Ever felt like you're speaking a different language when talking to your church's graphic designer? You're not alone.

Clear communication is key to getting the visuals your church needs. Let's break down how to effectively work with your design team.

1. Start with a Clear Brief

Before you dive into the nitty-gritty, give your designer the big picture. What's the goal of this project? Who's it for? When do you need it? A clear brief saves time and prevents frustration on both sides.

2. Provide Specific Examples

"I'll know it when I see it" isn't helpful. Instead, show your designer examples of styles you like. This could be other churches' graphics, or even designs from outside the church world. Visual references speak louder than words.

3. Use the Right Lingo

You don't need to be a design expert, but knowing a few key terms can help. For instance, "serif" vs. "sans-serif" fonts, or the difference between RGB (for digital) and CMYK (for print) colors. A little knowledge goes a long way.

• Example Brief

  
  Hey designer!

  We're starting a new sermon series next month called "Make Room for More." It's all about making space in our lives and church for new people and growth.

  Here are some quick details and ideas:

  • Series Name: Make Room for More

  • Main Idea: Creating space (physically and spiritually) for new people in our church

  • Design Idea: I was thinking maybe we could use chairs as a visual metaphor for "making room”

  • Colors: Can we use our church's teal color?

  • Style: We want this to feel modern, clean, and inviting.

  Let me know if you need anything else from me. Thanks for your help with this!

Example Graphic Based on the Brief Above

4. Be Open to Ideas

Remember, your designer brings expertise to the table. If they suggest something different from your initial idea, hear them out. They might have insights that could make your project even better.

5. Give Constructive Feedback

When reviewing designs, be specific about what works and what doesn't. Instead of "I don't like it," try "The colors feel too bright for our fall theme." This helps your designer make targeted improvements.

6. Respect the Process

Good design takes time. Rushing your designer often leads to subpar results. Plan ahead and give them the space to be creative.

7. Show Appreciation

A little thanks goes a long way. When your designer nails it, let them know. Positive reinforcement builds a stronger working relationship.

Your graphic designer wants your church to look awesome just as much as you do! By communicating clearly, you're setting the stage for graphics that truly shine.

Need help with your church's design needs? Church Media Squad offers unlimited custom graphics created by designers who understand the unique needs of churches. Check out our plans and see how we can help your church save time and look awesome!