Hi all, happy to be here. Lot of creative people in here, wow! See a bunch of folks I know too! I'm a graphic and brand designer from Newburgh, currently the lead designer at Rabe & Co in Beacon and run my own work through studios called TGIM and Mash Collaborative.
thankgoditsmonday.co rabeandco.com
Oh cool! Yeah I know Ken and Liz, great work you all do.
Hey Craig, nice work! Fellow Newburgh native and current Beacon resident here
Hey Josh! I know of you and your work actually. I work over here at Rabe & Co with Ken and Liz… believe you may know those guys?
Thanks Josh appreciate it
thanks for creating another extension that brings HV creatives together!
Hey Everyone! I’m a Cinematographer and owner of Lights & Years Media here in Kingston. I help businesses and brands grow their reach through content so I’m always looking to chat with new folks and learn more about what they do! I also run Upstate Podcast Studio in uptown Kingston and have steadily been growing in that space as well.
Would love to talk shop and connect with anyone here and am hoping to get some community events in the media space going this year. Thanks for pulling this all together!
LinkedIn IG
Hi Drew. Nice to meet you
Tara! Hi! It’s been a minute. We are way overdue to catch up
what a fun day reading this channel. so nice to meet you all!
Hi Everyone! I'm Cassandra, I run Lyon Visuals with my husband based out of Red Hook. Our studio specializes in 3D modeling/rendering, Photography, Illustration, Animation and more. We work with organizations big and small. Our site is under a re-vamp, but check out our work on Instagram!
Excited to connect with others on here!
Hey all! I’m Julian, a composer/sound designer/noise wrangle based in Ulster Park. Looking forward to getting to know folks on this platform. Thanks for setting this up!
Hello, Everyone!
I’m Mark Carranceja, a New Media Artist based in Newburgh. I’ve logged in many years as a Video Editor, Motion Artist, Cinematographer, and Sound Designer. I’m also a Techno Producer/DJ and have been involved in the music industry since the late ‘90’s. I founded, Noisemaker Media, a production company, and it will celebrate its 22nd year this November. I directed over sixty music videos and produced a bunch of other content over the years. I also teach! I briefly left higher ed in 2023 after clocking in ten years as a full-time tenured New Media Professor, but I couldn’t stay away from the glorious purpose of teaching, so I’m currently an adjunct at a SUNY institution.
Thanks for setting this up! Looking forward to connect with you all.
hello. I’m David. I live in Ghent near Art Omi. I am a startup mentor and startup community catalyst for the Hudson area. I’m working with Hudson Community Incubator to build a vibrant startup community in the Hudson Valley. More in my LinkedIn bio next. David on LinkedIn
Hey David, nice to meet you, I’m glad you’re here!
nice to meet you David!
Hey all, I posted earlier yesterday about my work in branding, but one of the other projects I launched this year is "This Our Valley," and blog that is all about the individuals in the Hudson Valley, like all of you, who have a story to tell. I'm highlighting all of you. It's a passion project that I've had the idea for for a long time. At some point, I realized that one of my favorite things in life was meeting new people and hearing their stories, and I've met so many people and learned so many things I would have never know otherwise had I not just took the time to have a drink at a bar or by a camp fire with a stranger.
Anyway, today I released the second issue with Annie McCurdy, a sustainable fashion designer from Newburgh. I'd love it if you all would check it out and also make sure you subscribe to get the latest issue every month.
https://www.corliesave.com/this-our-valley
I have some interviews in the cue for upcoming months, but anyone who has a story, which is everyone, reach out and lets set up a time to tell your story [email protected]
Make sure you give Corlies Ave. a follow son instagram as well to stay up to date https://www.instagram.com/corliesave?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Thank you all in advance, and let me know your thoughts. It's for all of us after all.
Hello everyone! My name is Cris. I've been working in IT and Software Engineering for 20+ years. I'm currently the Chief Technology Officer at Book of the Month, where I built their site, app, warehouse management and analytics systems, as well as the teams that manage those systems.
When I'm not selling books, I'm applying my industrial engineering knowledge to my family's farm in Chile.
I'm super interested in seeing what people are building in the Hudson Valley!
LOVE book of the month!
This is soooo cool. I love Book of the Month. I've been in IT about 17 years and I'm currently a Director of IT at a non profit.
Hi Everyone! Happy to be here, thank you for the invite. I'm Amanda, Co-Founder of Engather, a tech + culture platform designed to reweave community through the gift economy. With a straightforward digital platform and an ecosystem of gatherings, workshops, and activations, we've been taking a highly local, grassroots approach to shifting mindset and culture from individualistic and transactional to collective and regenerative. We're currently rolling out in the mid-Hudson Valley and also within several organizational communities.
My past lives include leading design, strategy, and innovation for a fortune 100 company, real estate investing, and facilitating the creation of a woman owned microcredit group in a small village in West Africa. I currently consult and coach for business owners, entrepreneurs, and companies large and small across industries, and am dedicated to supporting and uplifting the incredible small business community here in the Hudson Valley.
Hi everyone! My name is Pat Wheaton, I lead the software development department of Qvest.US, a Media & Entertainment focused consultancy of about 300 people. We are moving this July to the Kingston / Saugerties area (haven’t nailed exact location yet - any one know of a real estate agent they love?). I have wanted to move to the area for 5-6 years, and finally convinced my wife we need to escape TX (we have been in Austin for 25+ years). I am a hobbyist interactive art creator (though that has dried up quite a bit since my son was born 9 years ago) and enjoy playing guitar and making music. Really looking forward to connecting with the locally focused communities that seem so abundant in the HV.
Hi Pat. You will love the Hudson Valley!
My name is Les Seff, and I'm the Chief Operating Officer of AIMPaaS LLC, a financial software company that provides among other things a linkage between the brokerage community and the asset management community. I used to run trading departments on Wall St, and as a result of that experience I have been the only securities industry consulting expert, as well as being the testifying expert for the court appointed trustee in the Madoff case. Meanwhile, I would suggest you contact Dennis Cooper, an old friend of mine who does a great job as a real estate agent. His number is 914 456 9900, and email is [email protected]. Tell him I sent ya!
Thanks Les! I will do this once we get a little closer (May). Appreciate the contact.
Hi all. I've set up a channel for anyone who is hiring or looking for work.
Hello everyone. My name is Craig Berry. I have been in development for 25+ years. Presently I work remotely for UL but I am always looking for side work. I am a .NET C# backend developer and I typically use SQL Server and Oracle databases.
Hey all! I'm a Freelance Creative Director and Designer based in High Falls. I focus on digital-first brand identity systems and art direction. Linking my work and excited to find this group!
Love your work Layla!
Hey thanks so much! Would love to connect for any future design needs
Hi all! Happy to see a new slack community for entrepreneurs. Thanks to the organizers! I work at Good Work Institute focused on launching a Kingston-based community fund right now. I have worked in VC and love helping entrepreneurs and activists refine their ideas and get them funded.
Hi Hélène. Julian from Alleyway Ice Cream here. Alleyway's a very small, but growing company based in Saugerties. I've boot strapped it to sell ice cream in about 40 locations in one year. Maybe we can talk more when we start looking for funding to expand further.
I know Alleyway’s! I live in Saugerties!
Hey Hélène, great to see you here!
Oooh, I would love to connect with you at some point.
Hi Hélène! I’m Kingston-based and have heard great things about your organization. I’d love to learn more about what you’re working on in Kingston. Let me know the best way to connect with you.
Hi Hélène, Do you ever host events at Good Work? I am hoping to kickstart a Hudson Valley CreativeMornings chapter!
Yes we do! I would love for that to happen at our building in Kingston. You can submit your idea here and my colleague Mass will get in touch with you: https://goodworkinstitute.org/the-greenhouse/ Scroll all the way down to “Submit Request”
Wonderful! Thank you so much!
Hi!!! You all are so cool and talented!
I’m an independent consultant in Albany focused on user experience (UX), design research, and content design. Basically everything under the human-centered design umbrella!
Website LinkedIn Interrobang (monthlyish newsletter on design topics)
Hi all. I live in Wallkill (Town of Shawangunk). Grew up in Suffern in Rockland County. Lived in Oregon for 15 years, and then lived and worked overseas managing disaster relief projects for like 8 years. Moved back to the Hudson Valley in 2016. My wife and I sold our restaurant last year, and we are now starting a packaged snack food business. I also provide urban planning consulting. Thanks for the invitation. And thanks for creating this. Tim Weidemann kept telling me he wanted to introduce us.
i'd love to eat some of the snacks you're making
Hi Arif. What are you making? I'm in CPG (ice cream). Let's chat over ice cream soon!
I love it! Ive worked with a lot of CPG companies and would love to chat with you about the product you’re making
Hey Arif, nice to meet you! I grew up in Wallkill, I’m still there pretty often
Would be great to meet up. And actually, fun fact, your dad was our lawyer when we bought the Hoot Owl restaurant building in 2017.
Happy to chat any time.
Oh, no way, small world!
that can be arranged.
Hey everyone! I’m an Art Director and Graphic Designer based in Rosendale. I specialize in visual identity and website design with a focus on ADA compliance. As the Board Chair of Fall Kill Creative Works, a local arts nonprofit in Poughkeepsie, I'm deeply invested in fostering creativity within our community and access to the arts.
Additionally, I'm one of three hosts on the podcast ArtKidz. We’re all SUNY New Paltz Alums, Go Hawks! The podcast includes interviews with industry experts and lively discussions about the latest trends, innovations, and obsessions. This podcast is perfect for anyone looking to be inspired and informed by the intersection of creativity and well-being - we really pack it in! Season 2 just launched in March and is now audio and video. Woohoo! Would love some feedback and to connect with anyone who may be interested in joining us on an episode.
Cheers!
Nice to meet you Tracy, I'm also in Rosendale! Would love to connect sometime in person. Do you frequent The Big Cheese? - Jenna
Hey everyone, I'm so excited to see all you supremely talented HV creators, builders, and hustlers connecting here at all once! Kudos I've had a few folks here reach out to me about Barnfox. I'm more than happy to provide a free day pass for anyone on this Slack channel who needs utilize or check out a Barnfox space for a day. Feel welcome to DM me here and I'll pass along deets. We have locations in Poughkeepsie, Kingston, and Hudson. and I are chatting about hosting future in person gatherings for the ConnectHV community, details pending but I can't wait to meet this community IRL. In case you're not familiar with Barnfox, we have beautiful remote work/gathering spaces throughout the Hudson Valley, you can check us out here: https://barnfox.com/
Barnfox looks amazing. Would love to have a team offsite there sometime.
oh my woooord these spaces are gorgeous!! wish you had one a little more south for me to frequent (I'm in Garrison) but will definitely try and schedule a day to check out the PK space, thank you for the offer!! I am a muralist and would love to chat if you have any interest in enhancing the spaces with some large scale patterns/design
Thanks Sounds great! Happy to connect and chat about it sometime!
would love to — feel free to reach out via email [email protected] or Instagram, whichever works best for you!
Kingston is turning into such a vibe! This looks so cool!
Hey you seem like an awesome guy, nice to meet you! Looking forward to checking out this Barnfox I keep hearing about
Hi y'all! A little off topic, but joining this group yesterday inspired me, and this morning I launched a new Whatsapp Group for Spicy Hudson Valley This is a place for adults to connect and share about 'spicy' events and activities around the area.
All respectful adults are welcome!
Join us here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EIPSTupTXhE223zZ5er8e8
Great to meet everyone! My name's Clark, I'm the Post Production Supervisor at Big Think and Freethink. Before this I was at TED Talks for 8 years and before that CollegeHumor.com. I live in Fishkill with my wife and two kids, and on the weekends I do improv comedy and drone photography. Hope to connect with more of you!
hey Clark, big fan of Big Think videos! Freethink is new to me, gonna check it out.
What's up buddy!
Hi all! I’m a grant writing/fundraising consultant in Croton. I have worked for/with many arts orgs across the country like BAM, Uniting Voices (fka Chicago Children’s Choir), The Public Theater, and the Bay Area Music Project. In addition to the arts, I work in youth development, workforce development, grassroots organizing, and various other sectors. Check me out at visiongrowth.org
I’d love to connect! Always looking for ways to raise money for the concerts I produce!
Hi Kristina, much delayed (not a usual slack user). I’m at [email protected] happy to connect!
Hey, love a good Slack community. Look forward to connecting with so many amazing folks. I work in strategy, ops, and enablement for a tech company in NYC and also freelance for tech startups needing to build a go to market strategy. I'm on the board of Awesome Poughkeepsie and also live in the city of PK. You can find me on IG @hudsonvalleyshenanigans
what’s Awesome Poughkeepsie?
oh wow!
Love seeing community movements like this for PK
Hello All. I'm currently a director of IT at a non profit up in Hudson (MHA of Columbia Greene). I've lived in the Hudson Valley all my life and plan on staying that way hopefully. I've been mostly in Beacon but in the last 3 years I've moved to the Kingston/Rosendale area and love it. I've worked in help desks in corporate environments and have 17+ years in IT. I am super passionate about libraries and reading (shout out to my Rosendale and Stone Ridge Libraries).
I dream of getting an internship program started at my agency for our IT department as well as giving those interested in IT a chance in the door who don't always have that opportunity.
My partner also recently started an IT services company called Cloud Powered Solutions LLC. Specifically working with cloud solutions for small businesses and navigating even complex migrations to the cloud. He has almost 20 years of IT experience.
I'm happy to chat about any of the above feel free to reach out :)
Oh, hello. invited me in here. Happy to be here.
Suppose this sums me up nicely
I never introduced myself, so here goes!
I'm Jordan, and I've lived in the Hudson Valley my whole life (Wallkill New Paltz Beacon Poughkeepsie). I'm a software designer and engineer, summertime stadium emcee for Stockade FC, and one-time recordholder for "HV Tech Meetup member with the best attendance."
By day, I'm a Principal Product Designer at Okta, where I work on design systems, globalization, and AI. On the side, I'm building ConnectHV as a directory of people doing interesting work in the Hudson Valley. I also interview people at CreativeHudsonValley.com and write about "software with a sense of place" at DigitalTerroir.org.
Great intro! Thanks for setting up this platform for us
Oh funny, my company utilizes Okta (admittedly, begrudgingly...it's like Fort Knox to open an app )
Hi all and thanks Jordan for launching this! I'm Joe, moved from Southern Cal to Rhinebeck in 2017 for family reasons. I'm a developer and have been working on AI startups for the past few years. I previously tried bootstrapping a computer vision / gesture control software company and now am in the very early stages with a cofounder building autonomous AI agents that can collaborate on behalf of different users. Also a recovering lawyer, don't hold it against me too much! I hope I can connect with a bunch of you at some local events.
This sounds cool — does the company have a name?
Thanks! We are Grounds.ai. We just incorporated, will have a demo + landing page by late next week, and hopefully some test users very soon after.
Very cool, thanks for the invitation, ! I'm the co-host of Valley Girls Podcast. Tomorrow is our 5th episode, so we're just getting started! Always looking for ideas and interesting HV folks to have on the podcast, so check us out and feel free to DM me here with suggestions! https://www.valleygirlspodcast.com/
awesome! thanks for sharing!
subscribed!
Love this! Welcome!
Hi, excited to be here
My girlfriend Flore and I are just starting something new in Stone Ridge called Neuland - a creative incubator and social space surrounded by 108 acres of forests, fields and a river ... happy to share more about this venture with anyone who's interested ...
Hi, I'm in Stone Ridge, curious what you're up to.
Interested — [email protected]
Hi Dirk, I am in Stone Ridge. Where can I find out more?
Hi Dirk, would love to learn more about your space!
Also interested in hearing more! I’m [email protected]
I’ll put something on the calendar soon so you can all come by and see what Neuland is about :-)
Hi everyone! Thank you Jordan for so thoughtfully gathering the Hudson Valley creative community.
My name is Tina, but people call me swissmiss. I am a Swiss born graphic designer gone NYC, gone Hudson Valley.
I believe in labors of love. Mine are Tattly, TeuxDeux, Friends Work Here and CreativeMornings, the worlds largest face-to-face creative community with chapters in 238 cities and 67 countries.
I am hoping to kickstart the CreativeMornings / Hudson Valley chapter this summer. Please reach out if you're interested in helping getting the creative community together once a month, for a breakfast and a talk. For free.
Waving from Stone Ridge!
Hi Tina, I'm in Stone Ridge too, this sounds like a great idea.
Interested!!
also interested!! I’d love if we had a Creative Mornings!
I love Tattly!
Sending you a message!
Was just talking about this in the events channel! Would love to have something, potentially hosting at RVAC?
, meet my friend from the other side of the Alps, but living on the same side of the Shawangunk Ridge as you. I think he would love to host your group at his place!
LOVE the idea of a local creative mornings event here
This sounds awesome count me in!
I’d be happy to host at our place, neulandny.com
Ha, cool. Been following CreativeMornings on Youtube for years.
Hey folks!
I'm Chai, and I live in the Capital Region near Albany. I went to SUNY New Paltz and lived in Kingston for a while, and I visit pretty frequently.
I'm a frontend engineer (and sometimes designer), and I currently work at OctoAI, a Gen AI inferencing platform.
Looking forward to connecting
Hey everyone, I'm Doug and I live in Troy/work in Albany. SUNY New Paltz graphic design undergrad, go Hawks! I'm also involved in AIGA UPSTNY, we have a Slack community as well. When I'm not designing I obsess over and . Props to for starting this group.
Doug!!!! It’s been a while . Fun to reconnect here.
I was just chatting w Amy P at SUNY New Paltz when I saw you listed on the Design Week sched! How have you been?
I’m well! We moved to West Saugerties in 2011. My husband is still at EMPAC! Sometimes I miss those days up in Troy I must say.
I'm still in Troy, but my son lives in New Paltz. Also, I have a 26 y-o headed to grad school this fall and a jr. daughter at NC State.
Hi all and thanks for the invite! I’m originally from Newburgh, spent time in Chicago, NYC and abroad in Japan and now happily back in Beacon since 2011. I’m an illustrator and animator, visual swiss knife, creative director:
Psyched to be here!
Love the infographs
Thanks !
Hey Josh! I'll be in Chicago for work week after next, any must-see recommendations?
Hey Clark! Ooh so many… but for sure Millennium Park, with the Bean and the Art Institute. A really top rate public space.
Nice to see you Josh, fellow animator
Thanks Shawn, nice to see you on here as well!
Wow, good to be introduced to your work (via your site!)
Hey Josh, your work is killer! Just had to chime in.
Thanks for taking a look! I’m very impressed by the range and impact of your work as well.
Thanks Drew! Love the Light and Years logo, very clever.
Thanks ! I’m no designer but made it myself!
nicely done!
I’ll take that compliment!
Hello, I’m Jon G.
Moved back to the Poughkeepsie area recently. My day job is Managing Security Consultant at NetSPI. I’ve been a professional hacker for ~10 years. I conduct almost every kind of offensive cyber security engagements as well as leading a small team. To list a few types, Web App Pen Tests, Thick Client Pen Tests and Mobile App Pen Tests.
At night I do research, open source tool dev, contracting and whatever else as GainSec. You can find more info about me if you just google GainSec.
Always happy to be a resource so don’t hesitate to reach out
Hello everyone! Im Erin, I live in Poughkeepsie, and I’m the co-host of In the Field Radio, a radio show that broadcasts on Vassar College’s radio station and also lives as a podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. We’re currently nominated for a Chronogrammy, so really proud of that! https://www.inthefieldradio.com
I’m also a writer, although currently in between gigs and just freelancing bios, one sheets, epks, etc.
Looking forward to connecting with you all!
Nice to meet you. I wanted to look at your site, but your website seems to be down,
It is down right now! I am looking into moving it at the moment. Sorry about that.
Hi everyone! I live in and photograph this incredible valley we call home. My parents fled the metropolis in the 70’s and I’ve been here since. I took a leap of faith, 15 years ago, from building houses to building a life of gratitude by offering photography to those who also appreciate how ridiculously beautiful our surroundings are. We are lucky!
I’m actively searching for a new gallery/studio space, although, that search may be over tomorrow. Exciting times! Happy to be invited to this group of creative people, thanks for the invite.
My site needs an update, but you’ll get the idea. http://www.larrychapmanphotography.com
I’m considering offering print services when the new place opens.
Looking forward to new connections!
Hi everyone! It’s so nice to connect with all of you fascinating/inspiring folks! I just moved to Kingston from Philly. I’m an artist, video editor and have a background in nonprofit arts administration. Looking forward to future chats!
Hey
I’m just south of you in Rosendale and I’m a production sound mixer for film and TV. Welcome to the area! I do a lot of industry meetups and would be happy to help get you plugged-in with other local video people.
Hey so nice to meet you! That would be awesome. I would love to connect with more video folks. Appreciate your help!
We just had one last week in Kingston…it’s monthly, so there’ll be another one soon
Awesome! Would love to join them. Let me know if there is a place to sign up or anything like that. So nice of you to organize something like this!
Hijacking this thread to say hi and that I'd love to be included in future meetups in the Kingston area as well! (commercial producer here at a big agency..who often needs editors/mixers etc) :)
Since I don’t know when the next meetup will be yet, and since we are threadjacking under Jenna’s post, how about the three of us meet for coffee (Jenna’s beverage can be our treat), sound good?
So great to meet you !! hijack away lol. And totally down to meet for coffee, so nice of you to offer
thank you, I'm down! but coincidentally heading to Japan for a couple weeks, so can pick a weekend in mid-May onward if that works
Omg that sounds awesome! The weekend of May 11 or 25th works for me. Have so much fun in Japan! Have you even been?
May 11 weekend should work for me too. We can pencil that in it works for Carl.. send me your emails.
thank you! I'm so excited, first time. So much to see. have you been?
Greetings to all you fine folks! I’m a freelance production sound mixer for film and TV based in Rosendale. I also do live event sound and VO as a side-hustle. I’ve lived here in the Hudson Valley for 42 years and can help make anyone’s six degrees of separation a lot shorter. If you have a project in need of audio, or just want to talk shop, please feel free to reach out. I don’t have an office and I don’t maintain a resume, but I’ve recorded sound for Disney, NBC/Peacock, NPR, Discovery Channel, Amazon Prime, HGTV, Adobe Creative, General Electric, Target, IBM, Toyota, Google, Boston Scientific, Jeep, Air BnB, H&R Block, AARP, Invicta and many more…I prefer to work locally whenever I can.
A legend has entered the chat
Hey ! Nice to see you on here
Hi Carl. Nice to meet you!
is everywhere!
Ubiquity is my goal…lol
Hi all, I'm a Stone Ridge-based storyboard artist/illustrator for animation & advertising, currently boarding on a Nick Jr. show. If you're in Kingston you might see me around doing live caricatures from time to time. Comic book artist in the distant past, always down for geeking out about superheroes and sci-fi.
My outdated portfolio is at www.keviemetal.com, @keviemetal on instagram.
Thanks for this great idea !
Greetings folks! I am based in Garrison and a former business owner turned entrepreneurship educator. I started a Westchester-based STEM enrichment program for kids in 2012 and ran that through 2022. I am now an educator for the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Iona University. I specialize in Design Thinking & Ideation and have recently started developing courses in AI and innovation. Outside of Iona, I am a partner in a consulting firm called The Systems Studio which supports business growth through operation systems design.
In my free time I write and record music in my project recording studio and I am an avid motorcycle rider and mountain biker.
Thanks to for putting this together!
Hi Robert!! My husband and I are also in Garrison — I'm in design and he's also a musician with an at-home studio. His is fully analog cassette with vintage equipment, so cool would be cool to meet up some time!
That's amazing! I would totally be game to meet up. Where in Garrison are you? I'm right off Old Albany post
We're in Continental Village (garrison south ) we head to the cold spring coffee shop and peekskill coffee often!
Awesome! We'll def have to meet up soon!
Hi Everyone. I am excited to be here. I'm am Emmy award-winning freelance writer and content creator, who has vast experience as a print journalist, TV producer, and documentary writer/producer. If you need any help putting things into words - I'm your man. You can find some samples of my work both behind, and in front of the camera - by visiting my website https://larryeproductions.com . And - that's not all - some of my print pieces are right here - https://riverjournalonline.com/author/larry-epstein/ . Let's connect and see whether we can help each other out.
Hey, Larry! I’m late seeing this, but I actually worked for Alain and Bruce when they owned Rivertown. I have a couple of pieces in RJ, too. Great to e-meet you!
Hi all! Nice to be connected with more creative folks. I’m a freelance graphic designer currently living in Hurley! You can view my work here: https://gillianbarnard.com
I’m a SUNY New Paltz grad and returned there last year to teach an intro graphic design class as an adjunct.
Looking forward to connecting!
Hi, all! I’m in the capital district (wishing I was in the Hudson Valley). I have been freelancing/working remotely for over 11 years (designing for 20+). I specialize in accessibility (in several areas): I am a web and print designer, accessibility auditor, and accessible document creator and remediator. This means I can help you with many of your projects in many phases to improve and achieve accessibility! (Tip: thinking about accessibility from the start of a project is the most efficient and cost-effective way to do it!) www.KTdid.Design
Currently at the Vinyl Room in Beacon and they have djs spinning groovy/funky vinyl. It’s a vibe!! Come on out if you’re nearby
Hey all, great to see so many familiar and new names and faces here
I'm Shauna and many of you might know me from the HV Tech Meetup back in the day and the Connect with Creatives and Emerging Designers Portfolio Review events I've run through the years with AIGA Upstate NY I'm based in Kingston and before that New Paltz!
By day I work as a design systems / accessibility specialist, coming from a background in front end and UX. I spent the last 4 years working in a federal consultancy working with US gov agencies on some of their digital services, most recently the US Space Force
I also am an adjunct with the design department at SUNY New Paltz, teaching Design for the Web I since 2020 (lmk if you are hiring designers we got students on the hunt for internships and jobs!).
Great to see a new space for this community, can't wait to see what it leads to
Welcome Shauna! I also am a designer working in govtech, most recently in the public safety and hr spaces. I’m down in Poughkeepsie. We should connect sometime.
Hey Shauna
Hey all, and thanks for inviting me ! So inspiring to read through all these hellos this morning. I’m a playwright & screenwriter (daniellefrimer.com) and have lived in New Paltz with my wife for the past three and a half years. I’ve got upcoming play readings in Pine Plains (April 21st) and Beacon (May 9th) - reach out if you’re interested in learning more! I also freelance as a conversation designer (i.e. a playwright for robots ). I’m looking forward to connecting!
Did anyone else just feel an earthquake???
YES WE SURE DID
yup
Looks like a 4.8 magnitude centered in NJ!
Good thing there are no other uncommon phenomena coming our way soon, otherwise that would be kind of freaky
lol beat me to it!
I’m out sick today and was just falling asleep on my couch when it started… I thought I was having some kind of a medical issue, until the windows started rattling
oh jeez. i was like damn my dryer is going abnormally CRAZZY
Feel better!
Our whole building shook. First for me. 🫨
Hi HV Connect crew! I'm Molly, marketing and communications pro with over 10 years of experience launching and scaling consumer tech startups. I've led campaigns for high-profile companies like Poshmark, Tonal, TRIPP, and Prenuvo and am currently the Director of Communications and Content at Aescape, the first commercially available, fully automated AI massage experience (you can read more about us here). Happy to chat PR, marketing, branding, or anything in between. I'm based in Poughkeepsie and would love to meet up with folks IRL
I'd love to meet up Molly. I'm in branding working on launching my community focused agency. corliesave.com
I'm in PK as well.
Let's do it! -- I'm planning to attend that event in Wappingers that someone shared in the general thread. Feel free to tag me in other meetup threads you plan to attend. Happy to find time sooner too
Yes, same.
Would love to chat with you both in person too. See you there.
Yeah, I was on the phone with someone, and there was a rumble and the building trembled. I thought it was construction or something until the person I was talking to—someone miles away—said “Whoa, my house is shaking.”
(And all my California friends are like “oh, you had an earthquake?…only 4.8? No, no, I’m sure that was very scary, I’m always just surprised people even notice those”)
Quick Poll! If we were going to host a Coffee & Creatives Chat this month at the RVAC in Wappingers Falls, which date would you prefer?
React with an emoji!
And that's just a taste of what will happen if my demands are not met
Thanks for setting this up! It's a pleasure to connect with you all!
My name is Kyle J Caldwell and I am a Photographer specializing in Architecture and Interiors. Hence, I travel all over the Northeast states, so if I can be of assistance do let me know.
Also, I have plans to open up a photo/video studio space in Kingston with local memberships open to the community. Are you looking for part time studio space in the Kingston area? Excited at all the prospects/genres this will open up after not having a studio for nearly 15 years. So if you are interested in learning more about the studio or any type of creative collaboration feel free to reach out. Love meeting fellow creatives or potential clients in the HV region! www.kylejcaldwell.com
Awesome work of some beautiful spaces!
Love the idea of having a space for other folks to capitalize on. I used to have a space for my photo/video work, but found myself not utilizing it for the work much. I do a lot of on location/run-and-gun, but it’s always good to have a space you can utilize when needed.
Hey everyone! It’s great to see so many wonderful and familiar faces.
My name is Devon, I’m born and raised in the Hudson Valley. I’m a photographer, videographer, and content creator. I primarily specialize in community and corporate events, portraits, and commercial work and am looking to delve more into documentary filmmaking.
I’ve been a content creator for over 10 years now and my love of being in front of the camera is what ultimately lead me to my love of being behind it. I love storytelling in a variety of different ways and am always intrigued by all things art and creativity. I love collaborating with people and am always up for anything!
Feel free to check out my website and YouTube. Looking forward to connecting with ya’ll!
Great work Devon.
Thanks, !
Hey Devon, I'd love to connect! I'm also HV grown, where in the valley are you located? Perhaps we can connect sometime soon? - Jenna
that sounds great! I’m located in Kingston but am often all over the HV haha.
Perfect! I'm in Rosendale! We're practically neighbors. This week is a little crazy for me but let's connect soon!
Sounds good to me! Shoot me a DM or email and we can coordinate some time to connect
Here it is, folks — our first-ever ConnectHV live event! Huge thanks to for hosting!
bummed i can’t make it, because i’ve got rehearsal that night - but y’all are invited to come see the show! “The Play That Goes Wrong” at the Elmwood Playhouse in Nyack, from May 17th thru June 8th https://www.elmwoodplayhouse.com/show/the-play-that-goes-wrong/
Make sure you RSVP
Done
Hi neighbors! I’m an Executive Coach + Somatic Therapist currently living in Shawangunk, NY (near Gardiner). I spent 20 years building businesses and watching people crash and burn from burnout (including myself). I started my own coaching practice to help Founders + Leaders scale their businesses without sacrificing themselves. In addition to 1-1 coaching and speaking, I lead retreats that sit at the intersection of career development and spirituality (I have one coming up at Dharmakaya in August).
I also host a podcast called “Full Plate Full Cup” which is sort of like How I Built This meets Super Soul Sunday.
Last thing I’ll say is… I’m currently immersed in Somatic Experiencing certification and a shamanism apprenticeship so if you’re into that kind of stuff — HMU!
Hi everyone! I'm Erika, based in Rhinebeck and working for the UN doing data engineering and visualization work. Also am a textile weaver on the side selling at some local shops and markets from time to time. So nice seeing the diverse creative community in the area and looking forward to meeting and getting to know you. Thanks to for organizing this group!
Hi Erika! Very cool sounding work, both at UN and textiles. I'm in Rhinebeck as well doing AI startup work (also a lawyer). Hope our paths cross sometime!
hi joe! ah cool, whats the startup? happy to meet more rhinebeck ppl, hope we meet at one of these meetups soon!
Hey
Hey Connect HV –– so I run the local men’s semi-pro soccer team (Kingston Stockade FC). I always think of our home games as a “platform” for local businesses / farms / artists / vendors / makers, etc. to use to promote their work. We see around 800-1000 fans at home games.
If there’s anyone on the list who’s be interested in being a part of the games (setting up a table to vend or promote // selling items at merch table? // singing the national anthem?) send me a DM. I am trying to have more of a focus on climate / sustainability (aka: I aspire to use the games as a platform to tell a climate-first narrative) so bonus point if you fall into that category
Let me know! 5 home games in June @ Poughkeepsie (Marist College). No charge, just looking for good people / products / stories!
(home games in white)
Hey Dennis! I’m part of the newly relaunched Slow Food Hudson Valley and this might be a fun way to help get the word out that we’re back! Want to hop on a call or send me some materials?
love this thanks for sharing. interested
— hey tell Ken Rabe I said hi. OLD buddy of mine!
I am looking forward to checking these games out - one thing besides the tacos I will miss here is Austin FC. Hopefully Stockade makes the playoffs, as we won’t be moved until early July
– That last game @ Albany is gonna be a banger. Last year it decided playoffs. 1 hour drive from Kingston.
got it, will plan on being there Might have a moving trailer, a dog and a family in tow depending on how it all shakes out
hahah, spoken like a true Stockade fan
Hey ya'll!! I'm a little late to the game as I was traveling, but I'm Jenna and it's great to meet you!
I'm a photographer based in Catskill and my wife and I run a small creative agency called The House of Heart. You my check out all of our websites below. Looking forward to connecting!!
Can't wait to connect with you!
Hey Jenna, welcome! Not late at all, we're still not even a week in
Happy to have you here!
Hey Jenna, always good to meet another Jenna!
nice to meet you both!!
Hey Folks!! (thanks for inviting me !) I am delighted to be here and learn about you all. I’m a theatre producer, director, performer (https://www.brittanyproia.art) and I live in Highland with my composer husband. I am also the managing director or SHADOWLAND STAGES in Ellenville, NY and I love making theatre in our region. Thanks for creating this space. Can't wait to connect!
Hey Brittany, welcome, I'm happy you're here!
Highland in the house!
Hi! Excited to be here! I’m a principal engineer at Warby Parker, mostly focusing on the front-end around areas of performance, accessibility and experimentation. My wife and I live in Kingston with our two year old daughter Priscilla.
I used to record bands playing music in my apartment, but gave that up to focus on my work. I’d love to get back to some intersection of music and technology.
I was standing on the side of the road with a flat tire when the earthquake happened and didn’t feel anything!
Hey Dave, welcome! I have a buddy in Pleasant Valley (near Poughkeepsie) who works at Warby Parker in data science... you guys should start a Hudson Valley office
Oo is it Joseph Porter?
Yeah, that’s him!
Hi all! I’m based out of croton-on-Hudson. I work as a machine learning engineer during the day and record my own music at night. I’ve been looking, so far unsuccessfully, for a music share near me where I can leave some recording equipment.
ooh, these last two posts hit me on the head. i transitioned from composing full-time to do app development, and it's been amazing. would love to connect with some other musicians here. what are you trying to ditch? i've got some space, but i also have gear acquisition syndrome. a dangerous combo
Blatant self-promotion time: it's been a few years since I published an interview on Creative Hudson Valley, but I just hit publish on the first interview of season two, with Kingston-based singer/songwriter Al Olender! I'm proud of how this one came out:
Hey folks! Thanks to for the invite to the community. I'm Colton. Lifelong Hudson Valley resident (grew up in Orange County, now live in Dutchess). I worked in content strategy / marketing tech for a few years before settling into the design team at IBM Poughkeepsie, where I'm currently a manager. In my spare time, I'm usually fiddling with creative fiction.
Love seeing the breadth and depth of the creative/tech community here. Glad to be a part of it
Pleasure to meet you Colton
Welcome Colton. Great to see more designers in Poughkeepsie! Are you working on UX or marketing graphic design at IBM?
Also love creative fiction. Though it’s been a while since I’ve sat and written for more than just dungeons and dragons sessions with friends.
Product design, with my focus being on content design/UX writing - though my team is multi-disciplinary and spans UX, research, and visual design!
And haha - D&D has long been a creative outlet for me, too I'm actually beginning to migrate over to Pathfinder 2.0 with my DM, which is thankfully quite similar.
Nice! I’m a product designer in downtown Poughkeepsie working on SaaS govtech products. (Also the whole gambit research, UX, visual design). I’d say my focus is interaction design and untangling systems.
Ooh pathfinder is a ruleset I haven’t tried. Though I am interested in the new starfinder system they’re releasing. I’m currently prepping a 5E Dungeons of Drakkenheim, it’s a grimdark bloodborne esque campaign for some friends.
Would love to talk shop and dnd. We should get coffee or something sometime.
Hello everyone! And thanks for putting this creative petri dish together.
I'm Mark, a freelance creative director and copywriter living full-time in Ulster Co (Saugerties). I've worked on some of the biggest brands on the planet but also some of the smallest ones, too. Literally. I'm currently working with Alleyway Ice Cream on their packaging and other needs. Anyhow, my site is below. Excited to connect with others here.
Hello!! Thanks for bringing all of us together in this virtual space!
I am as local as it gets - grew up in New Paltz! I’m also an Indigenous (Sioux) Army Veteran who owns a small marketing agency, supporting local small businesses manage their digital presence with social, website, email, SEO, photography, and video. https://haynesmarketingmedia.com
I’m also the first ever President of the Board of Hudson Valley Women in Business. We’re a nonprofit (just became 501c3 in February 2024) supporting our community of 3,400+ women business owners and intreprenuers with education, networking, mentorships, and so much more! Learn more at https://HVWiB.org
I look forward to connecting!!
Hey Kati, great to see you here! (I grew up in Wallkill and lived in New Paltz for years... that town still has my heart, even though I'm in Poughkeepsie now).
HVWiB is such an awesome organization, I'd love to see a whole bunch of your members in here!
Hi all! Thanks for the opportunity to connect here. My wife and I live in Woodstock. She's a director and producer for film and theatre, and I'm the corporate geek who launched my own consultancy last year. I specialize in working with enterprises on their product education and certification strategy at Echtus.com (super niche, I know). Looking forward to networking!
Welcome Vicky! My wife and I live in Catskill - we always love connecting with upstate queers!
(also I work for a commercial production company and would love to get your wife's name in our database if she's open to it!)
Awesome! Great to meet you. My wife's name is Marisa Viola ([email protected]) . Also an FYI, I'm on the planning committee for Woodstock's first Pride weekend. Join us if you can! (woodstocknypride.org)
+1 to meeting fellow upstate s! My wife and I are in New Paltz, I’m also a writer for theater
Hi All! Also excited for this growing community. My name is Chiara and I'm a multi-disciplinary creative consultant. I've spent the last 20 years creating digital experiences and branding for clients across industry and scale. My last big project was supporting the AEM platform migration for all of IBM.com marketing pages with template and component design, enablement, and documentation.
I'm currently supporting a local non-profit with their branding and communication strategy and looking for more opportunities for creative problem solving!
You can find me at chiarabartlett.com!
Oh hello there… I just met , who invited me to this group YAY! Im excited to see some familiar faces in this group already.
My name is Kennedy Davey, I’m a PRODUCER of all sorts. Having worked in Features (physical production) with 20th Century Fox, Advertising (both agency + Prod Co EP), Post (The Mill). I’m now line producing a low budget feature filming in the HV. I’m eager to get to know more creative folks in our area and I want to produce more films this year, while somehow magically striking the balance of getting paid.
I live in W Saugerties with my 4 year old son and husband, who’s a comms strategist in advertising, if anyone needs it.
You can see my work at kennedydavey.com or loveflorencefilms.com
Hi Kennedy!
nice to meet you ! fellow producer here (advertising, currently @ DDB) have worked with the Mill a few times. Also eager to network with others in the area. I split my time between Queens & Saugerties.
Hi! Nice to meet you! I’ve worked at Anomaly, 72 and WK but never DDB. LMK when you are back in Saugs and lets grab coffee!
Not a shabby list. sounds good! I was just up this past weekend, will be up again in May. I'll hit you up
Hello and Always good to have some solid producers on hand! And close by. Kennedy, I'm also in West Saugerties. BTW, I'm a freelance CD/CW.
I’m in West Saugerties too! We should grab a coffee. I’m a producer too, although came up through live theater, contemporary dance, immersive media, experimental film… and then pivoted into startups and now at Good Work Institute…
i love the GoodWork Institute. What a gorgeous space !
nice to meet you as well ! nice. there are more of us than I thought in the area..!
Nice to meet you all! I’m a composer & sound designer in Ulster Park.
hey nice to see you here!!!
Hi Kennedy nice to see you here. is a gem! Glad you two are connected. I’m over in Kingston and have 12-ish years in film & video currently running a Creative Content Studio. Hope to run into you soon.
You are too kind, Drew!
- I owe you guys a visit. Coffee hour this month I hope!
Hey everyone, feel welcome to share this instagram story to help get the word about the first ConnectHV Meetup @ Barnfox in Poughkeepsie on May 1st. You can link it to the Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/connecthv-barnfox-may-meetup-tickets-878732571777?aff=oddtdtcreator
Thanks for having an event in Poughkeepsie!! We need more things like this here.
Looking forward to meeting folks in person!
Hey everyone!! I'm so excited to be joining this. I love seeing so many familiar faces, and it's such a pleasure to connect with you all.
My name is Taylor Dederick, and I am the founder of Unless Media, a creative marketing studio based in Saugerties offering social media management, email marketing, paid ads, marketing consulting, and photography and content creation!
I'm a Hudson Valley native - born and raised here in Saugerties. I graduated from Siena College in Loudonville, NY, with a B.S. in Marketing and Digital Design and went on to work in corporate, where I QUICKLY learned it wasn't for me.
So, I founded Unless Media in 2021 with the goal of bridging the gap between structured marketing practices and freethinking, creative small businesses. I've since worked with businesses large and small all over the world, but over the last year or so, I have decided to hone in and focus on working with businesses in my community to help them grow! You can check out my website at www.unlessmedia.com, message me here or on my Instagram @unlessmediia, or email me at [email protected] if you're interested in learning more about Unless Media.
I love meeting with and getting to know other creatives, so send me a message, and let's grab some coffee. ️
& a huge thanks to for creating this space for us all!
Another Saugerties creative! Coffee with the three of us?
Hey Taylor, good to see you here, I'm happy you joined!
Lets!
Taylor - nice job - and really nice website - you're crushin it
is my favorite! I’m so glad you’re here!!!!
Welcome Taylor. Been a fan for awhile. Would love to talk shop one day. I just launched my community centric branding agency corliesave.com We've talked a bit via insta, but somehow this just feels a little more intimate (thanks again )
Hey Daniel!! So excited to check out your website - we should totally meet up and chat one day!
Hi everyone, I’m Peter Kang, moved full-time to Rhinebeck last fall as we welcomed child #3. Love it here, especially taking the kids to different parks and trails every weekend.
I have a portfolio of agency businesses mostly focused on building websites for businesses on platforms like Shopify and Webflow (check them out here: https://www.barrel-holdings.com/. I write a lot about agency business on my personal site at peterkang.com. Always down to grab coffee and talk shop. Look forward to meeting others here in HV, excited to be here.
Hey ya’ll, I’m looking to do some day-in-the-life style short form videos with other creatives. If anyone is interested into letting me get some insight and behind the scenes of your creative spaces, processes, works, etc, let me know!
Feel free to shoot me a DM or email me [email protected]
Hi Devon. I'd be into this. I have a workshop in Highland.
hey man! Let’s do it!
I'm so down! I'm a muralist in Garrison. I have a cool project coming up in May
I got one for ya Dev Not me but a Barnfox member who makes custom jewelry
dope, I’m definitely down!
Hey Devon! Nice to see you here. I’m a cartoonist in daily life, be happy to do something with you.
Hi all. Just got added to the group. Nice to be connected with you all. I'm a member of a worker coop that upcycles furniture. I live in Poughkeepsie but my business is in Ulster County. Check out our work here - https://www.foundandfixedhv.com/
The next time you're thinking of ordering furniture online, reach out to us instead We'll make you a fully wood version for about the same price as wayfair.
I love this idea so much!
Thanks! We're currently open on Saturday mornings from 9 to 12. Stop by sometime.
oh great! we're so delighted to be working with coop HV getting that first round of funding through coop HV and seed commons makes us feel like a real, official business!
I love this. I'm really into thrifting and second hand and friends always ask where to find stuff. Adding this to my list
I work with Angela DeFelice on Coop HV as a board member - so excited for your business!!
Hi all! I’m a bit late here but glad to be connected on here! I moved to Kingston 5 months ago from NYC and loving it. I am a Makeup Artist - I do mainly print, ecomm, videos and bridal etc… (not so much TV/films as I am not in the union) I also have a 1-on-1 service for makeup bag overhauls- working with clients to find the right product and streamline makeup routine. You can find my work here:
Reach out anytime!
let’s do it! I’m off to Boston today for a shoot but drop me an email and we’ll make it happen: [email protected]
Awesome, nice to meet you, Nichole! I do a lot of photo and video work and have often had people reach out about makeup artists, so I’ll be sure to keep you in mind
Hey Nichole, welcome! How are you settling in to Kingston. I’ve been here since 2020. Similar to I work in video/film/photo - great to know you’re here!
we need to connect! I remember watching one of your films at a good time meetup, you’ve got great work. We haven’t really been properly introduced, but let me know when you’ve got some time
Anyone in Beacon this morning? I’m working from Big Mouth for the next hour or so!
Hey all! Adam from Red Hook here Thanks for the invite
Scratch that, using this account instead of my work one
Hey all. I’m Ross Shain from Rhinecliff. I’ve worked as a VFX artist, motion designer, and software designer. I helped design and market Mocha (tracking and roto software — licensed to Adobe). I mostly work in software but enjoy occasional creative gigs. You can find me at RossShain.com or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rshain
FWIW - I’ve recently launched a slack group that is similar to this group, but totally focused on film/video post-production professionals that live in Hudson Valley. Please feel free to join: https://join.slack.com/t/hudsonvalleyp-uyn9721/shared_invite/zt-2gh3kf0j9-mS8~O22E8NpKrYzcdIowBg
I hope you do not mind me posting here! Perhaps we could collaborate on an event in the future? Cheers!
I don’t mind at all, the more the better! I’m pumped that so many people are interested in something like this, it feels like we’re entering (another) creative renaissance for the Hudson Valley
There are so many creatives who live up here but work in a bubble. I’d love more in-person events that get people off the screens. I’ve been to the HV Tech meetings in the past but always wanted to narrow it down very specifically to experienced film/video nerds. That’s my goal anyways!
That's almost exactly what my thesis is — I want to solve the "bubble" problem
There are plenty of networks that are industry- or town-specific, but there's no "network of networks" to help people find each other across those boundaries.
If I'm a filmmaker in Beacon and I need a composer, and the perfect person lives in Rhinebeck, there's no guarantee I'll ever cross paths with that person. It sounds like that's what you're solving too!
I love love loved the Tech Meetup (maybe to an unhealthy degree... for several months in a row, I got the award for "most frequent attendee" haha). This is my attempt to jumpstart something similar, but without the baggage of the word "tech" that made some creatives not realize it was for them too
