For as long as I can remember I've been designing - even before I knew what designing was. From potato painting to sketches to exhibition stands - I’ve always found the creative process natural and rewarding.
As a child growing up in York I dreamt of becoming a scientist. This changed when a fear of machinery prompted me to study Graphic Design over Design Technology. Branding and prototyping an Alcopop made me realise I had found what I wanted to do with my life. Science would have to be a backup plan.
I studied Graphic Design further at college and university. I enjoyed broadening my skills and learning key design principles. During this time I gained a strong appreciation for the disciplines of typography and print.
After university I joined the coffee world working as an in-house designer for Coopers Coffee. Before this job I was happy drinking an instant coffee, nowadays my favourite brew is a nice single-origin brewed with a V60 pourover. Yes, unfortunately I have become a coffee snob!
Coopers really helped me to develop the professional skills that university doesn’t quite prepare you for. I learnt a lot about working with clients, managing my time, and co-ordinating with print companies.
In 2011 I moved from Yorkshire to London to join UCC Coffee (formally United Coffee). This gave me the opportunity to work on larger projects with a talented team and to broaden my skills further into web and other digital design.
I got to work with some really great clients on some fantastic projects. These range from the traditional graphic design routes such as packaging, branding and advertising; through to experience design for exhibitions and information architecture for software.
After 8 long years working in the coffee industry I decided it was time for a change. I wanted something new to get my teeth stuck into! I joined the team at Bubble T Cosmetics based in Highgate, North London. Bubble T Cosmetics has a range of exciting bath and body products based around the flavours of tea.
As fun as it was working in the fashion and cosmetics industry, an opportunity arose that I had to take. I now work in the marketing department at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, where everything I do in someway helps the charity. Being a brand champion, working on campaigns and helping other departments ideas come to life is amazing - and it is, of course, lovely to spend a lot of time with the dogs and cats.
While not working I have been renovating my flat with my partner. It is great to see my ideas for the rooms come to life - albeit very slowly. I also enjoy keeping fit, practicing the cosmopolitan sports of Yoga and Running. This is particularly helpful since I have a love of cheese!
If you'd like to get in touch with me you can email me, tweet me, or find me on LinkedIn.
Designers are meant to be loved, not to be understood.