We had the good fortune of connecting with Bree Byle and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bree, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I worked in the book publishing industry for many years, on both the publishing and retail sides. I also grew up in the book word: both my mom and grandfather are/were writers and worked in the local publishing world.

After working in a publishing house for over 5 years I was ready for a change. I had developed a small photography business on the side, and decided to step into the freelancing world full time. I wanted to be my own boss, and I wanted to work with a variety of authors and publishers.

I saw a need in the book world for designers, in both indie publishing and traditional publishing. Since I started my business I have been able to create something different each day, from websites to book marketing photos, and have met many fun and interesting people along the way!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I like to think of myself as a renaissance creative; as someone who is interested in working on a variety of project types and fields instead of specializing in one. My business focus is working with publishers and authors, and within that focus I offer a variety of creative services. I’ve worked on book design, creating maps, designing author websites and book landing pages, and taking author headshots and book marketing photos.

While I have my main creative services (website design and photography) I think working on a variety of book-related projects gives me a different creative perspective. I apply skills I’ve learned in one area to a different one, and that gives my work a unique feel.

I was recently designing a landing page for a book launch. The photography provided by the publisher didn’t match the feel of the book or the design of the site. So I used my experience as a photographer to create new images. The author was thrilled with how the site turned out!

Learning and developing skills in multiple areas is challenging, and I sometimes feel my knowledge has gaps. But the opportunities this gives me, and the constant creative challenge, is well worth it!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live in Grand Rapids, Michigan, which is a beautiful and growing city in West Michigan. When friends visit, there is so much to do we can’t fit it all in one trip. We often have a beach day at Lake Michigan, and have dinner at a small lakeshore town. We spend a day walking around downtown Grand Rapids, visiting different breweries like Founders. Other days we would explore John Ball Zoo, or Fredrick Meijer Gardens. There might even be a big event happening, like a hockey game or Artprize!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My success is built on the encouragement of many people in my life, from friends and family to old coworkers! Taking the big risk to step away from my traditional job and start a business was born from the encouragement of my sister and one of my good friends, who both validated the idea and pushed me to do it. Risk takes courage, and finding that courage is easier when those around you nod and say “yes!”

Website: https://www.breerosecreative.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breerosecreative/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriellebyle/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076928134989

Image Credits
Bree Rose Creative

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.