support when you need it, without ongoing contracts or unnecessary extras. It’s design that fits real-life business needs.

Combining real-world, self-taught experience with formal training has provided me with a strong foundation in both creativity and technical skills. It has allowed me to understand not just how design looks, but how it works across difference platforms; print, digital, and everyday business needs.

My Graphic Design Approach

My design style is clean, intentional, and purpose-driven. I don’t believe in overcomplicating things; instead, I focus on:

• Clear communication

• Consistent branding

• Designs that are easy to use and easy to recognize

I take the time to understand your business, your audience, and what you need—so the result feels aligned, professional, and true to you.

Let’s Work Together to create Graphic Design for your small Business

If you’re a small business owner looking for reliable, professional graphic design—without the stress—I’d love to help.

Whether you have a specific project in mind or just need a designer you can reach out to when the need comes up, I’m here to provide you with that support. Let’s get in touch and bring your design ideas to life.