Relatable Design Co

Did you know that I used to do ballet on a semi-professional level for over 10 years, including being on the stage of the German Opera in Berlin? But when it came to the decision to become a professional dancer, I decided not to, as ballet was something I really enjoyed doing but I wasn't prepared to make it my everything. I had too many other things and interests I wanted to do and have time for.

But a year ago, 15 years after my last lesson, I joined a local ballet school offering adult classes. I absolutely love doing it again! The physical movement balances out my work week at the desk, it’s time away from any screens and it provides a space for me to be creative in a different way.

I also haven't been dancing in front of an audience for over two decades, but since the theme of this year seems to be 'you can only grow if you step out of your comfort zone', here we go – I'll be back on stage in a few weeks time. So, if you want to see me doing something different to talking branding, web design and strategy, get yourself a ticket and come see the Ballet.Culture family performing PERSON[a] at Tauranga's Baycourt Community and Arts Centre on Sunday, the 25th of June.

Buy your ticket here:
https://premier.ticketek.co.nz/shows/show.aspx?sh=person2023

Want to know why I started my own business even though it hadn't been part of my plan? I recently sat down with the Creative Launchpad team to chat about becoming a graphic designer, making the move from full-time employment to freelancing, securing clients as a small business owner and why my parents' professions were the perfect mixture for what I do today. I've also been asked for my top three tips to become a small business owner – which don't only apply to graphic designers by the way 😊

Minja’s journey - From agency to freelance graphic designer For Minja van der Paard, going out on her own as a graphic designer hadn’t been part of her plan. Then at the start of 2020, she faced two options for the next stage of her career. “I had this de

Are you looking for an Easter gift idea for clients, friends or family? I've got one for you! How about gifting a tree? 🌳

Last year, instead of physical Christmas presents, I gifted each of my clients and suppliers some native trees through Trees That Count, which is managed by the environmental charity Project Crimson. They're helping Kiwis plant more native trees across New Zealand. Each of my recipients received a gift certificate, and once their trees had been allocated to a planting location, they got an email so they knew where their trees would be planted. And guess what, some of my clients and suppliers gifted trees back to Relatable Design Co!

Gifting trees is not only a nice and sustainable thing to do for Easter 🐰 or Christmas 🎄. Think birthdays 🎂, anniversaries 🥂, promotions 🎓, engagements 💍, weddings 👰🤵, family additions 🍼🐶, losses ✨ or just because 🫶. Every tree makes a difference.