Hi there, I’m Julie!
I’ve always been drawn to storytelling and creativity—whether through writing poetry, designing visuals, or capturing history through memoirs. From an early age, I explored mixed media art, darkroom photography, and editorial work, eventually leading high school creative journals and yearbooks.
My formal journey into writing began at The Poetry School in London, where I studied classic works and participated in workshops. At 19, I won a publishing award for my poem Six (Decades) at the International Poetry Convention, leading to the publication of my first poetry book, a deep dark black ray of sunshine. In 2023, I re-released it as an expanded omnibus.
After serving in the U.S. Air Force, I studied graphic design and creative writing at Rogue Community College before earning a B.S. in English (Professional Writing) from Southern Oregon University, with minors in Emerging Media and Digital Arts and Shakespeare Studies. My work earned me the Herman Schmeling Award for Nonfiction and recognition as an outstanding graduating senior.
In 2008, I founded Plumb Creative, a freelance business specializing in book design, editing, and publishing services. Over the years, I’ve worked on legacy memoirs, poetry collections, illustrated books, and role-playing fantasy game series, helping authors bring their stories to life. Notable projects include:
📖 My Century in Motion – WWII veteran & professor Daniel Bulkley’s autobiography
📖 American Ice Cream – A translated memoir preserving Danish family history
📖 A Lifetime in the Atmosphere – The story of Air Force pilot Stanley Luther
My passion for preserving personal histories led me to Portland State University, where I am completing a Master of Science in Book Publishing. My research focuses on hybrid publishing’s role in supporting legacy memoirs, ensuring personal narratives find their place in the literary world.
When I’m not writing, designing, or reading books, you’ll find me building LEGO, playing the piano, watching (and quoting) films, or traveling in search of great cocktails and cuisine with my husband, Nick.
