One of our favorite things to do is to ask the folks we are inspired by what they are inspired by. We’ve shared some of their responses below.

Emily Gibson | Set Designer & Product Stylist

Some of the things that inspire me most occur naturally, without force. The way something simply exists, especially without intentional human intervention. For example, the way mold grows on a piece of fruit, or in a forgotten drink cup. I love the way coffee cups leave rings and how weeds grow in building cracks. I am inspired by the way people look and behave when they don’t know they’re being observed. I am inspired by the way objects or ideas communicate. Read more>>

Layton Edwards | Make up Artist and Create Director

Old film from the 40’s and 50’s because I love the fashion, the shapes, and the camp that the actors had. I’m also very inspired by runway shows, past and present because everything is cyclical and it’s always a great way to see how to change up a look that you feel you’ve seen before. Read more>>

Lex Elia | Podcast Co-Host

We find black, queer, femme people that strive to not only make a difference but also own who they are incredibly inspiring. They are so much like us. If these people can be so amazing, ambitious, and resilient in a world that does not automatically accept them then we can achieve the same things. Read more>>

Vishali Bawa | Art Director & Visual Artist

I find inspiration from various sources that fuel my creativity in the artistic and design realm. Design blogs and newsletters, such as the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), Adweek, and the Co.design section on fastcompany.com keep me updated on the latest trends, innovative ideas, and thought-provoking content in the design industry. Read more>>

Hannah Kent | Mixed Media Artist & Maker

My friends, family, & art community constantly inspire me! Read more>>

Cindy Y. Sucre | Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner (BCHHP) & Director of IIW Life-Skills Center for young adults with special needs

People! I love the students I get to work with everyday. I love their strong brave moms and I love the staff. In general, I am just inspired by people I meet daily. I love to meet and hear the stories we all have to tell. Inspiration doesn’t come from isolation to me, it comes from the hard work, smiles, the good days and bad days of being around everyday people. Read more>>

Michele Cooper | Pastry Chef/Entrepreneur

I have always been inspired by my paternal grandmother. My grandmother was an entrepreneur back in the 1940s when it was unheard of for a Black woman. My grandmother taught me how to bake and inspired me to become a pastry chef. The legacy that my grandparents left inspired me to follow their footsteps to create and maintain generational wealth Read more>>

Ana and Diana Espinosa | Wedding and Event Planners

We are inspired by people having a space to gather and celebrate life’s accomplishments and moments in between. We love seeing people’s relationships through the thought and intentionality they put behind planning a special event to surprise or celebrate their loved ones. We believe every small or big moment in life should be cherished, and we are inspired by those people who want the same. Read more>>