Guest blogger and founder of Measuremake, Krista Goral, shares what design looks like as a startup. She shares her story and tips she has learned along the way to help you develop your brand on a startup budget.

Petite Sweet & Cupcakes & Co. is based in Dacula, Georgia. Owned by my sweet friend (and the girlfriend of my brother), Jennifer Bower, Petite Sweet creates delicious treats for every occasion. Seriously, just this week she created three beautiful “pull apart cakes” for participants in the New York Marathon!

Every entrepreneur has their go to tools that they use in order to keep business flowing and their sanity intact.

Of course I could go through a list of design programs (Adobe Creative Cloud) or stock photography sites, font must-haves and more, BUT I am talking about tools to help me run my business efficiently. You know, tools that EVERYBODY can use to help in the daily grind.  My tools are fabulous and free (well, most of them).

It’s pretty simple, unless you are a designer, you are going to want to hire a professional to develop your branding from day 1. I know, you’re all thinking, “of course the designer would say that.” I want to give you 5 of my top reasons for hiring out a professional designer that will help you later in business.

A Glimpse into Life as the Owner of the Savvy Peach

Being an entrepreneur is glamorous. Seriously. You make your own hours, work on the projects you want to and become a "lady who lunches" with her friends. Right?