Blow Creative is an award winning through-the-line creative communications agency based in Bristol (with partner agencies in London). We are a team of creative, strategic and technical individuals always looking to exceed expectations and ensure we put a smile on our clients’ faces along the way. Blow Creative work with Innovative start-ups, SME’s, PR agencies as well as some of the biggest names in the corporate, charity and FMCG world.
What do you actually do?
Probably easier to say what I don't do. Being a small concern you have to change your hat throughout the day. My main roles are overseeing creative direction to the design team and also as managing director ensuring that both Blow Creative and our sister company Blow Digital are both meeting clients expectations and business obligations.
When and why you joined?
Not join so much as press ganged into setting up the agency. I had been managing another studio team when a rather large new personal client 'dropped' into my lap. After trying to juggle both roles for a year I bit the bullet and set up Blow Design which is now known as Blow Creative Communications.
How did you get started in the industry?
I started off in Kall Kwik printing at the tender age of 16 on a YTS course courtesy of Mrs Thatcher. Paste up was the order of the day back then but I learnt an enviable amount about print techniques for when I went to college full time a year later on an OND Graphic Design course. Having first hand experience of a real print environment was a great taster and also gave me a better understanding of what could be achieved on press. There is nothing worse than seeing a designer talking to a printer with some far flung idea that would never be achievable. The grounding I received in the print shop hopefully helped me get over the hurdle that many of my college peers had to when picas, ems and ens were placed under their noses. It was also explained that PMT had nothing to do with their mothers cycle!
What would you be doing if you weren't in the industry?
Absolutely no idea. A goat herder maybe.
What's your current favourite piece of creative work?
The team have been working on new product development for FMCG clients which is always lovely and varied. More of the same would be nice though.
What do you love about your job?
That is doesn't really feel like work. Running an agency is undoubtadly harder than just being an employed designer as you have people's careers, lives and ambitions to be a guardian too. That said the day I have to wake up and not want to design will be a very sad day and one I hope never to meet.
If you could give one piece of advice for someone starting out, what would it be?
Follow your dreams. Be inspirational. Live for the moment. All things I probably wouldn't say to a newbie. I would tell them to have belief in their ideas but not to be too precious about them if others don’t. Oh, and hard work does pay off, eventually.
If you have one Super power what would it be?
The ability to read clients' minds.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
An inspirational father to my best creative's, Noah and Florence.
What was your worst job and what did you learn from it?
Telesales as a student. Not everyone see's the benefits of double glazing.
You have already worked with some amazing brands, who would you like to work with next?
Never been fussy who we hawk our goods / posing pouch in front of. As long as they are honest and are up for some exciting work then all comers are welcome.
Your favourite app or website?
Usually have a peruse of www.theinspiration.com
Facebook or Twitter?
Twitter, but I can't leave the spawn of the devil that is FB alone when my mind starts to wander or should that be wonder.
Nicholas Feurtado
Creative Director
Blow Creative
Website: blowcreative.co.uk
Twitter: @BlowCreative
