workshop preview: claire morris






This week I'm previewing people who have managed to turn a business idea into a successful product in the design world. They have all created online shopping spaces, and used different means to get their brand message out to the market. All the people featured this week will be sharing their experiences and knowledge at the Daily Imprint "Live a creative life" workshops. The third FREE session will be How to create a successful online business on Thursday 4 August, 6.30pm at Apple, Bondi. If you can please rsvp to natalie[at]nataliewalton.com Otherwise, just turn up on the night. Now, meet Claire Morris, who is part owner and creative director of Apple&Bee, a beautiful range of cosmetic, travel, beauty and fashion bags made from sustainable materials. In a short period of time, Claire and her business partner Brett Pattinson have managed to expand their business into the USA market too. The images above are from Claire's home in Bondi. Now, meet Claire...

Which five words best describe you? Honest, caring, creative, hard-woring, gutsy.

How did you get your career start and what path have you taken since? It was really my third job that kickstarted my career. I was 22 and I had been working as a junior designer for a few years in both television and print. I met Nick Morgan who was the creative director of Moon Design. As soon as I went in to show him my folio I knew I wanted to work there. I called him every week for 6 months until he agreed to give me a foot in the door. It was only a week's freelance work so even though it had no certain future I declined another job offer and I have never looked back since. At Moon I learnt through osmosis the level that was needed to be a great designer. From there I became the art director at Marie Claire and I still continue to be an art director and designer, as well as being part owner and creative director in Apple&Bee.

What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? Don't listen to what everyone says - just take it with a grain of salt and walk your own walk.

What’s your proudest career achievement? I'm not sure, I feel lucky to have had many.

What’s been your best decision? To co-found Apple&Bee.

Who inspires you? People who know what they're talking about.

What are you passionate about? My family, the environment and the truth.

Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Mahatma Gandhi and Jamie Oliver.

What dream do you still want to fulfil? I used to want to open a cafe but I now know that's not for me... I have adopted a newer dream (still not an easy one)... to be the best person I can be.

What are you reading? Guantanamo by David Hicks.


images courtesy of apple&bee