Answers to questions you didn’t know you needed to know.
What is 'functional' graphic design?
In simple terms: it’s design that actually works. Most designers focus on aesthetics—making things look “pretty” or “nice.” But “nice” doesn’t pay the bills. Functional design is about more than just a vibe; it’s about user experience and psychology.
I use neuromarketing tactics to plan out a structure that guides your customer to take a specific action. I look at the end goal first—whether that’s a click, a call, or a sale—and build the visual around that strategy. If a design looks amazing but doesn’t solve a problem or lead your client where they need to go, it’s not design—it’s just expensive art. I make sure your brand is both beautiful and high-performing.
Which programs do you design with?
I don’t use Adobe products and I never have. I work in CorelDraw because that’s the program I was trained in as an apprentice, and it does everything I need to deliver a high-quality, professional end product.
Beyond the technical side, I have standards. Adobe’s business ethics don’t sit right with me, so I choose not to support them. Besides, any seasoned designer will tell you that the software doesn’t create the design; the person behind the screen does. If a designer’s work is shit, a fancy subscription isn’t going to save it. I stick to the tools that allow me to create the best functional results for my clients.
What files do I get when a project is complete?
It depends on the project. Logo projects depend on the package you’ve ordered. The Orbit Express Package gives you 4 basic files of the final approved logo design. The Luna Logo Launch Package gives you a full set of all logo files in all variations.
For printable projects, you’ll get print ready PDF files.
For digital projects, you’ll get the relevant digital files, depending on how the design needs to be used.
For Canva templates, you’ll be sent a live editable template link to use in your Canva account.
Do I own the copyright to my logo and designs?
No you don’t. As the original creator of your logo I will always retain the copyright, but you will be issued with an exclusive use license for your logo that will allow you to trademark it and use it throughout your brand. You aren’t permitted to resell it. This is to your benefit because if someone clones your company or steals your logo, I can help you legally because I retain and back up all the origination files.
Can I make changes to my designs?
No. You are not permitted to make changes to any of the end files I deliver to you. Nor do you have permission to give them to another designer to work on. The only time this is permissible is if I explicitly give you written permission to change them, or if I’m dead.
Canva templates can be provided if you want to be able to edit end designs but make sure you let me know that you want this before you place your order as this will incur an additional cost. Canva is a clunky design program so some fiddling and workarounds are often needed.
How do I use my logo once I have the files?
Your logo files are a vital company asset. Unless you have an in-house media team or professional design training, these files aren’t really meant for you to tinker with yourself. Most small business owners don’t have the technical background to incorporate a logo into a layout without losing that professional edge.
This is exactly why I offer the Asteroid Assets Collection and specialized custom services. My goal is to ensure your business message is communicated properly every single time. By working together over time, you’ll start to see the logic behind your brand visuals. Eventually, if you’re handy with a design program, you might manage some decent layouts on your own. But until then, I’m here to make sure your brand stays on course and looks like it means business.
Do you use A.I. in your designs?
No. Every design I produce is custom created. A.I. doesn’t know the South African business landscape because so many local businesses are not actually web optimised. A.I. graphics are also low quality and not editable. I’ve experimented with A.I. for design work and to be honest, it actually takes longer than doing it myself and you don’t even own it at the end of the day because A.I. graphics can’t be copyrighted.
There are some exceptions when I will use A.I. to create stock photos when needed.
Will you show my project in your website?
It depends. If your project is one that showcases my skills well and has enough info and content to be shareable then I might. I also share projects in my Instagram account so if it doesn’t get shared in my website it will more than likely end up in my socials.
Do you back up all projects?
I do backup all my work online in Dropbox. I am not obliged to and clients don’t pay me for this service so I’m not liable if something happens and Dropbox loses all your files. Repeat clients do get access to their own portal in my Dropbox account so they can download and access files. This is recommended just in case something happens to me or my backup system.
Do you do printing?
No. I’m not a printing company. I will supply you with high quality files that are properly configured depending on the type of printing you need. You can send the files straight to your printer with my details. If your printer has any problems (this never happens, though), or if they have specific requirements for the files, then they can contact me directly to make any adjustments.
Why do you need a 50% deposit?
I need a deposit to secure your order, and to cover some of my time if you bail halfway through a project. It’s also tells me that you value my work and my process. You do have the option to pay the full amount upfront if you don’t want to pay the deposit.
Do you offer a payment plan?
If you really want to work with me but don’t have the funds upfront, we can talk. I do offer 3 and 4 month payment plans but you’ll still only get your end files after payment has been settled. Or we may make an arrangement that certain files are released as you pay. It depends on the project.
Can I consult with you in person?
Only if you have to. lol. I do schedule in-person appointments for clients who need a face-to-face consult and are in the area. We will set a day and time for you to meet me at my studio. I don’t travel to clients.
There is a cost for consultations in-person or online because time is money and my experience and knowledge don’t come for free. Long-term regular clients get special privileges.
What is an 'optional discovery call'?
I hate calls so the ‘optional discovery call’ is for your benefit if you absolutely have to speak to me before we work together for the first time or start on a new project.
Believe it or not, I’m quite sharp and can usually get all the info I need from a few emails and your answers to some questions.
Can I message you on WhatsApp?
I do accommodate text messages and voice notes on WhatsApp and will give you the option to communicate this way when you start working with me. Email is still necessary for end files and sending attachments because WhatsApp degrades image quality. Don’t message me after normal daytime working hours or on the weekends because I won’t respond.
Where else can I find you online?
You can find me on Facebook and Instagram. I spend more time on Instagram than on Facebook so if you want to connect online then Insta is the place to go. You can find me @cosmicreations.
What's the best way to contact you?
Email is the best way to contact me if you’re a new client. You can also send a message on Instagram or WhatsApp if someone has referred you to me. Just introduce yourself and let me know how you found me otherwise I won’t reply.
Whatever you do, don’t call me because I won’t answer. That’s not what I use my phone for.
What info is in your emailers?
Nothing formal. I might just share the highlight of my week, a new brand I’ve discovered that’s doing everything right, a project I’m currently working on (maybe it’ll be yours), shit my cats get up to, useful business or design tips. I might send out the odd promotion if I’m running a discount or special thing.
I also don’t send reams of text because nobody’s got time for that, especially me. Emails will mostly just have one or two pieces of info that I know my clients will enjoy or find interesting.
