Home-based branding studio for small businesses

Start-ups, independent shops, cafes, trades businesses, consultants and small charities that need a professional look.

Fixed project fees for packages such as logo only, or full identity with guidelines. Some studios add monthly retainers for ongoing design support.

• Graphic design and typography
• Listening to clients and asking good questions
• Presenting and explaining design choices
• Managing deadlines and feedback rounds

• Check that you have the licences for any fonts, images and software you use in client work
• Use a written contract that covers revision rounds, payment terms and who owns the final artwork
• Check a proposed brand name or logo is not too close to an existing trade mark (the UK Intellectual Property Office has a search tool)
• Consider professional indemnity and public liability insurance
• Check whether your landlord or mortgage lender allows you to work from home

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £500 to £3,000, depending on your equipment, software and insurance. Check you hold the licences for any fonts, images and software used in client work, and consider professional indemnity and public liability cover.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £500 to £4,000, depending on how many clients you take on and what you charge. A written contract covering revision rounds and payment terms helps keep your income more predictable.

Check that a proposed brand name or logo is not too close to an existing trade mark, using the UK Intellectual Property Office search tool. Also check whether your landlord or mortgage lender allows you to work from home.