We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Autumn Grace Peterson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Autumn Grace below.
Hi Autumn Grace, thanks for joining us today. Let’s start big picture – what are some of biggest trends you are seeing in your industry?
One of the biggest trends I’m seeing in the online space is micro trends — or maybe even nano trends. The length of content is shortening and the speed of trends emerging and expiring is reached an almost impossible rate (or at least it can feel that way as a creative at times). TikTok songs that were popular a week or two ago can feel exhausted. I’m sure the “Girl Dinner” or “Boy Math” trends will be used by established brands in commercials in months and it will almost be laughable to younger generations that it’s taken so long to reach traditional media.
I don’t think the trend of quick and fast content means that there isn’t a desire or need for longer form, thorough creations — it’s just not in the forefront. I feel as though society oscillates between extremes and slower, deeper content will re emerge as people burn out on constant, short form media.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I actually took a really round about way of finding my place in the creative industry. Despite people’s cautionary advice, I started college as a Bio/Pre-Med major — which was a bold choice considering I pass out at the sight of blood. When I realized there was no need for a doctor who consistently faints on the job, I spoke to a few guidance counselors and began pursuing a degree in Strategic Communications. Along the way, I also picked up a degree in Professional Writing and took several graphic design courses since I’ve always loved art and wanted to find a way to incorporate this skillset into my professional toolbox.
I had a range of internships in college working for a fashion designer, at an art museum, and even for a top real estate agent in Chicago. As most writers can probably attest, the variety had only just begun. I’ve now written on topics like water management systems, retail media, digital signage, beauty, nutrition, microchips, roadway reconstruction — you name it. That’s the best (and most challenging) part about writing, you’re constantly thinking and learning.
I work in marketing and I offer freelance services in copywriting (blogs, eBooks, scripts, press releases, etc.), social media, communications and strategy. While I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished professionally for a variety of companies and brands, I also get super excited about my projects outside of the professional realm. I love expressing my creativity through art or makeup — whether I’m sketching or slapping on a bald cap and transforming myself into handsome squidward. I recently got married (woot woot) and while I never really wanted a wedding, I thought this was a fabulous opportunity to critically analyze what the traditions surrounding this event meant and reinvent it to suit us. My husband and I poured over 100 hours into creating disco mannequins, I handwrote cards to each of the attendees instead of printing menus or programs, and we budgeted for a moody mural instead of copious floral arrangements. As someone who always resisted a wedding, I came out of it pretty proud of our work.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on NFTs. (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice
NFTs are extremely interesting. Like traditional artists, I don’t think everyone’s work is going to become world renowned — it will be very few. The artists who take advantage of the form of media, push the limits, reinvent it, capture the cultural significance, or have a distinct style are most likely to have the most financially valuable creations.
Similarly to cryptocurrency, I don’t believe anyone will reap the rewards of their NFT purchases for a while. It’s a fun and risky investment and it’s going to be a waiting game to discover of what is really a stamp of the time.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding part of being a creative is seeing people’s reactions — whether that’s a discourse, a laugh, or a smile. The actual creative process can be a grind, including grueling revisions, late nights, tedious tasks, and more — but it is so worth it when you can share the completed project with the people and feel really good about all the hard work you poured into it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.autumngracepeterson.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_actual_cole_sprouse/
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@autumngracepeters
Image Credits
Olgo Polo Photography (for the pictures where I’m in a wedding dress)