Isabelle Gelot Hunt shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Isabelle, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
When I enter a creative phase, for instance designing a new collection. I can spend hours drawing and forget the rest… Until I realize I need to check my emails, make sure things are going smoothly, or Jolene my dog needs to get fed or it’s already late in the day and I have to pick up my daughter… But in order to get in a creative mood I need to let myself loose track of time, one can’t happen without the other.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Isabelle, the French designer behind Isatopia. Before starting my stationery brand, I worked for over a decade as an interior designer in Europe. When my husband and I moved to Maine after the pandemic, I felt the urge to create something of my own. That’s how Isatopia began—at first as a small illustration project, and over time it grew into a stationery business that now finds its way into shops across the country and abroad.
What makes Isatopia special to me is that it reflects both sides of who I am: my love of design and detail, and also my playful, curious side. I get to design every product myself, always with a little French twist, and see it come to life here in the U.S. I still lead Isatopia as a small independent brand, but over time I’ve been lucky to surround myself with amazing people who help me keep it all running—from a fulfillment center to a part time business manager, and studio assistant. I run Isatopia mostly from my home studio—but also remotely when needed—which I love. Every day is different and challenging, and I enjoy wearing all the hats that come with it.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I’ve had many side jobs over the years—often in restaurants—because of my love for everything around food. I enjoyed them, was always very dedicated, and they taught me a lot. Those experiences supported my creative journey and helped me get to where I am today, but I don’t see myself going back. That chapter of juggling shifts and different roles, feeling a bit all over the place, feels behind me now.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t worry, you will figure it out – have faith in yourself! Things take time, you can’t figure it all out early in the journey -and probably don’t want to- mistakes are a big part of it all. So be patient, and trust the process!
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I believe it’s important to stay curious and to feel challenged by what you do—to keep exploring and looking around with fresh eyes. That spirit of curiosity can fuel both your professional and your personal life.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
Spending enough time having fun with my family, not exploring and traveling enough…
Contact Info:
- Website: https://isatopia.shop/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isatopia_/
Image Credits
Jo Silver
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