February 05, 2015
DESIGNER ELLIE CASHMAN
When one of Ellie Cashman’s wallpaper designs went viral on Pinterest in May 2013, demand for her product soared. By the end of that year she set up a webshop and has since released a range of fabrics and cushion covers. Plans are underway to develop the range further by way of more home and lifestyle products. While Ellie has been based in The Netherlands since 2007, she was born and raised in the US and studied art and art history at Wesleyan University before working as a graphic designer in Boston and New York. Ellie also graduated from NYU with a Master of Fine Arts.
Which five words best describe you? Optimistic, tenacious, serious, perfectionist, dreamer.
How did you get your career start and what path have you taken since? I started as a graphic designer, working for corporate clients in Boston and New York. I always felt I needed to do my own thing, so in 2010 I set up Ellie Cashman Design and devoted myself to surface design.
What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? You have to trust your gut and know that you are your own best guide.
What’s your proudest career achievement? Setting up a successful business that is a true reflection of me.
What’s been your best decision? Taking the jump to invest in my own web shop.
Who inspires you? Anyone who is committed to their craft and works at it with passion.
What are you passionate about? My family and becoming better and better at my work. I want to be always learning.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Eleanor Roosevelt.
What dream do you still want to fulfil? World travel.
What are you reading? March by Geraldine Brooks. But I'm always dipping back into The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron, which I would really recommend to anyone who has big dreams of doing something with their art/creativity.
images courtesy of ellie cashman design; photography and styling ellen mesu