This week, instead of scouring the streets for street style I look within the place I work in everyday to meet fellow creatives with a knack for effortless style. Meet Sam Tweddell, graphic designer with Sullivan Branding, a brand-development and advertising agency based in downtown Memphis. In Sullivan’s newly renovated space in Toyota Center, the non-traditionally designed office is more collaborative and energetic in order to cultivate creativity. Today, we get to know a little more about Sam as she shows real work wear in an environment where comfort, professionalism and creativity has to strike the right balance.
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What brought you to Memphis and to Sullivan Branding?
I’m originally from Arkansas, but my mother has been in the advertising business in Memphis for years, so coming back to Memphis (and advertising) was like coming home. I majored in graphic design and did everything but that after college. Basically, I took the scenic route.
Describe your typical day.
Coffee. It always starts with coffee. After that, it’s anyone’s guess! My day can consist of anything from hand-drawing posters where the words are made of hair (this takes ALL day. Actually SEVERAL days) to designing fake TV show logos for a commercial, to helping clients represent themselves consistently across any medium. Mostly, I spend my time trying not to laugh too loudly while working with hilarious coworkers to solve communication problems.
Describe your Memphis.
Vibrant and full of soul. After living in places like Dallas and New York, it’s easy to see the benefits of Memphis. There are truly incredible things happening around the city at any time of any given night and it’s accessible to most people. The Grizzlies, the concerts, the venues, the festivals—it’s all so rich in “realness” and regardless of income level, Memphians can experience a piece of it for themselves, whether through social media, free events, or the good work of places like the Carpenter Art Garden and the Church Health Center. The list goes on and on. I love Lafayette’s Music Room, Levitt Shell concerts, Brooks Museum events, Wing Fest, Burger Fest, BBQ Fest, any fest.
What sparks your creativity here in Memphis?
All of the above. And the people that come here — and choose to stay here — from all over the country. They truly love this city and let it love them back.
What’s your philosophy on work wear especially in a creative office?
Simple is best. I see design trends come and go in my daily work so, as far as my style goes, it’s timeless staples all the way. On a good day it’s a great pair of jeans — Gap has recently revamped their denim and I’m obsessed with the high rise skinny — a striped shirt and colorful necklace or scarf to keep it interesting. On a not-so-good day, it’s leggings-as-pants, an over-sized sweater and some Nike Blazers. Fortunately, creativity speaks louder than the wardrobe in our office, so I can be a little more casual.
Outfit Details
Scarf: Zara / Zara NYC
Sweater: Ann Taylor / TJ Maxx
Jeans: Paige Premium Denim / Online
Booties: Dolce Vita / Lansky Bros. Memphis
Other Credits
Coordination thanks to Amy Wolfe.
Sullivan Branding Mural in photos by Sullivan Branding staff.
Space design by archimania.