About me

I’m Paul Grier, a freelance digital and print designer with a career spanning over two decades of commercial experience. Since 2001, I have been helping businesses—ranging from ambitious startups to global enterprises—thrive through effective design, technical innovation, and strategic collaboration. My journey began in the fast-paced creative hubs of London, where I spent years working within high-end agencies specialising in real estate marketing and SME growth.

In 2018, I made the transition to becoming a sole trader, establishing my own studio in Brockley, London, before eventually relocating to the creative coastal community of St Leonards-on-Sea, Hastings. This move allowed me to bring “big agency” expertise to a more personal, freelance setting. Today, I serve a diverse client base across Hastings, London, Kent, and Essex, providing high-quality web design, branding, and graphic design for print.

Bespoke Web Design & WordPress Development

My primary expertise lies in website design and development. In an era where many “designers” simply install pre-made templates, I pride myself on delivering bespoke solutions. I am a specialist in WordPress development, but I don’t rely on “off-the-shelf” themes that slow down your site and limit your brand. Instead, I build custom, responsive WordPress themes and plugins from the ground up.

By focusing on clean CSS and HTML code, I ensure that every website I build is lightweight, fast-loading, and optimised for search engines (SEO). My approach to UX/UI design is centred on the user; a website must do more than just look good—it must be intuitive, accessible, and designed to convert visitors into loyal customers. Whether you need a simple landing page or a complex e-commerce platform using WooCommerce, my goal is to create a digital presence that is as functional as it is beautiful.

Graphic Design for Print: The Power of Tangible Branding

While the digital world is ever-expanding, I remain a firm believer in the power of graphic design for print. My background in agency work gave me deep experience in high-end print production, from luxury brochures and magazine layouts to large-scale exhibition banners.

I understand the technical nuances of print—colour profiles, paper stocks, and typography—that ensure your physical marketing materials reflect the same quality as your digital brand. Whether you are looking for professional brochure design, business cards, or outdoor advertising, I provide the creative direction and technical precision needed to make a lasting impression. In a cluttered digital landscape, a beautifully designed piece of print can often be the most memorable touchpoint for your brand.

Identity Design & Strategic Branding

A brand is more than just a logo; it is the unique “fingerprint” of your business. My identity design services are focused on helping companies define who they are and how they want to be perceived. I work closely with startups to create foundational branding, including custom logo design, colour palettes, and typography that set the tone for their entire business.

For established companies, I offer brand refreshes and the creation of comprehensive brand guidelines to ensure consistency across every platform. I’ve had the privilege of working with major names such as CBRE, JLL, Knight Frank, and Colliers International, as well as charitable organisations like the London Bus Museum. This experience has taught me how to scale design systems and maintain brand integrity across complex, multi-channel marketing campaigns.

Digital Services & Creative Marketing Assets

In addition to core web and print services, I provide a wide array of digital services designed to elevate your online marketing. This includes the creation of social media graphics, email marketing templates, and high-impact digital advertising. My goal is to provide a cohesive creative service that covers every aspect of your brand’s output.

I also specialise in Photoshop retouching and digital image manipulation, ensuring that your photography and visual assets are of the highest professional standard. By combining creative flair with technical skill, I help businesses communicate their message clearly and effectively, regardless of the medium.

Who I Work With: A Collaborative Approach

I believe that the best design comes from collaboration. I work with three main types of clients:

1. Startups: I help new businesses find their feet with affordable, high-impact branding and web launches.

2. Established Companies: I partner with businesses looking to modernise their digital presence or improve their current marketing materials.

3. Agencies: I frequently work as a “white label” freelance partner for creative agencies in London and Essex, providing reliable web development and design support to extend their internal team’s capabilities.

Why Choose a Freelance Specialist?

When you work with me, you aren’t paying for agency overheads or account managers. You are working directly with the designer and developer responsible for your project. This direct line of communication ensures that your vision is never lost in translation. Based in St Leonards-on-Sea, Hastings, I offer the perfect blend of professional agency-standard quality and the agility and personal touch of a dedicated freelancer.

If you are looking for a creative partner who is as invested in your business’s growth as you are, let’s connect. Whether you are in East Sussex, London, or further afield, I am ready to help you thrive through effective, professional design.