Imbue Creative Studio

07/13/2024

🌹 Roses upon roses upon roses 🌹

When I went to San Jose, I didn't have access to a car. If you know anything about California, you know that it's a bit difficult getting around without a car. But I've never minded walking. I often find things that would have easily passed me by while driving; it's an opportunity to connect.

It was on one of these walks that I came across the Municipal Rose Garden. A sprawling ground of rows and rows with roses of all colors. I took off my shoes and walked through the grounds, allowing the grass to swim between my toes. I sat down on a bench and spent the rest of the afternoon here, appreciating the outdoor community space. A rude awakening when I returned back to NY.

So here's a palette inspired by that garden. I'll be returning to San Jose in a few weeks, and I'm hoping they'll still be some roses in the scorching heat.

07/06/2024

Just keep swimming.

I'm not sure why, but I've always enjoyed going to aquariums. There was a period of time where I actively sought them out whenever I traveled. I pop in my headphones, walk around, and say hi to some new friends. Ironically, I've been terrified of sharks since I was a kid, to the point where it's now become a running family joke. I often receive a shark toy on birthdays or at Christmas. My mum has a great sense of humour.

Maybe it's some kind of exposure therapy, a way for me to get close enough to see that they aren't the same as those devils in 'Deep Blue Sea'? Or maybe it's the silence that comes with being underwater that attracts me to these places. Who knows, but I often spend hours in there.

For those that don't know, the NY Aquarium is FREE on Wednesdays. Gotta reserve your tickets before, but there's a little NY tip for ya :)

06/26/2024

06/25/2024

Top tip for creating ads that connect with your audience 🤩

Stills from:
'Amarcord', dir. Federico Fellini (1973)

06/24/2024

When I first started freelancing, I didn't always understand the importance of setting boundaries with clients. I'd often add things to projects for free, answer emails at any time of day, unlimited edits...

It's through these experiences that I've learned the importance of saying no and understanding my own limitations. I started my own business to have a better work-life balance and work on terms I set for myself. Remember, YOU are worth advocating for as well!

06/22/2024

Before transitioning to freelance, I had a lot of hustles.

One of my favourite hustles is the work I've done as a scenic painter and creative assistant. I find painting to be deeply meditative, even if it is just creating woodgraining on doors or painting 1000s of tiles bright yellow. I wear the same clothes every time, and they've become a collection of memories for projects past. So here's a palette in homage to some of those projects.

06/20/2024

It's miiiiiind control!

Jk jk. To be honest, I really love working with ChatGPT as a brainstorming and research tool. The pressure of being creative all the time can be difficult, so using GPT to get the ball rolling is a HUGE help. Here are some examples:

1️⃣ Create an outline for a blog post about the top trends in [niche] industry for 2024.
2️⃣ Generate engaging Instagram captions for my design portfolio.
3️⃣ Outline a series of tweets to promote [blank] new product or service.
4️⃣ Please give three ideas for a LinkedIn post about the benefits of [insert your favorite strategy or tool].
5️⃣ Draft an email newsletter highlighting your latest design projects and client success stories.

It's important to remember that what GPT gives ya is not a final product - but what an amazing way to get started! Also, don't forget to say please and thank you to her. She's working hard :)

06/18/2024

Ever thought about what movie would represent your brand? 🎬

Identifying a film that captures the essence of your business can be a game-changer when creating your branding. It helps you visualize your brand's story, values, and personality in a unique and memorable way.

Whether it's the adventure of 'Indiana Jones' or the charm and whimsy of 'Amélie', aligning your brand with a movie can help clarify your messaging and help find ways to make your brand more relatable. Plus, it's a fun exercise to get those creative juices flowing!

Stills from:
'House', dir. Nobuhiko Obayashi (1977)
'The Amateurist', dir. Miranda July, (1998)
'Monty Don's Adriatic Gardens' (2022)
'The Watermelon Woman', dir. Cheryl Dunye (1997)
'Thelma and Louise', dir. Ridley Scott, (1991)
'Pan's Labyrinth', dir. Guillermo del Toro (2006)
'Asparagus', dir. Suzan Pitt (1979)
'Enter the Void', dir. Gaspar Noé (2009)

06/17/2024

For me, working from home has been a serious game changer.

I've often found it difficult to work long-term in office environments, the constant pressure to sit all day and be 'productive'. But y'all, let's be honest -- that's just not how my brain works!! As a neurodivergent person, working from that things can happen on my terms. I am able to give my absolute best to my clients because I'm not working within the constraints of a system that wasn't built for people like myself.

I'm often my most creative reeeeeally early in the morning or in the evenings. I need to take short brain breaks every hour. I go on walks when I need inspiration. I can work on 2-3 things at once without thinking that someone is going to look over my shoulder and judge me on the workflow. I could go on forever.

Freelancing isn't just about being able to work from wherever. For me, it's also about having the freedom to work in a way that best supports my brain. And that, my friends, has been life changing.

Still from:
'You've Got Mail', dir. Nora Ephron (1998)

06/16/2024

05. not-stock photos

Poconos, pizza, and Brooklyn street art