Any graphic designers out there?

[madskye]

I am a marketing/sales person and I've been doing more design in my job lately--sell sheets and small brochures and a website on a template. Are there any books or courses you can recommend about basic design principles? I try not to use too many bells and whistles so things don't look tacky--but I need a manual or something that could help me figure out downloading better fonts and what the basic layout of things should be. Any advice?

[BettinaAuSucre]

When i have designed things in the past, depending on the project, i find simplicity is key. I am not talking nihilistic or even minimalist.

More, less is more. The favorite and most useful program i used is Photoshop. If you can find a discounted price, because it does tend to be pricey, it is an indispensable tool.

i never went to school for graphic design though, but its been through my personal experience ive learned that you should trust your own instincts and listen carefully, or think carefully about your wants and what your intentions are.