BOOK A 15-MINUTE BRAND DIAGNOSTIC

Services Portfolio About Blog Contact
FOR DESIGNERS

I help designers build real businesses, without losing the heart behind why they started.

APPLY NOW ABOUT MENTORING

I work with a limited number of designers each month. Register your interest and I'll be in touch.

Complimentary Introductory Diagnostic Session included. Full refund if it’s not the right fit.

Most studio owners didn’t set out to become business owners.

They set out to create, inspire, and share their love of design.

 

   RUNNING A DESIGN STUDIO MEANS NAVIGATING:   

 

PRICING & PROFITABILITY

 

 

MARKETING THAT WORKS

 

 

SYSTEMS & PROCEDURES

 

 

LEADERSHIP & GROWING

 

 
The Design Mentor was created to bridge that gap. 

I help design studio owners move out of overwhelm and into clarity—so they can run their studio to be financially healthy, well-led, and aligned with the lives they want to live.

Melissa Horvat Graphic Designer Newcastle
NICE TO MEET YOU, I'M MELISSA...

I'm a design studio owner for over 17 years, branding expert and designer.

You've entered my world because you're looking for support to build your design studio, or would like to start a studio. 

The Design Mentor was built from a a bold but necessary idea: the design industry has evolved, and so have the challenges studio owners face.

Let me introduce myself.

I'm Melissa, Director of Graphika and Designer with over 29 years. In 2009, Graphika was born to create a work-life balance for me and my family. Seventeen years later, it is an award-winning agency that has worked with hundreds of small and medium businesses, government departments, and corporates including The United Nations and Paralympics Australia.

My mission is to share my experience and help you grow your design studio into one that serves you and your life, with a comprehensive approach to studio ownership—one that addresses leadership, systems, growth, and long-term sustainability.

FEATURED, SEEN OR HEARD IN:

APPLY NOW ABOUT MENTORING

I work with a limited number of designers each month. Register your interest and I'll be in touch.

Complimentary Introductory Diagnostic Session included. Full refund if it’s not the right fit.

Melissa is the ultimate professional! Exceptional in all things marketing and graphic design with multiple years experience. 

Casey

With nearly three decades of experience, Melissa understands how to translate your expertise into a brand presence that builds trust and authority.

Suzi