Since 1995 Sonya McDowell has had the dream of opening up her own graphic design business and in 2011 she and her husband, Brennan McDowell, woke up and decided that they no longer wanted to wait. Higher Design, LLC is a graphic design business located just 3 miles outside of Raleigh, NC.
“I am so thankful to have found such a professional person to work with; I had worked with other designers, some who had even stolen my original domain names. I knew I had a concept, just needed the right person to help me grasp it, Sonya did that for me. I have found Sonya to be professional, trustworthy and patient. She really aims to please her customers and it was a pleasure working with her. I will refer anyone I know to her for any web design or graphic design needs.” said Christy Paul who is from Site Smart Solutions. Higher Designs had the opportunity of designing for their company in the beginning of 2012.
Of course there were hardships here and there but within the first months of business together they quickly learned what they had to do, which is something they’ve always done; trust in God. They continue to live by “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Thanks for your inspiration and advice Higher Design, LLC; I hope that this encourages others to fulfill their dreams.
The Agenda: What is the reason behind the name Higher Design, LLC?
Higher Design, LLC: This name came to me years ago, and after several years passed, I never forgot it. I took it as a sign that it should be the name.
TA: What is a good early story about your business?
HD: So, we attempted to do our own taxes the first year. We thought, we'll buy Turbo tax and do it ourselves it'll be simple enough. Wrong! We were so lost; we bit the bullet and hired a tax expert! Probably we should have done that from.
TA: What is unusual or unique about your business, in comparison to your competitors or similar businesses?
HD: My business is a little different in that I like working with new business owners. I negotiate on pricing and even barter so that new business owners can get the branding they need to make an impact without breaking the bank.
TA: How would someone external describe your business?
HD: Here's a testimonial: Higher Design, LLC was a pleasure to work with. Sonya took our vision and developed it into an exciting logo. She took direction and created exactly what we asked for. She communicated with us and completed the project in a very timely manner. Higher Design, LLC provides a smooth and easy service experience.
TA: Do you do any charity or non-profit work? If you do or plan on to, please you share.
HD: So far, I've volunteered work for No Limitz in Albuquerque. It's a program dedicated to women and helps soldiers who have been abused deal with the abuse and move on with their lives. For them, I did site maintenance for free for a month. I also volunteer services for the Turning Point of Chester, which has a men's halfway house, food shelter and a thrift store.
TA: What is an interesting story about a customer interaction you had?
HD: So we learned early on that we had to require deposits up front. We had quite a few clients who we started work for, but they decided they didn't want to pay for services. Thankfully
TA: How does it feel to be in business together? Is it what you expected it to be?
HD: It's invigorating. It is exciting. Early on, we took a class together and tried to learn as much as we could about running a business. Brennan was also even tried to learn how to do design work so that he could help me with it. It's really something we can both [are] proud of. It's actually going a lot better than either of us ever thought it would. God is great!
TA: What is some advice or tips that you would want to share with others?
HD: 1. When it comes to taxes, hire a professional. 2. Always protect yourself. Never offer your service or product without any protection for yourself. As much as we would like to trust our clients, there are some out there who will take advantage if given the opportunity. And finally 3. Take breaks. Take time to rest and vacate when you can. Otherwise, stress will take control.
TA: What matters to you the most in satisfying your customers?
HD: That is what matters most… satisfying them. My ultimate goal is to make sure they are 100% happy with what I've given them.
TA: Where do you get your inspiration?
HD: God, other websites, things I see all around me
TA: Do you have any favorite designing websites, or magazines? If so, please share.
HD: Designdump.com, GC magazine, w3schools.com
TA: How do you feel about Black Ownership in America? Should there be more of it?
HD: I feel that black owned businesses get a bad rep. I personally have had some bad experiences and it hurts me whenever I run across a poorly run black owned business. I know that there are tons of good ones out there and I try to support them as much and often as I can, but I hope that we can improve. I believe there should be more, as I would like to see black people reach for the stars and share their talents with the world.
TA: What would you say to encourage those who are interested in starting their own business?
HD: It’s hard work, so be ready to commit lots of time and effort. You have to be persistent and tenacious and very well organized. And whatever, you’re not good at, find someone who is and get help!
For more information feel free to contact them by email mccdesigner81@att.net at or cell phone at (864) 650-2418. And if you’re just interested, be sure to check out their site www.higherdesignllc.com.
