Aaron Neilson-Belman

UX & Brand Strategist

I help brands rethink their websites and messaging for enhanced user experience, engagement and conversions.

Means & methods

Since 2010 I have been working with clients and teams to help them strategically develop their messaging, products and websites. 


I utilize data analysis, user research, storytelling and design thinking combined with a robust knowledge of web best practices, SEO, emerging web trends, and UX principles, to accelerate company and brand growth. 

User & Brand Exploration Through

Ready to Redesign, Revamp, and Boost Conversions?

Notable brands I've worked with

Boston Scientific brand word mark
Bumbu Rum brand word mark
Canon brand word mark
Centier Bank brand word mark
Entrust brand word mark
Kohler brand word mark
Luc Belaire brand word mark
Molloy University word mark

Case Studies

Website redesign project, unifying three websites into one, showcasing riders, sponsors, and events while driving a 430% increase in community donations.

Conducted a UX/CRO audit and redesign, driving a 313% increase in click rates, higher engagement, and faster page load times.

Website redesign to streamline workflows, enhance user experience, and enable client autonomy for faster updates.

Let’s Enhance Your Brand!

About Me

Aaron working on his laptop.

A fascination
with exploration

leads to unique discoveries.

I was born in Toronto, Canada in the late 80s. I studied New Media at The University of Toronto.

 

After graduating in 2010, I took to the road, a freelancing digital nomad. My early career was largely focused on web design and development.

 

I later worked on several startups. In 2022 I teamed up with Brafton Inc. to lead web projects and provide UX and brand consulting services.

 

In 2024 I became certified by the Association of Registered Graphic Designers. I volunteer on their Experience Design Advisory Group.  

 

I have been volunteering with Bereaved Families of Ontario as a support group facilitator since 2021.

 

I’m a bicycle junkie. I find zen through gardening and yoga. I enjoy tinkering and exploring with my 1979 Volkswagen Bus.

 

Want to know more?

Get in touch

Connect

Feedback?

Have a question?

Interested in collaborating? 

 

Let’s connect! 

Association of Registered Graphic Designers logo

Association of
Registered Graphic Designers

What is an RGD?

The Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD) is Canada’s largest professional association for graphic designers. The association’s membership of more than 4,000 people includes firm owners, freelancers, managers, in-house designers, educators and students.

The RGD and Registered Graphic Designer designations are signals of quality and competence to the profession, public and government.

Successful candidates have met a rigorous set of standards that includes documented levels of relevant, professional education and experience as well as competence in the areas of business, design principles, research and ethics demonstrated through the successful completion of RGD’s certification process.

Why work with an RGD?

I am a qualified, experienced professional.
Registered Graphic Designers have successfully completed RGD’s Certification Process and have demonstrated their knowledge and abilities as professional graphic designers.

I am a problem-solver.
Registered Graphic Designers have the knowledge, experience and skills to assess and address a variety of challenges. They provide strategies and solutions that help companies, organizations and entrepreneurs to further their goals and objectives.

I am accountable.
Registered Graphic Designers engage with clients in professional, contractual agreements. They fulfill their commitments responsibly and work to the best of their ability to match or exceed expected project outcomes.

I am ethical.
Registered Graphic Designers are subject to and governed by the Association’s Rules of Professional Conduct. These rules serve as their guide for an ethical, professional graphic design practice, and details their responsibilities to clients, the profession, the government and the community.

I stay informed of developments and trends.
Registered Graphic Designers stay current by augmenting their knowledge – including new information on accessibility, consumer trends, demographics, research methods, production processes, advanced digital technologies and efficiencies. With this growing foundation, they constantly integrate best practices and tools into their work.

I am passionate about design.
Registered Graphic Designers understand that a strong and unified voice advances the practice of graphic design. They are committed professional members of the Association, and raise awareness of the important role and value that design brings to business, society and culture.

I can connect you with reliable industry suppliers.
Registered Graphic Designers access a network of suppliers, services and allied professions. They can assemble a team to execute simple or complex projects including illustrators and photographers, writers and translators, printers and product manufacturers, developers and social media strategists, to name a few.

Why ask for an RGD?
Untrained, unskilled individuals may offer “design services” but their lack of up-to-date knowledge, professional experience and ethical accountability could put your deadlines, budgets, project outcomes and reputation at risk.

How to choose a designer?
Before hiring any designer, review their experience and work samples, request and contact references and meet with candidates to discuss your project. Designers need to understand your strategic objectives and the goals of your project to determine the costs involved. Use the information provided by all candidates to choose a designer who is capable of meeting your needs. For greater assurance, choose an RGD.