Q&A: HOW BRAND SKILLINGS WORKS

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what is it like working with us?

We prioritise transparency in our business approach - so we have included answers to some of the questions we are most often asked by new clients. If you have any other questions then please get in touch.

Q: Is there a charge for an initial meeting?

A: There's no charge for an initial meeting - it's our opportunity to find out as much as we can about your business and future objectives, so charging makes no sense to us!

Q: Who will attend the meeting from Brand Skillings?

A: Wherever possible both Nick and Charles will come along for that first conversation - but it depends totally on our diaries. We usually give you a brief history of Brand Skillings, the experience we have and then listen carefully to the issues you face as a business.

Q: How much advice can I expect during that first meeting?

A: We will explain in outline what may work work - drawing on our proven experience in key sectors. What motivates us most is the difference we can make to a business - so invariably we are thinking ahead to the initial proposal.

Q: What's the process if I like what I hear?

A: Once we've seen copies of all your current marketing materials (both online & printed) and discussed your future objectives, we'll then come back with a fully costed proposal for you to consider.

Q: How long will it take to develop new branding options?

A: If you've commissioned new branding then you can expect to see initial options within ten working days. Nick and his design team usually develop at least six to eight logo options - these are then whittled down before a final decision is made, usually involving a second round of refinement.

Q: What about new websites, brochures and other marketing collateral - how long will they take?

A: Websites, depending on their complexity, can usually be built in 6 to 8 weeks from approval of the designs - but faster if required! We focus on providing a quick turnaround on printed items, working to your deadlines.

Q: Who will I deal with whilst the projects are underway?

A: Depending on the scale of the projects you will deal directly with Nick or Charles - and occasionally both of us. We think it's vital that you have regular contact and updates from the partners as we progress.

Q: Can you source print and other items?

A: We've built a network of suppliers who we trust to do a great job. This includes printers (both litho & digital) who produce high quality print at reasonable prices, promotional items, signage, POS display, exhibition stands, even laser engraved wooden boxes.... if you need it then we can source it for you. We make a small charge to manage these projects for you, checking proofs and ensuring prompt delivery.

Q: What about photography?

A: We spend quite a bit of time researching and sourcing distinctive "stock" photography from the best online photo libraries. When a bespoke photoshoot is required we can find locations, recommend very talented photographers and ensure that the job is properly organised from start to finish.

Q: How much should I budget for?

A: As a small company we always keep costs sensible, transparent and in-line with your budgets. We usually price projects individually, whilst for a number of clients we have arranged discounted monthly retainers, allowing them to spread costs over an agreed contract period.

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New Website - Caister Lifeboat

06 Oct, 2021

Caister Lifeboat has been saving lives at sea since 1791. Completely independent, they depend entirely on public donations to help provide safety and rescue services to the countless vessels, crews and beach visitors to this area of the East Coast of England. We are proud to support this vital charity - developing a new website to provide details of their latest rescues - or "shouts" as they are known - and most importantly to encourage donations. Client: Caister Volunteer Lifeboat Service Design, build & management: Brand Skillings

Wixams - L&Q Estates

30 Sep, 2021

The brief from L&Q Estates was for a high-end brochure, with exemplary production values, that told the story of the Wixams development - taking an industrial site that had seen better days and transforming it into an aspirational new village community. The resulting 32pp brochure features a wealth of newly commissioned photography by Julian Calverley, together with historical research, copywriting, design and creative direction from Brand Skillings. Commissioned by: Ian Hardwick, Managing Director Client: L&Q Estates Design & management: Brand Skillings Photography: Julian Calverley Art direction: Nick Brand Print: Colt Press