Today we’d like to introduce you to Cali Zumdahl.
Hi Cali, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Creativity has never been a single path for me. I fill my soul by exploring it from every angle—designing brands, styling florals, creating mindful merchandise, photographing beautiful moments, writing, and constantly bringing new ideas to life. I don’t believe creativity belongs in one box, and I never want mine to. I’m happiest when I’m making something, and the more I create, the more inspired I become.
My career in creative leadership gave me the strategy and business foundation, but the way I see the world is what fuels everything I do. I’m endlessly curious, always wondering what something could become or how an idea could be made even better. I don’t really separate work from creativity because, for me, creativity isn’t just what I do—it’s how I experience the world.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but looking back, I wouldn’t change it. One of my biggest challenges was being diagnosed with ADHD in my 40s. Suddenly, so many things about the way I worked and thought finally made sense. Instead of seeing it as something to overcome, I learned to embrace it. My brain isn’t wired conventionally, but it’s incredibly creative, curious, and great at connecting dots that other people don’t always see.
I’ve also learned that success isn’t just about working harder—it’s about taking better care of yourself. Over the past few years, I’ve become intentional about my health, my mindset, and protecting my energy. I’ve learned to let go of things that no longer serve me, whether that’s unhealthy habits, self-doubt, or the pressure to fit into someone else’s definition of success. Those challenges didn’t hold me back—they shaped who I am today. They taught me resilience, gave me a deeper sense of purpose, and reminded me that some of our greatest strengths come from the things we once thought were our biggest obstacles.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Cali Zumdahl Studio, Amethyst_AF, Minnesota Minis and BUTTER?
I have a portfolio of businesses that each express a different side of my creativity, but they’re all connected by one overarching brand: me. Every venture reflects a different facet of who I am, while sharing the same purpose of creating things that inspire people. Cali Zumdahl Studio is where I explore branding, florals, event styling, and visual storytelling. Minnesota Minis is a family photography brand dedicated to capturing authentic moments, genuine connections, and the unique personalities that make every family one of a kind. Amethyst AF is where I write about wellness, personal growth, and intentional living while designing and selling mindful merchandise that encourages people to slow down and reconnect with themselves. And through BUTTER, I help organizations strengthen their creative teams, operations, and leadership so better work can happen.
What ties it all together is the belief that creativity isn’t confined to one discipline. Each brand informs the others, creating an ecosystem where every project, lesson, and creative pursuit makes the next one stronger. I’m proud that my work doesn’t fit neatly into one category because neither do I. Whether I’m designing for a global brand or creating something from my own kitchen table, my goal is always the same: make the world a little more beautiful, thoughtful, and inspiring.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
If I had to choose one quality that’s been most important to my success, it would be curiosity. I’ve never been satisfied with simply accepting the way things are—I naturally ask, “What if?” and “How could this be better?” That mindset has shaped every part of my life, from leading creative teams and building brands to exploring photography, writing, design, wellness, and entrepreneurship. Curiosity has taught me that the best ideas usually live just outside of what’s expected.
I also believe creativity is less about talent and more about paying attention. I’m constantly learning, experimenting, and connecting ideas that don’t seem related at first. That willingness to explore, combined with resilience and a genuine desire to keep growing, has opened more doors for me than any title or accomplishment ever could. I think success comes from staying curious enough to keep creating—and humble enough to know there’s always something new to learn.
Pricing:
- Brand Design starts at $3,500
- Photography Mini Sessions $250
- Gain the Day Hoodie (pictured) $39.99
- BUTTER Advisory – contact for pricing
Contact Info:
- Website: calizumdahl.studio | www.amethystaf.com | minnesotaminis.com | addthebutter.com
- Instagram: @calizumdahl
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calizumdahl/
- Other: aboutcali.com
