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familiar sense of excitement washed over me as I wandered the aisles of the NY NOW Summer Market at the Jacob Javits Center. This iconic venue has been the backdrop for countless memorable experiences—from childhood Nintendo conventions to star-studded expos where I once waited hours for Spike Lee’s autograph.
But on this day, amidst the sea of exhibitors, a simple blue and white booth caught my eye from afar. The words “This Feels Nice” beckoned, and I gravitated towards its welcoming aura.
Tune in to Discover the Stories Behind the Brands
Bridgette’s Interview Starts at the 11:37 Mark
The Birth of a Kindness Movement
There, I met Bridgette Zou, the creative force behind “This Feels Nice,” a brand that began as a personal art project a decade ago and has since blossomed into a movement celebrating kindness and positivity.
“I started this as an inspirational project to help guide me on my creative journey,” Zou explained. “Over the past ten years, it’s become the friend I always wished I had for myself.”
An Artistic Journey of Self-Discovery
Zou’s artistic journey is as captivating as her work. After initially abandoning her artistic pursuits post-college, she found her way back to creativity through an unexpected nudge from her mother. “You are supposed to be an artist,” her mother had said, words that propelled Zou to quit her job, move to New York, and commit to her craft.
From Dream Weaver to Kindness Creator
This leap of faith led to extraordinary opportunities, including a stint as the “dream weaver” at the prestigious 11 Madison Park restaurant. There, Zou curated bespoke art experiences for diners, seamlessly weaving personalized creations into their meals.
The Heart of “This Feels Nice”
With “This Feels Nice,” Zou hand-paints everything, from daily inspirational quotes to a cast of endearing characters who embark on friendship adventures. Her booth at NY NOW, marking the brand’s first-ever trade show appearance, showcased an array of products, including an astrology-themed baby swaddle.
A Philosophy of Kindness
But beyond the tangible creations, what truly resonates is Zou’s philosophy, encapsulated in the simple yet powerful mantra adorning her hat: “Being nice feels nice.”
“If it feels nice, do it, and if it doesn’t, don’t,” Zou shared, her words carrying the weight of a personal North Star. “You’re never going to regret sharing that kindness. It doesn’t have to be big—it can be small, free, even just a smile.”
A Beacon of Positivity
As our conversation drew to a close, I couldn’t help but reflect on the fate of our encounter. In a world often fraught with negativity, Bridgette Zou’s “This Feels Nice” stands as a beacon of positivity at NY NOW, reminding us of the power of kindness—and how nice it can feel to be, well… nice.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
Visit thisfeelsnice.com or Follow @thisfeelsnice on Instagram
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