I don’t know if an ‘editors letter’ sounds pretentious, but given the esquire esque layout I’m going for I’m going to overlook that… Simply put our member site is a referral only platform where our collective can consume or create content and connect with like-minded enthusiasts. Whilst simplicity is the foundation which my brand aesthetic is built, as is this way with minimalism, this approach can make it much more difficult to convey a message. Things aren’t always simple and there is of course a story behind everything, I want to tell you mine and why I’ve created this platform.

For as long as I can remember I’ve had a passion for luxury, fashion, design, and technology. Luxury and fashion stemmed from my mothers ‘dress to impress’ mindset and the value she put on luxury labels as something to work, aspire and long for, a mentality and belief that I still carry with me today. In my teens I expressed these passions through a tumblr profile, followed by my studies where I developed a deeper understanding for the business side of brands and the psychology behind advertising, marketing, design, and layout. I knew what my interests were, but I felt a sense of loneliness or embarrassment especially when it came to the likes of discussing womenswear.

I left school and pursued technology, through this I was fortunate enough to meet my now closest colleague, mentor and friend who founded the successful business we both work for today. He is one of the biggest influences and inspirations in my life and showed me what being passionate can do. The business is people centric and its success is through understanding the value of bringing like-minded people together.

Whilst our company provides many opportunities, naturally a business of its type and industry has constraints in terms of design. In 2015 I realised my decision to not pursue art beyond school had left me with a void in my day-to-day life. I set up my freelance business, Stephen Cox Design, which combined my passions and gave me an output to express myself. I’m hugely proud of what I’ve achieved but old feelings of loneliness have again surfaced and the want for connection is again present.

In my search to understand these feelings I discussed a meeting between a previous client and freelancer with my therapist, I soon realised that through my pursuits I’ve met an incredible network of talented and passionate individuals. Through my experiences I also knew the value of bringing like-minded people together.

This platform is a representation of where I am at today and amalgamates all my professional experience. I want to create a space where the chains are off and I can share my passion with a community and encourage them to do the same. People need connection, or a place to feel heard, I believe that this collaboration site can be just that in addition to presenting a whole host of new opportunities, inspiration and ideas.