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When starting a new design project, there are steps to follow that will help you achieve the best results. Though the temptation is strong to jump right in and figure details out on the fly, precious resources in the form of time and money will be conserved by first researching your market. Knowing what you want to say, who you want to say it to and by what means you will convey the message are critical to success and can help your designer develop relevant artwork in the most efficient manner. After researching your market it is time to get a graphic designer involved. The list below is a typical outline of the design process.

• Contact is made via phone, email or a physical meeting. At this time general details of the project are reviewed such as deadlines, budget and background information.
• A proposal and contract are presented to the client. Upon approval and receipt of the signed contract work can begin.
• Second contact will be made to determine more specific information such as bottling line considerations, desired bottle types, preferred printers and vendors, etc.
• Design brainstorming begins. Designer will produce preliminary concepts. These concepts are usually rough and intended to establish a firm direction before investing too much time. Typically these ideas are presented in digital .pdf format but, in the case of fine art requests, can also be in the form of loose pencil sketches.
• Client feedback is requested and the design process continues until the client and designer agree on the final look. At this point tight specifications and hard copy comprehensives will be produced as agreed upon in the proposal.
• Production files are created based on the specifications of the target printer, bottling line or manufacturers requirements. In the case of wine labels, jpegs for TTB submission would typically be created at this time.
• Final files are proofed to the client and, upon sign-off, are submitted to the printer.
• The printer will produce color proofs and draw downs, as requested by the designer. These proofs will be reviewed by both client and designer for color approval prior to printing. The printer will also provide electronic proofs for the client to sign off.
• The job is ready for press. For first runs of new designs it is often helpful for both designer and client to be present on press as color decisions made at this point will set the standard for future runs.