Member Stories: Will Loper with Rouse Media

Member Stories: Will Loper with Rouse Media

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The Forge community strives because of all of our great members in a wide range of industries. Forge member Will Loper is a Forge member working with Rouse Media, a digital marketing agency. With so many similar companies in Birmingham, we wanted to find out what differentiates Rouse Media. 

1. How does Rouse Media set themselves apart from other digital marketing agencies?

We set ourselves apart by our personal touch that our employees provide. At Rouse, we believe that our biggest asset is our employees. They are willing and able to provide unique, tailored solutions to our clients, which helps create and sustain relationships. When we walk into a business, we’re your friend that’s here to help!

2. Why types of clients do you work with?

Rouse has the ability to work with any size business, but most of our client base is small to mid-level sized businesses, that are at the point where they need to hire a full time marketer, or need to hire a marketer so they can focus on the core of their business. You can hire a full time marketer for your business, or you can hire a full-team of professionals for the same price or less.

 

We’re actively targeting companies that are at the point where they need a digital marketing presence. They are at the point where they need to hire an internal marketing person, but for the same price or less, you can hire a team of marketing specialists

3. How is the performance of your digital marketing strategy measured?

 

There are many ways we can measure the results of your digital marketing strategy, and we like to leave it up to you and your company. Every industry and every client that we work with has different preferences and tastes. We personally enjoy swinging by your office to say hey, or tag along in marketing meetings to go over our monthly analytical reports! This helps us stay up to date with big things happening in your business!

4. Why did you choose to work from Forge?

 

Choosing to work at the Forge was an easy choice. We love the modern atmosphere, and the positive environment. We are surrounded by other professionals trying to accomplish goals for their business, and we love the opportunity to network and be right in the heart of downtown Birmingham.

Need outdoor design inspo? Tips + tricks from John G. Wilson of Birmingham-based Golightly Landscape Architecture

Need outdoor design inspo? Tips + tricks from John G. Wilson of Birmingham-based Golightly Landscape Architecture

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Get to know John G. Wilson, a Forge member, Birmingham native and landscape architect with Golightly Landscape Architecture. See pictures of his gorgeous designs, and find out where the name Golightly comes from (*Spoiler Alert: It’s not Breakfast at Tiffany’s). Plus, three essential questions to ask before hiring a landscape architect!

 

Meet John G. Wilson, the Hands Behind Golightly Landscape Architecture

John Founder of Golightly Landscape Architecture in Birmingham. He started his business in 2004 after a decade of working in the field with other talented landscape architects around the Eastern United States.

Over the span of his nearly two-decades-long career, John has worked on countless projects around the U.S under a multitude of studios and firms. But almost a decade ago, he found his way back home to Birmingham, where it all started. 

 

What’s in a Name: Golightly Landscape’s Influences + Early Starts

Growing up, John was introduced to drawing and painting by his mom. He’d watch her doodle while she was on the phone, and she eventually taught him to draw and paint.

“My mother’s maiden name is Golightly, and it’s my middle name. That’s where the name comes from.”

John Wilson

John’s style is natural, but when it comes to the client, he lets the project speak for itself. 

According to John, he gets his design ideas from the existing architecture of a home, the client’s needs and the parameters of what the site will allow. They often use native plants, sustainable materials and natural hardscaping (materials like wood, stone, etc. for paved areas, driveways, walkways, etc.) in their designs.

You can find his work in 80+ residential gardens from Maryland’s east coast to Pensacola Beach, Florida.

 His projects range in size from intimate gardens to entire estates. And in Birmingham, you can find a recent project at The Altamont School’s Lily Field—their soccer field named after Lily Rushton who passed away in 2009. There he designed a gateway into the field. 

“It was really rewarding to be working with the family, knowing what it was about and who it was for. And it was finished just in time for them to host a wedding reception at the field for one of Lily’s siblings.” 

John Wilson

A couple of his influences include the Landscape Architect Russell Page and Wolfgang Oehme—one of the founding principals at the Washington DC firm, Oehme van Sweden & Associates, where he worked for four years.

On Wolfgang Oehme/Oehme van Sweden & Associates Inc.:

“He/They taught me to have fun with plants, introducing me to a whole world of plants that are often overlooked. With each client I try to get them to use this influence: to take some chances with plants, and as the framed picture of Wolfgang on my office wall says, ‘Plant Different’.”

John Wilson

3 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Landscape Architect From John G. Wilson himself

Can you take me on a garden tour of some of your projects?

This will allow the client to see some of their work in person. As well as provide time together to get to know each other. In residential design it is important for the LA (landscape architect) to know how their client lives:

 

  • Are they ‘gardeners’, flower arrangers, do they have pets, children, ect.
  • Ideally this is a long term relationship that grows as the garden grows, the family grows, and interest/ needs change.

What is your design process and how do you structure your fees?

It is important that parameters are set on both ends of what to expect financially. I will not start a project until I have a signed contract in hand. My proposals outline my design process through phases and what is provided for the proposed fees. It includes:

 

  • detailed notes on specific items/project elements discussed at the first meeting
  • a clear explanation of what is not included and would be considered ‘additional services’ such as zoning board presentations or hand tagging plant material

I am not very good at visualizing designs through architectural renderings, how can we verify I truly understand what you are proposing?

LA’s have years of experience reading architectural plans, but often our clients do not. Bridging that gap early in the process is important. Our firm tries to establish early what means of visual communication is needed to clearly describe our intentions. Alternate methods we employ to compliment our plans include:

 

  • garden tours
  • image boards of plant material, paving material, and similar spaces and garden elements such as fences and gates
  • as needed 3 dimensional renderings (which may be considered an additional service)

 

Why Forge is the Perfect Fit

Before he snagged his office at Forge, John worked in an office on Morris Avenue. Surrounded by lawyers, he knew he needed somewhere more creative—Somewhere he could grow. That’s when he found Forge, the co-working space above The Pizitz Food Hall. 

 

It was perfect for John because it was buzzing with other creatives and small businesses—and two years later, it still is! At Forge he’s been able to network with and learn from other local movers and shakers. The downtown location was just an added bonus.

 

Think Forge could be the perfect fit for you too? Find out more about them here. 

To see more of John’s work, check out his portfolio here, or find them on Instagram @golightlylandscape!

Member Stories: Krystal Pino with Nomad Tax

Member Stories: Krystal Pino with Nomad Tax

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One of the best things about Forge is the diversity in our community- so many different companies and career paths. Krystal Pino joined the Forge family a few months ago and she has such a unique story! Read more about her company and how it allows her to travel the world!

1. Tell us a little bit about what you do!

I run Nomad Tax, a tax consulting firm for individuals and small businesses with a focus on digital nomads.

2. Tell us about your professional journey and what personal experiences led you to start Nomad Tax.

 

The first 10 years of my career were pretty vanilla.  I went to school, got the internships, took the exams, worked in the firm, etc.  A little over two years ago, I was having drinks with a friend and he was telling me about a friend of his that was going on this work/travel program – 12 cities in 12 months, all over the world.  I was intrigued, so I applied and got in.

 

I left my cushy job, sold everything I owned and hit the road.  I worked remotely while traveling to 33 countries in 2 years, and I noticed along the way that there were a lot of location independant workers like me that were looking for tax advice.  Eventually it became to much to ignore, and I started Nomad Tax to serve the community.

3. You told me that you have worked in coworking spaces all over the world- tell us about one of your favorite cities you’ve lived in and why.

 

This is such a hard question to answer!  There are so many beautiful places in the world, and they all offer something different!  I guess I find myself drifting back to Mexico City, Cape Town and Medellin the most.  All three are full of friendly people, great food, green spaces, and are cities with easy access to a lot of outdoor activities.

4. Whats your day-to-day like?

 

Every day is a little different, as I’m sure most of you reading this can attest to.  I do like to have a slow start to my day… sleep in a bit, make some breakfast (scrambled eggs with Tabasco), do prelimiary email checks and prepare for my day.  After that I’ll hop on my scooter and make my way to the coworking space, where I spend the majority of my day on the phone consulting with clients.  Around 1430 I realize I’ve forgotten to eat, but I hit the gym (Wheelhouse Academy) around 1530 most days, so I’ll snack on something instead (or get a burger and tots from The Standard, although I never finish my tots). 

 

After the gym, I circle up on items left from the day and make a list of what needs to be tackled the next day.  Once I close my laptop, I like to hop on my scooter for a ride through Railroad Park, a beer at one of the breweries, or take in a Barons game.  If I’m feeling particularly introverty, you’ll find me buried in a book, most likey Stephen King or Gillian Flynn.

5. Why did you recently decide to move back to Birmingham?

Moving countries every 3-6 weeks on average can wear on your soul.  You’re constantly in the growth zone as you put yourself in new and  uncomfortable situations as a way of life.  I knew I needed to take a break for my own emotional and mental health, plus slowing down would give me a chance to really focus on building Nomad Tax.  I considered Mexico City, Chiang Mai, Lisbon, or maybe Sofia as good spots for this, but when I visited Birmingham for a few weeks while deciding, I realized how much I missed this city and the people in it. 

 

My standards for quality of life are pretty simple: good food, good people, good wifi.  Birmingham fits that mold, so here I am! At least for the next few months… then I’ll be off to go around the world and back again. 

Member Stories: Madison Kerns with Urban Avenues

Member Stories: Madison Kerns with Urban Avenues

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Our coworking space is full of diverse members in many different sectors of business across the city. We even have a few nonprofit organizations! Madison Kerns works with Urban Avenues. Urban Avenues exists to bring together different Birmingham communities by inspiring people to be curious and make beautiful things together.

1. Are you from Birmingham? What gave you the passion to work for Urban Avenues and pour into the city of Birmingham?

I’m originally from Tennessee — just North of Nashville. I decided to move to Birmingham for college back in 2011 and immediately fell in love with the city. The vision for the restoration of the city was so apparent and I wanted to be part of it. While I was earning my Entrepreneurship+Management degree from Samford, there were plenty of opportunities to engage with nonprofits and socially-minded businesses in Birmingham, but I was drawn to Urban Avenues and the ways they utilize creativity as a bridge for the various communities.

Five Loaves was particularly exciting to me; I grew up in my family’s restaurant in TN and personally had a passion for social entrepreneurship — Five Loaves was the intersection my past and my passion! I volunteered with them for a few years while I was working as an executive recruiter and officially joined the Urban Avenues team last year. 

2. Whats your day-to-day like?

It seems like every day is different with this job, which I love. I mostly focus on our venture Five Loaves, which equips high school students with culinary and leadership skills so they can create pop-up dinners that bring the city together.
Some days are spent creating a curriculum for training nights so students can learn culinary skills and skills that are relevant regardless of which career they choose (e.g., learning project management and using it to figure out how to execute a meal). Other days could involve meeting with schools, chefs, other nonprofits, and finding ways to partner in ways that will further the city!

 

3. How have y’all seen Birmingham communities and people experience change through events like Five Loaves and Fish Camp Films?

Five Loaves and Fish Camp Films both involve training students so that they can serve the city, which means I spend a lot of my time with high schoolers. I love seeing them form strong bonds as a team. This month, we had students from four different communities/schools across the city and it was incredible to see the ways they bonded but also became students of one another. It’s the perfect example of what we hope for our city: true growth because everyone has both a seat and a voice at the table.

4. Why did y’all choose to work from Forge this summer?

We’re so happy to be at Forge! Our team has grown this summer with two interns, so our search for an office was inspired by our need for space so everyone could work together! When we toured Forge, we knew it was the perfect choice. Being here allows us to be fully immersed in the city and interact with all the innovators that call Forge home. 

5. Do y’all have any upcoming events you’re looking forward to?

We’re currently developing our pop-up dinner schedule for the Fall 2019 season! These are part of our City Series and are a great way to see our students cohost an unforgettable dinner with some of the city’s greatest chefs. If you want to see details as they’re released, follow @five_loaves on Instagram or subscribe to our newsletter (for early ticket releases) at fiveloavesbirmingham.com! 

Birmingham interior designer Stanley Stevenson Jr. chases entrepreneurial dreams at Forge

Birmingham interior designer Stanley Stevenson Jr. chases entrepreneurial dreams at Forge

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Stanley Stevenson Jr. is not your typical interior designer in Birmingham. Find out how the husband and father of three is blazing his own trail in the interior design world.

 

The Journey to Stevenson Design

 

Stanley Stevenson Jr. started in the industry working at a local outdoor furniture company in the design department. There, he gained knowledge under seasoned designers by designing 3D furniture models and space planning for the company. He didn’t know it at the time, but this extensive experience would lay the groundwork he’d need for his future business.

 

Although he enjoyed the work, he knew he eventually wanted to form his own design company. So ten years ago, he took his first baby step and began the process by reading self-help books, researching and taking note of what worked and didn’t work for others.

 

He even started a blog, DaddyBe, about “living life on your own terms” in entrepreneurship. The blog took off, and now he’s also podcasting about his endeavors.

“The blog and podcast are my way to get my thoughts and ideas down about going through my entrepreneurship journey. It also lets me share my vision for my company,” said Stevenson.

 

Aspiring to Full-Time Entrepreneurship

 

In 2018, he set a time limit, giving himself six months to quit his day job. It was actually his wife, Kelley, that ultimately gave him the final boost of encouragement.

 

“She told me ‘You’re podcasting and blogging about starting your business, so do it!’ Once I knew I had her support and our family was all on the same page, I knew it was time to for me to start taking my plan seriously,” said Stevenson.

So on March 8, 2019, he left the security of his day job to pursue his dream of becoming a full-time interior designer and CEO of Stevenson’s Design.

 

“It was a scary jump—and I felt liberated, confident, scared and pumped all at the same time,” said Stevenson. “It is truly amazing the increase focus and creativity I’ve had since being able to devote my energy to this full time.”

 

Working From Forge

 

He started to work from Forge, the downtown co-working space at the Pizitz in 2017. Initially, he signed up for Forge’s after-hours plan. This allowed him access to the building during nights and weekends for a lower rate.

 

“What I can get done in two hours working at Forge takes me an entire week to do at home,” said Stevenson. “My workflow is smoother because I’m not distracted and I can focus on the task at hand.”

 

He’ll soon upgrade to a round the clock package at Forge granting his access to the co-working space 24/7.

 

Function + Aesthetic

 

 

Like every interior designer, Stevenson has a favorite go-to design aesthetic. Although he doesn’t put himself in a box stylistically, he describes his as mid-century modern.

 

Designers with such tastes are a dime a dozen in Birmingham. What sets him apart from others is his laser focus on utilizing space and function of a room. This is something he learned to do well while working in the corporate world, handling logistics, space planning and running a distribution center fast and efficiently.

 

“I carry that experience with me, and I want to first and foremost make the space something that people can use effectively,” said Stevenson.

 

On the residential side, he said it’s all about getting to know the family he’s working for and observing how they use the space. Oftentimes, he’s able to go into a house and create more useful space by simply moving things around.

Commercially, he said it’s again about the effective use of space, but also about the bottom line for the commercial client.

 

“I like to fix functionality problems, and make environments more holistic. I have a business mind that will always thing about how to design space to run fast and efficiently, keeping the big picture in mind.”

 

Stevenson’s Business Plan

 

Stevenson, who went to design school at Virginia College, studied both interior and graphic design in school. Once he started working, he realized many clients he worked for needed both graphic design and interior design work. Wanting to provide efficient solutions for his customers, he decided to incorporate both into his business.

“By offering both graphic and interior design, I’m able to offer an aestetic flow to clients, and they get the same look both with their logo, web design and interior design.”

Stanley Stevenson

The double design feature makes his business unique in Birmingham’s design world.

This, he said, allows him to help customers build a more cohesive brand image.

 

Stevenson’s Advice: Ignore Your Fear of Failure

 

Three weeks in to his giant leap to solo entrepreneurship, Stevenson says he’s confident he made the right choice to pursue growing Stevenson designs. He’ll take the NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Certification) exam in April, which  is the industry’s recognized indicator of excellence of design principles and commitment to the profession.

 

After that, he’ll continue to blog and podcast while growing his expanding client base for Stevenson Design.

 

“I always grew up thinking there is honor in working for somebody else, that that predictable lifestyle and fixed income was the way to go if you had a family to help support. Don’t let fear be the reason for not taking the step to go for it,” said Stevenson.