Get to know the Kids’ National Sales Rep at Blowfish Malibu, Jacqueline Losseff.

Thanks for taking the time to meet with us, Jacqueline! We’re excited to learn more about your role at Blowfish Malibu, what inspires you, and what excites you about the future with the brand. Read on to learn more about Jacqueline:

Tell us about your role at Blowfish Malibu.

I am the Kid’s National Sales Rep – which means I sell Kid’s shoes coast to coast! I’m always traveling whether it be attending tradeshows in different cities or visiting corporate offices meeting with buyers.

When did you first become interested in Sales?

I’ve always worked in sales on a retail level and have always been passionate about fashion so taking on this position came very naturally to me. Although I am new to the Kid’s industry, Blowfish Malibu Kids’ shoes are so cute – I knew I would have so much fun selling them.

What did you do previously before joining the Blowfish Malibu team?

I worked as a Sales Manager for a chain of women’s fashion boutiques. I traveled between stores overseeing each of their day to day operations, sales training, and was responsible for hiring employees.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

I got the job through LinkedIn. I was immediately interested once I read the job posting because I was familiar with the brand. Plus, I would be traveling a lot. Once Scott, the Director of Sales for the Kid’s Division, called me with the same New Jersey area code as me, I knew it was a good sign. I’ve now been with Blowfish Malibu for almost 3 years!

What creative projects at the brand have you been working on that you’re excited about? Can you tell us about them?

@BlowfishMalibuKids on Instagram! Allie in the Marketing Department runs our Social Media and has started the Kid’s page within the last few months. Currently, we’re teaming up with some of my top independent retailers who have a presence on social media and encouraging our followers on the Kids’ account to shop through them directly. This is especially important during a time like this where buying/selling has become mostly virtual.

PS: If you’re reading this, go give us a follow 🙂

What do you like most about working in the fashion industry?

I love being able to see firsthand what each department does, and what goes into making a product and building a brand. As a result, I have more appreciation for the products I buy.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

Traveling around the country has to be my favorite. I’ve visited places I otherwise wouldn’t, so I always make the most of it. Last year I went to Bozeman, Montana for a meeting, which had the most stunning mountain views. I stayed in the small downtown area and ate local grass-fed bison – it was a great experience!

The Blowfish Malibu offices are in LA. What’s your favorite thing about the city?

The weather! I love the sunshine 🙂

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

The Play sneaker, I have about 10 pairs. They go with everything in my closet.

What advice would you have for someone who’s trying to pursue the same career as you?

Believe in the product you’re selling! Having confidence will make it easier for you to do your job.

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

Queer Eye! I’ve been binging episodes all throughout lockdown, but I still have to finish the last season.

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I’m from Point Pleasant, NJ which is a small beach town at the Jersey Shore. I never lose sight of who I am being from a small community, so even when I’m in big cities I seek out small businesses and local eateries to support. It gives me a sense of home.

What’s your dream travel destination?

Fiji

If you could have lunch with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?

Stevie Wonder!

When do you feel best about yourself?

In the morning after a hot yoga class and a nice big cup of coffee.

What’s your personal motto?

It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.

What’s a fun fact about you most people don’t know?

I’m really into genealogy and working on my family tree… and my friend’s family trees haha!

Get to know Marketing Communications Manager at Blowfish Malibu, Allie Woerner.

Thanks for taking the time to meet with us, Allie! We’re excited to learn more about your role at Blowfish Malibu, what inspires you, and what excites you about the future with the brand.

Read on to learn more about Allie:

Tell us about your role at Blowfish Malibu.

I am the Marketing Communications Manager for Blowfish Malibu. My job basically centers around all things social media and community on a global level. From managing all of our social media platforms and handling all outside communication with influencers and content creators to working with our PR companies and planning and hosting in-person events. My job revolves around building relationships and being a face for the brand. I’m also able to put my English degree to use on the daily, as I’m responsible for writing all of the brand copy.

When did you first become interested in Marketing?

I feel like I was always destined to wind up in marketing, in some way or another! I was an avid blogger throughout college, and after attending a conference put on by Teen Vogue in New York (like 10 years ago now, sheesh), I realized I could actually apply what I was doing for my personal blog for a fashion brand. After that, it’s all I ever wanted to do. I took a handful of marketing classes in college. But ultimately, the more I worked in fashion after I graduated, the more I realized that working with a marketing team was the right path for me. And now we’re here!

What did you do previously before joining the Blowfish Malibu team?

I’ve been all over the place! I always knew that I wanted to work in fashion since I’ve been obsessed with all things-style since high school. I’m one of those people who has been lucky enough to be able to try out a myriad of positions. After graduating from college, I was the visual manager of a high-end retail store before landing a job as a receptionist with the eyewear brand, Oliver Peoples. I quickly moved up there, ultimately working in sales/operations for the fashion sunglass division. Forever 21 Corporate then recruited me to work in the buying department, which I did for a few months before realizing that wasn’t for me.

After that, I landed at K-Swiss, where I worked my way from a Customer Service rep to managing all of the larger retailer E-Comm sales accounts. Then I was promoted to a digital marketing assistant, and ultimately, I wound up helping to run the website for two of the in-house brands there as an E-Commerce Marketing Manager.

Whew! It’s been a long road!

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

I wish I could give you some Cinderella story of how I came to be working here, but honestly, I applied for the position on a whim on LinkedIn two years ago! A few weeks later, I got an email from Karen (the VP of Marketing) and we set up a phone interview. I was brought in for an in-person interview – and I landed the position! We weren’t really sure how the position would evolve since I was initially just hired to manage our social media channels. But my oh my, has it evolved into quite the position – one I’m very proud to hold.

What creative projects at the brand have you been working on that you’re excited about? Can you tell us about them?

We had SO many fun projects lined up before everything got shut down due to Covid-19. As a result, a lot of those were unfortunately postponed to a later date. One major thing I really enjoy about my job is the events, and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I love putting them together. I’m really excited about getting back on the road (when it’s safe!) to host our Road Trip series. (Shopping events at different independent boutiques across the country.) I’m also looking forward to traveling internationally to produce events to promote our brand in Europe.

What do you like most about working in the fashion industry?

Everything? Is that an appropriate answer?

But for reals, I love how expressive it is, and how I explore my creativity on a daily basis. I love the fact that a lot of it is “anything goes” and that we’re okay to try new things on the regular. I love that I work with a lot of people who appreciate the same things that I appreciate (like designers, shoes, bags, etc.), and who are always down to talk fashion. Also, I am a HUGE shoe person, so it’s literally a dream to be able to come into work and get to talk about shoes every day. The fashion industry has been my entire professional life for the past 8 years, so it’s safe to say that it’s a world I really like working in.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

In general, I’m a very social person. I’m an avid talker and a communicator, so to be able to do those things on a daily basis is something that I do not take for granted. I love being able to make new connections with girls all over the world, who are fans of the brand, and who I actually now consider to be friends.

The Blowfish Malibu offices are in LA. What’s your favorite thing about the city?

LA is such a hodgepodge of activity, that it’s impossible to find yourself with NOTHING to do. From the beaches to the shopping, to the restaurants to the different neighborhoods you can explore – you can always find something to fill your time. As someone from the area, it blows my mind of how many things I still haven’t crossed off my list. I have friends scattered all over the city so exploring things on their side of town can always be an adventure. Plus I can always turn to them for recommendations.

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

I’m a sucker for the sneakers. They’re all so comfortable and classic and literally go with everything in your closet.

What advice would you have for someone who’s trying to pursue the same career as you?

Do everything. All of it. If you get offered a job, and it’s not necessarily where you see yourself, take it. Because you never know who you’ll meet or which positions could open up while you’re there. I have learned this incredible post-college education on fashion and business after accepting various positions and soaking up knowledge as best I could. Help wherever you can, stay late to finish a project and just do what it takes to make your department successful. People always notice hard-workers and believe me when I say that, usually, hard work pays off.

Also, just be a nice human. Being nice and friendly to the people you work with goes a long way in accomplishing your career goals. Trust me.

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

Quarantine skincare! I went on a bit of an Amazon spree and researched a bunch of skincare dupes to more expensive products. So far, so good!

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I’m from a small, suburban town called Moorpark, just North of Los Angeles. My Dad works in news/media, so growing up, we were always going into the city to do fun things that had to do with his job. I think living so close to a major city, but still growing up in a small town, allowed me to chase my dreams but still stay relatively grounded and appreciate the beauty behind slowing down.

What’s your dream travel destination?

My Grandmother is Colombian, so I’ve always wanted to visit and make a South America trip out of it (I’d love to see Brazil and Peru while I’m there!). I’d also love to go to Croatia, Russia, more parts of Africa… the list is endless.

If you could have lunch with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?

Nelson Mandela. I’ve been so fascinated with him since I was 14, and even visited South Africa with school back in 2012.

When do you feel best about yourself?

When I have a great tan in the summer.

What’s your personal motto?

C’est la vie. That’s life. I have to consistently remind myself that there’s no point in stressing over things that are out of my control.

What’s a fun fact about you most people don’t know?

I can read an entire book in one night if I want to. Reading and retaining information is my superpower, I think. Retaining information comes in especially handy with work. I have to remember so many things about the girls we work with! Let’s just say I have A LOT of people’s shoe sizes memorized haha.

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from: Books & articles. I’m always, always reading something.
I can’t live without: Travel! It’s the only thing you can buy that actually makes you richer.
You can find me shopping at: Madewell & Nordstrom.
My astrological sign is: Libra.
I’m scared of: I get freaked out when I start to think too much about how big the ocean or the universe is. How small we actually are, in relation to things like that. I can find myself falling into a hole, and then I find myself up till 4am Googling things.
The last book I read was: All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood
Most people would say I’m: Outgoing. Easy to get along with. Organized. Indecisive (the libra in me).
I’m currently listening to: The new Lady Gaga “Rain on Me” song has been on serious repeat lately. Can’t wait for the album!
My style mantra is: You can never go wrong with a great pair of denim, a white tee, and some cute shoes.
I feel most comfortable: When I’m in a beachside town, spending the day shopping, grabbing lunch or coffee with friends and just enjoying nice weather. Nothing beats that.
When I woke up today I felt: Like it was another day in Groundhog Day. I’m currently camped out at my parents’ house during Quarantine. Being in my childhood home all the time feels like the same day, every day. I’m re-living an 8th-grade summer. At least there’s work to keep me occupied!
Most people don’t know: I used to do beauty pageants when I was younger! I was Miss Santa Barbara County and Miss Moorpark back in the day and even competed at Miss California.
I feel the freest when: I’m at the pool or the beach with a good book, just lounging in the sunshine.

Thank you, Allie! We’ll catch up with you soon.

Get to know Blowfish Malibu’s Marketing Project Manager, Carin Mazaira.

Thanks for taking the time to meet with us, Carin Mazaira! We’re excited to learn more about your role at Blowfish Malibu, what inspires you, and what future projects you are excited about.

Read on to learn more about Carin:

Tell us about your role at Blowfish Malibu.

I am the Project Manager for the marketing team. My job includes managing projects to ensure timing, execution, and quality is to brand standards. I am also the marketing point of contact for tradeshows and sales team requests.

When did you first become interested in Marketing?

I first became interested in marketing when I was in high school. My school offered Marketing electives and I became so fascinated in learning about the four Ps! I began going to stores and picking up random items to investigate the packaging, pricing, branding and overall feel of the product. I knew one day I would be behind the scenes working on product branding!

What did you do previously before joining the Blowfish Malibu team?

Before Blowfish Malibu, I worked at a creative studio called Powster, which made websites for movies! I was their Digital Producer and managed all the projects in relation to building sites for the studios.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

I bought a pair of Blowfish Malibu sandals, Bungalow, 6 months before applying for the role. I wore those shoes every day and insisted I needed to work for the brand! Karen, the VP of Marketing, and I  connected via LinkedIn and the rest is history!

What do you like most about working in the fashion industry?

Trying on the shoes, of course! I  love seeing the release of our new collections and seeing how our designs take rising trends and including them in our styles. Our team is really great in spotting what will be hot the following season.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is seeing the projects in action. One simple task can make a huge difference to a campaign. It feels great seeing how our team’s energy and momentum brings an idea to life.

The Blowfish Malibu offices are in LA. What’s your favorite thing about the city?

My favorite part about the city is how close I am to both the mountains and the ocean. As a snowboard and a surfer (well wanna-be surfer), I get the best of both worlds in LA.

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

My current obsession are my Raco boots! They are so cute and add a cool touch to any outfit.

What advice would you have for someone who’s trying to pursue the same career as you?

I would advise the person to gain as much experience as possible, working from the bottom up in different capacity. As a Project Manager, I  have to understand all projects inside and out while also understanding all roles that are needed to complete a project. My diverse background has helped me break down a project to develop something amazing!

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

My apartment! I just went through a phase where I redecorated and organized my entire apartment.

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I’m originally from Miami. I think the most important thing I  have learned from living in Miami is how to understand diversity and working with different backgrounds.

What’s your dream travel destination?

I have yet to explore South America and would love to take a month or so to travel around countries like Argentina, Brazil and Colombia!

If you could have lunch with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?

Phil Knight, founder of Nike

When do you feel best about yourself?

After decorating my apartment!

What’s your personal motto?

No worries!

What’s a fun fact about you most people don’t know?

I have never had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich! Probably because I am allergic to peanuts 😉

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from: People around me
I can’t live without: Music
You can find me shopping at: Old Navy
My astrological sign is: Capricorn
I’m scared of: Sharks!
The last book I read was: Shoe Dog
Most people would say I’m: Easy-going
I’m currently listening to: Whatever is on Discover Weekly
My style mantra is: Avoid pants whenever possible! I am a skirt/dress person.
I feel most comfortable in: A cute, long skirt
When I woke up today I felt: Tired, I flew home yesterday from Denver on a late night flight.
Most people don’t know: I take magic classes at the Magic Castle.
I feel the most free when: I am at the beach on a sunny day.

Thank you, Carin Mazaira! We’ll catch up with you soon.

Go behind the scenes of our 2020 Spring and Summer photoshoot. 

Shoot days are both very exciting and also stressful. There’s always a lot going on; many moving parts, more shoes than you can count, and an incredible team of people who work tirelessly to produce the best possible outcome. We typically have several models on set, as well as a photographer and their assistant, a videographer to capture behind the scenes footage, a hair and makeup artist, a wardrobe stylist, and multiple members from the Blowfish Malibu marketing team. As you can imagine, it’s a large production!

In early November, our team hit the road for our 2020 Spring and Summer campaign photoshoot. For this specific shoot, we had two separate locations, both located outside of Los Angeles. Our first day was at The Saguaro Hotel in Palm Springs. This location was one of the most colorful hotels we have ever seen and served as an amazing backdrop for our upcoming sandals for the new season.

The following week, we trekked a few hours south to Laguna Beach. We shot on a small, secluded beach that truly embodied the Southern California vibe: swaying palm trees, the beautiful Pacific Ocean, and hot sunshine. Plus, shooting on the beach means the crew gets to spend the whole day working barefoot!

Scroll through the photos below for some sneaky behind the scene shots!

We’re excited for you all to see the completed images in a few months!

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Get to know Blowfish Malibu’s Vice President of Customer Relations, Gabriela Tamayo.

Tell us about your role at Blowfish Malibu.

I’m the VP of Customer Relations. My position involves ensuring our major Departments Stores as well as our Boutiques are being serviced.

When did you first become interested in Customer Service?

I actually started my career in sales. I transitioned into customer service after 5 years in sales. A previous boss recruited me into the company he was working with at the time. He felt it would be a great transition for me being I knew the sales position so well.

What did you do previously before joining the Blowfish Malibu team?

I owned by own business consulting in the fashion industry. I helped new fashion brands establish a sales team, or restructure their current customer service team.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

A recruiter contacted me. It was the perfect time for me as I was ready to get back into a full time position.

What creative projects at the brand have you been working on that you’re excited about? Can you tell us about them?

I’ve helped create a more streamlined process in our ERP system, which has made the processes faster and efficient.

What do you like most about working in the fashion industry?

I love expressing my style! 22 years now in the industry and the creativity in every company I’ve worked for has driven my passion to stay in it.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

Seeing the changes I’ve helped implement into the company. These changes have helped our teams streamline and have made their jobs a lot easier.

The Blowfish Malibu offices are in LA. What’s your favorite thing about the city?

Well I’m born and raised in LA! So my answer might be biased! What can I say, it’s home. My favorite part is that it’s a melting pot of different cultures.

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

My go to pair are the Play Sneaker. They’re an easy sneaker to style up or down.

What advice would you have for someone who’s trying to pursue the same career as you?

Intern as soon as you can. Two things that are important; One, you will get a feel for the department and if it’s the right fit for you. Two, experience is key in customer service.

If you weren’t the VP of Customer Service, what would you be?

I would continue to pursue my passion for styling. I’ve dabbled into the field, styling celebrities and fashion brands for photo shoots. I love the thrill of putting together an outfit.

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

My new car, 1971 Ford Bronco

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I’m from Bell Gardens, a small city east of Los Angeles. My Bell Gardens upbringing has kept me humble.

What’s your dream travel destination?

Serengeti, Tanzania

If you could have lunch with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?

Coco Chanel

When do you feel best about yourself?

When I live a balanced life

What’s your personal motto?

“In Order to be irreplaceable one must always be different” –Coco Chanel. I have this tattooed, it reminds me that it’s ok to be you and be different.

What’s a fun fact about you most people don’t know?

I own over 200 pairs of shoes

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from: Time and Experience
I can’t live without: Coco (My four pound tea cup Yorkie), My fiancé Selene and my familia
You can find me shopping at: Online, I love a great deal!
My astrological sign is: Libra
I’m scared of: Losing my Coco
The last book I read was: The Fifth Agreement by Don Miguel Ruiz
Most people would say I’m: Fashion forward
I’m currently listening to: Ramon Ayala
My style mantra is: Easy to wear, easy to accessorize
I feel most comfortable in: High heels
When I woke up today I felt: Sore
Most people don’t know: I’ve been boxing for 5 years now!
I feel the most free when: I’m at home in my PJ’s

Get to know Blowfish Malibu’s Vice President of Marketing, Karen Bueno.

Let’s jump right in!

Tell us about your role at Blowfish Malibu.

I’m VP of Marketing here at Blowfish Malibu. The role varies from day to day, but for the most part, I’m in charge of ensuring we execute all of the brand’s marketing campaigns and strategies. In short – I try to ensure we grow brand awareness.

When did you first become interested in marketing?

I’ve been interested in marketing from the moment I was a consumer and started shopping. I loved reading magazines and looking at ads, and always remembered memorable TV commercials. I’ve always been fascinated by how a story can be communicated in various ways and how much of that story we retain as customers!

What did you do previously before joining the Blowfish Malibu team?

I worked in footwear at a retailer called OFFICE in the UK. I worked with merchandising, inventory, and assisting the buying team at their corporate office.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

I have had some great mentors in my life, all of which have worked or work in the footwear industry. I had actually wanted to quit my prior job to travel but was convinced to stay in the footwear industry by my mentor to take on a new opportunity in America when Blowfish Malibu first started. I’m originally from London so after lots of deliberation I moved to America and here I still am!

What creative projects at the brand have you been working on that you’re excited about? Can you tell us about them?

There’s been so many! I’m pretty excited about some campaigns launching next year. I cannot go into too much detail, but stay tuned. 2020 is going to be fun!

What do you like most about working in the fashion industry?

I love that the fashion industry allows you to be expressive! Whether it’s your personal style, or collaborating on projects, it’s an industry that values point of view and personal expression. I hope that never changes.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

Honestly, I love seeing the product on people’s feet when I’m out and about. Whether it be in LA, London, or in a random airport, I get so much joy out of seeing people wearing the product.

The Blowfish Malibu offices are in LA. What’s your favorite thing about the city?

The blue skies and weather. I was born and bred in London where it is rather dreary. The blue skies keep my spirits up and allows me to spend time outside!

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

This is so hard and I’m not just saying that! Personally, I love the Leeds sandal. I wore them ALL summer and they were so comfy. I had them in leopard and always got so many compliments on them also. Lucky for me they are coming back next year in more colors. 

What advice would you have for someone who’s trying to pursue the same career as you?

I’ve got two pieces of advice. One is – be the most prepared person in the room. I think it’s important to understand your field, but industry in general – knowledge is power.

Second piece of advice is to get comfortable being uncomfortable. The fashion marketing industry can be full of people with opinions the same as yours, or very different. This can call for some uncomfortable situations which we need to be aware happen. Taking these moments in stride can help a lot.

If you weren’t the VP of Marketing, what would you be?

This has changed a lot over the years. I’d love to work in a musical or for a theatre as I love musical theatre. I also did consider being a teacher once!

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

Jane the Virgin. I’m weirdly obsessed with this show at the moment!

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I am from London and very proud of it. It is a culturally diverse and accessible city in so many ways. This diversity has really helped me understand people and where they come from. I have such an acceptance of everyone’s story, no matter where they are from or what they believe in. This definitely stemmed from my upbringing in a multicultural city.

What’s your dream travel destination?

I’d love to go to the Maldives or South Africa on safari!

If you could have lunch with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?

This could go so many ways. I’d love to have lunch with Beyonce or Elton John. And to pick their brain for work purposes, Steve Jobs.

When do you feel best about yourself?

When I’ve accomplished everything I’ve wanted to in a day. However, I’m also good at knowing when to cut myself off from work or engagements so I can have some “me” time. I love me some “me” time!

What’s your personal motto?

“When life gives you lemons paint that s**t gold.”

It’s from a hip hop song by Atmosphere. It sticks with me because it’s just another way of saying roll with what life may throw at you, and make the best of what you’re given! We live in a world via marketing or social media where it’s easy to compare our lives via curated media. We all get dealt different hands in life and I think it’s how you move forward through tough situations that make us stronger.

What’s a fun fact about you most people don’t know?

I once danced in a performance for the Queen’s Jubilee celebration many years ago.

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from: experience.

I can’t live without: people I love and my dog!

You can find me shopping at: Zara, ASOS, & Other Stories.

My astrological sign is: Leo.

I’m not scared of: heights.

The last book I read was: The 5 Love Languages.

Most people would say I’m: small.

I’m currently listening to: The Someone Great Soundtrack.

My style mantra is: I wear what I feel comfortable in and what expresses myself!

I feel most comfortable in: sneakers, wide leg pants and a fitted tee.

When I woke up today I felt: a little tired to be honest!

Most people don’t know: I have an English accent. Ello!

I feel the most free when: When I don’t have to be somewhere at a certain time. I feel the most free when I can live in the moment!

—

Get to know Blowfish Malibu Art Director, Nikol Drapeau (Macias)!

Welcome to the Blowfish Malibu Spotlight, a new feature on the Journal! We’ll be spending some time each month talking with different members of our team and giving readers a little bit of insight into what each person does in the office every day.

First up, meet Nikol!

Tell us about your position at Blowfish Malibu.

I am the Art Director here at Blowfish Malibu! Which means I’m the lead graphic designer, producer of our photoshoots, and oversee most artwork that goes out. My role recently went to part-time, as I just became a mommy!

When did you first become interested in graphic design?

My mom has always had a knack for creativity and we would always scrapbook or be doing something creative growing up. In my senior year of high school, I was on the yearbook committee and my school actually offered a graphic design class that I took and really found my passion!

What did you do previously before joining the Blowfish Malibu team?

So random, but after I graduated college with my bachelor’s degree in graphic design, I moved to the South Bay and got a job at a dental office. It started as a front desk position and then quickly moved to me developing their social media channels and updating all of their branding and marketing. I stayed there for three years and then decided that wasn’t for me. So I started freelancing for myself and at an agency and shortly after, found my home with Blowfish Malibu!

I’ve been here for five years now!

What do you like most about working in the fashion industry?

Working at Blowfish Malibu was my first job in the fashion industry (not including retail!), but it’s really made me step up my fashion game and makes me want to dress for my personality and not just wake up and throw on whatever I can find that’s clean and run out the house.

I’ve never owned so many shoes in my life!

What’s your favorite part of your job?

The creative outlet that I get to express when designing things like hang tags, email blasts, brochures for customers or store posters! We’ve worked hard over the past five years to create a cohesive look and feel for the brand and it’s exciting getting to implement that in my design. It’s also really cool to walk into a store and see my work being displayed!

The Blowfish Malibu offices are in LA. What’s your favorite thing about the city?

I live in the Southbay, which is a little sub-city of LA that has a slower, beach-like feel. But I love that LA is only a 20-minute drive (with traffic, more like 45 mins) and that there is so much near us. You can go to the beach, take a hike up to a waterfall, and have a drink on a rooftop overlooking the city all in one day.

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

I gotta say my Granola-B sandals! Every year since they have come out I have had a Granola tan line on my feet! You can ask anyone in our office. It never fails! They are so comfy and come in so many color variations for every outfit. Plus living in SoCal means I can get away with wearing sandals almost year-round!

If you weren’t a graphic designer/art director, what would you be?

I have a ton of side projects/creative outlets that I do aside from my graphic designer life! I love the wedding industry and have coordinated a handful of weddings. My husband and I have even talked about buying a property where we host weddings, and I coordinate and design the look and feel. I have experience in event management and this really has helped me with weddings.

I also love photography and could see myself pursuing that more seriously.

In addition, I even love to buy old furniture and give it new life. My husband and I have also joked about starting a business doing this!

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

My 6-month-old daughter! Haha – still obsessed and forever will be!

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I’m born and raised in California! I grew up in a town called Palmdale (some of you may know it from the popular song by Afroman). It’s a desert city with not a lot to do. I learned a lot growing up there and also knew I never wanted to live in a desert ever again. So as soon as I graduated high school I moved to San Diego, where I attended college and have been living by a beach ever since!

What’s your dream travel destination?

Oh, way TOO many places to be listed here! I’ve only been to Europe once and I went to Italy, so I’d love to return to visit more places like Paris, Greece, and Amsterdam. I’ve always wanted to go on a safari in Africa. Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand are on my top bucket list places to visit.

Basically, I want to travel the world someday! I always say I’m not a materialistic person and would rather spend my earnings on experiences and building memories.

When do you feel best about yourself?

Probably when my to-do list is complete. This just makes me feel accomplished and feels good to not be stressing over all that I have to do.

What’s your personal motto?

“Risk it all every day.” I even have it tattooed on me.

For me, this means that you never know when your last day will be and to live each and every day to its fullest. Don’t turn things down that scare you or challenge you!

What’s a fun fact about you most people don’t know?

This is a hard one for me to answer. I’m an open book, even with strangers I don’t tend to hold back!

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from my environment.
I can’t live without sweets.
You can find me shopping at Old Navy, BooHoo.com, Blowfish Malibu (hehe), Hobby Lobby.
My astrological sign is Scorpio.
I’m not scared of snakes! I used to have one for about 6 years until I moved in with my now-husband (who’s deathly afraid!).
The last book I read was The Client by John Grisham.
Most people would say I’m caring.
I’m currently listening to Lennon Stella.
My style mantra is comfy.
I feel most comfortable in jeans and a cute top with sandals.
When I woke up today I felt thankful for my amazing life.
I feel the freest when I’m in the comfort of my own house.

—

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The Blowfish Malibu team gets their swing on at Top Golf Las Vegas. 

The Platform Show in Las Vegas is a massive tradeshow for retailers from all over the country. Our days are spent at our booth showing the new collections to customers. But our evenings are for socializing as a team. On this trip, we decided to open up the evening to treat some of our favorite accounts to a fun night at one of the best spots in the desert: Top Golf Las Vegas. In short, Top Golf is a high-tech sport and entertainment center. The complex features reservable (and climate-controlled) bays and a top-notch food and drink menu. Their technology can track your golf ball and give you an accurate score and distance. Let’s just say TGLV is not your typical golfing range.

Thanks to everyone for coming out and practicing your swing!

Scroll through for some fun images of a great night!

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Go behind the scenes at the Blowfish Malibu office!

The beachy vibes and positive Cali energy are palpable at the Blowfish Malibu headquarters in sunny Los Angeles, California! Welcomed by whitewashed crates, lively greenery, and dreamy beach wall decor, visitors can immediately feel our warm Cali style. In our LA office, we have multiple departments including customer service, marketing, operations, accounting, design, production and sales (when they are not on the road meeting with our amazing retail partners)!

One thing we love about the office is that there are shoes… EVERYWHERE! We cannot help but check out all the latest and greatest styles that our design team is constantly coming out with. Our team is always working on new patterns and with varying textures that keep our style oh-so-fresh and on-trend.

When we are not in the office, our team likes to explore everything that LA has to offer. Our office Culture Club plans amazing gatherings for the teams, like the beach cleanup in July when we collectively picked up 35 pounds of waste from the beach. Another get-together was at a Dodger’s game, where it seemed like we just competed to see who could eat the most Dodger Dogs. Clearly, we love hanging out with each other even when we’re not at the office. (Go Dodgers!)

Thanks for taking a peek into the office and learning more about the social side of Blowfish Malibu.

Do you love your job as much as we do? Be sure to tag us in your work photos wearing Blowfish Malibu on Instagram for a chance to be featured in upcoming posts!

Drapers Footwear nominated Blowfish Malibu for International Footwear Business of the Year for 2019!

Last month, a few of the Blowfish Malibu team headed to London for the 2019 Drapers Footwear Awards. The Drapers Footwear Awards honor brands, retailers, and shoe designers for their work and commitment within the footwear industry. We were beyond thrilled to learn that Blowfish Malibu was a nominee for the International Footwear Business of the Year!

Drapers Footwear is a fashion business publication founded in 1887. They have worked tirelessly over 130 years to represent the fashion business industry in the UK and beyond. Though we didn’t win the award this year, we were honored to be nominated among so many amazing brands. You can check out the full nomination list here.

The Drapers team hosted a beautiful black-tie gala at the grand Grosvenor House in London. We had a fabulous time celebrating everyone’s successes, as well as networking with leaders in the footwear industry. Not to mention the fact we had lots of fun at the photobooth!

Here’s some of our UK sales team taking over the photo booth and props!

We also had our influencer agency based in London attend with our guest for the evening Robyn Poppy.

Be sure to follow our EU Instagram to stay in the loop on everything fun happening with the brand across the globe in Europe!

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