Clients light up when they see how Georgia Kraljevic uses her graphic design skills to bring their dreams to life - and she never tires of being part of that emotional and creative process.
Tell us a little bit about The Curly Creator -
Here at The Curly Creator, I specialise in all Graphic Design needs from custom logo design and branding, marketing materials and signage, to custom wedding stationery and signage. I’m all about creating beautiful, purposeful designs that really capture the heart and soul of the person behind them. Graphic design can be such a powerful tool when used correctly, I want to show people the value of what great design can do and that it’s worth investing in!
When it comes to business, I love getting to know the story of the person behind it. To make sure that their branding and marketing materials really capture who they are as a business, and to give them the tools to really launch or grow their business with confidence.
When it comes to weddings, I love getting to know the couple, who they are and their style. You can use wedding stationery and signage to bring your wedding dreams to life and take your special day to the next level.
I just love to create. I always have and always will. I feel this is part of my purpose - to use the gifts God has given me, and the skills and knowledge I’ve learnt to help people through Graphic Design.
What inspired you to start The Curly Creator?
I had always dreamt of starting my own graphic design business. I wanted to be able to educate people about graphic design and just how much of an impact it can have when done well. After moving back home to Orange, I was working in retail. It wasn’t long after that that Covid hit and I had to be let go. Now jobless, I actually felt like I finally had the time to fully immerse myself in starting up my own business, so I decided to take the plunge. I felt like it was the right moment, and I knew I would regret it if I didn’t at least try. I had gained so much knowledge from my time working in Sydney so felt more equipped and confident to start my own thing.
How did the decision to move back to your country roots come about?
Even though I had enjoyed my time in the city, I was craving getting back to wide open spaces and fresh air. I wasn’t quite sure where my next step was going to be until I met my now husband, who was living in Orange. When we got engaged, I was more than happy to make the move back, as my family was still living there too.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of starting your own business?
It’s always such an incredible feeling designing for my clients. To watch them light up when they see their ideas or dreams come to life is super special. The freedom that comes with running your own business is also amazing. Even though sometimes it feels like it’s business 24/7, it’s such a blessing to have the flexibility to be able to choose when I can work.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
Starting a business just when the world was shutting down meant not being able to meet with clients or go to events in person. Also just learning how to run a business! I knew the design side of things like the back of my hand, but learning the admin and financial side of things has been a bit trickier.
What’s the best piece of business advice that you have ever received?
The one that has stuck with me is to use what you have, and just start. You don’t have to be the best in the biz or have the world's greatest resources. You will learn as you go and your business will change and grow as you do. Also, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and ask the questions. If the answer is yes - awesome. If it’s no - well at least you won’t always be wondering!
How do you balance work/life responsibilities?
It helps that I work from home a lot. My husband is an amazing support too. It’s a juggle - it’s not always perfect. Sometimes it can be hard to turn my brain off from thinking about business stuff (which always seems to start flowing just before bed!) but it’s important to be purposeful in setting time aside to focus on family and home life.
What’s on the horizon for The Curly Creator in 2023?
I’ll be continuing to grow the business and expand on some fun personal projects like my greeting cards range and would also love to dive more into the wedding side of things, so you may see me at an expo.
Images:
Photography Credit: Em & The Wild Things
Website: thecurlycreator.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecurlycreator
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CurlyCreator
Location:
Carcoar, NSW