Describing what you want your finished product to look like can be a lot harder than it sounds. Here are some tips to get the best design for your money. Whether you're starting from scratch or you have an idea in mind, run through this list to help the designer get it right the first time.
Provide demographics and interests of your target audience such as: age, gender, interests, lifestyles, values, etc.
What will the finished product be?
Do your research and be specific about your needs.
"I need to sell businesses on the idea of hiring me to plan entertainment for their events." That's clear and specific about both the product and the audience. The more detailed and specific you are at the start, the better the designer can tailor the product to meet your needs.
Make sure your message and content are clear. If you have any text electronically, provide it.
Do you have any images or sketches that might be helpful?
Give the designer something that shows a style you like; specific artwork, colors, fonts, etc. Browse the internet, look at magazines or the newspaper. Sketch out artwork and text placement on a piece of paper.
Tell the designer what is required, but also let them know where they're free to be creative.
The more specific you are up front in every area, the less time your project will take to create, saving you money!