*Steph and her co-author Erin will be at SWIPE Design (Toronto) tonight for the launch of their book. All are welcome to attend.
Today’s Notable Young Professional is multi-talented craft expert Steph Hung, whose daily tasks include everything from sewing costumes to painting furniture, knitting sweaters, carving pumpkins and folding paper flowers. Here’s what inspired her towards her career path…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
As a craft stylist I create content for editorial publications and commercial campaigns. In short, I make things for photoshoots. I sew costumes, paint furniture, knit sweaters, carve pumpkins, fold paper flowers – it’s all in a day’s work.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I started as an intern and then became an editor in the Crafts Department at Martha Stewart Living, which was the best experience and education. I worked with the most talented people who were all extremely driven, and being in their presence was motivating. It definitely hasn’t been a clear-cut career path, though – I never even knew this job existed when I was in high school!
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of my job is that every day is different. Some days I’m running around the city looking for the perfect paint/fabric/paper, while others I’m on set with photographers, stylists, and art directors.
I also love learning new skills and working with different materials for each job. For instance, I’ve tried my hand at dyeing, jewellery-making, screenprinting, and macramé. I have a great appreciation for skilled artisans, who are the real experts of their craft.
The most challenging part of my job is trying to stay organized. It can get pretty hectic when I’m working on several projects simultaneously, so I make lists – lots of them.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
It’s not for everyone, but I have learned to embrace the cyclical nature of a freelance schedule: bursts of intensity followed by periods of downtime. During busy times, I’ll know that my work/life balance is off when every horizontal surface in my apartment is covered with supplies, materials, and projects.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I just finished writing a craft book with my pal Erin Jang, a graphic designer I worked with at MSL. I would love to collaborate on more books, learn about surface pattern design, and some day open a little home goods shop.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Finding credibility and creating a niche in the industry remains a challenge. I just try to keep my head down, work harder, and say YES to opportunities. Gretzky was right: You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
I think success is being able to enjoy what you do. Happiness is the result of that.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Finishing the book. It’s crazy to think that it is actually sitting on a bookstore shelf right now – and it may even be in a library one day!
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
BE NICE. People will remember if you are friendly, helpful, and generous.
Where is your favourite place to wine/dine in your city?
The Federal on Dundas West. Always.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
I love to cook, but when I need to give my hands a rest there’s nothing like a coffee and crossword.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
I love going back to New York because there’s always something new to see, eat, or do. Plus, I need to make sure that my favourite pizza (at Saraghina in Brooklyn!) still tastes the same.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I would like to be a baker. I love the immediate gratification of pulling something fresh out of the oven. I used to work in the Whole Foods bakery during school. My bosses told me to make sure I knew how everything tasted, and I did!
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I support the Red Cross and Covenant House, but I do wish I volunteered more of my time.
What to you is notable?
I admire people and places with a strong point of view and a unique sensibility, like The Chief Salvage Co., Day/Night Salon, and La Cubana. I like that they are true to themselves and aren’t trying to be everything to everyone.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone and handwritten lists.
#NOTABLE
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