From childhood fascination to ocean-inspired design

I’ve been mesmerized by the ocean for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Indiana, my first glimpse of tropical fish was on TV—vibrant, otherworldly creatures moving through the water. It sparked something in me. I knew I had to see them for myself.

In high school, I took scuba diving lessons in a pool, dreaming of the day I’d explore the ocean for real. That dream came true on my first dive trip to the Cayman Islands, and I was instantly hooked. A whole new world unfolded before me—a city beneath the waves, teeming with life. But after moving to New York City, years passed before I could dive again.

Then, about a decade later, I found myself in Bonaire, diving in its endless blue. It was there that I had one of the most unforgettable moments of my life: I spotted a rock with an unusual texture. As I watched, an octopus—completely white—rose from the rock, swam to another surface, and changed color right before my eyes. It was magic.

Another time, on a group dive, a sea turtle swam straight up to me, stopping just inches away. It stared at me for several seconds—an incredibly rare moment, as turtles usually shy away from people. I kept still, completely in awe, and when it finally moved on, I knew I had just experienced something extraordinary.

How bzbuzzbee Was Born

Diving became a part of who I am. Now, I go to the ocean at least three times a year, and when I’m not underwater, I’m thinking about it, dreaming about it, and translating those experiences into my work. But when I started searching for ocean-inspired accessories, I was frustrated. Everything I found was outdated, kitschy, or just not my style. I wanted something modern, vibrant, and meaningful—so I started creating my own.

My first design? A coffee mug featuring a clownfish (my favorite fish, long before Finding Nemo). Then came bags, home decor, and more. I’ve always had an eye for color, but nothing compares to the inspiration I find in the ocean.