Verry Robin & Co.

With a unique blend of creativity and business acumen, Robin Verrier has carved out a niche for herself by creating visually stunning campaigns that go beyond mere aesthetics. What began as a high school hobby has evolved into a flourishing career, leading to the creation of Verry Robin & Co., a company dedicated to crafting beautiful, story-driven advertising for luxury brands. We had the chance to chat with Robin about her journey — from studying Fashion Merchandising at Virginia Commonwealth University to launching her own business — and the inspirations that continue to shape her work today.

tell us about yourself and what initially attracted you to photography?

I did photography in high school and was shooting film when I was really young. I fell in love with the process of capturing something and then developing it in a darkroom by hand. It was such a unique and archaic process that really spoke to me. In college, I attended a Fine Arts University, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts, where I studied Fashion Merchandising. This degree allowed me to learn about fashion in the business world, focusing heavily on marketing and business. I found it fascinating to study what people like, why they like things, and how to influence them. After graduating, I worked for a publication for over two years but realized I wanted to start my own Fine Arts company. I wanted to create powerful and elevated advertising for luxury brands under my own name, as I saw a gap in the market. So, I took the leap, put in my two weeks' notice, and started my own company.

“I love creating ads that are so beautiful, you can’t tell you're being sold a product.”

Can you share what the pivotal moments were that led you to start your own company?

I realized I wanted to do all of this under my own name and not for someone else. My family consists of successful business owners, so I guess it's in my blood. It was terrifying to leave my job, but I knew I had to try. Once I started, I realized it was my dream job. I’ve been doing it for eight years now, and it's been hard work but also the most rewarding. I didn’t want to make another company look good and be lost in the background. I wanted my own identity.

“I Try to create a mood and an aesthetic AROUND A SINGLE COLOR.”

How has your background and early career influenced your approach to prop styling and photography?

With a background in Business and Marketing, I can combine both sides of my brain effectively.

“I wouldn't want to focus solely on the business or creative side–I love doing both equally.”

My background perfectly suits the job I’m doing, which is fortunate. I enjoy using both skill sets to do my own contracts, negotiations, and lead the creative.

You mention that nature and antiquing are significant sources of inspiration. Could you elaborate?

I just really like old things! I’m a huge science nerd, fascinated by archaeology, paleontology, and evolution. It's interesting to see how things evolve and change.

“Nature is the biggest and most amazing creator, offering endless inspiration.”

My job involves appreciating objects and turning them into beautiful ads. I’ve built a career around things I love. Nature’s simplicity, like shells, flowers, and plants, continually inspire me. Growing up, I spent a lot of time outdoors, which has greatly influenced my work.

How has Charlottesville contributed TO your brand?

It's everything! I highly recommend visiting, it's absolutely breathtaking. There is no place like it, it’s like a Fairyville. I feel so lucky and grateful to have grown up in Charlottesville. I had such an amazing childhood–being surrounded by this incredible environment and natural beauty. Also, there are so many well-known creatives that come from this town, it’s a really great place that appreciates and supports artists.

how do you address the challenges of sustainability when working with props?

The props I use aren't single-use; they are often found objects from nature, antique stores or estate sales. This gives a second life to items that have already had a life.

“90% of my prop studio is from antique stores or found objects.”

Buying brand new items is very rare for me, which aligns with my values, as sustainability is very important to me.

what social media strategies DO YOU USE TO ENGAGE WITH YOUR ONLINE AUDIENCE?

Social media is a double-edged sword; we often spend too much time on it. I try to be honest with what I post and say, aiming for genuine communication. I believe people gravitate toward honesty and transparency.

“My goal is to create beautiful work that inspires and makes people happy.”

When working with brands, I aim to create beautiful, inclusive ads that resonate with people, even if they're not buying the product.

How do you ensure that your campaign photography captures attention and resonates with audiences?

Every shoot has a purpose, like a mission. Depending on the client's needs, we use different strategies to create compelling photography, whether it's for brand awareness, engagement, or product launches. These practices have been refined through trial and error over the years.

What are the essential elements that you always incorporate into your projects?

That’s easy!

“I have three key elements–my three C's: color, contrast, and composition.”

These are integral to my work, and I hope people recognize these elements in my style. People, especially adults, need play, whimsy, and excitement, which I strive to incorporate into my work.

What do you look for in a client or project, and how do you ensure that your creative vision aligns with their marketing goals?

I start with an intro call to make sure we're on the same page. I never take on a project I can't do well and believe in being known for specific skills. I work closely with my clients, ensuring I can deliver what they need. If it doesn't feel like a good fit, I will say so.

do you have a 'dream project' or a type of client you aspire to work with in the future?

“Doing the windows at Bergdorf Goodman’S is on my bucket list!”

How do you balance the artistic and commercial aspects of your work?

By doing both evenly. I love the balance of engaging with clients and creating art. It's a process I enjoy, from strategy to execution.

What have been some of the most significant challenges you've faced in your career, and how have they shaped your professional philosophy?

My advice is to specialize in a few specific things and become known for them.

“Master A SPECIFIC skill and become one of the best.”

Scaling my business in a way that makes sense for me has been a challenge. It's essential to plan for the future and figure out how to scale your business properly.

Where do you see Verry Robin & Co. heading in the next five years?

In the next five years, I plan to add products to my offerings. I'm launching desk calendars with my work on September 5th.

“I want to create stationery, notebooks, art prints, and more, featuring my work.”

@VERRYROBIN_CO →

Prop Stylist, Photographer + Art Director for brands

© All Photos via Verry Robin & Co.