As someone who went to school for media and communications, has degrees in those subjects, and has taken a number of art and design courses over the years, I still wasn’t sure what I wanted to do for a career. I thought about writing. I thought about being a graphic designer. I thought I was going to work for a major magazine. Well, none of those things happened…exactly.

I have (in administrative and marketing support capacities) worked for a commercial architect, at a luxury kitchen cabinetry design and manufacturing firm, for a boutique creator of greeting cards and stationery, and at a digital agency (among many other places). But, as exciting as it was to be surrounded by creativity, and sometimes get to do some of it myself, nothing stuck.

After each twist and turn in my career, I would go back to the drawing board and try to figure out why that opportunity didn’t work out and, what was next. Each time ending up in something similar… familiar even. But, never right. Ultimately, this led me to start Phoenix & Nightbloom – A place where I could do what I love – write, create, and share cool stuff. Why the name “Phoenix & Nightbloom?” Phoenix, because I feel that I have had to rebuild myself and my career several times over. I resonate with the story of the phoenix. Nightbloom because, well, I bloom at night! I am a night owl – it is a peaceful time when I seem to be at my most creative. 

Discovering products and finding really interesting examples of design and sharing them with family and friends has always been a passion of mine. Appreciating the art and talent behind the unique products and packaging, and learning about new trends and innovations in design are things I’ve always enjoyed, too. And, I always wish I had more time to create things myself. Now, I’m bringing all of that excitement here to Phoenix & Nightbloom – a hub for the everyday creative.

-Courtney