birdie in wonderland & the Vision Behind BLNCO
“BLNCO began as a vision board—a place to collect the things that inspired me. BLNCO has become a space where fashion, lifestyle, and obsessions come to life.” In this exclusive interview, Berta BLNCO, CEO and Founder of BLNCO, opens up about the evolution of BLNCO, the story behind the "Birdie in Wonderland" shoot, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Here's a Q&A SESSION into the vision and soul of BLNCO:
1. BLNCO started as a vision board. What was on it in the beginning?
A: In the beginning, it was just a space for everything that inspired me—fashion, art, design, travel, and culture. I wasn’t thinking about building something for the world; I was just collecting pieces that resonated with me digitally, physically and mentally. Over time, I realized I wasn’t alone in what I loved or what inspired me. There is a whole community of like-minded people who are visionaries. BLNCO is a world where all of that connects and makes sense for me.
2. BLNCO stands for "Because Life Needs Certain Obsessions." What does that really mean to you?
A: Listen—not all obsessions are bad. BLNCO was built on the idea that the passion for what you love and your mindset fuels EVERYTHING. “When passion meets inspiration, an obsession is born.”
…For me, fashion, art, and the lifestyle I want to live are all things I obsess over daily. BLNCO is about connecting with what inspires you, it’s about curating a world that reflects who you are, what inspires you, and how you show up every day.
3. BLNCO has gained a lot of traction on Pinterest. What do you think makes it resonate with people?
A: It’s real. I never waited for someone to give me a seat at the table—I built my own. I’ve always followed what fuels me, what creative ideas come to me. That energy attracts people who feel the same. People connect with BLNCO because it’s an authentic platform. It’s not necessarily about who’s behind it, but who brings it together –your community.When people resonate with that, I’m happy to help, happy to connect visionaries of all types, and happy that it inspires people to create their own lane.
4. BeyondBerta is a deeply personal space. How does it connect to BLNCO or the bigger picture?
A: BeyondBerta.blog is the introspective side of me—the vulnerable space where I share thoughts on mental health, self-growth, and my personal journey of becoming. BLNCO has always been about inspiration and my innermost passions, like fashion. I’ve been writing since I was 17—that’s always been my outlet. Writing is how I process my life.
For a long time, I felt like I had to choose between the two. But now, I see that they coexist, all My work is an extension of me. I can be both creative and introspective, both seen and keeping it real.
5. Fashion plays a huge role in BLNCO. How has it shaped your journey?
A: Fashion has always been my first love. It’s my therapy, my armor, my way of communicating without saying a word. What we wear is a reflection of our emotions, and experiences. With BLNCO, I get to create a space where people can see themselves in the things I share—whether it’s style, home décor, or just a vibe. It’s like a digital mood board for our dream lives.
6. What’s the biggest message you want people to take from your journey?
A: The journey is the destination. You have to believe in yourself, keep your mindset right, and actually follow through on the things you say you’re going to do. That’s the only way to become the best version of yourself. I want people to know it’s okay to be obsessed with your dreams, to go all in on the things that inspire you. Those obsessions? They’re what pushes you toward your purpose.
7. Ok, let's talk Photoshoot– How did you bring this vision to life?
A: It was all about intention and collaboration. My co-creative director and stylist, The Amber Iman, REALLY helped bring this to life. She just gets it—the layers Of it all and the storytelling through fashion. The custom draped plaid skirt and Denim Coat for this look is by Vintage sustainable designer Gabrielle , owner of Fondé. The skirt was actually something I saw on Gabi while I was out in Atlanta, and I literally chased her down for it. It was just so beautifully made—it felt like I needed it on my body. The set, the mood, the styling, the people—it’s all about connecting with your community and coming together to create cool ass shit. I am so grateful to have had these Beautiful black Women right by my side to execute.
8. The title of this shoot is “Birdie in Wonderland.” What's the story behind the name?
A: (birdie is my nickname) but, Birdie in Wonderland is about stepping into my own world—the one I’ve built, piece by piece, fears and anxieties, but ALWAYS stepping out on FAITH. This shoot represents that journey, the mix of whimsy and grit, really—the freedom to DREAM and follow the white rabbit while trusting the path, even when it leads you into the unknown, much like Alice discovering Wonderland and its madness.
Side Note for Readers:
The white rabbit is a key symbol in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, representing the pursuit of one's purpose despite uncertainty. The white rabbit’s obsession with time in the story highlights the anxieties tied to societal expectations and deadlines. In this context, it also symbolizes stepping into the unknown, embracing change, and trusting your own journey toward discovery and growth. For more about the symbolism of the white rabbit, check out the article from The White Rabbit.
9. It’s spring—a season of renewal, transformation, and fresh starts. Do you feel like this shoot and its release align with that energy? How does it tie into the season?
A: Absolutely. Spring is all about new beginnings- the spring RESET, and that’s exactly where I am right now—stepping into a new chapter, LOVING who I’m becoming. This shoot wasn’t just about fashion; it was about embodying evolution. The layers, the textures, the mix of structure and softness—it’s a reflection of growth and finally feeling FREE.
10. You’ve inspired a community through BLNCO. What do you hope people take away from your journey?
A: I hope people see that everything starts as an idea. BLNCO wasn’t some grand plan—I didn’t sit down and map out a brand strategy. It started as a vision board, a collection of things I loved. It started as me begin Fckn Fearless and sharing my words. Growth happened naturally because I stayed true to what felt right. I want people to know they don’t have to have it all figured out to start. Just create, explore, express yourself, and trust that the right people will find you.
11. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned creating BLNCO?
A: That growth happens when you lean into what truly excites you. BLNCO took off because I wasn’t trying to fit into a mold—I was just sharing what I loved. The biggest lesson has been trusting my instincts and not waiting for permission to create. You don’t need all the answers to start. Just start.
BLNCO is a testament to my unwavering faith in my ability to create and be a visionary. From its humble beginnings to becoming a dynamic space for inspiration, this journey has been about growth, authenticity, and owning what moves me. For those looking to build their own path, BLNCO is a reminder that everything starts with a dream, and the pursuit of passion is always worth it.
