When Times Get Tough, Queer Creatives Get Louder

Heather O'Banion
Jun 23
3 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

A call to LGBTQ+ business owners: Let’s rise together—with design that defies the noise.

Right now, the LGBTQ+ community is facing a wave of challenges: from legislative attacks on our rights, to corporations pulling back support during Pride, to uncertainty around funding and visibility. But one thing hasn’t changed—our creativity, resilience, and ability to connect through truth.

As queer entrepreneurs, how we show up—visually, digitally, and strategically—matters now more than ever. You don’t just need pretty branding. You need work that represents you, builds trust, and rallies your people.

Here’s how design can be your voice, your resistance, and your growth strategy, depending on your industry:

Personal Services (Therapists, Coaches, Wellness Pros)

What your audience needs now: Safety, compassion, clarity. Design touch points that help:

A calming, trauma-informed visual identity that signals "you're safe here"
A single-page site with language that meets clients at their pain points
SEO-ready service descriptions that make you discoverable without paid ads
Thoughtfully designed testimonial embeds to create trust without overselling

Let’s build a presence that says: “You’re not alone. Healing starts here.”

Hospitality & Food (Food Trucks, Vendors, Cafés)

What your audience needs now: Bold presence, community vibes, easy access. Design touch points that help:

A mobile-first site where your menu, location, and hours are front and center
A modern menu design (digital + print-ready) that makes you look as good as you taste
Social graphics to spotlight your events, pop-ups, or seasonal dishes
Google Maps and review integration to help locals (and allies) find you fast

Let’s feed your growth with visuals that draw crowds and celebrate pride all year.

Lifestyle & Experience (Yoga, Events, Trainers)

What your audience needs now: Connection, transformation, clarity of purpose. Design touch points that help:

A visually-driven website that invites visitors into your world
Branded lead magnets (free checklists, trial classes) to build your email list
Templates for Reels and Stories that energize your feed and save you time
Flyers or postcards that feel intentional—not templated—for in-person reach

Let’s create a presence that reflects your energy and aligns with your values.

Entertainment (Drag, DJs, Performers)

What your audience needs now: Visibility, joy, and ways to book you easily. Design touch points that help:

A branded promo kit with your bio, high-res images, and booking info
One-page portfolio websites that highlight your best performances and testimonials
Event flyers that stand out in a crowded feed and print beautifully too
Canva templates so you can stay DIY—without losing polish

Let’s turn your talent into a brand that gets noticed, booked, and celebrated.

✊ Why This Work Matters Now

This moment isn’t just about survival. It’s about building a future where we don’t have to shrink to stay safe. Where we get to grow—loud, proud, and together.

I know how hard it can be to run a business with limited time, resources, or support. I also know how powerful it is to have design that finally feels like you—and speaks directly to the people you want to serve.

🤝 Let’s Grow & Support Each Other, Together

Whether you need a full brand refresh, a one-page site to get started, or someone to help clarify your voice—I’ve got you. My first 3 clients in each industry receive discounted pricing so we can build momentum together.