About

Who am I?

My name is Gary Crilley. I started my first graphic design business in 1990 and have been building websites since 2004. Today, as DesignWarrior, I help small businesses and entrepreneurs get ahead with eye-catching brands, visuals, print material and websites.

Professional Experience

I've worked in agencies, in corporations and as an independent freelancer. I was production and design manager for five newspapers, including the Cook Strait News, Kapi-Mana News and Kapiti News, as well as several magazines. From 2002 to 2004 I taught graphic design at Natcoll (now Yoobee) in Wellington, and I've run evening classes in Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Freehand and Dreamweaver.

Writing and Online Presence

I am the author of seven books (to date):

• Learn Computer Graphics & Digital Illustration (2004, ISBN 9780476005198, out of print)
• The Logo Handbook (2007, ISBN 9780958259477, out of print)
• 25 Essential Photoshop Moves (2008, ISBN 9780958259408, out of print)
• Get a job in design (2008, ISBN 9780958259422, out of print)
• Graphic Design Secrets (2008, ISBN 9780958259415, out of print)
• ‍Weekend Warriors, a trail running book (2023 ISBN 9780473583743, available now)
• ‍The Lawnmower Man, a novel (2026 ISBN 9781067309503, available now)

There is a book on Fastpacking coming, to follow up the trail running manual. And sequels to The Lawnmowing Man... soon.

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One Source for Creative Solutions

I bring a broad range of experience to the table—a true jack-of-all-trades whose skills have been honed over many years in the industry. While today's market favours specialisation, sometimes it's more efficient to keep all your marketing media output in one place. With me, you get a single, reliable source for all your creative needs: a project manager with one phone number and email address. And if you need something beyond my skill set, I have the contacts to get what you want.

End-to-End Branding and Design

My skills span the full range of branding and design. I can brand your business, craft a memorable logo, and create eye-catching brochures and point-of-sale materials. From designing product packaging and signage for your premises to producing vehicle wraps, I ensure your brand is consistently represented across all platforms.

Digital and Marketing Expertise

Alongside traditional design work, I can develop your website, write compelling marketing copy, and produce an engaging launch video. Whether you need a memorable slogan for your staff T-shirts or distinctive animations to help your website stand out from competitors, I offer cohesive support throughout your business’s creative journey.

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Personal Life

A husband, father and grandfather, my extracurricular activities include writing, mountain biking and trail running. Especially trail running. I've combined two disparate hobbies by writing a book on trail running. My photos may reflect this, as an image of a man sitting at a computer is nothing to write home about.

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