We had the good fortune of connecting with Phillip Hua-Pham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Phillip, why did you pursue a creative career?
Much of my creativity began with food at a young age. I’ve always enjoyed concocting dishes that are visually appealing yet complex in preparation. I believe that taking a subject and creating a story from it is what I enjoy most about the creative process. Sharing that story with others and giving them an experience is its own reward. Whether crafting dinners, creating special events or supporting creatives in other industries, I love being part of a community of artists, designers and curators who are passionate about what they do.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Do not underestimate the power of social media. Period. In 2021, I completed my BS in Food & Beverage Event Administration at MSU Denver, a degree I developed through the Individualized Degree Program (IDP). I was on the hunt for a long-term career in the hospitality industry and had been denied by 30+ applications. Fortunately, I connected with MAINSPRING via Instagram a few weeks after graduating and was able create a position that allowed me to utilize my knowledge in hospitality and challenge myself in the marketing field.

I currently oversee all marketing, special events and brand development for the MAINSPRING portfolio. The best part of my job is creating products for guests to take home as a reminder of our brands.

In addition to MAINSPRING, I am the Partners Manager for Color of Fashion, a non-profit organization tackling diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry by providing a platform for the BIPOC creative community to showcase their work on the runway. I also sit on the board for Slow Food Denver, another great non-profit focusing on good, clean, fair food for all.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Food and beverage is my biggest focus when it comes to showing friends around. Here’s what a day would look like to me:

Afternoon:
Grab a flat white from Blue Sparrow Coffee (Summer – Blake St. for the courtyard at Backyard on Blake; Winter – Platte St. for more space)
Shop small businesses in RiNo Art District – favorites include Modern Nomad and Be A Good Person
Lunch at Denver Central Market
Grab a beer at Ratio Beerworks or Odell Brewing Co.

Early Evening:
Grab a Happy Hour cocktail at Cooper Lounge, Tavernetta or Ultreia
Walk over to Platte St. for an early evening cocktail at Room for Milly

Evening:
Dinner at Wolf’s Tailor (the Tent Experience!) or Brasserie Brixton
Make a pit stop at Queens Eleven if heading to Brasserie Brixton
Cap off the night at Yacht Club Bar

This city is FILLED with so many great spots. I encourage people to DM me if they are looking for a fun spot in a specific area.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to thank the strong women that have empowered my success throughout the years — and specifically MAINSPRING for giving me an opportunity to showcase my creativity in many outlets and projects. Of course, without the support of my partner, my friends and my family, I would not be the person I am today!

Website: www.mainspringco.com www.roomformilly.com www.bluesparrowcoffee.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phuapham/ https://www.instagram.com/rinopopup/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillip-hua-pham/

Other: Please support the brands I oversee!: https://www.instagram.com/roomformilly/ https://www.instagram.com/bluesparrowcoffee/ https://www.instagram.com/queenseleven/ https://www.instagram.com/backyardonblake/ https://www.instagram.com/sidestoriescolorado/ https://www.instagram.com/color.of.fashion/ https://www.instagram.com/happyhrhandbook/ https://www.instagram.com/slowfooddenver/

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