about me
How I became a graphic design freelancer and how I can help you.
About me, megan van der ley
A graphic designer freelancer and writer. An Australian in Sweden. A parent. A gardener, a sewer and a flamenco enthusiast.
From communications in Australia to design in sweden
After studying Communications at Charles Sturt University in Australia, I worked in public relations, marketing, project management and internal communications in Australia for many years.
After taking time off to travel the world I ended up in Sweden. Although I learnt to speak Swedish fluently, I realised that I needed a communications skill that wasn’t dependent on a perfect mastery of language.
graphic design was the answer
I honed and updated the skills I had from my time as a communications specialist, through formal studies, a very good mentor and many hours of practice in the company of You Tube. I registered my business and the work started rolling in. Now I happily work as a copy-writing and graphic design freelancer, combining words, images, and design elements to create professional and holistic products for my customers.
what services do i offer my clients?
I use the industry-standard programmes Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Fresco to give documents and products a professional edge.
When I work with your English documents, I help you identify and refine your key messages, create structure and ensure consistency and clarity. I can edit documents you have written, or write them from scratch in conversation with you.
When I work with pure graphic design, I work magic on your ready-to-go texts, making them professional, attractive and easy to understand.
And of course, I can help you with both copywriting and graphic design at the same time. This is a unique combination of skills, and it really allows me to craft a holistic and powerful communication product that grabs attention and tells your story.
Want to to improve your writing and graphic design skills?
These resources are an excellent place to start. Be prepared to practice!
Domestika
An amazing range of well-made courses that cover most aspects of graphic design and the programmes you need to master.
You Tube
Tirso Gamboa creates the best YouTube tutorials I have found. He covers the basics and gives lots of examples that explain, illuminate and inspire.
New York Times
This article and the excercises it recommends can help you (or your students or colleagues) write more effectively.