Today we’d like to introduce you to Lacey Waterman
Lacey, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Growing up in Los Angeles, creativity and entrepreneurship was always a part of my DNA. And with the support and encouragement of my family, I was able to start my journey as a creative at a young age — graduating high school at just 16, going on to earn an BFA at Art Center College of Design, and later, an MFA in Graphic Design from Yale.
Then, spending over 15 years working with companies from Mythology (formerly Partners&Spade), Red Antler, and Pentagram to Media Arts Lab, Google, Mother, Droga5, and TBWA/Chiat/Day.
Five years ago I started my own company, Strand Studio, with the mission of creating a connected vision between design and storytelling for both up-and-coming and established brands. Since opening our doors, we’ve been fortunate enough to partner with brands such as Ollie, GoPuff, Amazon, Breeze Oral Care, Floravere, and ManyPets to name a few.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
After taking the big leap to start my own studio in early 2019, Covid hit. (They say you should always look before you leap, but no one saw that coming.) So, I made another big decision to leave New York City, my network and collaborators, and relocate to Los Angeles. Another leap, but one that’s been really positive. It has opened up entirely new ways of working — both remote and in person. Just recently, I traveled to Austin for one of our clients, Breeze. Together workshopping ideas, from styling a newly renovated space, to art and signage. At Strand Studio, we really value our time in person with clients more than ever, and I’m grateful for their trust when we’re apart.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Strand Studio, we offer a range of client services. With my background in both advertising and design, I’m able to work with clients at various stages of their development for a holistic brand presence. Approaching each project with strategy, design, and storytelling in mind. Our work tells a story through a singular vision, whether it be a new brand launch or an established brand looking to put something fresh into a crowded market.
That’s how we got our name, Strategy + Brand = Strand.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I never liked the question, “So what do you do for fun?” To me, it’s all fun. A mundane trip to Target could be the place I find inspiration or come up with a big idea. You just never know. To me, happiness is living fluidly between work and play, sharing my love for design and storytelling, connecting people, and celebrating both my client’s and team’s successes and growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://strandstudio.co/
- Instagram: @hellostrand
Image Credits
Nathan Kraxberger
Brayden Olson
