Before leading the Philadelphia Flower Show, I cut my teeth designing environments and experiences for some of the most recognizable brands in the world.

 

At Sparks, I was part of an amazing team for high-profile Google events like Zeitgeist and I/O—projects that demanded precision, vision, and the ability to turn abstract strategy into unforgettable physical moments. These were fast-paced, high-stakes activations where ideas had to scale without losing clarity.

 

Earlier, with Groundswell Design Group, I helped shape public spaces, restaurants, and hospitality experiences—learning how to build environments that feel both intentional and alive. And at Back to Nature in the NYC area, I overhauled brand environments and visual merchandising, creating store experiences that drove both engagement and revenue.

 

All of that work sharpened my belief that design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about orchestrating teams, shaping energy, and delivering clarity across disciplines.

 

I was an English major because I loved reading and writing—and I wanted to understand how setting, texture, and small details could create those rare, heightened moments in a person’s life. That same instinct shows up in my design work today. I’ve always been drawn to language, detail, and atmosphere.

 

I speak Spanish and Portuguese—and even taught Portuguese for a time at the University of Iowa. I grew up between Nebraska and Kansas, working on the family farm and in a local hardware store, which probably explains why I’ve always valued things that are both well-built and well-used.

 

I live in Philadelphia with my wife and our daughter, who is currently the absolute light of my life.