Meet Erin Phillips
We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Erin Phillips. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Erin below.
Hi Erin, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Navigating imposter syndrome has been an ongoing journey, especially in the creative industry where your work is constantly under scrutiny. Having a supportive partner has been fundamental in this process. My husband has been an unwavering source of encouragement, rooting for me through every season. His belief in my abilities and his constant support provide a steady foundation that helps me face challenges with resilience. Knowing he’s in my corner, cheering me on, makes a significant difference, especially during those moments when imposter syndrome or the pressures of entrepreneurship feel overwhelming. His support not only boosts my confidence but also reminds me of the importance of having a strong support system in personal and professional growth.
Working with my business coach, Melissa of Waverly Ave., and being part of her Growth Collective program has been a game-changer for me. It connected me with a network of creatives and industry pros who’ve been incredibly supportive and influential in my growth. Being in this environment not only helped me build meaningful relationships but also completely shifted my mindset. Hearing others share their own challenges and successes made me realize that imposter syndrome is something many of us face—it’s not just me. This shift in perspective has been key in quieting those feelings of self-doubt and has given me the confidence to really own my expertise and contributions.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Hi, I’m Erin, co-founder and creative director at Third & Market, where we’re all about bringing brands to life in a way that feels both intentional and authentic. We specialize in creating standout branding and design for leaders in the wellness, beauty, and athleisure industries. What excites me most about what we do is the transformation—taking a brand’s vision and turning it into something that truly resonates with its audience. It’s about more than just design; it’s about creating a connection and helping brands tell their story in a way that feels genuine and impactful.
What makes Third & Market unique is our focus on blending strategy with creativity. We dive deep into understanding what makes each brand tick, and we use that insight to craft designs that aren’t just visually appealing but also meaningful and effective. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our clients’ brands evolve and start engaging with their communities in new and exciting ways.
Right now, we’re really excited about some new branding packages we’re launching. These are designed for established lifestyle brands that are ready to elevate their presence and connect with their audiences on a deeper level.
A fun fact about our name: It was born out of the intersection where I met my partner in life (and business), Jonathan. He is the right brain to my left brain, making my vision a reality. This meeting at the intersection of Third Ave. and Market St. in Pittsburgh while we were both attending college is not just a memory we cherish; it’s the inspiration behind the name of our studio.
We’re so excited about the road ahead and the opportunities to continue making a meaningful impact through our work. If you’re interested in how we can help take your brand to the next level, I’d love to chat. You can find us on our website or reach out directly—we’re here to help your brand stand out and make a lasting impact.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
One of the most impactful lessons I learned in college came from my typography professor, a man who took precision to an entirely different level. Back in the day, he had to hand-lay type, a process he often referenced to emphasize the importance of attention to detail. His meticulous approach to his craft left a lasting impression on me, and I’ve carried that forward into my work today. My attention to detail with our client projects is equally meticulous and strategic, ensuring that everything I do is intentional and precise. This commitment to detail is something that truly sets our work apart from other studios.
Alongside attention to detail, resilience has been crucial in my journey. The creative industry is full of challenges, and it’s important to push through tough times with determination. For those starting out, I’d say it’s essential to embrace challenges and learn from them—resilience is built over time and is key to sustaining a long and fulfilling career.
Adaptability is another vital skill. The design world is always evolving, and being open to change has allowed me to stay relevant and continue providing impactful solutions for my clients. My advice for those early in their journey is to stay curious, keep learning, and be willing to pivot when necessary. The ability to adapt will help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of design and branding.
Lastly, a deep understanding of both design and strategy has been invaluable. Creating something that looks great is one thing, but pairing it with a strategic mindset ensures it’s also effective and connects with the audience. For anyone starting out, I’d recommend investing time in learning both the creative and business aspects of branding. This combination of skills will not only set you apart but will also help you create work that’s both beautiful and meaningful.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
Our ideal client is someone who is deeply passionate about their brand and ready to take it to the next level. They’re primarily leaders in the wellness, beauty, or athleisure industries who have already built a solid foundation but recognize the need to refine and elevate their brand to resonate more deeply with their audience. They value intentionality and understand the importance of a strategic approach to design.
What makes them truly ideal is their openness to collaboration—they’re engaged in the process, eager to share their vision, and trust us to translate that vision into something extraordinary. They’re not just looking for a quick fix; they want a partner who can help them build a brand that’s authentic, impactful, and stands the test of time. Ultimately, they appreciate the value of meticulous, thoughtful design and are excited to work with a team that shares their commitment to excellence.
