Moving West
This year I made my westward dreams a reality and moved 3,000 miles to the most beautiful place on Earth — the Pacific Northwest. Thanks to Matthew’s support and encouragement, Strong Studio is now a pan-American company.
Tale of Two Coasts
Few hatch from a nest as large or diverse as New York City. Having grown up in the suburbs, studied at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, and lived the sitcom lifestyle from a Queens walk-up, my roots had buried themselves deeply into the tri-state landscape.
But still, the stories of my roommates and coworkers moved me to the point of jealousy. Ever since I can remember, I always wanted to be somewhere else — to carve out my own corner in a new place surrounded by new experiences. After all, if Saul Bass can transplant to the West Coast in his 20’s than why can’t we?
While on vacation in 2016, I flew over Mount Rainier and knew I had found my destination.
“It is so hard to leave — until you leave. And then it is the easiest thing in the world.”
- John Green
Surviving the Oregon Trail
In August, Jamie (my sister-turned-coworker) and I loaded the caravan of 3 cats, 2 dogs, and 1 husband and set out for Seattle, Washington. Although neither of us were strangers to the road, we definitely learned the limitations of U-Haul rentals. Fun fact? Roads don’t need to be paved to be called a road. Thanks, Nebraska.
Bumpy journey aside, it’s exciting to be the subject of your own experiment. To bring new influences and opportunities to your company, find a plot of land to call home, and hold your chin high knowing that come what may, you took a chance.
Unboxing the Emerald City
The national parks, espresso huts, and temperate climate of the Pacific Northwest have made me feel right at home, although I am admittedly still shaking off that notorious Northeastern road rage.
And now that businesses have had time to implement social distancing measures, I’ve been able to peruse local museums such as the MoPOP, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Seattle Art Museum.
An unexpected relief has been Seattle’s respect and adherence to CDC guidelines, proudly displaying “Mask Up Seattle” and #WeGotThisSeattle signs throughout the city and skyline. Ironically, it reminds me of New York City.
Although there is a 3 hour time difference — and 3,000 miles — between us, our team remains closer than ever thanks to a World Clock, Slack, and patience.
Intrigued?
If you’re in the area and looking to meet a friendly face, stop by our new WeWork office, or let’s set up a time to grab an espresso.
And for more thoughts on the move and being bi-coastal, subscribe to the Strong Studio newsletter below, follow our adventures @strongstudionyc, or send us a message.
Be brave, everyone!