Patricia van Essche - pve design

I cannot draw a stick figure to save my life. My inability to draw was the deciding factor in pursuing marketing at university rather than interior design. It stands to reason that people would actually like to see renderings of their projects. I am most impressed by people blessed with artistic talent and Patricia van Essche, founder of pve design, certainly falls into that category.

For several months I’ve had an image in my mind for a new blog design. I can be quite picky and I was uncertain as to how best to convey my ideas. That was until Patricia came along and brought my vision to life. Through emails and photos Patricia worked her magic. If only I looked so pulled together at 5.30 am.

Patricia attended the University of Cincinnati’s acclaimed College of Design, Architecture and Art, where she received a BS in fashion design and was awarded the school’s coveted “Golden Brush” award. For 15 years she worked in New York City as a designer and design director for Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Liz Claiborne.

What do you love most about being an entrepreneur?
Freedom to work when I want and still have time to be a good mother and wife! (Well most of the time). I loved designing for other companies but doing it for me is completely different. It really forces me to do my best and really keeps me motivated as an artist. It requires dedication, persistence and a strong constitution. Little luxuries also keep me going - like new art supplies, love a fresh micron pen 01.!

It is always fascinating to work with so many incredible people and feel that my work makes them smile. That is what I love most about being an entrepreneur, the smile and happiness my artwork brings to people. Of course, getting paid for what you love is the best!


What inspired your logo?
Like a bird, when the time came for me to leave the nest, I needed to spread my wings and "branch" out on my own and take the risk of organizing my work and growing my business.

What inspires you?
Light and COLOR. Believe it or not, I do have times of not being inspired or I feel that my work is missing something. That’s when I need to take a walk in the light of day. Without the light, there is no color. I adore all the seasons, but the light in the winter is so pure!

Who are your style icons?
All mothers.
My mother-in-law is incredibly chic. She is always dressed elegantly, she is also confident, smart and kind. She was born in Holland and when she was a little girl, during the war she had to eat tulip bulbs, then moved to Monte Carlo (when Princess Grace was alive) it was a magical time! I love to look at pictures of her when she was a young mother, she looked incredibly happy to be a mother. She adores her grandchildren and has a lovely laugh.

My grandmother Elsie had wonderful style, she was a classic lady, full of strength and beauty. She was very talented. She sewed and made amazing things for me as a child. She always dressed very elegantly and smelled lovely. She always remembered everyone’s birthday. She was a wonderful cook and her home was all in aqua.

Of course, Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn, Mother Theresa, Princess Diana, Diana Vreeland, Elsa Peretti—all incredibly strong women.

What is your favorite luxury?
TIME! A clean canvas, nice white paper to be drawn upon! A clean paint brush. Clean water! My home after my cleaning lady comes, freshly laundered linens and hot coffee! But a nap, now that would be luxe!

What are your most prized possessions?
The ability to draw, but of course I am nothing without my family and friends cheering me on and my Tiffany engagement ring.