Travel Bags

Ryan and I are traveling a bunch in the next couple months and I'm on the look out for a new carry-on bag / purse. The one I have now, is starting to fall apart, due to the fact that it's filled with my computer, books, etc. and the cheap straps can't handle the weight.

Here are a few that stood out while I was on the search!

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Brand Brief : Beautiful Isolations Photography

Here's a peek into a recent brand launch for Beautiful Isolations Photography. Sarah wanted something hand drawn, making it more personal, which I strongly agree with, so I hand drew her type and then created an abstract floral shape for the type to live on, to give an emphasis on nature. Her brand is vintage and timeless, often for brides with weddings full of DIY and vintage treasures. 

Gone!

Sorry to have been MIA for the past couple weeks. I spent the past week in Hawaii -- which was a really nice break from work and super relaxing! BUT now, I'm trying to get back into the swing of work (without being overwhelmed) and catching up on everything I've missed. 

I'll share more from our trip soon but stay tuned for a few big projects to be launched soon! 

For now, check out some of the trip on instagram. 

Spaces // Breanna Rose

For this week's Spaces feature, we're taking a look into designer and blogger, Breanna Rose's workspace and creative journey. Breanna has a killer blog and some really great design skills. I recently was able to meet and hang out with her at the Design Life retreat and she's so sweet! Be sure to read all about her and check out her perfect space, then head over and check out her blog!

Tell us about yourself as a creative.

I'm a freelance graphic + web designer living and working in Minneapolis. I have a simple yet quirky personality, which I think parallels nicely with my design aesthetics. I've always wanted to work for myself and am so thankful my dream is becoming a reality! It's a constant challenge, but I can't wait to see where this adventure takes me.

Describe your creative journey.

My creative journey began at the young age of three when I would gather my family around and tell really intense stories, the most infamous being about a "BIG. BROWN. BEAR." I was all about creating a picture and sharing it with others. That part of me never really changed, but I went through spurts of wanting to work towards a career in nursing or music business instead. Two weeks before college started, I had an epiphany ( or panic attack ) wondering why I wasn't working towards something I loved ... art & design. I switched schools, packed up my art supplies, and the rest is history! I couldn't be happier.

Share a little bit about your space.

At the end of this summer, my boyfriend of 5 years and I finally moved into an apartment in Minneapolis. With white walls and a gorgeous view of the Mississippi River, I knew it was a place I could be inspired by. I live and work in this space, which can be hard at times, but I made sure that I created a work environment that was bright & refreshing. I get great light and am super close to the fridge. Perks! 

What's your favorite thing about your space?

I think my most favorite thing about my work space is the fact that I feel 100% comfortable there. I've been in other working situations where I didn't necessarily feel inspired or free. I enjoy that I can work however I please in whatever way is best on a given day. Whether that means blasting 90's boy band music or designing with the balcony doors wide open, I can pick and choose what feels right.

What'd one thing you think every creative needs in their space?

This kind of goes with my response to the last question, but I just think every creative needs to make themselves feel comfortable with their space. Whatever that may mean for you, make sure it happens. For me, I need daylight, plants, music, and plenty of snacks! Do your thing.

Thanks so much Bre!

Follow her: Blog | Website | Twitter

Jenny Pennywood

Feeling really inspired by these beautiful, raw patterns by Jenny Pennywood. Head over and check out the rest of her work. It's all, really stunning.

Design Journey

I'm over at Waterfall Creative today sharing my Design Journey! Joanna's newest blog feature that I'm really excited about, that features various designers and how they entered the design world. I can't wait to see who she features next.

AND I'm also over at Amy Moore Studio, sharing my Objets de Valeur, pop over and check that out too.

Spaces // Jennifer Chong

I'm so excited to share another exciting Spaces features with you! This week's workspace features designer and photographer, Jennifer Chong. Jennifer's blog and portfolio, is chalk full of beautifully curated images and tons of images of her own. A lot of her photography consists of really amazing food photography. She makes everything she takes photos of look so so delicious! And I'm in love with her home/space. Just check it out yourself!

Tell us about yourself as a creative.

Hi! I am a graphic designer and photographer living in Long Beach, CA.  I spend most of my days designing for big corporate events but lately I have also been photographing yummy things to eat! I also started my blog in 2008 as a creative outlet as a place for me to share some tidbits into my life and things that inspire me.

Describe your creative journey.

I’ve always loved being creative and hands on. I originally  wanted to be a pastry chef (well actually just design and decorate cakes all day long). I even took a summer course at a culinary school but I quickly realized that in order to decorate cakes I also had to do lots of other things that I wasn’t interested in at the time. Photography was also a big passion of mine but I was afraid that I was entering a tough market that i didn't quite know how to navigate. I ultimately chose to pursue graphic design as a more practical degree where I would still be able to utilize my photography skills. Thinking back on it – I stumbled upon design but it was something I became immensely passionate about. 

However my love for food and photography have always been on my mind. This year I’ve been in a big transitional period for myself. I am moving away from spending the majority of my days designing to pursuing more food photography projects. I hope that one day I will be able to travel the world and document tasty eats for all to see.

Share a little bit about your space.

I live in a small one bedroom apartment with only so much space, so I knew when I moved in that my ‘living room’ would really need to function as a studio where I didn’t feel confined to a tiny desk. As I continue to spend more time working from home the space will likely evolve based on my creative needs – but I love how its turned out so far.

What's your favorite thing about your space?

Definitely the light. The way the light shines into this room during the day is so beautiful. It keeps me going and makes me feel like I’m even working outside sometimes. 

What's one thing you think every creative needs in their space?

Natural light! I hate feeling as though I am sitting in a basement or  under a bunch of fluorescent lighting – some natural light always makes me feel a lot happier and inspired. 

Thanks so much Jennifer!

Find her: Design | Photography | Blog | Twitter

Top - Notch Type : #22

For this week's Top - Notch, we're sharing our favorite Palm Springs Color palates. Hop over to Emmadime to read more!

Design Life

Back from the retreat this weekend and I'm feeling really inspired by these crazy talented women. I've spent some time getting to know a lot of them over emails and twitter but it was great to finally meet them and connect in real life in a relaxed and fun way. They all have so much talent and knowledge that was really encouraging. 

Surround yourself with people that will lift you up, encourage you and teach you new things. Running a business can be hard, but when you have women like this to consult with it makes it a little easier!