Quality and cost are my passions

There are two things I’m passionate about in my work: providing good-looking designs and keeping projects affordable.

Before becoming a designer, I worked as an administrative assistant and often had to find someone to create printed materials for the company. More often than not, the designer quoted a price that was beyond my company’s reach. If I found someone within our budget, the work reflected the lower cost. Plus, paying for cheaper service usually meant it took longer to get a response to an email or voice mail message.

Exasperated, I started doing more of the work myself and eventually took some classes. I loved being back in school and made the decision to pursue a degree. Now I offer my clients attractive designs that get results without blowing their budgets.

I see Lolalu Design as a one-stop shop for clients since I offer both print and web design services. This saves them time that they can use to concentrate on other aspects of their businesses.

Clients can also count on me to be responsive, and often receive replies to their emails within minutes.

I know I’ve exceeded expectations when a client refers other people to me. It’s the greatest compliment they can give me!

And speaking of compliments, the National Association of Photoshop Professionals featured my design work in the September 2003 issue of their magazine. I feel very honored to be recognized by a magazine that is read by others in my field.

Variety is the spice of life

When I’m not at my computer designing, I volunteer at Woodland Park Zoo and KUOW (public radio). I also sponsor two children in Columbia, one in Zambia, and another in Nepal. My life has been good, and I’m a firm believer in giving something back to the community and the world.

I love taking pictures of wildlife, old architecture, and foreign cultures. So, I joined the Seattle Mountaineers’ camera club and recently won second place in a photo contest.

So what’s with the name, Lolalu?

When I was trying to come up with a memorable name for my freelance business, I remembered that another designer combined the names of her dogs. I have two cats: Rico and Lola. Ricola was taken by a cough drop company, so I decided to use only Lola’s name. Lolalu is a pet name I use when I sing to her while I’m working. I think she prefers listening to the radio.