I started as a designer, but kept climbing that corporate ladder until I just managed stuff and tried to avoid the politics. Except for my team, no one seemed to know what I did, or why. It was a total bummer.
Every morning, my friend Tenacious B, called to chat. We shared the misery and and tried to figure out why corporations reward mediocrity, and promote people who have no business managing others. Bold, smart and funny, neither of us really belonged there.
We’d make jokes, and say, “That should be a t-shirt!” Finally we decided to REALLY make t-shirts. She was the sales mastermind, and I had total creative freedom, something seriously lacking in my day-to-day existence.
You should never ask a woman her age, but I will divulge that I was born in 1968, and she was born in 1980. Do not do the math. The point is, that 68-80 became 680, and Six Eighty & Co. was born. I had no idea at the time that our little side gig would become the tiny spark of joy in my workweek.
Eventually, my job was eliminated. The first thing my husband said was, “Maybe this is a good thing. You were so unhappy, and you never would have left.” He was right.
It took me months to thaw from the iceberg that was my corporate existence. Six Eighty & Co. gave me focus and kept me sane. I went from, “I have to find another corporate job,” through, “Hey maybe I don’t want that,” to, “I’m so grateful I don’t have to work there any more.” Now I focus on Six Eighty & Co., and run my own design studio.
As the shop grew, we needed models. My niece was a natural in front of the camera and—bonus—she’s also great at social media. You’ll see her lovely smiling face in many of our Instagram and Facebook pix. Her inspiration is also woven through our feed and stories.
Our clothing & accessories are designed to inspire, encourage or just make you smile. I design things that we would wear, and take my inspiration from the world around me. I admire strong outspoken women, and people who are not afraid to let their freak flag fly.
Ideas come from books, favorite quotes, movies or TV show characters we love. I believe that magic is afoot in the world, much like strange things are afoot at the Circle K. If you have any idea what that means, then you’ll know I’m a child of the 80s and fan of pop culture. A bit of a gypsy, I have lived in four states and two countries. Inspiration also comes from my travels and my family. I’m married to a wonderful guy who grew up in Mexico City. He was the best souvenir I ever brought home. He is a city kid with some hilarious chilango slang, which you’ll also see in 680 & Co. designs.
Our kids and babies apparel reflect my own family. One of five kids growing up, I understand arguing over the last Fudgesicle. I have ten nieces and nephews, but my son has the bad luck to be an only child and therefore the center of all my attention. It seems like yesterday he was just two and playing with matchbox cars, but just last week I dropped him off for his first year at college. He has been the biggest and most important project of my life. I’m so proud, and totally heartbroken at the same time.
I am lucky to have a circle of friends who accept and love you for who you are, encourage you to be your best, but call you on your bullshit. They know I would do the same for them. Six Eighty & Co. products are true to this vibe, and I’d lend them anything in my closet for their next daring adventure.
So raid our closet, and find your new favorite.
We hope you enjoy our products as much as I enjoy creating them.
XOXO
Shannon
Six Eighty & Co.
