Hi everyone! I'm working to build my freelance graphic design business.

BACKGROUND
I used to be in advertising so have background in client service, media, marketing, consumer understanding and branding. This is helpful and certainly informs my professionalism and presentation and all that. But I needed to finally pursue the creative end of things and went back to school for a degree in graphic design. I did my degree remotely as I was moving a lot, graduated in 2013, had a kid, moved two more times, and am now settled again (w/ the kid in part-time school) and *finally* able to really get this design thing going. 

Right now I freelance for small businesses and non-profits, mostly logos and print work (invitations, collateral, layouts).

I love the *idea* of freelancing - the flexibility, ability to choose my work, etc., but there are two things I'm also seeking and don't know how to achieve:

1. Experience working with/ around other designers to grow and learn from them
2. I love working with my hands and making things and would love to incorporate activities like that into my work, however as a generalist I just have *some* skill in a wide range of areas. (I probably need to choose one or two skill(s) I want to grow and focus on those... but it's so hard to focus!)

WHAT AM I GOOD AT?
Design (logos/identity, print, typography), research, editing, writing, finding solutions to everyday problems (Martha Stewart/Macgyver-style), all sorts of arts & crafts, learning new things

HOW DO I WANT TO SPEND MY DAYS?
Flexibility to incrporate exercise / dance and an errand or two if needed
Designing and making stuff (computer and hands-on)
Mostly working alone, but open to co-working / mentor situations
Done by late-afternoon so I can have some time w/ my daughter
Not *having* to work in the evening, but doing "fun work" if I choose

WHAT DO I WANT TO PRODUCE?
Effective design, writing, homemade things, art

HOW WILL OTHERS BENEFIT?
They'll receive unique, considered design from a friendly, professional person with a rich communications background. They could also receive some light copywriting and custom art (photography, illustration, lettering).

HOW WILL I MAKE PEOPLE AWARE?
My website (which I plan to revise to include recent freelance work, and maybe rebrand myself altogether)
Also: Instagram, Facebook, a blog, Twitter, Dribble, Behance, Pinterest, WOM