We are spending Friday's exploring and featuring our Laners! This past year has been challenging for us all and yet, our Laners continue to pursue their passions, grow, and expand their skill sets to meet the new challenges life has thrown their way. We are incredibly proud of their hard work, adaptability, and artistry. It is our pleasure to feature some outstanding Laners over the next few months! And today's spotlight is on Nyna Nelson and Trevor Tunison with Fort Vine!
What is the new job or project you've taken on?
Touring with my band, Fort Vine, has been my full-time focus for the last three years.
What made you go in this direction?
When I first moved to NYC in 2011 I started writing music with my roommate, Trevor Tunison. This project turned into our band, Fort Vine. We played shows in NYC all the time, but decided we needed to take our act on the road. We have been touring ever since we left the city in March of 2018.
What has been the most exciting part of taking on this new adventure?
Living the #vanlife has been the best decision we have ever made. The most exciting part about it is we get to discover new places everyday.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned throughout this journey?
Having a plan is cool, but plans always seem to change... especially any plans made in 2020... ha! The biggest lesson I’ve learned throughout this journey is to have flexibility and to chill out when the plans change. I’ve learned to be more present and to find joy in the freedom this lifestyle has afforded Trevor and myself.
What are you most looking forward to?
Trevor and I just got engaged (!!!) so I am most looking forward to getting married and starting the next chapter of our lives together. We really want to buy some land, build a house, and start a family. That will be the next grand adventure! We have also been writing a lot of new music while we’ve been living in the desert this winter, so there is a lot to look forward to in terms of going into the studio and recording another album really soon!
Do you have any advice to those looking to follow in your footsteps?
If you have a hankering to live the #vanlife, I highly recommend it! My advice would be this: Set a clear intention in your mind for what it is you truly desire, and then consider the resources in your life that might help you get there. We watched countless hours of YouTube tutorials to learn how to convert Gypsee Bungalow ourselves, and our friend in Washington State, Johnny Wade, helped us learn how to use woodworking tools and provided his shop for us to work in. We couldn’t have done it without him or the dozens of friends and family who helped us make our van conversion a reality. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The community you cultivate around you will conspire to make your dreams come true. We humans love to get excited about helping people who do exciting things. We all want to feel like we are part of something bigger than ourselves because that’s what makes the world a better place. Manifesting the positive... it is kind of like magic. It doesn’t necessarily happen overnight, but the clearer you set your intention, the more in alignment with it you will be. And day by day, with each decision you make, you will move closer to meeting your goals and making your dreams come true. Just ride the wave. You can do it! :)
To learn more or connect with Fort Vine feel free to check out their Instagram @fortvine or book them directly by emailing booking@fortvine.com!