
ASK ASHLEY
Brand wisdom for the wild-hearted.
YOU’VE GOT QUESTIONS. I’VE GOT INSIGHTS.
Welcome to the campfire, the drawing board, the strategy cave—a.k.a. the place where the magic begins!
Whether you're lost in a logo abyss, drowning in DIY Canva chaos, or aren’t sure what a “brand strategy” or “design hierarchy” even is…
I’m here to help navigate all your branding needs.
Graphic design and branding are about intent, impact, and connection to your audience. When your brand aligns with your vision, people feel it.
They trust you, believe in your mission, and want to invest in your business.
So let’s dig in.
BRANDING BASICS
FIRST:
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A brand is the seamless integration of your business and you. There are 3 parts to a brand that help connect you to your audience:
#1: Visuals & Graphics:
This is literally what your customer sees when they first find you.
When your business looks pro, people commit.#2: Voice & Tone
This is how your messaging and tone of voice come across—at all touchpoints.
Having this set from the get will show your level of authenticity and build trust with your customer.#3: Emotional Connection
Do you have a story to tie into your brand ethos that makes your business relatable? Is there a problem your company solves that would make life better?When design integrates with messaging AND moves the heart….a brand is born.
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Because your business deserves more than a DIY hack job. Plus, it’s not your zone of genius. Purposeful graphic design sets the standard and builds confidence with your customer. Having a cohesive branding kit will make your life easier—you’ll have the tools and templates you need to either work on your own (with a brand guide and a short personal training) or have me as your go-to support. Think of branding not an expense, but as an investment that will add substantial value to your business for years to come.
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Today’s world is super competitive. You want your business to stand out and grow. Strategy = clarity. It’s the HOW that connects your mission, visuals, and voice so you’re not just winging it. Your brand identity launch needs a plan and together we’ll create a schedule and strategize how best to get your story into the world.
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It all begins with an idea. Whether you’re a startup or established business, think of me as your design and branding guide—here to steer you in the right direction. I’ll work within your budget and your needs to come up with a plan that works. Baby steps are better than no steps.
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A logo is a solid start, but it’s not enough. You also need a strategic plan and a cohesive collateral kit to show a higher level of professionalism across all platforms. On top, you will want a brand guide that shows your color story, typography, and tone. This will help you and your team stay on track in the future. Keeping everything consistent builds recognition and trust with your customer.
PROJECT LOGISTICS
NEXT, THE DOWN & DIRTY:
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Depends on the project but in general, I thrive under fire. Smaller projects–give 1-2 weeks . Bigger projects, we’ll create a schedule before starting. When you give feedback within 1-3 days, I stay on track. Need it yesterday? I charge a 30% within 24-hour/weekend rush fee.
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I present 2-3 initial concepts. You choose your fave (mix + match encouraged). 2-3 rounds of edits are included as we refine the design to perfection. Extra rounds are billed at $165/hr rate. I keep the process focused and efficient – no design chaos here.
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I require 50% payment prior to starting any project. The final 50% is due upon completion of the project.
I accept credit cards, ACH deposit and Venmo. -
Yes! I have decades of experience with printing anything from smaller collateral pieces to large scale trade show graphics and environtmental displays. I also have intimate working relationship with silk screeners, embroiderers, and am saavy with fashion forward, branded swag. I will manage all stages of the printing process so you don’t have to worry.
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This rarely happens, but if we’re misaligned, we’ll pause after Phase 1. After our initial talk where you’ll have time to ask me anything and catch a vibe, you’ll decide if you want to work together. Once we have started however, your 50% up-front payment is non-refundable.
FINALLY:
WHY ME?
What makes Ashley Melin Design different?
I’ve been designing since 2001 for some of the world’s most iconic brands, and over the years, I’ve developed a signature approach that blends strategic thinking, creative passion, and fast, efficient execution. I take time to truly understand each client—personally and professionally—and I always research the businesses I represent to ensure alignment. My superpower lies in designing a brand identity that reflects both the leader’s personality and the company’s vision—with clarity, style, and impact.
Plus, I’m fun, adventurous and worldly. I’ll do my best to make our design journey an uplifting experience. It brings me great joy when my clients love their designs AND their businesses elevate to a whole new level.
(True story: I’ve even had 3 people get tattoos of my logos on their arm)