Lian Weise
Q What do you do?
“I help people bring their product ideas to life in tangible form. ”
I collaborate with designers to fine-tune a concept and then manage the development & sampling phase with manufacturers all over the world to make sure a product is executed to spec and delivered on time.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I believe in the power of new experiences, new ideas and new things. I started my career in supply chain, but always felt drawn to the creative process. So I acted on my desire to explore Product Development and landed at an eyewear company. From there, I learned endless details about materials, manufacturing, and how to take a flat drawing and turn it into a sellable product. I’ve worked with a range of brands at wholesale, retail, & DTC levels and expanded my learnings to jewelry, watches, leather goods, packaging and more.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I'm skilled at aligning creative perspectives with business goals. I believe in listening carefully and balancing personalities throughout my process to keep the team together and delivering. I’m naturally detail oriented and lovingly track every step in a project to make sure things don’t fall through the cracks.
Q What are you working on right now?
I am dabbling in some entrepreneurial projects with friends and exploring opportunities in the eyewear & jewelry worlds.
Q What’s your style?
I love a laid-back, minimalist vibe punctuated with edgy accessories and statement-making pieces that tell a story. I gravitate towards products that are eye-catching but appear effortless. Less is more.
You can see some examples of my past projects on my website - www.lianweise.com
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Brainstorming and concepting with other creatives brings me the most joy. It’s an amazing feeling when you put minds together and watch an idea evolve into a great product.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Supply chain issues and rising costs.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Chores and errands, so I can focus even more on my passion projects!
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
Not everything turns out how you originally imagined it would – it can turn out even better!
Also, enjoy the present and don’t limit yourself with other people’s expectations. You do you.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I would love to learn more about how emerging brands can leverage new AI technology.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
Freelance or contract product development projects for small emerging brands looking to grow their assortments and refine their products.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
I would love to work with a passionate designer looking to get their brand off the ground. Especially one looking to explore new materials and sustainable manufacturing processes.
Q What is your rate?
I’m open to working on retainer for a specific scope/term or hourly depending on the project. Let’s chat!
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Email is great. Let me know what kind of project you’re thinking about and we can hop on a call or grab coffee and go from there!
email - lian@lianweise.com
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Travel, travel, travel. I love wandering around new cities, galleries, museums, wherever, solo dolo to soak everything in and find inspiration.
This member profile was originally published in March 2023