No! Kelly has been creating portraits from photographs for almost 9 years, and this is the way she prefers to work. She can create your art from your existing photos or she can arrange for her photographer to take some for you.

Kelly's best results come from either professional photographs or clear, close-up snapshots. She is happy to review your photos ahead of time and determine whether they will be a suitable reference. When selecting your pictures, keep in mind that the more detail that is in your photos, the more detail Kelly can include in your drawing or painting.

Kelly is happy to blend multiple photographs and create a one-of-a-kind portrait for you.

Kelly typically complete drawings within 2 weeks, while paintings are usually finished within a month to a month and a half. Please let Kelly know if you have a specific deadline, and she will do her best to make sure you receive your portrait in time. The Christmas season is her busiest time of the year, so please provide as much notice as possible if you will be commissioning a portrait near the holidays.

Matting and framing services are available to all of Kelly's clients. You may choose the option you think is best, or she can provide you with recommended selections. As the artist, Kelly knows how to present your drawing or painting beautifully. If you are unsure about what you want, let her take the guesswork out of the process and create a beautiful package for you.

Kelly stands by her work and will make sure that you are completely satisfied with your drawing or painting. To ensure your happiness, she provides a preview of your portrait before shipping it to you. This allows you the opportunity to make suggestions, which she will use to tweak the portrait until it is perfect. Her goal is your satisfaction, so you owe nothing unless you are thrilled with your artwork.

Kelly offers occasional discounts for those who receive her monthly newsletter. She also has a client referral program, in which she offers incentives if you refer other portrait customers to her.

Much of Kelly's work is commissioned from people who live out-of-state, or even out of the country! She is happy to correspond with you through phone or by e-mail during all stages of the process. After your portrait is completed and you have given your approval, she will carefully package it and ship it to you with insurance.

Kelly has a long history of satisfying portrait clients. She is happy to provide testimonials and references upon your request.

Graphic designers have different strengths and weaknesses. Here are some "non-negotiables" to consider when choosing a professional graphic designer:

A strong portfolio. The designs should be memorable as well as appropriate for each project.

A solid sense of marketing. Pretty images are a dime a dozen, but if your designer doesn't ask how your design will be used, or what audience you are trying to reach, he or she likely isn't taking the big picture into account, and you will have wasted your time and money. Good design communicates and motivates.

Excellent business skills. A good designer stays on top of all the details of your project and makes the best use of your time and money. You can get a good sense of how organized and professional a designer is in your first conversation or email.

Formal education in graphic design, not just software skills. Graphic design is an art and craft with foundational principles that have a direct impact on the effectiveness of printed communication. A designer's software skills have little impact on their ability to translate your brand.

Personable demeanor. Since you choose whom you'll work with, hire someone you'll enjoy partnering with. A great designer will put you at ease and allow open communication throughout the design process.

Kelly's graphic design background and her understanding of the entrepreneurial nature allow her to effectively design across a broad spectrum of promotional material. This includes, but is not limited to:

Logos
Business cards
Brochures
Letterheads
Advertisements/Promotions
Product labels and packaging
Interior and exterior signage
Websites
Restaurant menus
Vehicle decals
Twitter backgrounds

If Kelly isn't the expert at something that you need, she likely has a working relationship with someone who is. This approach to client relationships gives her an edge over the typical designer, as she is able to handle more of your needs, taking the pressure off of you. Issues such as printing, programming, and copy editing are no longer on your plate to worry about.