My Story
From day one, I never followed the typical creative path for a designer. Despite receiving an E in graphic design at school, I never allowed this setback to hold me down. I persevered and applied for college where, after one year of studying art and design, I realised that design was the direction I wanted to pursue. I then switched to a two-year graphic design course.
I left college in 2015 and deviated from the typical route of going to university. That being said, I was thrown into the deep end of the design world. I joined a small creative agency called Bumblebee Digital, where no design direction was in place. I was truly on my own to learn and grow within my creative career. During this time, I consumed creative content from figures like Chris Do, Will Patterson, and even Steven Bartlett, which greatly inspired me to take my next steps.
After two years at the agency, a colleague and I began joking about setting up our own production company focusing on Graphic Design, photography, and video production. These jokes quickly turned into reality. So, at the age of 20, I took my first significant step and embraced the title of "entrepreneur." Thus, Wolly Productions was born as a brainchild of mine (Will) and my business partner (Olly), giving rise to Wolly Productions.
The following Monday, upon the boss's return, we both quit and immersed ourselves in running our own business. We ordered 500 business cards and hit the streets of Chester. Over two full days, we walked around and engaged with local businesses to offer our creative support. By the end of the first day, we had two clients signed up, and by the second day, we had gained one more. This experience quickly taught us to become accustomed to being told "NO" and to be comfortable with rejection.
During the initial setup period, I secured a full-time in-house design role, allowing the business time to grow without the pressure of two salaries. Every penny was reinvested into the company to purchase equipment. I worked as a full-time in-house creative at a distribution company (Dee set) during the day, while dedicating all my spare time and holiday allowance to building my own company. After a year of juggling both roles, it became unmanageable, prompting me to take the next step. I handed in my notice and transitioned to full-time self-employment.
Over the next four years, I managed the day-to-day operations of the small company, overseeing all graphic design output and providing support for the video and photography aspects of the business.
Over those four years, we steadily gained momentum until Covid-19 struck. Due to our event-based work things started to slow, everything came to a halt. During this challenging period, the distribution company where I had previously worked for a year reached out. They sought support for their creative output, having lost their creative team after my departure. This opportunity breathed new life into Wolly Productions, allowing us to thrive despite the lockdowns. Our work kept improving, with each project surpassing the last.
This brings me to 2022, when, after five years of hard work and dedication to the business, My business partner decided to step away due to personal reasons. This was a significant blow, and for the first time in a long while, I questioned my next steps. After careful consideration, I made the difficult decision to walk away as well, and we parted ways.
Subsequently, I embarked on a journey as a freelance creative. I received an offer from ISS, a globally-based company, to support their in-house design team with internal and external materials. In this role, I pushed the creative output of the team, overseeing projects from inception to completion, and adhering to strict deadlines.
I'm interested in how I can assist you in reaching a new level of creativity, whether you're a small start-up or a large organisation. With my skills and experience, I am well-equipped to provide support and contribute to your creative endeavours.
Junior Designer - Bumblebee Digital 2015 - 2017
Created a variety of designs for clients across multiple platforms, including social media posts, leaflets and websites. As the sole designer within the company, it was my responsibility to work with the client directly, and have regular contact from start to finish to ensure their creative design needs were met.
Graphic Designer - Dee Set Logistics 2017 - 2018
Developed a strong knowledge of creating visual products including POS & Packaging that fit the client’s brand purpose and identity, which were showcased nationwide. Worked as part of a team of designers in a fast paced environment, allowing me to be able to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines. I managed the day to day tasks of printing POS, and worked directly with the client to ensure their products were displayed on time and where applicable, in store.
Company Director - Wolly Productions 2017 - 2022
I have managed a small, local business called Wolly Productions since 2017, which offers services of graphic design, photography and video production. My responsibilities within the business include managing all aspects of graphic design, and building relationships with clients by having initial discussions about their ideas and vision, and displaying this by creating high quality, visual content for the client to use on both print and digital media.
Creative Partner (Senior Designer) - ISS FM 2022 - Present
Experienced in working within large teams and managing projects from inception to completion. Proven ability to gain buy-in from key stakeholders and internal clients. Led the Accessibility team, ensuring all designs are inclusive for everyone. Creating eye-catching and resonating designs for both internal and external customers.
Freelance Graphic Designer 2022 - Present
In addition to my current role, I've been actively engaged as a freelance designer, collaborating with a diverse range of clients to develop brand identities and execute advertising campaigns. I manage the entire process, from initial briefing and pitching concepts to clients, through to the completion of the final designs.
Thank you!