Crafting My Brand: Plenilune's Meaning
When choosing a name for my brand, I wanted something that resonated deeply with my history and embodied my vision for the company. The word "plenilune" emerged as the perfect choice, weaving my love for the night, my childhood literary adventures, and the interconnectdness I long for.
The Meaning of Plenilune
The word "plenilune" is a poetic term for the full moon. Derived from the Latin plenilunium—combining plenus (full) and luna (moon).
The night has always been a sanctuary for me. A certain stillness descends, the volume is turned down, and the sound and color lower to a gentle hum. The full moon casts a soft light that allows the mind to pause. I wanted to capture this serene and thoughtful space in time in my brand—a space where calm and contemplation reign, inviting introspection and creativity.
Discovering Plenilune in J.R.R. Tolkien's World
My fascination with the word 'plenilune' traces back to my childhood, when I was engrossed in J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of The Rings and devouring any and all extra material from him I could find. The discovery of 'plenilune' in his prose conjured vivid images of a full moon illuminating lands where heroes embarked on epic quests and tales unfurled. This pivotal moment ignited my love for the power of words.
Tolkien On Plenilune
“The words plenilune and argent are beautiful before being understood, said Tolkien, and best met in a living context rather than in a dictionary.”
-- J.R.R. Tolkien
The Tagline: Unfold and Bloom
Moonflowers: Nocturnal BloomS
Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) illustration. Digitally enhanced from our own book, Medical Botany (1836) by John Stephenson and James Morss Churchill.
One of the inspirations behind my brand's 'Unfold and Bloom' tagline comes from the moonflower and other night-blooming flowers, a plant that unfurls its blossoms at the start of dusk. Just as the moonflower opens to reveal its beauty at night, connection and creativity flourish in moments of stillness and reflection.
The Fullness of Hearts and Letters
The second aspect of the 'Unfold and Bloom' tagline is about the joy and connection of receiving and opening a card or letter. I am dedicated to creating artwork and cards worthy of being a vehicle for those important moments, unfolding a little piece of happiness in your hands and inside of you.