January - The beginning of Grubb Creative

January 2024 was officially my first month of going solo as a freelancer. Looking back now, it felt like the longest month ever, but for me I see it as one of the most productive months I have had, setting myself up and establishing Grubb Creative.

Like all new businesses, I had to define my own brand identity and hone in on exactly I wanted to do for myself and decide what services I wanted to offer as a designer. One of my challenges was finalising and choosing my logo and brand visuals (the hardest part, considering I am my own worst critic). It was then, I had to build out my website that reflects me and my work in its best light. I was very grateful to one of my close friends and ex colleague, Jenna, who assisted me in writing my site copy and helping me find my own tone of voice.

Once I felt ready to press play, I made a small announcement on LinkedIn to let my network know I was open for business. Straight away I felt an overwhelming sense of support and kindness on my post, which was so lovely. It was not long afterwards that I realised the amazing community there is within the freelancers. I had multiple people message me to offer their support and guidance, which I will never take for granted. It was also exciting to know the scope of how many other freelancers there are out there, who I can go on to potentially collaborate with in the future. 

When I first decided to set up Grubb Creative, it was one my long-time friends Catherine, from Makin Studios, who convinced me to take the jump into freelance. Since lockdown, she set-up and began working and establishing connections with some big name clients, including Kellanova. I have loved over the years seeing the work she has produced and how she has gone on to develop her brand, whilst also enjoying the benefits of the freelance flexibility. It was Catherine, who gave me my first ever project to work on (as Grubb Creative), developing some title styles for a bigger campaign. We had, since our art school years, spoke about doing a little project together so for that, I am very thankful to Catherine for getting me started.

To spread the word further of Grubb Creative, I attended my first 8BN networking event in Indigo hotel, Glasgow. It was an incredibly relaxed and friendly evening meeting, hosted by Colin McKeand, who brought a great energy to the night. I really enjoyed chatting to so many business people, from all different diverse backgrounds and industries. The format of the meeting was very relaxed around the individual tables and I enjoyed the engagement with everyone as we discussed our plans and direction of where we worked. Being an extrovert, I am excited about other networks out there for me to attend and I am looking forward to expanding my network and collaborate with others. I already have my tickets for Revitalise Networking Local and Now That’s What I Call Networking, this February.

Overall, last month felt like a rollercoaster of emotions and challenges, getting to where I wanted to be. Although, I have stayed positive throughout the process, reminding myself that Rome was definitely not built in a day. From the small steps that I have taken, I am really happy with where I am and cannot wait to continue to build up my business, Grubb Creative.