How to Brief a Graphic Designer (Without the Stress)

Whether you're a small business owner, a non-profit manager, or just someone with a cool idea — working with a graphic designer should feel exciting, not overwhelming. But if you’ve never written a design brief before, it can feel like you're meant to speak a whole new language.

The good news? It’s way easier than you think.

Here’s how to brief a graphic designer (like me!) in a way that keeps things smooth, productive, and stress-free.

1. Tell Me What You're Trying to Do

Not just what you want designed — but why. Are you launching a product? Updating your brand? Making an annual report look less like a snoozefest?

Understanding the bigger picture helps me create something that actually works — not just something that looks pretty.

Good example:

“We’re a small non-profit releasing a new report to funders and government stakeholders. We want it to feel clear, credible and professional — but still approachable.”

2. Share What You Already Have

Got an existing logo, style guide, or even just a colour you love? Awesome — that gives me a jumping-off point. If you’ve got nothing yet, that’s totally fine too. Just let me know where we’re starting from.

Bonus: Screenshots of things you like (or hate) help too. Don’t worry, I won’t copy them — it’s just good to get a vibe check.

3. Be Real About Your Timeline & Budget

Deadlines aren’t scary — but surprise ones are. If you need something next week, I’ll let you know if that’s doable. If you’ve got a tight budget, I’ll figure out what’s possible.

Just be honest and upfront — and I’ll do the same.

4. Know What Format You Need (If You Can)

Do you need a print-ready PDF? Editable Canva templates? Web graphics? If you’re not sure, I can guide you — but if you do know, save us both a few emails and mention it upfront.

5. Be Open to Ideas

The best results usually come from collaboration. You know your business — I know how to make it look great. When we work together and bounce around ideas, good stuff happens.

TL;DR – What to Include in Your Design Brief:

• What you need (logo, report, flyer, etc.)

• What it’s for / why it matters

• Any existing branding or references

• Your audience

• Timeline + budget

• Final file format (if known)
  

Still not sure how to write it all down?

That’s okay. Just send me an email with whatever you’ve got — I’ll ask the right questions to get us started.