I worked in action sports as an apparel designer for Quicksilver and O'Neill in Southern California, but left the industry two years ago to launch my own jewelry brand, Rising Blue.Developing Rising Blue has been a powerful experience that pushed me as a designer, manager, and businessperson. As a one-woman shop, I ran every aspect of my company. I lived in Indonesia and Thailand for months at a time, working with local manufacturers and artisans to produce my designs. I collaborated with photographers, models, and other brands and developed direct relationships my customers. Working with other people became a major part of my job.From handling international manufacturing challenges to working with brand ambassadors on Instagram, I learned that I love this wide variety of collaboration and challenge. I thrive when dealing with diverse needs and am in my zone when solving interesting problems with other people. These experiences taught me to creatively persevere but also to change direction when necessary. After recently moving to Portland, I've decided that it's time for one of those changes in direction. I'm hoping to bring my unique experience as an action sports designer and an entrepreneur to the Portland Apparel Industry.