Hey, I’m T.M. Cruz!
The Designer
I’m T.M. Cruz (but most people just call me T or Cruz)—a UX designer, graphic designer, and illustrator blending strategy, creativity, and a little bit of mischief to build meaningful, engaging experiences. I’m a UX designer, graphic designer, and illustrator who thrives on bold visuals, intuitive design, and crafting experiences that just feel right. I love bringing ideas to life with a mix of strategy, creativity, and a little bit of mischief—because great design should be smart, fun, and maybe even a little unexpected.
What I Do
I have a huge love for spooky aesthetics, intricate details, and a good dose of romance (the spicier, the better). My work spans UX research, digital experiences, branding, and illustration, all with a strong focus on making things that people actually want to use. Right now, I’m deep into UX case studies, a tattoo apprenticeship, and building A Book Bite, a romance book discovery platform because, honestly, finding your next read should be as easy as swiping right. After that, I’m diving into a new personal project—stay tuned!
Beyond Design
When I’m not designing, you’ll probably find me hunting down the best food spots, going on random adventures, hanging out with friends and family, lifting weights, or getting way too deep into a new hyperfixation. Whether it’s a new hobby, a niche topic, or an unexpected creative pursuit, I can’t help but immerse myself in it until I know it inside and out. I’m always looking for ways to bring creativity into everyday life, whether that’s through storytelling, experimenting with new artistic techniques, or finding inspiration in the most unexpected places. Some days that means sketching out new tattoo ideas, other days it’s falling down a research rabbit hole about a random historical event, or planning an impromptu trip just because the vibe feels right. I love creative problem-solving, not just in design but in the way I approach the world—always curious, always looking for what’s next.
A Book Bite
I’m currently building A Book Bite, a romance book discovery platform designed to make finding your next read effortless and fun. Readers can search by tropes, spice levels, and niche interests, making it easier to discover books that match exactly what they’re in the mood for.
This project has been a deep dive into UX research, interactive design, and personalized recommendations, and I’m excited to see it grow. It’s an ongoing case study where I’m refining the user experience, testing features, and making sure book lovers have a platform that actually works for them.
📖 Want to see more? Check out the project →