Meet Louise, the creative figure behind dotty hippo design and who set up Thurrock Network Group. With over 15 years of experience as a self-employed graphic designer, Louise specialises in designing marketing materials that help small business owners shine. You will find Louise running fitness classes, PT sessions, or walking her dog when she is not designing or networking online.
Let’s find out a bit more about her and dotty hippo design.
Tell us about your business and what you do
I am a graphic designer at dotty hippo design, and I have been running my own business for over 15 years. I specialise in designing marketing materials for small business owners who want to promote their businesses, products, or services.
What products or services do you offer?
I focus on design for print, and that includes brochure design, flyer design, roller banner design, logo design, and business card design. If you need marketing materials for your business, then I can help!
What do you enjoy the most about what you do?
With my background in magazine publications, I enjoy putting together and creating brochures that enable small business owners to promote what they do to a wider audience. I love creating and designing and seeing it come together into a completed product that the client loves.
What is your favourite book, film, or TV show?
My favourite film is Dirty Dancing; it is such a classic. I’ve watched it so many times and never get bored of it.
When you are not working, how do you like to switch off?
When I’m not designing or teaching fitness classes, you will find me walking my dog or putting my phone to one side in the evening to watch a film with some snacks! I know how important it is to take time out, and I probably need to do more of it!
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Thurrock Network Group?
One of the reasons that I set up Thurrock Network Group was because I found starting my own business daunting and wanted to connect with other local businesses. Making connections and building relationships with other business owners takes time, and I found it invaluable during the pandemic when we moved online.
Going online enabled us to keep in touch and support each other during a tough couple of years. Fast forward to now, and we have built up friendships by sharing tips, giving advice, and supporting each other both in business and personally.
Can you share your top networking tip for small business owners?
My top networking tip is to just be your authentic self. Smile and act confident, even if you are not feeling it! Remember that it takes time to build trust and establish relationships. A little bonus tip would be to listen more than you talk.
Quickfire round
Facebook or Instagram for business promotion? Facebook
Mac or PC for your daily work? Mac
Chocolate or cheese as a cheeky little snack? Chocolate
Early bird or night owl when it comes to productivity? Early bird
Listening to music or working in silence? Listening to music
Email or phone calls for effective communication? Phone calls
Vegetables or fruit for a healthy snack? Fruit
Connect with Louise
Website: www.dottyhippodesign.com
