7 Years of Studio 77: Celebrating Seven Unforgettable Years
As I sit here in Cavinti, Philippines, typing away in a tropical paradise, it's hard to believe that it's already been seven years since Studio 77’s inception in my best friend’s living room, over cold slices of Domino’s pizza. What started as a big dream—a "someday" wish—has blossomed into a reality far beyond my expectations.
The idea with Studio 77 was always to blend travel with work, though I'll admit, part of me never truly believed it would happen. It took bold, life-changing decisions: selling everything we owned and adopting a nomadic lifestyle. Yes, we live out of a suitcase (which I do fully unpack in each new place) but we make each new place a home.
Our Footprints
This past year, Will and I have embraced extremes, working through the 52-degree heat of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam, and the biting -31 degrees of Calgary, Canada. Our journey has been vast and varied.
Our journey began in Vietnam, where we explored the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the vibrant streets of Hanoi. From there, we ventured to Bali, immersing ourselves in the cultural hubs of Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak.
Next, we returned to Europe, starting with ancient Athens in Greece, and taking quick detours to several charming nearby islands. Our European tour continued in Italy, where we savoured the rich histories of Rome, Florence, and Venice, before making a brief return to the UK.
Ruby and Alex in Mexico City
Our adventure resumed in bustling Mexico City, where we teamed up with our designer assistant, Alex, for three productive months. Our collaboration was followed by a breathtaking journey through Vancouver, Calgary, and the majestic Rockies in Canmore.
The next leg of our trip took us to Japan for four weeks, where we explored Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Okayama, Hiroshima, Osaka, and Kyoto. We then circled back to Southeast Asia, setting our sights on the Philippines.
Each destination not only presented its own set of challenges but also enriched our creative spirit. While the idea of constant travel might seem daunting to some, for us, it's an immersive wellspring of inspiration, culture and fun!
And it's no coincidence that our period of extensive travel has coincided with a series of award wins.
Spotlight on Projects and Achievements
In the last twelve months, we’ve had the privilege of working on some truly inspiring projects…
Nonprofit Website Design and Mini Brand Refresh for American nonprofit, StacheStrong
Branding and Website Design for London-based Veranda Books
Shopify Website Design for The Kids Bathing Co.
Branding and Packaging Design for natural supplement company, Elivide
Packaging & Branding and Design for sustainable dental care brand, Tooth Angel
Awards
We are incredibly honoured and grateful that Studio 77 has been recognised with several prestigious awards over the past year. Here are just a few highlights of what we've achieved this year:
3 x Hermes Creative Gold Awards for our collaborations with Do it Now Now, StacheStrong, and bloss.M
Ruby won ‘Best International Nonprofit Organisation Website Designer’
Studio 77 Wins Branding Services Provider of the Year 2023/24
Ruby won Web Design & Branding Business Founder of the Year 2023
Plus, we’ve become Official Squarespace Experts
Ruby and Becca in Canmore, Canada
Our Growing Team
We're also thrilled to announce that our small team has grown! Please join us in welcoming our new Project Director, Becca Jules.
Becca brings a dynamic blend of energy and 10 years experience in directing projects, and we couldn't be happier to have her on board. Her exceptional skills and vibrant approach make her a fantastic addition to the Studio 77 team.
Ruby in Squasmish, Canada
Gratitude and Looking Forward
Every place we visit, every project we tackle, and every award we win reminds me of the freedom and fulfilment that Studio 77 has brought into my life. I am continuously humbled and grateful for the opportunities to grow and the amazing people we meet along the way.
As I reflect on my personal journey and celebrate our milestones, I recognise that none of this would have been possible without our wonderful clients. I owe a huge thanks to them for being an integral part of the Studio 77 story and for allowing us the opportunity to grow alongside them.
Here's to the adventures that await us in the years to come!
Ruby Rose Ellis
