Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Castleberry
Hi Elizabeth, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
After graduating from college in Philadelphia, I began my career as an entry-level design technician at a large, fast-paced agency. I learned so many things in that first year that can’t be taught in a classroom setting, particularly designing with demanding deadlines. I worked my way from that entry-level position to art director over the next decade, working in both agency and in-house marketing settings. My clientele ran the gamut from real estate and automotive to beauty and finance. With every new adventure, I made solid connections with clients that I still work with today. Several years ago, while I was working in a full-time position as an art director, I began freelancing for one of my previous clients when they reached out in a pinch. They were passionate about their desire to work with me again and it fueled my building desire to become a freelance designer. Three years into the hustle as a full-time art director with a demanding side-gig, an opportunity from one of my clients was presented to me which would change my trajectory from my current position to establishing my own company, E.C. Creative, in March of 2022. Some of my previous connections that I made over the years became part of my regular clientele and have graciously referred me to others where I have been afforded the chance to prosper from an abundance of profitable and professional opportunities. Three years into this phase of my career, I am grateful for those connections I’ve made which continue to keep me busy and steadfast in my profession.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I consider myself fortunate and grateful to have built a full-time roster of clients in less than three years. I’m constantly evolving, learning new things from a design perspective to keep my skills sharp. Each new day and new project presents the opportunity to learn something new and apply that knowledge to each endeavor such as meeting design deadlines, marketing, accounts receivable, etc. Needless to say, having your own freelance company means steadily wearing many hats and making sure all aspects of business continue to streamline and evolve according to my clients’ needs and objectives.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
When I work with a client, I don’t think of myself as a contractor, I become part of every team I work with. My projects range from branding and logo design to creating marketing collateral and digital advertising. I learn the brand guidelines for every client and offer creative that supports them. In instances where they are struggling to find their voice, I work with them to create a look that enhances their business. 15 years in, I have a wide range of knowledge to help them promote their brand, whether they are in start-up phase, in need of a refresh or need consistency in designing their collateral. I was proud to create a brand identity for a client that won two Muse awards in 2023 and earned yet another in 2024 for additional assets I designed. It was so rewarding to see the fruits of my labor being recognized with a long-term client. Seeing a brand come to life through my creative efforts is one of my greatest rewards.
My clients tell me that what sets me apart from other designers is my personal approach and the fact that I become part of their team. Even when deadlines are looming and the breadth of the job is overwhelming, I work to be patient and laid back, especially when my client is under pressure. I like to approach every project with an open mind and rely on honest and consistent communication to get the job done. Freelancing has provided me the opportunity to have a closer, more personal relationship with my clients than I had when working at an agency. Understanding their industry and learning their behaviors and points of concern has served me well as I genuinely want what is best for them. As cliché as it sounds, when they succeed, I succeed.
How do you think about luck?
I will never dismiss that luck plays a part in every element of life; being in the right place at the right time is truly good fortune. Lady luck is on my side, much like my great family, friends, and valued clients. I live in my dream city and am fortunate enough to be self employed while working with some incredible people. I’m always appreciative of a stroke of good fortune, but I know that hard work has gotten me where I am today. When it comes to your own personal success, you as an individual have to be your best supporter and constant champion to acquire the things you want most in life whether it’s personal or professional.
Pricing:
- Pricing based on project details.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ecastleberry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ec.creative.co/?hl=en
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ecastleberry/
