Developing Story: Alex Lucke
From bytes to bites, here’s what makes our developers tick.
Name: Alex Lucke
Current residence: Chicago, IL
How did you get into web developing?
I actually didn’t think I’d end up being a developer and am still coming to terms with the fact this what I do for a job (ha). It had been a goal of mine for years, always at the top of my resolutions and constantly on my to-dos. While I was working other jobs, I used my free time to teach myself development — Squarespace, specifically — and this past March, I worked up the courage to introduce myself to Kelsey and Mallory at a Coffee Talk and basically asked for them to take a chance on me. The rest is history.
Favorite WOTW site you’ve designed and why?
Poor Devil Pepper Co. Laura and Jared were great to work with, and they were down to experiment and play with lots of funky elements. At the time, I was really into Squarestylist’s Mood Board feature and loved how it turned out on their site.
Where do you work best?
Somewhere warm and ideally in the sun. I’m always cold, so being by a sunny window is crucial and I perpetually have a space heater at my feet working overtime.
Workspace essentials?
Fresh flowers, facial spray, Moon Juice’s SuperYou, a good playlist (I make one every month to keep things feeling new), my monitor + MacBook combo and lots of water and coffee. I also keep magazines close by for inspiration.
Best learning resources?
I love Squarestylist! She’s really lovely and knowledgeable. I’m also always taking advantage of I Love Creatives’ free resources. They have a style guide template I use on almost every website I make.
Favorite Squarespace feature?
Its usability and hidden power. One of my favorite things is watching a client that isn’t familiar with tech at all gain confidence on the platform and feel empowered to maintain their site. I’m also always blown away by the flexibility and versatility of the platform once you start diving into code and customization.
Best source of creative inspiration?
I pull a lot of inspiration from ‘regular’ people and am heavily influenced by pedestrian style. COVID has all but stripped me of this, so in the meantime, I keep tabs on Soul Twin, Magda, Never Too Small, Rachel Nguyen and Paloma Wool. I also love spending time with my partner. He’s endlessly creative, and shooting content with him always helps get that creativity flowing.
Favorite shortcut or tip of the trade?
I live and die by the / — it’s the key to a quick workflow. You can search ~anything~ from anywhere.
What are you binge-watching?
‘Breaking Bad’. I’m almost done with it, but had to walk away last night. They killed off one of my favorite characters and I just wasn’t having it.
Favorite meal?
I love a good pizza with some fizzy/funky natural wine. If I’m not indulging in that, I’m probably eating something with lots of greens.
What are you hoping for in 2021?
To slow down. This year taught me so much about my relationships, goals, and the things I love, and as much heartbreak as 2020 brought, I found a lot of clarity. I’m hoping to be present and learn to let go of my need for control. I live a really beautiful life and feel endlessly lucky for the people in it, so I’m actively trying to appreciate and cherish the small things.
