A Bit About Me
My Story
Hi, I’m Laurel! I’m a “third-culture kid” who grew up in both the U.S. and South Africa. Growing up in different cultural contexts has helped me to develop strong empathy and communication skills, which are useful in my web design business and in day-to-day life!
I met my spouse in university, and we’ve been together since 2011. We’ve lived in South Korea, the U.S., Thailand, and Georgia together–it’s been a wild ride!
We’ve been located in Tbilisi, Georgia (the Eastern European country, not the U.S. state) since 2019. Georgia’s ancient history, hospitable culture, breath-taking mountains, and amazing food make it well worth a visit (and maybe you’ll end up staying, like we did!).
I was a teacher for 7 years, and I thought that was my career trajectory for the rest of my life. I even got a Master’s in Education, which gave me valuable skills in research and educational psychology. But I was feeling stressed and unfulfilled. I stumbled into web design, and I was struck by how much of the educational psychology I had learned translated into user experience psychology.
In 2022 I went through a 9-month intensive, project-based UI design course through CareerFoundry to ensure that I had a solid foundation in design, and I have been designing websites and web apps for clients ever since! I love bringing my clients’ visions to life on the web and helping their businesses succeed.
Certification
Before beginning my web design business, I completed a 9-month intensive, project-based UI (user interface) design course through CareerFoundry, a well-recognised online school.
Throughout the course, I learned and applied principles for designing functional and aesthetically pleasing websites, web apps, and mobile apps with a user-centred approach. The training and feedback that I received were invaluable as I transitioned into web design!
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Key Values
Empathy
In order to design a successful user interface, whether it be a simple website landing page or a complex web app, we first need to consider the needs of the people who will use it. By solving real problems for people, your business will experience success (and make the world a better place)!
Collaboration
We’re in this together! I want my designs to accurately reflect your vision, so I always start by listening to your specific needs, and I’ll keep you updated at every step of the process.
Accessibility
Up to 27% of people have some form of disability. Designing websites that everyone can use is the right thing to do, and it also helps you avoid missing out on potential customers. Even more, accessible design is just good design!