Privacy Policy

Who I Am

This Privacy Policy explains how Design by Maria collects and uses personal information when you visit this website, contact me, complete a questionnaire, request a brand audit or work with me on a design project.

Design by Maria is based in Aberdeen, Scotland. You can contact me at info@designbymaria.co.uk or by post at Suite 5, 72 Hutcheon Street, Aberdeen, AB25 3TB.

Information I Collect

I may collect and process the following information, depending on how you use the website or work with me:

• your name, business name, email address, phone number and contact details;
• information you send through contact forms, questionnaires, email or social media messages;
• project details, brand preferences, design feedback, website links, images, files and content you provide;
• invoice details, payment records and business administration information;
• basic technical information such as IP address, browser, device and website usage data where needed for security, hosting or website performance.

How I Use Your Information

I use personal information to:

• reply to enquiries and provide quotes;
• prepare design briefs, brand audits, logo design, branding, website design and social media graphics;
• manage projects, feedback, revisions, invoices and client communication;
• maintain website security and improve the website experience;
• meet legal, tax and accounting obligations.

Legal Bases For Processing

I process personal information under the lawful bases allowed by UK data protection law. This may include taking steps before entering into a contract, performing a contract with you, meeting legal obligations, legitimate interests in running and protecting my design business, and consent where this is required.

Who I Share Information With

I do not sell your personal information. I may share information only where necessary with trusted service providers such as website hosting, email, file storage, payment, accounting, printing, production or project-related suppliers. If your project involves third-party platforms such as hosting providers, domain registrars or social media platforms, their own privacy terms may also apply.

How Long I Keep Information

I keep personal information only for as long as needed. Enquiry information is normally kept for up to 24 months. Client project records and design files may be kept for support, portfolio, business and reference purposes. Financial records are normally kept for up to 6 years where required for tax and accounting.

Your Rights

Under UK data protection law, you may have the right to access, correct, delete, restrict or object to the use of your personal information. You may also have the right to data portability and to withdraw consent where processing is based on consent.

To make a request, email info@designbymaria.co.uk. You also have the right to complain to the Information Commissioner's Office at ico.org.uk.

Cookies And Website Data

This website may use essential technical cookies or hosting data needed for the site to work securely. If analytics, advertising cookies or tracking tools are added in the future, this policy will be updated and consent will be requested where required.

Security And Updates

I take reasonable steps to protect personal information, but no online service can be guaranteed to be completely secure. This Privacy Policy may be updated from time to time, and the latest version will always be available on this page.