[stevewillows]

As a designer I find the major hurdle of starting a business is the cost of development.

Also, if we are just starting out on our own, there's a chance that we aren't coming from a job that was paying the kind of money for a good base.

The assumption that I'm some sort of failed artist who 'fell back' to design is bullshit. I'm a creative and design is just one of a dozen outlets I have. I've had a soap company, a candle company, a line of various bath products, sold t-shirts, thrown parties, planned weddings, pressed 1" buttons, provided consultation and various marketing services for bands, wedding photography, product photography and more. My story is not unique for my people. :)