SIMONE HILL, FOUNDER OF THE SLEEPLESS CREATIVE

Describe yourself and your designs to us?

I’m definitely a perfectionist, my husband would probably use the term control freak, but I just know what I like and what I want. I’m always going at full speed and have a hard time slowing down and relaxing.

My mind is constantly dreaming up the next designs or colour combos, often late at night, hence -  The Sleepless Creative. Originally the name was a play on the fact that as mums of small children we rarely sleep, but I also find that late night is when I’m at my most creative.

How did it all begin?

After almost 20 years in graphic design I’d kind of lost my passion for the field and was desperately looking for something creative I could do from home whilst raising my kids. I’ve always been very crafty and loved creating things with my hands. Also, I felt like it was the perfect time to really reassess my career and take a risk at doing something I REALLY loved. 

I remember having an event to go to and being immersed in planning the perfect outfit (I didn’t get out much back then so the excitement level was high!).

I couldn’t find the prefect pair of earrings to go with my outfit and I thought, wait…I could make these? So I gave it a go and they turned out pretty well, I got so many compliments and suggestions that I should sell them, I thought well why not?!

My expectations were pretty low, I was just happy to be doing something creative again and perhaps earning a little spending money. But things really started to take off and I started to take things more seriously, and invest more of my time in marketing. My graphic design experience came in handy and I haven’t looked back!

My designs are ultimately all about colour and shape. I like to play with layers and textures to give my pieces more visual interest. Mixing the smooth mat finish of polymer clay with the shine of resin. My personal atheistic tends to lean towards more muted tones and colours, but I still like to add that unexpected pop of colour. 

What inspires and drives you?

I get inspiration everywhere. I love fashion and colour - beautiful colours and textures on plants, the perfect afternoon light, the options are endless.

I’m driven by the possibility of this becoming a serious long-term career. One that I can continue to pursue even once my kids are in school and I’m more free to get back into full-time work.

What do you love to do when you're not working or when you need to recharge?

Ummm, The Sleepless Creative never sleeps, ha ha! I do love to read and when I do get the chance to switch off I can get really lost in a good novel. I’m also an amateur at gardening, I don’t really know what I’m doing but I tend to plant and hope for the best. I love the colours and textures of plants. 

What advice do you have for emerging designers?

Always design what you love. When I’ve followed current trends, it’s never worked out. Customers will buy because they love YOUR style, not the current trend. After all, that is why you’re a designer, your brand represents your personal style and aesthetic.