Getting Started
Now that you have had the chance to browse through our site and see what we have to offer, its time to get started on YOUR new site! In order to ensure that everything runs smoothly, please read the instructions below. I have listed several items that YOU need to do before you submit your Project Request form.
IMPORTANT INFO
Under our "Important Info" tab you will find several items listed that really are important for you to read and understand prior to submitting your Project Request form. Please read these pages:
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Terms and Conditions
- Policies
BLOG INFORMATION
I am only working with Google's Blogger platform at this time. Blogger is completely free and the customizations that can be made to your blog are incredible. In addition, there are NO monthly hosting fees, no yearly domain fees (unless you choose to have your own domain name). Blogger gives you the option to purchase and register your very own domain name through them for just $10.00 per year. They continue to host all of your content absolutely free and you just pay the domain name fee of $10.00 once per year. If you choose to have your own domain name, please purchase and register your domain name before completing the Project Request form.
My Creative Muse (MCM) is not responsible for purchasing your domain name or the yearly charge thereafter.
You will need to have these three items in place before we can begin work on your project:
- A Google Gmail account (free)
- A Blogger.com account (free)
- A Photobucket account (free)
Additionally, you must have a working knowledge of how a Blogger blog works. If you are a novice and have never had a blog before, I highly recommend that you watch two informative videos from Blogger entitled the Quick Tour and the Video Tutorial. I can explain the items on our questionnaire and on our site, but if you also need assistance with learning how to use your blog, there will be an additional charge of $20.00 per hour for this service.
Your Site Concept
Everyone has a vision of some type of how they want their blog to look, to 'feel' to their readers. Do you have an idea for your site? Even if you are unsure, the best thing that you can do is browse our site and the internet to get an idea of how you want your site to look, any images you might need, how many columns you want for your layout, whether you want a top navigation bar or in your sidebar area, if you need pages setup, etc. As I stated, browse around the internet and make a note of at least three or four websites you like and the same amount that you don't like. This will help me immensely with understanding what you would like. These are required on the Project Questionnaire as well - so the sooner you get your list together, the sooner we can get started!
If you need help with choosing a color scheme for your blog - you can find an excellent selection of complimentary color schemes at ColorCombos.com. Just choose a popular color tag from the right sidebar listing and browse thru the multitude of different color palettes provided until you find just the one that 'speaks' to you and then just right click and save it to your desktop to send to me.
If you wish to use a particular scrap kit or graphic image please be certain that the terms of use allow for use on a website/blog design and that the scrap kits are Scrap 4 Hire permissible (which means that you have permission to purchase the scrap kit and have another individual design a website/blog layout for you with the kit).
Your Project Request
Once you have taken care of the above information to know what type of design you want, it is then time to complete the Project Request Form to contact me about getting your project started. Once we have discussed your pending project and settled any questions or concerns you may have, you will receive an invoice for our services. All of our payment terms are net10 (payment is due in full within 10 days of receipt of invoice) except for the Layaway Payment Plan which is available on all orders totaling $40.00 or more.
Once your payment is received, you will be sent a Project Questionnaire via e-mail. The Project Questionnaire is a highly detailed form that outlines every single item necessary to complete your blog design and layout to your specifications. Upon receipt of your payment, you will be placed on the Project Waiting List and given an estimated start date.
Ready to get started? Then fill out the Project Request form and let's get started!
MCM Design Packages
Blogs are extremely customizable to your personal preference. With Google's Blogger, you can customize your blog to look exactly the way you want, any time that you want! At this time, I am only working with Blogger and all of our design packages and Ready 2 Go Designs are based on the Blogger platform.
You must have a working knowledge of HOW a blog works. I can not teach you how to use and work your blog. Blogger has two excellent tutorials available to the novice blogger which I highly recommend. Once you have your blog set up, do lots of testing on your blog to see how it works. You can always go back and delete any posts you do not wish to keep. You can find the tutorials here - Blogger's Quick Tour and Video Tutorial.
There are three types of blog designs you may choose from, a 1 column, 2 column, and 3 column layout. The maximum width I will design a blog layout for is 1300px wide and the smallest width is 800px wide.
1 column layouts are a great way to showcase photographs, wallpapers, etc. when you want a minimalistic view but still want the ability to link to different pages without all the sidebar information cluttering up your space. You can see an example here.
2 column layouts are as shown in the diagram below. You can view an example of the left sidebar layout here and the right sidebar layout here.
3 column layouts that I provide are shown in the diagram below. You can view an example of the center post here and an example of the left post here.
You can find all of the various design packages we offer in our shop by clicking HERE.
Project Waiting List
All projects currently in line can be found here in the order in which they will be handled. Please note that dates are estimated, so please allow for changes as necessary. If your project cannot begin on the estimated start date listed, we will contact you via email and explain why. In addition, if we are able to start your project prior to your estimated start date, we will contact you via email and inform you.
To receive updates on the Project Waiting List, please subscribe to our blog.
Estimated Project Times
- R2G Blog Designs - 1-4 days
- R2G Facebook Timelines - 1-4 days
- Basic Blog - 1-2 weeks
- Deluxe Blog - 2 weeks
- Facebook, Widget, Graphics Packages - 1-6 days
- Mix & Match Bundles - 1-4 days
- Add-On Items - 1-2 days
Current Client Work List
These are clients who have made their payment and sent their completed MCM Questionnaire. Available dates shown are in two week increments to accommodate any deluxe blog design projects that are received. Dates will be adjusted accordingly.
| Status | Project Name | Est. Start Date | Completion |
| Current | Chickster Designz | 06/05 | 06/10 |
| Available | 06/10 | 06/16 | |
| Available | 06/17 | 06/23 | |
| Available | 06/24 | 06/30 |
Project Waiting List
Please note that in order to secure a position on the Project Waiting List, you must submit a Project Request Form. Once your form is received, you will be added to the Project Waiting List below, marked as "Pending" and sent the MCM Questionnaire to complete. Once you return the fully completed MCM Questionnaire, you will then be moved to the Current Client Work List and assigned the next available date.
| Status | Project Name | Est. Start Date | Completion |
| Hold | Anisah Hayes - Deluxe Blog Pkg | ||
| Hold | Aisha Holley - Deluxe Blog Pkg | ||
| Hold | Rie Bantang | ||
| Hold | Becky Wilson - Graphics Pkg |
Payment must be made in full before we will begin working on your project. If you are utilizing the MCM Layaway Plan, after your initial payment you will be added to the Project Waiting List to secure your position on the list.
Setting Up an Email Rule
Once we begin working on your design project, it is vitally important that you remain available once you are given a project start date on a daily basis. This enables us to remain on task and have any questions we may have answered in a timely manner. The best way to do this is to set up an email rule for our messages.
To ensure that you do not miss any messages from me when we begin working on your project, set your rule to search for all messages with the subject MCM Project (which is the subject line we will use for all communications with you) and have the rule set to mark all of these messages in red so that they are highly visible when arriving in your inbox.
Testimonials
Jenny's Designz - Deluxe Blog Package - June 3, 2012
Kimmi did an awesome job with everything! She did my blog, my Facebook timeline, and my Twitter background! I think it's the first time that they all match ... it looks so grown up!!! So thank you hunni, you know I love ya!
Sammi's Snags & Tags - Custom Graphics Package - April 30, 2012
A big thank you to Kimmi who made over my blog so awesomely! She was patient and accommodating throughout the process and I am super stoked with the result! I would recommend MCM if you are looking for a new look for your blog. She's great!
Empty Pocket Studios - Facebook Timeline Cover - April 22, 2012
Kim did a very awesome job on my company Facebook page with the design. I will tell you, appearance is everything. Before Kim had done the design, my page was not getting much attention. Within hours of the page being updated by Kim, it started to take off! If you need a facelift or even a face on your page or blog, contact Kim!
Brenda's Scrap Design - Background Graphic - April 20, 2012
I am so very pleased with the work Kimmi did for me on my blog. She is so very talented and professional! It is so nice when someone turns your blog into something you can be proud of. Anyone considering making a change to their blog or website should not hesitate when Kimmi makes it so easy for you.
Chickster Designz - Custom Basic Blog Package - December 15, 2011
I am delighted with the results that Kimmi produced on my very first blog. I didn't have a clue how to go about making one, but with Kimmi's expert and professional help and guidance, it was a breeze. I have received many glowing comments on my blog layout and would highly recommend Kimmi if anyone wants to start from scratch or update an existing blog.
Terminology
If you are a novice to blogging and blog design, sometimes the terms used can be a bit confusing. Listed below are some definitions of various terms that you will encounter in the blogging and blog design world.
2 Column Layout – Example A is a 2 column layout with the sidebar to the right of the post section and Example B is a 2 column layout with the sidebar to the left of the post section.
3 Column Layout – Example A is a 3 column layout with a sidebar to the left and to the right of the post section. Example B is a 3 column layout with both of the sidebars to the right of the post section.
Blog Pages – Additional blog pages can be added to your blog that contain information you wish to share with your readers but will not be changing on a daily basis. Some examples include a contact page, about me page, giveaway page or a blog roll page.Blogger Navigation Bar – the Blogger Navigation Bar is the bar you see at the very top of your screen when viewing a blog. It contains a search box, follow, share, report abuse, and next blog links in addition to showing if you are currently logged into Blogger, a new post link, a design link, and a sign out link to sign out from your Blogger account. The navigation bar comes in a variety of colors or a light transparency. This bar can be hidden from your blog if you do not wish to have it appear. [ example ]
Chat Box Widget – want to interact with your readers online? A Chat Box is a simple little program that you can add to your blog layout that allows you to send messages back and forth with your readers. Great tool if you want to host an online question and answer session or just receive feedback about a new product! [ example ]
Color Scheme – have a favorite color that you want to use for your blog? Find some complimentary additional colors to spice up your blog using Color Scheme Designer. You can choose different variations of your color scheme and send us the information directly!
Comment System Setup – prior to Blogger introducing the nested comments feature (where you can reply directly to a comment left on your blog) many people used programs such as Disqus, CommentLuv, LiveFyre or IntenseDebate.
Date and Time Widget – a handy widget which you can add to your blog to show readers what the current date and time are. Great to have if you operate a small business and want customers to know what the current time is for you locally so they know if you are open or closed. [ example ]
Email Signature (for Incredimail program) – do you wish that you had a small, custom email signature that you could use when responding to comments via email about your blog or contacting guest posters or giveaway winners? [ example ]
Favicon – a small 60x60 image that appears in the URL address bar and bookmarks next to your blog name and is representative of your blog [ example ]
Gadget/Widget – Blogger terms the little 'extras' that you can include on your blog in the sidebar section as a Gadget while other sites call them 'widgets' – either term is acceptable and are used interchangeablyGrab Button with Share Code – usually a non-animated button that readers can 'grab' from your site and place on their blog in a list of favorite sites [ example ]
Menu Navigation Bar – this is the bar that directs people to various posts or pages within your blog and is located either above your header graphic or below your header graphic. The amount of items you can link to the navigation bar depends on the title length and the size of the buttons. [ example ]
Post Links – links that allow your readers to share your blog post on Twitter, Google+, Facebook and Pinterest [ example ]
Post Signature – a miniature signature with your name and a design embellishment used to 'sign' each of your blog posts [ example ]
Sidebar – this is the column to the side of your blog posts where your widgets/gadgets are placed and other items to decorate your blog design [ example ]
Social Media Icons – social media icons are the little buttons that you place in your blog sidebar to direct readers to your other sites such as Twitter, Google, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. [ example ]FAQs
If you have never undergone a blog revision or this is your very first blog, things can seem pretty confusing and just a little daunting! Listed below in no specific order are some general facts and information to help answer some of questions you may have. As always, should you have a question you do not find answered here, please do not hesitate to contact me!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you have a waiting list?
A: Yes, I do have a waiting list. In order to secure a position on my Project Waiting List, you must submit a Project Request Form (unless you are purchasing any of our Ready 2 Go Designs, Ready 2 Go Facebook Timelines or Add-On items). Once payment in full is received for the Ready 2 Go items or the Add-On items, you will be added to the Project Waiting List. Blog Designs and our Mix & Match Bundles require a completed questionnaire which we will email to you upon receipt of your Project Request Form.
Q: Can you teach me how to blog?
A: I do offer technical assistance with questions you have regarding your blog at the rate of $20.00 per hour, however, you must have a working knowledge of how to use your blog. Blogger has a Quick Tour and a Video Tutorial that are informative and helpful for the novice blogger.
Q: How do I get in touch with you?
A: I prefer to communicate via e-mail and via messenger. This allows me to keep a record of our correspondence and since I work from home, it also protects the privacy and safety of my family. If there is an issue that just cannot be resolved via those methods, I will consider speaking directly when and if that issue arises.
Q: Do return customers receive a discount?
A: Of course! All clients who have purchased a design package from me in the past receive a 10% discount on their next purchase.
Q: Can I have a blog on my own website?
A: Yes you can! Blogger allows you to purchase your own domain name for only $10.00 per hear. You will have your own domain name (www.YourBlogName.com) and Blogger will continue to host all of your content completely free, but at your new address. Blogger also offers a redirect service (free) that informs readers that your blog URL has changed.
Q: Can you use an artist from one of the artist licensing companies for my blog design?
A: At this time, the only licensing company that allows for the use of their artist in commercial ventures is PicsForDesign via their RFillustrations site. The images shown on the RFillustrations site are the only permissible images allowed for contracted blog designs. I do not currently have a license for any of these images. If there is one that you would like for me to include in your design, I will purchase the royalty free license for that image and you will be assessed an additional charge of 20% of the total purchase price for the royalty free image if I do not already own that particular image.
I have several graphic and scrapkit designers that I deal with which you can find listed on my Resources page.
Q: How long will it take to finish my project?
A: A custom basic or deluxe blog package will require anywhere from 9 to 12 days to complete. We will always do our best to provide you with an estimated start and completion date upon receipt of your project request.
Q: Can I change or alter an element you created on my blog design at a later date?
A: No. You or another designer may not alter or change the design that I have created for you. It must be displayed and used in the manner it was created and delivered to you. If you no longer wish to use it, you may remove it from your site. If you do need a change at a later date to your design, please contact me! I will be happy to give you a quote and update your site. Remember, repeat customers receive a discount!
Q: What happens if my computer crashes and I lose the files for my design?
A: Please ensure that you copy all files that I send to you to a disk for safekeeping as soon as you receive the finished design package. I can not guarantee that I will retain a copy of all that I create for you on my hard drive. It is your responsibility once the completed project has been delivered to ensure their safekeeping and storage.
Q: Can you create a custom Incredimail letter for my blog as well?
A: Yes we can! If you use the Incredimail e-mail program, we can create a coordinated Incredimail (IMF) letter to match your blog design for use in sending out announcements, sales, updates, newsletters, etc. In addition, we also offer a custom e-mail signature for use with the Incredimail e-mail program that will include a small signature tag containing either your first name or your blog title with your choice of social media, email, and blog links underneath your name.
Q: Do you offer services other than what is listed on your site?
A: Yes! I am constantly learning new things but find it difficult to always include these in the service options. If you are looking for something in particular and cannot locate it under the Packages and Services, chances are I know how to do it. Just ask!
Q: Do you do blog designs for TypePad or WordPress?
A: At this time I am focusing my attentions to creating quality Blogger platform blogs only. In the future I may offer a service for WordPress and other platforms, but not at this time.
Q: Where do you get the cartoon illustrations you use in your designs?
A: I utilize images and illustrations in the custom headers that I design from places such as iStockphoto, RFillustrations and other commercial use sites. Some of these sites do charge for their illustrations, and the client will be charged a percentage of the total amount of an illustration purchase for their blog design.
Q: Why do you need my login information for my blog and other accounts?
A: I need your username and password for Blogger so that I am able to access and edit the html code within your account when installing your custom design. I also need this information to create any links, posts, pages, etc. within your account. If you are concerned with sharing your password – you can temporarily change it when you place your order while we are working on the design process – and then revert to your usual password once we are finished.
Q: What programs do you use to create your designs?
A: I use a variety of programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Corel Paintshop Pro, Artisteer, and more.
Q: Is the wait time the same for just a small a' la carte item as it is for a full custom design?
A: No. We can get smaller projects done more quickly and will fit you in between full custom work we are currently doing, usually within the week.