Today we’d like to introduce you to Madi Balman.
Hi Madi, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up – I’ve always been the art kid. I had countless doodles on my notes in class & no matter how many times I got points deducted, I would still continue to draw. I went to college at Charleston Southern University & graduated in 2020 with my BA in Graphic Design & a minor in Business Administration in Marketing. I had the opportunity to participate in 5 internships in college & start my freelancing business when I was 19 years old.
Being a Charleston local, I ultimately stayed here after college, met my now-husband, and grew my network in the Charleston Area. Now, I’m transitioning into a full-time position in my company, Mae Creative, where I specialize in Brand Identity & Visual Brand Design (i.e., logos, websites, small brand assets, etc.).
I am incredibly blessed to work with so many businesses in the Charleston area & I am so grateful for the support I have, as they are the reason why I do what I do. Facing obstacles and adapting to change is inevitable, but my perseverance got me to be the young, successful female entrepreneur I am today.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Life is never going to be a smooth road – for anyone. From the time I was a child, I have struggled with chronic migraines. This puts a halt in my projects from time to time, as they can be debilitating and painful for days at a time. As an adult, I’ve learned ways to get around this obstacle, but I still struggle from time to time. Helpful tip: get blue light glasses & see a chiropractor if you’re on the computer all the time, like me!
Another thing that I’ve faced is my struggle with something called “imposter syndrome.” Google says that imposter syndrome can be defined as “the persistent inability to believe that one’s success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one’s own efforts or skills.” Living in the age of social media, outdated gender norms, and generally being around some not-so-supportive individuals has took this toll on me – sometimes I don’t think I’ll ever make it as a great professional designer. People have told me belittling & borderline sexist comments in the past, which has never been okay. Battling this has been a rough road, but as I’ve said before, perseverance & working hard is the way to combat anyone who doubts you: whether that be someone you know or yourself.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a freelance graphic designer specializing in Brand Identity & Visual Branding, but I am also a digital illustrator! My style can be described as Innovative, Creative, and Bold. My artistic style is starting to adapt to a retro, pop-art feeling with use of bright colors like teal, yellow, and reds. I’ve worked with a variety clients across different industries, so I am able to adapt to whatever my clients need! Additionally, I am proud to say I have made over 60 brands and logos since I started freelancing!
I’m most proud of my drive and my motivation to always go the extra mile for my clients, whether that means giving them more options that originally chosen, being there for them every step of their process, or just giving more than expected. The way I set myself apart is just that: I empathize with my clients & create long-lasting business and personal relationships with them. I want to be the very best person & businesswoman that I can be.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I graduated from college during the beginnings of COVID. During this time, I was supposed to walk the stage, have a portfolio show (showcasing my portfolio and a booth), and get a “big girl job.” What I learned here was that anything could change at any time… so you need to make the best of your situation.
Looking into a more personal topic I learned: our life here on this Earth could be short. Tell people you love them and hold your loved ones close. Apply for that job you “don’t qualify for.” Start that business. Quit holding back grudges. Volunteer. The list can go on.
Pricing:
- Logo Design… starting at $550*
- Web Design… starting at $1250*
- Shopify Web Design… starting at $1000*
- Retainer General Graphic Design Services… $35/hr*
- *Average pricing based off of normal standards & timelines. Pricing may differ & be more or less depending on scope of services & unique client needs.
Contact Info:
- Email: madi@maecreative.graphics
- Website: http://www.maecreative.graphics
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maecreative.graphics/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maecreative.graphics
- Other: www.maecreative.shop
Image Credits
Christiana Collective
Madi Balman
