If we're doing a round of #truththursdays here, I must admit I haven't always been the designer I want to be. One of my big mistakes : working harder, not smarter.

It's just one of the many things I've effed up since I started freelancing for myself more than a year ago ( another post I plan on writing soon ). I'm constantly making mistakes and learning from them. One of the best things I can do through that process is be my own best friend and strive try to do better next time. Which is why I've been buying blood orange sorbet ( check on self-BFF status! ), and working towards building a better design process workflow for my clients.

One simple way I have started to do this is with moodboards.

Moodboards are an easy beginning step in the relationship between designer + client to ensure both parties are on the same page. It's a small collection of images, typography, color and other inspiration that sets the tone for the branding or project at hand. The designer shows the client they get what he/she is looking for, and the client is reassured the designer understands their aesthetic. It can go a long way in ameliorating conflicts down the line.

This moodboard is for a current client of mine—two sisters passionate about bringing all-natural skin care + beauty products to the masses. The look is equal parts organic, modern + cool. And I'm happy to report they loved the moodboard + wanted it printed out for their wall ( me too! ).

So what did we learn today, kids? Smarter, not harder. Be your own BFF. Moodboards...always moodboards.