We are constantly looking for inspiration and finding it all around us! From shells collected on the beach, to flowers and foliage found on a hike. This is the first in a series of ‘Inspired by’ posts where we interview people who inspire us and get a peek into what inspires them…
Meet our lovely friend Graham. Graham is a talented photographer and designer and is such a pleasure to be around. She has a great energy about her; we always have too much fun when she comes to our photo shoots! She answered a few questions for us and you can get to know her a little better in the interview below. You need to follow her on instagram. And tumblr.
Do you have a dog? What kind?
We have several German Shorthair Pointers… Mister, Maggie and Mezi. Years ago we bred our male, Cooper, with our female, Maggie and we had a liter of four amazing German Shorthairs. Mister is from that litter and the rest of the pups are like extended dog family.
[Mezi, photographed below, is a Stray Dog Designs jewelry model.]
What is your favorite room in the house/apartment/yurt where you grew up?
My parents renovated the attic when I was in 9th grade and that became my bedroom. It was the first time that I was able to make major decisions about my own space. It was white from floor to ceiling. My style has changed a lot since then, but my love of white spaces has remained.
[Below is the sitting area in Graham’s bedroom. You can check out Graham’s house
here.]
What is your favorite room in your space now?
The hammock that we just installed in my studio upstairs. It’s the perfect cozy spot to read/nap and it’s next to a roll out window.
What is your favorite thing to design?
I really love branding for small businesses and creatives. Being able to help create a cohesive brand experience brings me a lot of joy.
Who is your favorite artist?
I’m always moved by the work of Rodney Smith. His film photographs are timeless, clever, dreamy and always tell a story.
[Graham’s photos are also dreamy…see below.]
What is your zodiac sign? Do you read your horoscope?
I’m an Aquarius. I get most of my cosmic/energy updates from my best friend Kathy. She’s tuned in.
What was your first job?
Cashier at my Uncle Chuck’s restaurant, Cheeseburger Charley’s. I was in it for the free food.
What led you to a freelance career in Graphic Design & Photography?
In grade school I puff painted everything I owned, so I think my parents were pretty tuned in to my creative desires. My mom recommended that I look into graphic design and our family tree is littered with photographers. After a few years as a Creative Director in the agency world, I decided to step out on my own and focus on freelance branding & photography.
What decorative accessory do you love to work with the most?
Plants!!
What are you reading right now?
“Made to Stick” by Chip & Dan Heath. Plus a plethora of publications… Food & Wine, Bon Apetit, Living Etc, PDN, Elle.
What is your favorite part of the job?
I will never tire of meeting insanely talented & unique people.
And the free food.
