Our Featured HEH Alumni of the week is Emma Barrett from Emma Barrett Creative. Emma just recently wrapped up our High End Hustlers Program, and is kicking some serious goals in business!
Emma lives and breathes design, whether it is a beautiful created logo or a handmade card… it’s in her blood! She graduated from Design College Australia in Visual Communication in 2002 and has been a practicing graphic designer ever since. She went from working in large design agencies, to small studios and now she owns her own studio in Dubbo, NSW. Her and her family live on a beautiful farm and enjoy regional living (and all the space that comes with it!).
Where are you right now?
I work in a co-working space in Dubbo NSW – a gorgeous 1890 Old Post Office Building. I work with clients all over the Country, both regional clients and city-based businesses. I live on a small farm with my husband and two boys.
Tea or coffee?
Tea first thing in the morning (double bag!) then an almond flat white as I get into my office. And maybe a sneaking cold brew at lunch time!
Tell us a bit about what you do?
I’m inspired about working with passionate business owners, creating purposeful designs that help take their business to the next level. Whether it be a new brand identity, refreshing an existing brand or creating professional branded templates that they can use across print, digital and socials.
Why do you do what you do?
I love design, always have. Design is like a puzzle, working out all of the pieces to fit them together. I love handing over a new brand identity or piece of design to a client who is thrilled and excited. It’s rewarding seeing clients’ businesses soar and expand, knowing I’ve played a small part.
What rituals do you have in place to help you get the most out of your day?
Since HEH, I’ve been really focussing on mindset and rituals (before then, nothing!). A quiet meditation at the beginning of each morning to get my positive mindset, then I check emails for 20mins. Creative projects take precedence each morning (9am-12pm), I’m more creative in the mornings. Meetings & client zoom catch-ups after lunch. I work until 6:30pm each night – I’m usually a night owl, so i’m trying not to work too late these days.
How do you get into flow?
I have some of KJ’s affirmations on my white board in front of my computer. I have a private office at the co-working space and love to turn on some soft music. If I’m working on a project that I don’t feel is working. I leave it and go for a walk. Reset and try again!
What is your favourite thing about running your business?
I love the personal connection with each client and being able to help solve their problems. Helping them and seeing the excitement and passion they have for their business is contagious. Freedom is also something I’m learning to enjoy (and appreciate) more.
What book, podcast & song are you jamming to at the moment?
I listen to a lot of podcasts (I drive a lot, living in the country!). I always love Suze Chadwick’s “Brand Builders Lab” Podcast, Design and Prosper, Graphic Design Talk Podcast, Clare Wood Podcast (about money mindset!), Graziher Life on the Land Podcast!
If you could have dinner with 3 people (dead or alive), who would they be & why?
Anthony Bourdain – I would have loved to follow him around on his journeys and sit at a table with him and hear those stories!
What has been your biggest takeaway from High End Hustlers so far?
Mindset is everything! I’m constantly amazed with the powers of mindset, it really has changed my business for the better.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
I will be running a creative studio, supporting a team of regional designers / creatives, working on national brands from the heart of regional NSW. I would love to be mentoring aspiring designers and creatives, giving them opportunities outside of the Metro areas for future jobs and skill development.
Best piece of business advice you have been given?
Just do it (like Nike!), but get it done. And batch your time to get it done!
Want to connect with Emma & keep the conversation going?
Instagram: @emmabarrettcreative
Website: www.emmabarrett.com.au
