Graduating from Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in 2014 with a BFA in Illustration and a concentration in Graphic Design, Bree Caudill is a graphic designer, photographer, and visual storyteller. She has spent a good portion of her career in Baltimore, interning at Ripken Baseball prior to her six years working as a Graphic Artist at an architectural and engineering firm in Fells Point. Aside from freelance design (Hardtail Creative), helping small businesses establish brand identity, Bree continues to gain experience with creative team supervision and marketing strategy in her current role as a Graphic Design and Marketing Manager at the University of Maryland, College Park.

The Annapolis native now lives with her dog Molly and 15 houseplants in Columbia, MD. She enjoys an active and adventurous lifestyle, hitting the trails with her hiking boots or mountain bike and documenting her life and travels through the lens of a Nikon Z6II. She also loves exploring new coffee shops and restaurants (recommendations warmly welcomed), and spending time with friends and family as she navigates this wild journey called life.

What’s your biggest challenge as a designer or creative?

I don’t think I’m alone in this one but Perfectionism. However, I’m gaining more acceptance that this is an impractical goal and it can actually prohibit progress.

What’s your favorite quote/philosophy?

I have two that are good reminders…
“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” – William James
“How you climb a mountain is more important than reaching the top.” – Yvon Chouinard

What are your top 3 favorite books or movies? (doesn’t have to be design-related)

Movies: Drinking Buddies, Happy Christmas,  Julie & Julia. Book: Wild

What’s on your desk that you could not live without?

Coffee & a notepad/post-it notes

What sparks creativity for you?

I find if I am stagnant, my ideas are stagnant. So movement and working out is very important to me to get the creative juices flowing, but in general I try to be open and aware to my surroundings. Finding inspiration in the natural colors, textures and peace of nature. The boldness and energy of the city, everything from signage (typehunting) to the architecture and curation of spaces. I’m also inspired by people, their stories, and other forms of creative expression like fashion, music and film.

What are some of your hobbies?

Photography, mountain biking/cycling, hiking, skiing, yoga, strength training, guitar, cooking, exploring new restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops, taking care of my plants, and trying to read more.