Taylor Roy
Independent Print / Web / Brand Designer
San Francisco, CA
www.taylorjaneroy.com
instagram @tayjroy
dribbble
behance
linkedin
Q What do you do?
“In short: organize. I organize a page, words, systems, visuals, content, and messaging—to pull together a clear story with visual and logical hierarchy.”
Whether that be on the screen or a tangible item, I enjoy working across a variety of mediums for clients ranging from consumer goods, tech startups, and larger corps + non-profits.
As an independent designer, I offer brand, web, book, and packaging design services.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I have a varied design background spanning the physical and digital, out-of and in-house, and on my own. It all probably dates back to my scrapbooking and high school yearbook committee days, but my career started as a Design Fellow at Chronicle Books. I then moved to an in-house brand team, before spending time at full-service design agencies, then freelance. I also have the foundation of a B.A. in Design with a Writing minor.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I think being a left-brained creative has served me well. I’m methodical, tediously observant, and motivated by problem-solving. I often can’t resist a deep dive into any new market vertical, process, or platform I’m introduced to. Even so, I’d consider myself a swirl cone of both serious and silly.
Q What are you working on right now?
Wrapping up brand refresh guidelines, a new brand identity, a children’s book, and a website—phew—and looking to fill my calendar for the rest of the year! I finally got around to launching my new portfolio site (taylorjaneroy.com), so I’m working on updating that with case studies. And in the personal realm, creating my latest “book reports” to share what I’ve been reading on Instagram.
Q What’s your style?
I’m more inspired by the timeless than trends, though being of-the-moment has its moments (looking at you: arch photo crops, and condensed serifs—fit more text with style?!). I strive for thoughtfulness and purpose in establishing a style for each project.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I always love a chance to return to my first love: book design. To me, it’s such a classic expression of functional and beautiful design. On the flipside, I’ve really enjoyed translating that craft to websites—where creative decisions aren’t permanent!
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Having to constantly clear out space on my computer (Too stubborn/scared to automate this haha).
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Hmm, I actually like the mix of day-to-day tasks that come with managing my business: the mundane admin work or file exports feel like a nice brain break. But I would certainly love to have a reliable person on call to point at the screen and tell me Which One Looks Better, and/or decide if It's Done yet.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
Don’t doubt, you have the expert knowledge to offer! That “fake it ‘til you make it” advice is not just something I’m only hearing, a lot of people live by it. I would come to find out those who seemed superior in their expertise, knew just about as much as me. Not a dig at those people, I just wish I pieced together sooner that I have a lot of value to offer and confidence is key.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
Financial planning lol. Also, brand/product naming sounds so fun and I’d love to get the rundown and pointers on that process.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’m generally open to any industry or deliverables. Aside from the type of projects I’ve already mentioned…top of my list would be to collaborate on something in the hospitality industry, or food/beauty packaging.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
I particularly enjoy working with those who share a commitment to clear goals or results and are looking for a more comprehensive collaboration beyond a handful of one-off assets.
Q: What is your rate?
As a starting point, projects I take on are typically not smaller than $3k, unless it’s a returning/ongoing client, or occasional exception.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
To get moving quickly, fill out my inquiry form! Otherwise, happy to chat via email, shoot me a message!
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Freelancers, baby! Every single one of ‘em (like @channinfulton, @alexandra__creative, @jessicastrelioff, @yourbuddymeg, @oliviaherrickdesign, or small studio @shoppetheory). Building a dream team > agency mark-up, IMHO.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Collecting: Ephemera, skills, photos, experiences, and memories.
This member profile was originally published in March 2022.