It started with my happy place.

“I would love to see a sunset through your eyes”

A few years ago, we were sitting on the sand, watching the sun go down over Lake Michigan, as we did most summer nights.

My mom turned to me and said, “Just one time, I would love to see a sunset through your eyes.” As I gave her a puzzling look, she continued on saying she can only imagine the abundance of color and movement and emotion that I feel when I look at a given sunset.

As a child, I struggled with my brain. It felt chaotic, emotional, both overstimulated and highly sensitive (undoubtedly passed down from my zest-for-life father and deeply compassionate mother). But through a long and ongoing journey, I learned that what always felt like a struggle, could actually be my greatest blessing. I learned to shift my perspective, realizing my mind’s complexity is actually my source of creativity. It’s a super power. And in this truly magical way, I get to experience the world more deeply, more connected, more alive. That sunset was the first time I understood how beautiful my sensitivity could be—a moment that revealed the extraordinary depth of life as a profound gift.

Building a Brand

When I set out to build my own portfolio brand, I applied the same approach I take with all my clients. First, I reflected on the journey—the narrative that has shaped not only my career, but me as a person. Then, I dreamt of the path forward—imagining how this brand could authentically represent a new beginning.

I think it’s obvious that sunsets symbolize the end of a day. They embody reflection and letting go. (And let’s be real, can be seen as quite cliché). But to me, sunsets also illustrate the complexities of life, with colors that are constantly moving and evolving, plunging us into darkness with one final flicker, only to rise again—though never the same.

That conversation with my Mom years ago marked a pivotal shift in the relationship I had with my mindset and self. It became a foundational part of who I am, what I believe about myself, and the accomplishments I’ve been able to achieve personally and professionally. That single moment catalyzed significant change, and it’s this transformation that I wanted to honor throughout my branding.

It has to be Michigan

I’ve had the privilege of witnessing some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world—yoga retreats at the renowned Esalen, breathtaking views over the Colorado Rockies and even what’s considered “the most famous sunset in the world” in Oia, Greece. Yet the sunset that remains imprinted on my heart is the one in St. Joe, Michigan.

Because it’s more than just a sunset

It’s night swimming with my cousins in layers of clothing, thinking it’ll keep us warm. It’s my Pop’s voice calling us in from the beach, telling us we’re “out too far!”—definitely mixed with some colorful language. It’s watching Fourth of July fireworks off the pier with a Kilwin’s ice cream cone and singing along to my brother’s guitar at the bonfire. Still to this day, we never miss the chance to stop everything we’re doing, gather on the porch or beach together and watch the sun fade.