Get to know Blowfish Malibu’s First Cost Coordinator, Sam Kremer! 

MEET SAM!

Tell us about your role at Blowfish Malibu.

I work as a First Cost Coordinator for Blowfish Malibu. I help with everything from working with the factories and the customers to entering and completing orders!

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

I met my boss, Kim Grabow, while managing a clothing store and she reached out to me regarding an open position she felt like I would be a great fit for!

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

Currently, we are in the beginning processes of presenting our fall line to our customers and helping them get the trendiest styles in their stores for the upcoming season!

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

I love when new trends come along and seeing how people personalize it in their own way to best fit their lifestyle and express their personality.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

I love that I get to talk to our customers from all over the world and seeing how the trends and styles differ in every location!

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

I am based out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota so I enjoy the nice warm weather there, especially in the winter time! I also love all the fun and unique restaurants there are to explore!

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

I love the sneaker styles Leo and Luna that will be debuting in the fall!

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

The latest Game of Throne Series – House of the Dragon.

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I am from a suburb of the Twin Cities in Minnesota and growing up it seemed like we were always doing something outside which I think influenced my love for the outdoors and animals.

What’s your dream travel destination?

I would love to travel to Australia!

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

Frank Sinatra!

When do you feel best about yourself?

When I am being extra productive that day.

What’s your personal motto?

“Have courage and be kind.”

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

I foster dogs!

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from my family and friends.
I can’t live without my dog, Sully!
You can find me shopping at Abercrombie or Lulu Lemon
My astrological sign is Cancer
I’m scared of losing someone I love
The last book I read was It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Most people would say I’m easy-going
I’m currently listening to Noah Kahan’s album Stick Season
I feel most comfortable in an oversized hoodie.
When I woke up today I felt excited for my morning coffee

Thank you Sam for answering our questions!

—

Follow Blowfish Malibu on Instagram and check out more stories on the Journal.

Get to know Blowfish Malibu’s European Sales and Operations Coordinator, Cameron Swier! 

MEET CAMERON!

Tell us about your role at Blowfish Malibu.

I am the European Sales and Operations Coordinator for Blowfish Malibu. I help with everything from production at the factory to getting the shoes to the customer! One of my largest roles is entering factory and customer orders.

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

I graduated college in 2021 and then did an internship at a Marketing agency. After that I did freelance marketing up until starting with Blowfish Malibu.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

My boss, Kim Grabow, hired me after I was recommended to her by a professor, we both had during our time at SDSU (South Dakota State University). We both graduated with the same major, Fashion Merchandising!

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

Right now, Kim and I are working on growing the business in Europe and bringing on some new customers!

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

Ever since I was little, I have loved fashion! I actually was made fun of in my small hometown in the Midwest for my outfits and caring so much about my appearance. It’s cool to see it has come full circle and I get to work in the industry. My favorite part is seeing the product from the very beginning (sketches) to in the store. The designers are so talented, and I love seeing their ideas come to life.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

Getting to be in touch with other countries on a daily basis! I love that I get to talk to all our sales reps in Europe and the factory in China while living in SD. I also like learning about what is going on economically in Europe and how it impacts our business.

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

I have only been to LA twice for work so I am still fairly new to the city BUT I am a real foodie so that has to be my favorite thing! Oh, and the warmth! When it is freezing in South Dakota it’s warm in LA 😊

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

Right now, I am obsessed with the sneaker style Forever!

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

It is all about connections and putting yourself out there! Meet people and do not be afraid to reach out to others. Also, do not be scared to just go for it! I have had several jobs in the past I didn’t think I would have a shot at but just applied anyways. Applying never hurts + interviews are always great practice.

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

Mid Century Modern furniture. Let’s hope my style doesn’t change because decorating my home has been an investment.

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

Dakota, a small-town of 1,200 people in the middle of nowhere (literally- we have no stoplights).

Living there taught me the value of people and how to treat those around you. I can’t think of single time I got something to work in my favor by being rude or mean to someone. It also taught me a strong work ethic. I’ve had a job since I was 10 and my family taught me that if I wanted money to spend, I had to work for it!

What’s your dream travel destination?

Oooo this is hard but probably Japan! I want to go to Tokyo when the cherry blossoms are blooming.

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

One of my great great grandparents. I want to know more about where I come from and what makes me who I am.

When do you feel best about yourself?

Killer outfit + tan…. And a few margaritas in!

What’s your personal motto?

“Be a bird.” Birds don’t worry about tomorrow or what will come next. They also can fly anywhere (for the most part). I think a life full of travel and without worry sounds like one I want to live.

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

I got married at 20 and my husband was 19. We spent 3 out of the 4 years in college married. Crazy young, I know, but when you know you know. Plus, there is nothing better than growing up with your best friend.

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from Podcasts
I can’t live without Espresso and Glossier Boy Brow
You can find me shopping at Urban Outfitters, Free People, H&M, and Overstock
My astrological sign is Taurus
I’m scared of Spiders and disappointing people
The last book I read was It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Most people would say I’m happy and bubbly
I’m currently listening to Matt Maeson’s new album Never Had to Leave
My style mantra is Levi Jeans, doc martens, and a sweater!
I feel most comfortable when surrounded by my people (close friends and family).
When I woke up today I felt annoyed that it was time to get out of bed
Most people don’t know…I lived for a semester in Manchester England and traveled throughout Europe during this time.
I feel the best when: I take care of myself both mentally and physically! Big health girly.

Thank you Cameron for answering our questions! We can’t wait to see you in the LA office soon!

—

Follow Blowfish Malibu on Instagram and check out more stories on the Journal.

Get to know Blowfish Malibu’s Customer Service Representative, Alexis Wycoff! 

MEET ALEXIS!

Tell us about your position at Blowfish Malibu.

I work in the customer service department, as a customer service representative. My role here at Blowfish is to assist wholesale accounts in the West coast!

When did you first become interested in customer service?

I have always been interested in Customer Service. Ever since I started working, I have always worked in fast food or retail. I enjoy speaking with customers from all over and building a connection and relationship.

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

Before joining the Blowfish Team I was working for a cannabis company called Secret Nature and I was also a part-time barista at Starbucks!

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

Long story short, I am on a Facebook group for Babysitter’s around my city. I came across this mom in need of an occasional babysitter, reached out, and it happened to be Nikol who works on the design team! I started babysitting for her and I had expressed to her that I was looking for a new job opportunity, and she mentioned that her company was hiring, and now here I am 5 months later.  😊

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

I have never worked in the fashion industry so this very new to me. But I love how Blowfish has so many different options for customers to choose from. You definitely have many options when choosing the right Blowfish Sneaker or Sandal.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

I really like the people, they’re all super nice! Especially my team, I am so thankful to work with such a wonderful team, so shoutout to them.

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

My favorite thing about LA is that there is always something to see or do!

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

My favorite would have to be the Play in Natural Pongo Cat… I am obsessed with cheetah print!!

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

I would say go for it if you know what you want then work for it. I am 19 years old, I honestly didn’t thing that I was going to get the position because of my age but I did it and I am proud of myself. You can always achieve what you put your mind to.

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

Probably Harry Potter…I have watched the first 2 movies when I was little. But I just recently got into it again and began to understand it. Now that I’ve seen all the movies, I am trying to read all the books.

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I was born and raised in the High Desert but I think Long Beach has shaped me more than anything. I moved in 2017, during a difficult time in my life and I have been thriving and growing ever since.

What’s your dream travel destination?

My dream has always been to travel to Amsterdam.

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

It would have to be the cast from Greys Anatomy or Criminal Minds!

When do you feel best about yourself?

I feel best about myself when my apartment is clean!! I love nothing more than a clean apartment with a Christmas scented candle burning. (PS: I LOVE Christmas)

What’s your personal motto?

PMA! Positive Mental Attitude. My dad has always taught me to always look at the bright side of life and make the best of what you have.

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

I had to have major surgery when I was 18 months old. I was born with a soft cleft palate which made me unable to eat solid food until I was 2 years old. So that being said I am a very picky eater. I don’t like to eat certain foods because of the textures. I also developed a hemangioma at the age of 2 which went away before I was 5.

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from My parents, I go to them for advice on EVERYTHING.
I can’t live without My 3 cats 😊
You can find me shopping at Amazon & Target all the way!
My astrological sign is Libra
I’m scared of Losing my parents
The last book I read was Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Most people would say I’m Very outgoing!
I’m currently listening to Led Zeppelin – Going to California
My style mantra is Cute but comfy
I feel most comfortable in In leggings and big t-shirt
When I woke up today I felt Very tired
Most people don’t know…I am currently a junior in college & my major is nursing

Yay, thank you Alexis for answering our questions!

—

Follow Blowfish Malibu on Instagram and check out more stories on the Journal.

Get to know Blowfish Malibu’s Kids Footwear Designer, RJ Santiago! 

MEET RJ!

Tell us about your position at Blowfish Malibu.

I am the new Kids Footwear designer at Blowfish Malibu. I was brought in to help build with sneaker design for Women’s and Kids.

When did you first become interested in footwear design?

I’ve been fascinated with sneakers since I was 9 years old. After I saw a pair of Jordan 11’s in store. It totally blew my mind!

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

Before joining the Blowfish Malibu team, I was an assistant designer for a luxury footwear brand that opened my career as a footwear designer. I met and worked with stylists and collaborated with different brands and celebrities.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

Well… It started when Marcy (one of our lead designers) replied on my application through a job search site. I had a phone interview and did 2 presentations for the team. After waiting for a month, I got an offer to be part of the Fish Family and without hesitation I took it. I’m blessed and so happy to be here!

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

Fashion/Footwear is one of the fastest moving industries. I love the trends and the technology behind it. I just love that the evolution of this industry is constant and now its gearing towards to becoming more eco-conscious.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

My favorite is to share my love for sneakers through my designs, I can reach out to millions of people. It blows my mind every time I think about it.

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

The diversity in style, weather, people, and food.

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

Paige is my favorite so far, aside from it being my first design that would be included in the 4Earth line, I just love the details on the embroidery and panels. FYI my answer will change every season/collection, so I suggest you to follow me, lol.

If you weren’t a footwear designer, what would you be?

Aside from being an NBA player maybe Firefighter / Singer

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

LA DODGERS! GOOOO DODGERS!

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I’m born and raised in the Philippines, growing up in a third world country molded my foundation. Having strong faith and a hard work ethic made a big difference. I have deeper appreciation of everything that I had.

What’s your dream travel destination?

Japan food tour with my family.

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

Tinker Hatfield

When do you feel best about yourself?

When I see people’s faces light up when they see my designs

What’s your personal motto?

Nothing is impossible with God – Matthew 19:26

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

I have my own karaoke mic and song list because I am a frustrated singer.

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from EXPERIENCE
I can’t live without MY FAMILY
You can find me shopping at Amazon
My astrological sign is PISCES
I’m scared of goodbyes
The last book I read was …I’ll get back to you on this one lol
Most people would say I SMILE A LOT
I’m currently listening to Harry Styles – Harry’s house album
My style mantra is like if 90’s streetwear, Hipster and athleisure had a baby
I feel most comfortable in hoodies and SNEAKERS!
When I woke up today I felt grateful and blessed.
I feel the best when I leave from Sunday service.

Thank you RJ for answering our questions! We can’t wait to see all of your designs come to life.

—

Follow Blowfish Malibu on Instagram and check out more stories on the Journal.

Get to know Blowfish Malibu’s Director of Information Technology, Maha Kolacek! 

MEET MAHA!

Tell us about your position at Blowfish Malibu.

I am Director of IT.  I oversee all things IT, so anything system related.  My goal is to implement changes/updates in processes and systems, where needed, to make everyone’s job a little easier!

When did you first become interested in tech?

Honestly, I fell into it by accident, but has been an adventurous lifelong career.  Technology was “the thing” to do during my college years.

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

I have a lengthy IT background.  Before Blowfish, I was at The Honest Company.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

I originally replied to a post on LinkedIn and interviewed with Greg Kearns.  Our conversation impressed me; I became curious about BF.  Although that position was not the right fit, I am happy to say that Greg reached out a few months later to discuss the position I now hold!

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

I am currently working on the implementation of a 360 Photo Studio.  This will greatly improve the quality of images of our products, as well as provide a 360-spin feature for our website/line sheets.  In addition, this will eliminate the need to send images out to be retouched which will mean Marketing will have access to the images much sooner.  And it will greatly reduce the need for human intervention, which means images will be more consistent.

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

I love fashion, but it’s hard to keep up.  This can help me stay in touch with what’s trending!

What’s your favorite part of your job?

The people! Blowfish has amazing people 😊 And, I love seeing our shoes at the stores and pointing them out.

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

The weather.  The diversity.  The endless things to do, and places to discover. And all the different food!

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

I’m still new, so I have yet to figure that out.  But I can tell you that I’ve randomly picked up BF shoes on many occasions when shopping.  They seem to catch my eye!

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

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  Don’t feel like you should just know.  Every industry, every company, has its own jargon, its own acronyms.  And take notes!  You will be glad you did.

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

My granddaughters…the 2 cutest babies ever!

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

Originally, I’m from Egypt!  Moving to the MidWest as an 8-year-old was quite the adventure, snow was a fun feature!  Till I grew up and came to my senses…lol!  But honestly, I loved growing up there and raising my kids there.  I moved to LA about 5 years ago.  Ironically, we were supposed to move from Egypt to LA, but my dad stopped in Wisconsin to visit his brother and decided to stay in the Chicago area.

What’s your dream travel destination?

I’d love to travel the world!

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

My dad.  And the cast of Friends 😉

When do you feel best about yourself?

When I get a lot done, check things off my to do list!  When I have things organized so I don’t feel frazzled.

What’s your personal motto?

Be present and enjoy. It really does go by fast!

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

Most people are surprised that I’m a grandma!

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from experiencing/actually doing/participating.
I can’t live without My family
You can find me shopping at Marshalls…I love finding deals!
My astrological sign is Aries.
I’m scared of hmmmm?
The last book I read was: A play “Time Stands Still”
Most people would say I’m: easy to talk to.
Most people don’t know: I’m from Egypt.
My style mantra is look good, but be comfortable 😉.
I feel most comfortable in in my stretchy pants and cute top.
When I woke up today I felt tired.
I feel the best when I don’t have to be anywhere or do anything, and can just spend time with my family.

Thank you Maha for answering our questions!

—

Follow Blowfish Malibu on Instagram and check out more stories on the Journal.

Get to know Blowfish Malibu Marketing Assistant, Ashley Rodriguez!

MEET ASHLEY!

Tell us about your position at Blowfish Malibu.

I am the new Marketing Assistant at Blowfish Malibu. I was brought on to help the marketing team with various projects, but my favorites include any in-person events and creating behind the scenes content for TikTok! Recently I have taken over Influencer Marketing for Blowfish Malibu and Blowfish Malibu Kids.

When did you first become interested in marketing?

I first became interested in social media marketing after landing my first internship at 17 as a part of my senior project on social media marketing in the fashion industry. I’ve loved it ever since.

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

Before joining the Blowfish Malibu team I was running my own business as an independent lash artist and educator. I started just wanting to do lashes on my friends and family but it quickly turned into more than just a side hustle! I realized I love creating and building a brand so I changed my major from nursing to business administration with a concentration in marketing management.

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

We have a really special launch coming up that I can’t give toooo many details on, but it’s my first big project at Blowfish and I’m super excited to lead the campaign push.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

One of my goals for 2022 was to join a company that prioritized a healthy work-life balance but that also allowed me to be creative and learn from others on the team. They say when you know, you know! After my first interview with Blowfish I knew I wanted to join the team and luckily I got the offer.

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

I love seeing trends come and go. It’s always fun to see the shifts happen in real time.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

Content creation! I love TikTok so now that I get to create them as apart of my job is amazing for me.

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

I love LA and this will always be home! My favorite thing about LA is that there’s always something to do or a new restaurant to go and try.

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

The Zelie sandal is such a staple for me! You can never go wrong with square toed sandal.

If you weren’t a marketer, what would you be?

Probably a real estate agent.

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

Bridgerton on Netflix. (Thanks, Allie.)

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

I am originally from LA and often find myself feeling so lucky that I was born somewhere that so many people want to live. Just seeing how many opportunities there are in LA from a young age inspired me to explore different paths and always have a strong work ethic in whatever I do so that no matter where I end up, its something I genuinely love.

What’s your dream travel destination?

The Maldives or Singapore.

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

Bad Bunny!

When do you feel best about yourself?

When I wake up early enough to do my entire morning routine without rushing.

What’s your personal motto?

“ What’s meant for you will never miss you.”

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

I was actually named after a power-ranger by my brother! My name was supposed to be Cindy.

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from others.
I can’t live without my dog.
You can find me shopping at Amazon, always!
My astrological sign is Taurus.
I’m scared of snakes.
The last book I read was Dark Places.
Most people would say I’m a go-getter.
I’m currently listening to Bad Bunny’s new album.
My style mantra is comfy cozy or super extra, there is no in-between.
I feel most comfortable in a cute matching set.
When I woke up today I felt excited about the sunrise!
I feel the best when I can light a candle after deep cleaning my apartment.

—

Follow Blowfish Malibu on Instagram and check out more stories on the Journal.

Get to know Blowfish Malibu Graphic Designer, Minjung Shin!

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 MJ!

Tell us about your position at Blowfish Malibu.

I am the Graphic Designer here at Blowfish Malibu. I work with our Art Director in creating new content and brand assets for the marketing team.

When did you first become interested in graphic design?

My first job out of college was as a graphic designer in the Marketing Department of The Los Angeles Film School. Working in the entertainment industry, in the heart of Hollywood, was a very eye-opening experience that led to further interest in working with a marketing team and designing in-house.

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

I was freelancing for exclusive clients.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu?

I was overly ecstatic to be scheduled for a virtual interview with Blowfish Malibu after applying during my trip to Hawaii. Luckily enough, we made a positive connection, and I was just counting down the days to joining the team.

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

My first photoshoot experience ever was with the Blowfish Malibu team. It was a very rewarding learning experience. I’m excited to be a part of this for each season!

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

Working in the fashion industry has put me in touch with the latest trends. I enjoy learning about the latest and greatest.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

Every day is different from the next in terms of project. From email blasts to IG Stories to ads and trade show assets. It keeps things interesting!

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

I love this city so much that I’ve never moved out of it! I totally appreciate the variety that the city has to offer.

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes?

I love the wedge sneakers. They are comfy and provide extra height!

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

Don’t be afraid to take risks with your designs.

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?

Finding new and easy recipes for meal prepping and the great outdoors.

Where are you from and how has that shaped you?

Growing up in Los Angeles has exposed me to ethnic and cultural diversity, as well as a city rich in the arts. I have to remind myself of how fortunate I am to have been raised in a city like this.

What’s your dream travel destination?

Australia or Japan

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

I think it’d be delightful to grab a bite to eat with Robin Williams or Anthony Bourdain. I’ll take either one!

When do you feel best about yourself?

After a session of self-care!

What’s your personal motto?

Don’t be scared, be prepared.

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

I’m left-handed.

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from YouTube and hands-on training. I’m a visual learner.
I can’t live without Hank, my German Shepherd.
You can find me shopping at Amazon.com
My astrological sign is Libra!
I’m scared of Dismemberment. I watch too many true crime shows.
The last book I read was the Harry Potter series.
Most people would say I’m honest.
I’m currently listening to Hall and Oates.
My style mantra is casual all day.
I feel most comfortable in lounging around on a Sunday afternoon.
When I woke up today I felt happy but hungry, lol.
I feel the best when I’m adequately hydrated.

—

Thank you so much for your time, MJ! We loved catching up with you!

Follow Blowfish Malibu on Instagram and check out more stories on the Journal.