Meet Bevan Bloemendaal, Retail Practice Leader at NELSON Worldwide. An expert in brand vision and storytelling through design, he will lead the continued growth of NELSON’s retail practice while championing innovative concepts that help drive the industry into the future.
 


Q: Professionally, what is one thing you want to be remembered for?

One word I hope would be mentioned is authenticity. I want to be remembered as a person of integrity who was true to his values, kind, empathetic, sometimes too honest, and was actually a lot of fun to be around.

 

Q: Are you an early riser or a night owl?

I am definitely an early riser. Seven days a week, my four-legged alarm clock named Jett tells me it’s 5 a.m. and time to go for our walk. It’s in those early morning hours (at least for me) that feel like moments of mindfulness, clarity, and creativity…no zoom calls though ’cause my beard looks like Medusa!

 

Q: What is a quote or mantra you live by?

My all-time favorite is from Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Personally, it is about treating people with respect, kindness, and professionalism—it is about creating experiences that are transformational and memorable.

 
Q: What is a song or album that helps pump you up or get excited?

“You Will Be Found” from the musical, Dear Evan Hanson. The past two years have been a throat punch for all of us—we have been disconnected from family, friends, colleagues and this has pushed some to a challenging place. This song is a shout-out for hope and wellbeing that we all need to be cognizant of. We have no idea what others are going through—let them know they are not alone.

 

“I am looking forward to pushing the boundaries of design and creating brand-differentiating experiences in the physical and digital worlds to connect and engage consumers emotionally. A memorable and shareable moment is what inspires us all, and I cannot wait to collaborate with our partners to design meaningful, transformative spaces.” – Bevan Bloemendaal