What’s in a Brand Name—The Blue Tin Design Story
When I started my freelance journey, naming my business felt like one of the most personal decisions I could make. The name would carry not just my work but my story, my values, and my “why.” That’s why Blue Tin Design is more than just a name—it’s a reflection of who I am, where I’ve come from, and what I want to bring to the world.
A Passion for Thought & Creativity
While my path hasn’t always been a straight line—I originally focused on math and science throughout my education—I’ve always been drawn to creativity and technology. Whether it was helping my mom set up computers in her classroom, using them to draft and illustrate short stories, or building my first website in 7th grade, I loved using design to solve problems and connect ideas.
After years of working in the creative industry, I launched my freelancing business, Blue Tin Design, to focus on helping small businesses and agencies create meaningful, impactful work. My passion for design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about crafting solutions that empower businesses to grow and connect with their audiences—to tell their story.
The Meaning Behind “Blue Tin”
The name Blue Tin has been in my back pocket for years. I even owned various versions of the URL long before I took the leap into only freelancing. Its inspiration comes from a deeply personal image: my grandfather drinking coffee from a blue tin cup, coffee my grandmother made for him every day.
Image of my grandfather and grandmother showcasing one of their piglets to their daughter. Photo credit goes to a local newspaper unknown.
My Grandfather’s Hard Work
My grandfather’s story is one of grit and perseverance. He didn’t speak English until he was eight years old, starting school with very little knowledge of the language. He made it to the 8th grade before he had to leave to work on a farm, but that didn’t stop him from teaching himself business, reading countless books, and building his own successful (and award-winning) farm from nothing.
He worked tirelessly from sunrise to past sunset, providing for his family and embodying the spirit of determination and lifelong self-education. While his stern demeanor left its mark, he found meaning in family and free time in his later years—a lesson that took a lifetime to learn.
I hope to carry his determination, ability to adapt and change, and love for self-learning into everything I do. His story is a constant reminder that hard work and growth can transform any challenge into an opportunity.
My Grandmother’s Strength (and Candor)
But the real heart of the story lies with my grandmother. She was the one who filled my grandfather’s cup—literally and figuratively. Every day, she made his coffee and supported him in ways that only a steadfast partner could.
My grandmother was a homemaker by trade, but her heart belonged to serving others. She raised her 7 children, volunteered tirelessly, baked bread from scratch (grinding the wheat with her own hands), and made the best homemade kuchen (pies). She loved fiercely, prayed deeply, and gave selflessly. But she was also delightfully candid—never afraid to speak her mind or share her thoughts. Her candor, paired with her boundless compassion, made her a force of nature. I like to think I’ve inherited that same mix of honesty and heart.
Image of my mother showing me the original farmhouse she grew up in with no running water. A bird followed her all the way there (barely visible in the sky). I like to think it was a sign from my grandmother saying hi to us both.
Filling the Cup
When I think about Blue Tin Design, I see my grandmother filling that blue tin cup for my grandfather—an act of love, care, and service. That’s what I want this business to be. It’s not just about creating designs or building brands; it’s about helping others, sharing my skills, and pouring into those who need.
That’s why Blue Tin Design is dedicated to serving both small businesses and creative agencies. Whether you’re a business looking to grow your presence or an agency in need of freelance support, my mission is to help you succeed. With thoughtful design, strategy, and collaboration, I aim to fill the cup for everyone I work with.
Blue Tin Design is my way of honoring the legacy of hard work, compassion, and determination my entire upbringing has taught me. It’s about serving others, sharing skills, and helping businesses and agencies achieve their goals while staying true to their own stories.
If you’re looking for a creative partner to help tell your business story or support your agency’s next big project, I’d love to connect.
Let’s create something meaningful, together.
