My name is Elizabeth Belleau Byers, but ever since birth I’ve been called Bess, after my Grandma Bess.

In May 2009 I graduated from Washington State University with my Bachelor of Science in Communications, Public Relations and a minor in Chinese (yes, the language). On September 11, 2009 I packed my bags and hopped a flight to Beijing. I interned at SiVO2, a graphic design and advertising agency, for ten months where I absorbed the Chinese language, food and culture. Overseas I discovered my love for photography, writing and design. I love to travel. The knowledge and experience gained from experiences abroad cannot be taught in a classroom.

I returned to the States in June 2010 and naturally going from a city of 20 million to 200,000 took its toll. I immersed myself in photos, fashion, design and DIY with my girlfriends (check out Teresa’s blog!) to keep from going insane. I also freelanced and studied, realizing Tri-Cities isn’t the place for this creative soul.


In March 2011 my hard work and persistence paid off. I came to Los Angeles to visit friends. Out of curiosity I applied for jobs in hopes of escaping Eastern Washington. I landed a PT gig and on March 28th I hit the road, Jack. After a few months in LA I secured a full-time position in Venice, working for Yvette, one of my amazing China contacts. I currently live by the beach, do marketing research and bike to work. Life. Is. Good.

When I’m not working, I’m volunteering at MADE, treasure hunting or catching waves. A few summers ago I tore my ACL wakeboarding. While I’m not up to full speed, I’m happy to ride again. Being injured (5 concussions, 1 ACL tear and a herniated disk) is another reason I turned to photography. Action sports is some of my favorite, and it’s pretty hard to get hurt holding a camera.

While I miss the Pacific Northwest, I love SoCal, the outdoors and being active. I can’t wait to shred Mammoth this winter and maybe a few Vegas road trips in the spring. I’m a nationally ranked dancer with over 13 years of jazz training and am known to cut a rug. When I’m not doing the bazillion aforementioned things, I enjoy yoga, writing, taking pictures and meeting new people.

I love to follow politics and have no qualms making my voice heard. I’m a socially liberal, fiscally conservative Independent. I’m issue oriented. It’s not about parties, it’s about people. I believe our generation needs to be more politically active. The decisions politicians make today will affect us in the future. Regardless of your political party, I encourage all young Americans to inform yourselves and vote!

I am so blessed for the opportunities I’ve been given. I have the greatest friends and family anyone could ask for. I love my life!

♥BB