Name, Location, Occupation
Tasshia Neary
Victoria, BC
Visual Merchandiser, Blogger, Designer
Please describe your workspace:
I work at the loveliest shop called Violette Boutique. It’s modeled after the chic shops found on Isle Saint Louis in Paris. The shop has clean lines and tons of white space which let the sparkly jewels, accessories and hard goods stand out.
I also work from home when freelancing - which is such a treat! Our apartment has floor to ceiling windows, so it gets a lot of sunlight (yet another treat). I have a glass top desk, and right now I have some dried foliage displayed in it. It’s hard for me to keep my desk clear, so in a way, it’s an incentive to try and stay tidy! The shelves above my desk are kept minimal with more flowers and a small stack of beautiful quarterlies.
What are you working on right now?
I just finished working on backdrop installations as window display for Violette to showcase Leah Alexandra’s Spring/Summer collection. Since working with Tara Hurst as a Design Assistant, I’ve been working on multiple projects for different clients. I most recently did the illustrations for The Chic Room Shop, an online shop for party decor and supplies. I’m also currently working on the rebranding of my blog; it’s very exciting to see the direction it’s going in the future.
What has been your most rewarding project to date?
Our wedding! It was such a challenge in a way that I wanted every little detail to be perfect. We never actually got to see the venue before booking it so planning the whole thing was quite stressful at times. I designed the stationery, including save-the-dates, wedding invitations, and programs. I hand calligraphed each of the envelopes that were sent out as well as all the signs at the wedding. My dear husband was the best and helped with so many craft projects, like all the paper flowers for myself, the bridesmaids, and table settings. Luckily, everything turned out organically and that day will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Which designers and artists inspire you?
Oh boy! Where to begin... I’m currently loving Made by Sohn, Lisa Hackwith, Breanna Rose, Molly Jacques and Gillian Stevens.
Has there been a defining moment or turning point when you realized what you wanted to do for a living?
Growing up, I’ve always had a creative spark. Though I’m still unsure of what I’m supposed to be doing for a living, I’m fully aware that I’m called to work with my hands and to inspire others along the way. I feel so grateful that I’m able to spend the majority of my days being creative. I hope to push myself in stepping out of my comfort zone daily to ignite that little spark I have inside.
What do you think is the most difficult aspect of working in design?
Truthfully, I find it hard to have confidence in the work I do. I often end up thinking that my skills sets are not up to par to what it should be. Sometimes I can be such a tough critic during any projects I work on, but everyday I try to grow out of that. It’s also nice to have someone (particularly my husband), be so supportive and encouraging in all my creative efforts
What are you reading at the moment?
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain. I also enjoy flipping through Kinfolk, Darling and Anthology Magazine every now and then.
What websites do you visit for inspiration?
Wide Eyed Legless, Wit and Delight, Oh So Pretty, Canelle et Vanille and Luisa Brimble. And as much as I try to limit myself, I can’t help but continually find myself on Pinterest...
What are your simplest daily pleasures?
I’m definitely a morning person, so getting up early in the morning is a small thing I take pleasure in. To start my day, I try my best to spend some time to read my daily devotions. It’s a time when I can relax my mind before starting on projects, and are great reminders on how to live a faithful life. I also really enjoy having the same breakfast everyday, a flaky croissant with raspberry jam on Saturdays, fresh flowers from the market, and going for evening walks after a home cooked meal.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I hope to be doing what I truly enjoy, fall in deeper love with my husband, along with a couple kiddies running around our cozy home. We’ll have a backyard where we can host dinner parties by candle light and continue to be amazed by God’s never ending grace.
Photography by Gillian Stevens.