I always strive to get on the same page as the client with regard to desired styles and color preferences and have a good understanding of their product/service and target audience before starting a design. I love it when I'm given Carte Blanche on projects like I was with this one!

There will be times when the designer's vision and that of the client's just don't jive... so it was bound to happen sooner or later. However, I must say I was REALLY surprised that it happened on this project. I was pretty darn confident I nailed the look & feel of Harp music with this design and was even feeling a little cocky about it when I sent the proof to the client. 

Turned out this design was too feminine and romantic looking for the client. Well, I still really dig it and think it's spot-on - BUT - I needed make the client happy. I was able to make a few adjustments toning down the romance and girly-ness and now the client couldn't be happier :-)

Here's what it looks like now >>