CULTURED COMPANIONS
Ideas for a new business venture can strike at a moment’s notice. Jordan Layao experienced this firsthand through a chance encounter that blossomed into a friendship—and a successful new partnership.
Last year Layao was working at the Camp House in downtown Chattanooga and created a business connection with entrepreneur Trent Brockie, a regular customer.
Brockie is the founder of Local Juice, a Chattanooga-based juicery and kitchen, and Muse + Mettā, a company that sells six different varieties of kombucha. While working on an unrelated project, Brockie recognized that he needed a graphic designer and got a recommendation during a casual conversation with a local entrepreneur. He recognized Jordan Layao’s name from the Camp House and emailed to ask if Layao was available do some design work.
Brockie started by asking for help with small projects and was pleased with the quality of work Layao produced. The two then began a more involved partnership as Layao increased his responsibilities in marketing and brand development.
“Trent was the mastermind behind Muse + Mettā,” Layao said. “I was the guy who had the tools to put the pieces together. We’ve created something we’re both very proud of.”
After serving as president of the 2018 senior class, Layao graduated from Southern Adventist University in May with a degree in marketing. Following graduation, he began working for Spectruss, a Chattanooga-based marketing agency.
“During my time working with Trent Brockie, I gained a complete understanding of what it means to start a business and build a brand,” Layao said. “The practical experience enhanced what I learned in class at Southern Adventist University.”
Muse + Mettā will be celebrating its one-year anniversary in October. The product can be found in stores located in Chattanooga, Nashville, Birmingham, and Huntsville.