Santa Fe Girls Trip & How It Made Me a Better Designer
Design Lessons from Santa Fe
Recently, I took a trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico with my sisters — and I tried (really tried!) to stay off my laptop. Instead, I let myself soak in the beauty of the city, the landscapes, and the incredible creative spirit that seems to be woven into every detail of Santa Fe.
As a designer, I couldn’t help but see inspiration everywhere. From the earthy desert palette to the vibrant local art scene, Santa Fe reminded me of why storytelling and identity are at the heart of every brand.
Heritage as Storytelling
Santa Fe’s design language is deeply rooted in its history. Native American and Spanish colonial influences are everywhere — from the architecture to the textiles to the way the city tells its story. What struck me most is how seamlessly tradition and modernity come together to create something entirely unique.
That’s what great branding does, too. It honors the past, embraces the present, and creates something fresh that feels both meaningful and timeless.
Nature’s Color Palette
Hiking through the desert, I was captivated by the colors: muted sage greens, rich rust reds, and dusty oranges set against snow-capped mountains. These hues, born from nature, are combinations you’d never fully capture on a screen.
It was a reminder that some of the best palettes aren’t invented — they’re discovered. In branding, the right colors do more than decorate; they set a mood, spark emotion, and create an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Art of Layers
Santa Fe’s landscapes — the way the desert unfolds into mountains, the way the sky stretches endlessly above — reminded me of the importance of shape and dimension in design. Branding, much like nature, is about layers. Each element adds depth, perspective, and meaning.
Even the night sky offered a lesson: at first glance it’s simple, but the longer you look, the more complexity you uncover. A powerful reminder that strong design invites people to keep discovering.
Community & Creativity
One of my favorite parts of the trip was exploring the farmers market and local galleries. Santa Fe’s creative community is thriving — filled with artists who infuse personal identity and cultural pride into everything they make.
That’s what makes their work so magnetic. It’s personal. It’s rooted in story. And it’s a reminder that the best brands don’t just sell — they share culture, values, and spirit with their community.
The Takeaway
Santa Fe was more than a trip; it was a masterclass in design inspiration. It reminded me that branding isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about culture, heritage, nature, and story.
Highly recommend a road trip if you’ve never been. And if you’re building a brand, let this be a reminder: inspiration is everywhere. Sometimes the most powerful design ideas come when you step away from the screen and let life speak into your work.
