Amanda Cook, BrandJuice Director, is the spotlight of our December employee profile. We sat down for a Q&A to deep dive into her refreshing way of thinking and insightful vision that drives our team every day.
Tell us about where you grew up?
My dad says it’s “God’s Country,” the majority of Coloradans say it’s “A Cow Town,” on the map it’s officially known as Greeley and it’s 60 miles northeast of Denver. It’s the kind of place you never think you’ll miss until you move on. Now every time I go back I’m flooded with great memories and as I watch my kids revel in the simplicity of life in a small town I realize my Dad is right. It really is God’s Country.
What brand is your personality most aligned with?
BuzzFeed. Crazy, smart, influential, innovative, and massively underrated.
Who inspires you? Who do you aspire to be like?
My family. Creative thinkers. Floral arrangements. Teachers. Small details that no one else notices. Wine. Feeling in the moment. Old friends. New friends. The gratification that comes from knowing this is my life.
What’s your most irrational fear?
Fluffy the hamster who just so happens to live in my house. He’s a creepy little dude.
If you could keep only 5 possessions, what would they be?
I’ve never been one to own the biggest or best of anything, but over the years I have purchased and acquired things that conjure memories, and the memories I would miss.
- Bellular Shape Show // A wildly entertaining talk show my cousin and I created when we were obsessed with bellbottoms and The New Kids On The Block.
- J Sparkling Wine // The bottle of wine my parents bought me when they came to visit me in San Francisco and we toured wine country.
- Photo books // Lots of them. From my wedding albums to my growing collection of photo books that capture highlights from the past year.
- Art Collection // Perry and Jack’s artwork that’s proudly displayed on our art wall.
- iPhone // Because everyone knows that staying connected is my thing.
What are you drinking come five o’clock?
Diet Coke. And please don’t ask me what number I’m on. I admit it’s a problem.
Best restaurant in Denver?
Esters. It’s a modern day Cheers. “Making your way in the world today takes everything you’ve got. Taking a break from all your worries, sure would help a lot…”
What’s the best book you’ve read so far this year?
I’m currently reading The BFG with my kids. It’s a wild and fun book but I really wish I would have listened to my mom and resisted the urge to read everything the giant says in a ridiculous voice. It has been a bit taxing but I love every minute of it.
When you’re in need of creative inspiration, where do you go? What do you do?
I study, explore, and engage with others but what I read, where I go, and whom I talk to all depends on what facet of my life needs a dose of creative inspiration. If it’s work related I read Fast Company, if it has to do with décor or fashion I go explore Anthropologie, and if it has to do with parenting I call my mom.
What was the last picture you took with your phone?
A picture of Clyde. He’s our mischievous elf who magically appeared riding a reindeer this morning. He’s always up to crazy shenanigans and I just don’t know where he comes up with them…
If you could give your younger self any advice, what would it be?
Don’t get caught up in the rat race. Slow down, live in the moment, and embrace it all.
What’s the best part about working at BrandJuice?
I get to spend my days with really amazing and passionate people who make me better. I count myself very, very, very lucky.
Follow along on our social media over the coming weeks to find out more about what Amanda’s life is like when she’s not cultivating creative genius at BrandJuice.