Montues.com

I absolutely love it when I get to design stuff for myself. Anything goes. It can be as simple or as crazy as you wan. Even better is when you have incredibly talented friends like Creativedash who can build it for you—making it even better than you could ever imagine. (You should view this site on mobile.)

As simple as this site seems, it was actually quite difficult to design. I went through several iterations (maybe I'll post). All were in this same family, heavy type with a focus on photography. However the challenge for me was always finding the right balance between unique, fun, and professional. I typically wanted to take it too far on the fun side with crazy yeti "montues" monsters and stuff. During my "inspirational web surf" though before continuing down the monster path, I came across an epic shot of Travis Rice and immediately I knew I wanted full focus on photography. This is not as easy as it sounds. It's very expensive and takes a long time to plan. I didn't have time -- the shoot needed to happen within 7 days of coming up with the idea. I immediately emailed 5 of my closest friends first with an email that said:

"You guys have supported me like crazy over the past year and forever grateful.

I now have one more favor to ask — can you do a photoshoot with me in your snow gear next week? If you need new gear, nows the time because I will buy it in return for your help. Attached is an example shot that’s happening.

I know this isn’t how things work but you know what, it’s epic and I’m doing it. I just need your support on this. You with me? Whatever you need in return, name it. Done."

Then sought out the best photographer in tech today — Helena Price. Luckily, she worked with me to pull this off in an incredible turn around. Just seven days later -- we had the shoot with 14 people (I asked nearly 30 people, two of those people flew in from across the states. One all the way from Philly, bless you Dan Mall!) The very next day, I had photos. Two days after that, the site launched.

I tell you guys these things because nothing, none of this stuff, is possible without these guys. These amazing humans who come together for each other. My friends are what made this possible, not me. Go out and make some real, solid relationships.

Stoked to finally be sending out invites for Epicurrence—The Montues!) Request yours today before they are all gone.