Startups.ie

Tell us what your business does?

Hummingbird Studio offers graphic design solutions which communicates client messages with high visual impact. We can offer solutions to a huge variety of products such as websites, advertising, books, magazines, posters, computer games, exhibitions, product packaging, corporate identity and corporate communications. We work from a brief agreed with the client, we create ideas and concepts choosing the appropriate media and style. With over 10 years of experience in design and desktop publishing industry our capabilities are all-encompassing and insightful.

Where did the idea for your business come from?

The idea started two years ago when, looking for freelance projects from other local companies I realised that there are no companies in Ireland able to offer a complete package to its customers. A complete work process from concept, design, web, print and delivery to the shop door. I wanted to offer clients something different, all our designs are unique and inspirational we have the technical skills, such as special training in multimedia, information technology graphics, computer graphics design. Before I started this business every time I looked at a design I always thought about how I could improve them to make them better that is why I started this company.

Have you always wanted to run your own business?

Yes, I have always wanted to run my own business from a early age and I always knew that it would happen one day. I am so creative, I get inspiration from just walking down a street, or driving my car ideas come to me all the time and that is why my business is growing all the time, I keep a notebook for all my ideas so I am working all the time:-) I am so passionate about my work and I take pride in everything I do, it really shows through when I send on a final draft to a client as they never ask for changes to be made.

What planning did you do before you started up?

I did a start your own business course first and I studied Market Research for one year, after that i did an excellent business plan. I made sure before I even registered my business name that I had all the boxes ticked. I also sought professional advice.

Which entrepreneurs do you admire?

I admire Duncan Bannatyne, Theo Paphitis, Deborah Meaden, and Peter Jones from the Dragons Den, I also make sure I watch The Apprentice.
Irish – www.creativeinc.ie
Worldwide – EyeBall agency NY – http://www.eyeballnyc.com/

What challenges have you faced how have you overcome them?

I would say, Not many just yet thankfully as I did a lot of planning before I got started, my business is growing from strength to strength because of all the hard work i put into it. I am learning all the time I am constantly teaching myself new skills to keep up with new technology.

How have you promoted your business?

Online on Google AD sense, local forums, local newspapers. Will focus more on social networking this year.
I get a lot of clients through clients as they are very happy with my work, it is great when a client is as happy about my work as I am. I have advertised Online on Google Ad sense, local forums, local newspapers, and also by contacting old & new business clients by telephone and email keeping them up to date with any new services

Are you optimistic about the remainder 2011?

Yes, very optimistic. In 2012 I think more entrepreneurs will start to see some light at the end of the tunnel. I am very positive about the future, I think you have to be, the only way forward is to believe.

What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs?

Never loose hope, if you believe in your product and services and with proper planning your company will be a great success. “The early bird catches the worm” I do believe anything is possible if you put your heart and sole into it. If you put lots of hard work in it will pay off in the long run.

http://www.hmbs.ie/