Guest Editor | Emmadime
We have been looking forward to working with Emmadime since we first launched The FareTrade last March. An inspiration in both the graphic design and the blog space, Emma has been crafting a bold, colorful + clean design aesthetic out of her Jack London Square studio in Oakland, CA. Check out Emma's work + keep reading to learn about her inspiration - both in design + in the kitchen!
What inspired you to start Emmadime?
I started Emmadime, the blog, in 2010 while attending college in Stillwater, Oklahoma. As an inspired 18 year old, I felt the need to do something more with the visuals I was coming across. A blog seemed to be the perfect way to share and organize it all. It has continued to serve that same purpose while offering up new unexpected opportunities and friendships. It has become an official extension of me and my creative career, an extension that I plan to keep around for as long as I possibly can!
Where did you find your passion for graphic design?
Honestly, I became a freelance graphic designer out of desperation. I had just moved to Berkeley with my boyfriend ( fresh out of college ) so my portfolio was small and my student work was horrible. I applied to as many jobs as I could without a single response back, not even a "thank you for applying!" I was devastated. So from there, I quickly put the word out to family and friends that I needed design work and luckily, jobs slowly started coming in. As time has gone by and I've had the opportunity to see what the real world has in store for graphic designers, I've come to the conclusion that I love graphic design! I don't plan on shifting gears anytime soon. I do feel my perspective changing a bit but I think that's just me maturing as a business owner and craving new and different things for myself.
If you had to sum up your design identity in three words, what would you choose?
Colorful, clean, and bold.
It’s officially fall! What are some of your favorite seasonal ingredients you’re looking forward to?
I love warming some walnuts or chestnuts in a pan with oil, salt, and pepper then throwing them on top of a salad. I also make a mean cream of cauliflower soup with a bacon gremolata!!
What’s the most important thing to throw a perfect dinner party?
Alcohol. But in all seriousness, alcohol. wink**
What graphic design trend are you sick of?
Handwriting. Not handmade fonts, but actual handwriting used instead of a font.
It’s Happy Hour. What’s your drink of choice?
I've been making cocktails with different syrups. I really like White Whale and Morris Kitchen!
Do you have a favorite local artisanal treat?
Have you guys ever heard of Cheese Board? It's in Berkeley's Gourmet Ghetto and OMG.... They make a different pizza every day that features fresh local produce. It's a must eat if you're ever in this neck of the woods.
Midnight snack of choice?
Homemade popcorn. Me and my husband are always making popcorn on the stove and we change up the seasoning. Right now, we're using Herb de Provence and cracked peppercorn but we also love to throw some Tonys Creole seasoning on there too - we put it on everything!
What’s up next for you? Any exciting culinary travels or ventures to share?
I may be going to Paris in a few months. My husband and I lived there for a few months so we have our favorite Parisian restaurants and treats that I am excited to be reunited with! To name a few: Bistro de 7eme, Pain aux raisins, lots of amazing cheap wine, escargot, fresh baguettes daily, okay I'm drooling...
*BONUS* Emma is giving away one of our December Baskets! Head to her blog for details.
Stay in touch with Emma!