Looking Back: How I Ended Up Running My Own Creative Business
The Early Spark of Creativity
It’s funny how things come full circle. Looking back, Nightingale Creative started long before it had a name—before I even realised I was on the path to running my own business.
I’ve always been fascinated by branding, design, and the way businesses present themselves. As a kid, I was surrounded by it. My dad was always bringing home vintage signs, old advertising, and packaging from car boot sales, antique shops, flea markets, charity shops, and second-hand stores. These weren’t just objects; they were stories—snapshots of brands that had stood the test of time.
I didn’t think much of it back then, but maybe being around so many different brands, colours, logos, and designs made more of an impact on me than I realised. I remember thinking Levi’s was effortlessly cool, Shell’s branding was iconic, and London Underground adverts were everywhere—always bold, always recognisable.
Then, at university, I started studying branding in a more structured way, and suddenly, it all clicked. Branding isn’t just about logos or colours—it’s about perception, storytelling, and identity. That curiosity turned into creativity, and before I knew it, I was designing, experimenting, and shaping ideas that would later become my business.
From Passion to Business
I didn’t start with big corporate clients or a grand plan. My first projects were with small businesses—tradespeople, service providers, and startups—helping them build websites, develop branding, and create marketing that actually made sense for them. It was practical, hands-on work, and I loved it.
As things grew, I realised something important: Creative minds thrive in environments that allow freedom and flexibility. Research even suggests that highly creative people have unique brain connectivity patterns, making them less suited to rigid, highly structured workplaces. Looking back, this explains a lot—deep down, I knew I had to be my own boss.
The Heart of Nightingale Creative
Now, I work with businesses across different industries, helping them define their identity, improve their websites, and build their presence in a way that truly reflects their vision.
Some businesses come to me with no brand at all, just an idea and a blank slate, looking for someone to bring it to life. Others already have a brand but need clarity, direction, and refinement to make it stronger. Many just don’t have the time to manage their own branding and marketing, and that’s where I come in—helping them cut through the noise and make their brand work for them.
The variety keeps things exciting. No two businesses are the same, no two challenges are identical, and that’s what makes it interesting. Branding, web design, and marketing aren’t about following a template—they’re about finding the unique angle that makes a business stand out.
Building a Business That Works
Nightingale Creative is more than just design—it’s about creating solutions that make branding and marketing easier for businesses that don’t have time to do it all themselves. Whether it’s a new website, a complete rebrand, or ongoing support, I work closely with clients to help them communicate who they are and what they do best.
If you’re looking for help with your branding, website, or marketing, let’s talk. Whether it’s a quick call or an in-person meeting, I’d love to see how we can work together to make your business stand out.