who I am

I’m so happy to be writing my first post. It’s been kind of a long journey for me. Months of pondering, creating, going back and forth as I designed our new website and blog. I about drove “the carpenter” and my web guy Steve Horton (Modern CRM) crazy. I could not have gotten to this point without them. Also a thank you to Athena Olson (Embriven) who gave up her Friday eve to give me some blog pointers and graciously continues to help this blog rookie. Also a big thank you to Paige Olson who helped with photos. I am so glad to be finally launching into this new adventure for Applewood Builders.

I’ve always lended a design hand to Applewood behind the scenes as I pursued my own career as a graphic designer, art director and recently, communication arts director. It was time to officially join the Applewood crew, help with marketing, man the blog, and assist customers with their color and design decisions. 

A bit about me… I started out at age 12 working in the back room of my uncle’s flower shop- Deerberry- in Marlton New Jersey, stripping thorns off roses and making corsages. I worked there through high school. I continued to work at flower shops- Bachmans being one, after my family moved to Minnesota. I eventually enrolled in the commercial art program at St Paul Technical College, which kicked off my graphic design career.

I have always been a designer, whether working with flowers, dabbling in interior design or sitting at my mac laying out brochures or designing greeting cards. And I adore color.. all color. I was nick named the “color queen” somewhere along the way. Between flowers and press ink (which I love the smell of) I’ve loved it all.

So here I am. I’ve never blogged before. But I’m ready to see what comes of this. I want to share my love for the challenge of making a house a home.. with some fresh color, a new light fixture or hardware that doesn’t cost a fortune. And yes.. I am a (Pinterest) fan so check out what inspires me. And who knows.. you might get an idea or two.. either way.. the journey will be fun and at the very least.. will hopefully bring you some pleasure.

grace for the journey,

~the Artist