^Sydney working the iPad register at her first Natalie Borton event

Today I’m so happy to finally introduce you to Sydney, my first intern! We first got connected for childcare reasons—she’s still Jack’s nanny!—and it’s been so fun to add another element to our relationship and now get to work side by side on projects during the week while Jack is sleeping. To give you all a chance to get to know her, we decided an interview style post would be fun. Read on to learn about the girl behind the scenes of Thoughts by Natalie and the Natalie Borton shop!

Where are you from? What brought you to San Diego?

I’m from Gilbert, Arizona. I decided to move to San Diego about a year ago because I saw more opportunity here and I wanted to challenge myself! I am working towards a design-based career. California is the home to a lot of companies that interest me. Luckily for me, I have family in California that blessed me with the opportunity to live with them. I also moved here because I wanted to step out of my comfort zone of Gilbert, AZ. I started completely over. I enrolled in a new school, got multiple new jobs, made new friends, and explored new surroundings. I’ve been here for a year and I am so happy with my decision. It’s definitely a place I’d love to end up living after I’m done with school.

You started off as our babysitter for Jack so I could work during the week—what made you interested in also being an intern?

I love Jack so much! After watching him for about 6 months, I got to know you and your family. I found out about your business through watching him. One day, I was thinking about how I need some real-world experience in design. I knew I would have to start out with a small business, since I’m only a Sophomore in college and I had never done an internship before. I immediately thought of you. You are a self-made entrepreneur and designer, and you run everything out of your home. Plus, we already became friends because of Jack! It was a perfect match. It was meant to be!

What are you studying in school?

I’m currently majoring in Graphic Design. My cousin, who I currently live with, is an Art Director at Nixon. That alone gave me motivation to move in with the fam and learn from him as I go through school. I go to community college right now here in San Diego, and next fall I’ll be attending Arizona State University to finish my degree.

^Chrissy and me with our amazing interns (Georgia and Sydney) at the Madewell event we co-hosted in December 

What types of intern projects excite you?

I love using my creative side whenever I can. One of my favorite things is when we go out and I can take photos of you. I love finding aesthetically pleasing places to go and show of Natalie Borton jewelry. Not to mention, seeing photos I take on your Instagram is pretty awesome. I also like to practice using Photoshop, so, it excites me when I’m asked to create graphics for the blog.

What kind of job do you see yourself doing once you’re done with school?

I want to be a Graphic Designer. My cousin has my dream job. At Nixon, he designs ads, coordinates photoshoots for the company, travels to amazing places, and works in a fun environment while doing so. That is everything I’d want to do. I would love to wake up every day and enjoy what I do.

What are some things you’ve learned since you started interning?

I’ve learned what happens on the “other side” when ordering online. From you, I’ve learned how to fulfill orders, make the product, and promote the business. You also taught me basically everything I know about Photoshop so far. Most importantly, you’ve shown me you can be a successful business owner while also being a mom.

^I don’t know what I’d do without her!

How would you describe your personal style?

My dream closet would definitely be more Boho Chic. I’m obsessed with a good shoe paired with high-waisted jeans and a denim jacket. I like simple styles and neutral colors.

And lastly, what’s your favorite piece of Natalie Borton jewelry?

The Paige Necklace (which I’m wearing in these photos!). I like the metal chain and the neutral color scheme. The white, brown, and black together are so pretty and for sure my style.

All photos are from the Madewell x Natalie Borton pop-up shop we co-hosted with Chrissy Powers! See more of the event here.