When Apogee Results, largest online marketing firm in the Southwest needed a new design for their WordPress web site, they asked us to create a clean and modern design to showcase their online marketing services.

"Why should I pay someone to design my brochure/website/business cards? Can't I do it myself in Microsoft Word? They have lots of templates already available for FREE!"

One of things I tackle on a regular basis is giving credibility to the value of services we provide. I admit; professional design can be expensive. And it's not uncommon for a client to get sticker shock upon receiving a project estimate. What complicates the issue even more is the large number of software tools that give people the tools they need to do it themselves. For web sites, 'site builder' apps are already included in most hosting packages, and for business stationery Microsoft Word has hundreds of templates available at no charge. Why in the world would you pay someone hundreds or even thousands of dollars for something when you can do it yourself for free?

Last year right around this time, we moved into our beautiful newly-built home. While we're generally happy with our new home, the building process was less than stellar. Through the 4-5 months it took to complete construction, it became very clear to us that they greatly valued profit over customer service. As we neared the end of our 1 year warranty, we again felt like we were just cogs in their profit wheel instead of valued customers.

As a business owner – not to mention a consumer – seeing a business managed seemingly without much (if any) regard for its clients is maddening. While I certainly don't claim to be infallible, relationships will always trump profit.

Today we launched a new website for The Cake Box bakery in Bryan/College Station to market the yummiest cakes and cupcakes you've ever tasted. Seriously - if you're in the B/CS area, do yourself a favor and call Tamara for your next party or shower. Her baking is divine!

Congratulations to Tamara of The Cake Box of Bryan/College Station on officially opening the doors of her bakery. Not only can I attest that she makes fantastic cakes and cupcakes, but I'm lucky to call her sister-in-law!