Hey Lovely!

I want to talk about something that isn’t always the most exciting part of running a design business—but it might be one of the most important.

Contracts.

Before we go any further, I’ll say this clearly: I’m not a lawyer. This isn’t legal advice. But it is real-life, lived experience from being in this industry and supporting designers through the messy, complicated, and sometimes stressful side of business.

And here’s what I want you to hear:

Do not skip your contract. Not even once.

Not because the client was a referral.
Not because they seem “so nice.”
Not because it’s a small project and you think, I’ll be in and out of there in no time.

This is exactly where things start to unravel.

It’s easy to soften your approach when something feels casual or comfortable. To think you can “keep it simple” or “not make it a big deal.” But your contract isn’t about making things complicated; it’s about making things clear.

Clear expectations.
Clear boundaries.
Clear protection for both of you.

Your contract sets the tone from the very beginning. It communicates that you are a professional, running a business with structure, intention, and standards.

Because you’re not just “helping pick a few things.”
You’re not casually suggesting paint colors.

You are managing timelines, budgets, decisions, emotions, expectations, and outcomes.

That’s not a hobby. That’s a business.

And it deserves to be treated like one.

I’ve seen what happens when this step is skipped or when a shortened, “lighter” version of a contract is used instead.

Everything feels fine… until it doesn’t.

And then suddenly, there’s confusion. Misaligned expectations. Disagreements about scope, payment, or responsibility. And in the worst cases; letters, mediation, or even litigation.

That’s not meant to scare you. It’s meant to ground you.

Because when that moment comes, your contract is what you fall back on. It’s the thing that supports you when things feel uncertain.

Without it or with something incomplete; you’re left exposed in a way that’s incredibly difficult to navigate.

So this is me encouraging you to be firm on this one.

Not rigid. Not cold. Just clear and consistent.

Your contract is not something you “sometimes” use depending on the situation. It’s part of your process. Every time.

No exceptions.

Because the right clients; the ones you actually want to work with; will respect it. In fact, it builds trust.

It shows them that you take your work seriously, and that you’re prepared to guide the project in a professional, thoughtful way.

And that’s exactly the kind of experience they’re looking for.

Tips, Tools & Takeaways for Designers

3 Quick Reminders This Week: ✅ Your contract protects both you and your client A strong contract isn’t one-sided; it creates clarity and alignment for everyone involved, so expectations are understood from the start and misunderstandings are reduced along the way. ✅ Consistency builds trust and professionalism Using your contract every time signals that your business runs with structure and integrity. It builds confidence with clients and reinforces that you take your work seriously. ✅ Small project” energy can still lead to big problems Even the simplest projects can become complicated quickly when expectations aren’t clearly defined. The size of the job doesn’t reduce the importance of protecting your work.

3 Things Your Contract Should Clearly Cover 📌 Separation of roles and liability– Be very clear that you are not acting as a contractor. You are not responsible or liable for the work, timelines, or performance of contractors or consultants involved in the project. Your client enters into separate contracts directly with those professionals, and those relationships sit outside of your agreement. 📌 Jurisdiction and mediation location​ Clearly define where any mediation or legal proceedings will take place (your county, city, and province/state). This ensures your agreement is governed by your local jurisdiction, even if your client is located elsewhere. 📌 Professional conduct and reputation protection Consider including a non-disparagement clause that outlines expectations around public statements and professional conduct. While enforcement can vary, it sets a clear standard and reminds clients that they remain bound by the terms of your agreement.

1 Question for You 🤔 Where in your process are you softening your boundaries and what would it look like to hold them instead? Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to offer support! Or send me a question and I'll answer it in next week's newsletter!

Want More Support?

I’d love to invite you to join my Spring Webinar Series for Designers.

These are free, live sessions designed to support you in building more confidence in your leadership and a clearer understanding of your business finances without overwhelm or fluff.

We’ll keep things practical, conversational, and grounded in real experience, with space for your questions throughout.

👉 Save your spot for one or both sessions here.

I’d love to see you there. 💛

Warmly,​
Marsha