Q&A with a graphic designer

Jimmy Cunliffe is a local graphic designer and owner of Morsel Design. We spoke to him about his passion for the industry and how he balances life as a parent to two young kids and as an entrepreneur.

Tell us about your business.

Morsel is a new graphic design studio based in Stanwell Park. We specialise in branding and packaging for food and drinks, but we can help businesses of all sizes across all sectors with any graphic design needs.

Technology has made it a lot easier to work with clients around Australia, or even globally. I still believe, however, that it’s best to discuss challenges and present solutions to clients in person as the most effective design work comes through close collaboration. My goal for Morsel is to provide a design service for clients in the Wollongong region, who I can meet in person and form long-lasting creative partnerships with.

What made you want to start this business?

I’d been working as a graphic designer for other agencies in Sydney for over 15 years, but there had always been a desire to take creative control of the projects I worked on. I saw it as the next stage in my career; to take complete responsibility and put my skills and experience to the test.

We’re also raising two children, (Heath, two years, and Neve, two months), and the realities of parenthood, needing a job with flexibility, and wanting a better work-life balance meant it was the right time to start my own business.

What do you love about your job?

I’ve always loved graphic design. Every project presents unique challenges, and it is incredibly satisfying creating visual solutions.

I still enjoy seeing brands I’ve worked on out in the real world, such as the Kirks brand of soft drinks, which I was able to redesign a few years ago. I remember the brand from when I was young, and now when I see kids with a can of Kirks it gives me a buzz.

Since starting Morsel, I’ve found it incredibly rewarding being my own boss, and the flexibility has meant more time with the kids, less time commuting (saving 20 hours a week!) and the ability to sneak out for a weekday surf.

What's the best advice you were given as a parent?

I think it was my Dad who said, “enjoy the journey as best you can”. To me, that means getting the work-life balance right so I can enjoy time with my family now. There will always be financial realities to face, however, working long hours for big bucks is an illusion that stops you from enjoying the everyday.

And as challenging and mind-numbingly repetitive as parenting can be, it is also incredibly rewarding being close and watching the kids grow and develop. It is something I’m incredibly grateful for.

For more information about Morsel Design, contact Jimmy Cunliffe via his website or jimmy@morseldesign.com.au