Hi, I’m Vanessa

Aesthete. Creative sophistikat. Savant of synthesizing information. A bit playful and always imaginative, I’m a conceptually driven kind of girl, intuitive to a fault, tuned in to what my clients want and need - even when they don’t exactly know themselves! Oh and, just in case you hadn’t noticed, white space is my ‘thing’. Also, hats.

“Vanessa is amazing! I'm a professional speaker and trainer, and as my business has grown I've found I need to think about new things - like photoshoots, my fashion style, how all this integrates on my website, etc. She has become my personal artistic director! She has an incredible eye to see what I couldn't see. Most importantly, she has guided me in a way that is in alignment with who I am. If you are trying to develop a personal brand, I highly recommend Vanessa!”

– Amy Climer PhD, CSP, Creativity & Innovation Speaker, Trainer, Coach, Emcee

Image of Vanessa Bell in hat

British born and raised, my early career began in the fashion industry. After earning my degree, I worked for a leading haute couture designer in London. From there, I transitioned to Pentagram, an international design firm, where I had the privilege of working in both the UK and US offices, exposing myself to some of the world's best, award-winning design.

Eventually, I made the decision to permanently move to the USA and joined a fast-growing corporate management company. As Director of Marketing, I had the responsibility of creating and managing all advertising and marketing programs for over 80 satellite offices and the corporate head office (ie. professional plate-spinner!)

Drawing on my extensive experience in both the business and creative fields, I eventually ventured out on my own with BELL Design, focusing on branding, website design, and a multitude of creative projects – from books to TEDx events. It's been an independent journey for over 25 years now, and I'm still going strong!

Currently living in Asheville, NC, where nature and the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains soothe my soul.

In my spare time (ha!) I am also co-founder of a small non-profit, HADAYA Global, providing books, balls, and educational opportunities for displaced children worldwide, mostly within the refugee community. And I also co-produce TEDxAsheville – with a handful of other amazing volunteers – multiple events year round, culminating in a full-day, 500-seat, sell-out event of TED talks!