Tori Simokov
Q What do you do?
“I bring brand worlds to life through graphic design and creative strategy that exists both digitally and in the real world through merchandise.”
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I’ve spent almost a decade in the corporate world building my expertise in integrated marketing. More recently, I’ve settled into my niche: creative strategy. I’ve also been freelancing in addition to working full-time since 2018. In 2019, I started a lifestyle brand called New York Old Friends to gain experience as a brand founder, which has been invaluable.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I have an insatiable curiosity which I think is an asset in any career. It forces me to keep a finger on the pulse and stay grounded in what’s cool and current, which translates to my designs and strategies. I think seeing trends morph and evolve so rapidly in the last decade has helped me cultivate my own distinct taste and perspective, which is ultimately what my clients come to me for.
Q What are you working on right now?
I’m very excited about my travel & design newsletter that I just launched called Window Seat. I’m sharing insights like which airlines have the best business class amenities, in-depth points hacking guides to help you plan vacations with money you’re already spending, along with detailed trip itineraries and city guides. I’m also sharing products at the intersection of travel & design, because we could always use beautiful things that make the travel process easier or more comfortable.
Q What’s your style?
Reading Window Seat will give you the best insight into my taste as a human. For my design perspective, check out my portfolio site: v1projects.com
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Writing is a practice I’m just starting to really dedicate time and energy to, and I’m loving it. Honing this skill will help you in literally every aspect of life, and I'm excited to see how it impacts my work as a graphic designer & creative strategist.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Networking is a big priority for me right now. I’d love to attend more events where organic connection is prioritized over the idea of, “what can you do for me?”
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Business development. Between working my full-time job, my design projects, and writing my newsletter, I'm not left with much time to promote myself.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
It’s going to sound cliche but I spent so much of my twenties thinking that I had to fit into one specific kind of box or finish everything I started. Try and fail. Fail better. Let fear fuel the fire! We’re all constantly reinventing ourselves.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I’m interested in expanding my newsletter by writing guest articles for different travel/culture outlets. I’d love to talk to writers or editors who could give me some pointers.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
Right now, I’m really interested in working with brands in the hospitality space to expand their brand worlds through merchandise. I’d love to create the next must-have hotel tchotchke or tote bag-slash-status symbol for your favorite restaurant.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
In 2021, Jeff Staple approached me about New York Old Friends collaborating with his brand, STAPLE. A year later, we released a 20-piece capsule collection that was all about giving people their flowers. I designed every single product and art directed the campaign. STAPLE merchandised and sold it. It was such a meaningful project and I cherish that someone as legendary as Jeff trusted me with it.
Q What is your rate?
My design projects typically start around $2,500, but it really varies depending on the scope. I'm always open to working within someone's budget or finding a creative payment solution if the project is a great fit.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Drop me a line at tori@v1projects.com!
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Erika Veurink
@erikaveurink / erikaveurink.com
Erika is a genius writer and brand builder who creates such valuable (usually fashion-focused) content via TikTok and her newsletter, Long Live. She is the blueprint! I'm so lucky to have her in my corner.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Stay curious.
This member profile was originally published in Janurary 2024