Spend the Night: C & C Has a Guest Bedroom You'll Want to Stay In
Seinfeld Apartment has nothing on Create & Cultivate's guest bedroom.
It's not every office that has a guest bedroom. Sure, some offices have break rooms and play areas. Like the Google office-- which insists that its employees having fun at work. But office dynamics have changed. Gone are the days (or so we hope for you) of drab little cubicles.
"We want the office to feel comfortable," says Jaclyn Johnson, Founder and CEO (and tenant of a pretty boss office herself). "We have so many people coming in and out from out of town, some who crash here, others who need a brief respite, and it's wonderful that they can wake up here, feel inspired, and walk downstairs and have morning coffee with the crew."
It's a logic that follows the flow of Create & Cultivate's mission: to be an inclusive, enterprising, and empowering space for all, especially those trail blazing female entrepreneurs.
To make this space a reality, Veronica Valencia of The Design Hunters opted for a blend of smaller LA-based companies.
"It's not the most standard," says Veronica, "to be asked to design a bedroom in an office, but that's the magic of Create & Cultivate. There's nothing standard about it."
Accounts Director Hope Evans says, "It's like having a sense of familiarity in your office. So when we work long hours and burn the midnight oil-- even if we aren't napping-- it still feels like home. And C & C is like family, so it make sense."
Companies like Fragments Identity, heralded by 28+ year design veteran Tammy Price, Venice-based luxury bedding co. Parachute Home, Framebridge, and Artfully Walls, deck out the space.
Veronica says, "We wanted the guest room to feel cool and calm. You can never go wrong with white bedding.... especially in a concrete loft. It really brightened up such an industrial space! The white bedding, and mix of bold art work and rustic side tables, worked well together and gave off such good Cali vibes. Perfect for out of town guests!"
Click through the above photos to take a little tour and check out some of the products used below.
Fragments Identity: Mali Indigo Blues Pillow, Black and White Natural Mud Cloth Pillow, and throw.
Parachute Home: Percale Venice Set.
Framebridge & Artfully Walls: Veronica teamed up the two again in the guest bedroom. Watery Bliss in Irvine Slim White Custom Frame.
Photos courtesy of Ala Cortez.
An Office Fit for a Boss: Peep Inside C & C Founder's Creative Digs
An exclusive look inside Jaclyn Johnson's LA office.
When Jaclyn Johnson, CEO and Founder of Create & Cultivate and (No Subject) moved the office HQ to Atwater Village, she turned to Veronica Valencia of The Design Hunters to really make the space pop.
As the former Lead Designer / Art Director for ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Veronica knows how to make spaces feel like "home." Something she says, that is extremely important, even in an office. "As a boss you want your office to feel professional, that's a given, but you also want it to feel like an inviting, creative space. One where ideas can grow, where employees and visitors want to stop by." To really make the space come alive, Veronica turned to CB2, Artfully Walls, and Framebridge --as well as some amazing palm leaf wallpaper from Anewall. "When designing her space, finding that WOW wallpaper was a must," she says. "I'm usually not a fan of accent walls but in this case it was perfect. I wanted something that was powerful, rich and inspiring. Your office environment is so important, especially when you are a creative. It could be that little push to an even better day!"
The result is an office fit for a creative like Jackie. "Good ideas inspire," says Veronica, "but good spaces, bring the ideas."
Moreover, when you spend as much time at work Jackie does (no such this as a 9-5 when you're in charge), the space has to be somewhere you're happy to call a second home. Click through the above gallery for some serious #officeinspo, and check out the below links to deck your office out in style.
Welcoming Front Entry Accents: CB2 Marble-Rose Gold Pedestal Table & CB2 Braided Fringe Wall Hanging
Storing Important Things: CB2 Suspend Media Console
The Boss Desk: CB2 Aqua Virgo Dining Table
The Boss Sits: CB2 Tayabas Can Side Chair with Black Cushion
The Guests Sit: CB2 Roadhouse Leather Chairs
Says Veronica: "When selecting CB2 furniture, I actually chose dining and living room furniture. Office furniture can sometimes be a little blah, and I wanted the space to feel more homey and welcoming. Jackie's desk is a dining room table, her guest chairs are dining room chairs and her office storage is a media console with a marble top."
Wall Storage: CB2 Revere Wall Mounted Magazine Storage
Art 'n Stuff: Framebridge Irvine Slim Custom Frame & Woman in Boat from Artfully Walls
Says Veronica: "The cherry on the cake was the lady boss oversized print above the console. When selecting all of the artwork for C & C, I wanted the art work to have meaning. It's amazing how much C & C has become such a trailblazer for women and I wanted the art to represent that. To capture those feelings, I chose portraits and paintings of different women."
The Great Bitch Conundrum of 2015
Cheers, bitch.
Let’s talk about the capital B word. Not boss— a word we use a lot around the Create & Cultivate office (because *high-five us* we meet a ton of Boss Women on the daily). We’re talking Bitch, a word that yes, means lady dog, but also one that has been used as a term of derision since the 15th century. Phrases like “son of a bitch,” were meant to chide promiscuous women. An 1811 dictionary refers to the word as "the most offensive appellation that can be given to an English woman.” conundrum
Fast-forward to the 1920s, when women gained the right to vote. During the time period of 1915-1930 the use of the word in print almost doubled— when men were all, let’s get rid of this Susan B(itch) Anthony.
Then came the second wave of feminism, where women like attorney Jo Freeman, who authored the book, The Bitch Manifesto in 1968, made a solid attempt to co-opt the word. In her book Freeman writes: “A woman should be proud to declare she is a Bitch, because Bitch is Beautiful.” During this period it looked like the term was ready to be shaped into something new. It had all the potential to align itself with feminist goals. In a way, this happened.
Since the 1970s women have steadily fought to reclaim the word, to shift its power. Think: Head Bitch in Charge, Boss Bitch, Bitch Media, Betches, books like, Bitch: In Praise of Difficult Women, on and on. (The word usage in print is at an all-time high.) Such reclamations turn negative words into positive affirmations. They create unity amongst marginalized groups while diminishing the power of the oppressor.
If we call ourselves bitches, it becomes ours.
Or does it?
For many, the social dynamics and gender politics of the word are still confusing. Can a man call a woman a bitch? What about when a woman calls a man a bitch? Can a woman call another woman a bitch? And what about when people call Hilary Clinton a bitch? In 2013, in a series of tweets, Kanye West asked the following question: "I usually never tweet questions but I struggle with this so here goes... Is the word BITCH acceptable?” Followed up by: “Is it ok to use bitch as long as we put BAD in front of it? Like you a BAD BITCH.”
"If we call ourselves bitches, it becomes ours."
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This is where we have to consider intent. The problem lies in how how the word is used and by whom. The problem is in the nuance.
As Cynthia Bailey from the "Real Housewives of Atlanta" explained, “In this group we use the term bitch as a term of endearment and also in a disrespectful way.” And that’s the gist of it. Context matters. Intonation matters. I can be a boss ass bitch. I can reclaim the word for me. But the most important word in that thought is not bitch, but "me." I can make a conscious decision for bitch to mean something different. I can own my bitch. But don't think for one moment that if someone else makes that decision for me, we're not going to have more than some bitchy words.
C+C Holiday Gift Guide Nº 4: The Mommy Maven
Mom is #1 obviously. Not only do they work around the clock taking care of business and locking in deals, but they also come back home to pick up their second shift because a mom's job is never done. So what do you get your mom (or mommy friend) that is worthy of only the best? We've narrowed the list down for you with some of our favorites.
Mom is #1 obviously. Not only do they work around the clock taking care of business and locking in deals, but they also come back home to pick up their second shift because a mom's job is never done. So what do you get your mom (or mommy friend) that is worthy of only the best? We've narrowed the list down for you with some of our favorites.
1. Mophie Power Station, $74.95. She's always on the run and has to keep track of business and the kids. She'll be charged up anywhere not only on her phone, but any tablet and USB devices too.
2. Cap Toe Slipper, $39. Perfect for when she's ready to kick off her shoes after a long day and slip into these babies.
3. Fossil Journal Multi Pack, $10. Let her start off the year fresh with new notebooks for the office or home.
4. Chromecast, $35. Feed her need for some R&R with a Chromecast so she can go from watching her favorite Netflix shows from her phone or tablet to her TV.
5. Troi Ollivierre Lipstick, $28. Who said lipstick wasn't the perfect gift?
6. House of Lafayette Johnny Fedora, $350. So she's a hat enthusiast too - get her a hat that she'll die to have in her collection.
7. Tria Age-Defying Laser, $495. She knows the secrets to keeping her youthful glow, so she'll love putting this in her list of secrets.
8. Sugar Paper Black Stripe Thank You Notes, $30. With a new year coming up, she might need to stock up on thank you notes for important meetings for next year. These are just the perfect fit for her.
9. Grow Gorgeous Hair Serum, $35. When she starts getting even more compliments about her gorgeous hair than she does now, she'll be thanking you in the long run.
10. Nespresso Vertuoline Coffee and Espresso Maker, $140. Let her ditch having to run down to the coffee shop before work, and have her enjoy her own espresso at home without the rush.
11. Alexander Wang Prisma Skeltal Backpack. $1050. Every minimalist mom's dream come true in a backpack. You can't go wrong with leather, and she'll love how lightweight it is too.
12. Alfred Coffee Blend, $21. If Espresso is not much of her thing, she'll love this if she still enjoys a good cup of coffee.
13. Madewell Joni Boot, $210. If you've overheard her say "I'm dying to look for the perfect bootie," this is the boot she meant.
The Bright & Busy World of Designer Jolene Kraus
Most people say separate work and pleasure, but when your husband is your partner — in both life and business— how do you draw a line between the two? For Jolene Kraus, who co-founded Park Studio, an LA-based lighting and interior design company, with husband Ben, the answer is simple: "We like that our lines are blurred. I think that’s what makes us successful."
The duo are also parents to 13-month-old Arden, and work out of the studio in their backyard. But, according to Jolene, when you love what you do "it's not really work," so negotiating this territory is easier. "Yes, we have to physically make every fixture, box it, answer all emails, work in quickbooks, etc," she says, "but I am beyond proud of the business Ben and I built in under two years." Beyond that Jolene notes that creativity doesn't operate on a 9-5 schedule, so bringing business home is part of the job. "It's impossible for us to automatically shut off our creative thinking caps at exactly 5 pm.” Based on the designs Park Studio is putting out, we wouldn’t want them to.
We checked in with the multitasking maven to find out more about those blurred lines, busy days, and Park Studio’s bright future.
HOW IMPORTANT IS COLLABORATION WHEN IT COMES TO CREATIVITY?
We are often building custom fixtures for our clients and we rely heavily on collaborating during that process. I truly believe every fixture has been the result of a successful collaboration. This could happen over months or just weeks, but we generally work from sketches to mock-ups to the final production run. We each speak up during the process.
IS THERE A DESIGNER (OR TWO) YOU'D LOVE TO COLLABORATE WITH?
Of course we would love to collaborate with commune. My product and color heroes are Scholten + Baijings--I would love to work with them!
HOW DO YOU BALANCE MOM LIFE AND WORK LIFE?
Our nanny works 9-5, so we are with Arden from when she wakes up until our nanny gets here. And the same in the evenings—when the nanny leaves at 5, we are with her until bedtime at 7. That doesn’t mean that one of us won’t take a phone call or answer an email. I want our daughter to see the importance of hard work and make sure she understands that mommy and daddy have businesses to run. Hopefully we are setting up a legacy for her.
THAT SAID: MOM, WIFE, AND SMALL-BUSINESS OWNER--WHICH JOB IS HARDER?
That’s a tough one. They all have their challenges, but they are all also very rewarding. I am beyond proud of the business Ben and I have built (in just under 2 years); and our daughter is our obsession (also under 2). Ben makes it easy to be his wife. He would do anything for us, so thankfully that job is the easiest. Being a mom is hard knowing that she is at an impressionable age-- she’s now starting to say what we say (yikes) and we are really seeing her Scorpio personality these past couple of weeks. Being a mom also means I don’t get a lot of me time-- thank God for dry shampoo and granola bars. Being a small business owner is very hard. we don’t just wear many hats, we wear every hat. from dropping off packages at fed ex to writing every email reply to designing and building the fixtures. all of that said, we are very grateful for what we have and wouldn’t change a thing!
"We don’t just wear many hats, we wear every hat."
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HOW ESSENTIAL IS LIGHTING TO SETTING THE TONE OF A ROOM? WHAT GOES INTO CONSIDERING THE LIGHTING IN A ROOM?
Lighting is the most important aspect of a room, and I’m not saying that just because we have a lighting company. we can always remember that time we went into an overly lit room and could only think about how we must look in that harsh light (though maybe it’s a girl thing). lighting for a room needs to be the right scale and the right output. you don’t want a small fixture in a large room and you definitely don’t want too much light/output in a small space. That’s why we make multiple styles of fixtures that create adequate amount of ambient light to accommodate the majority of room sizes.
The Sonoma Chandelier, $1300. This chandelier hangs in the Create & Cultivate office.
"Thank God for dry shampoo and granola bars."
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HOLIDAYS AND NYE PARTIES ARE HERE. WHAT IS THE BEST DINNER PARTY LIGHTING?
We always tell our clients to put their lights on a dimmer. The ability to create mood lighting is always a good thing.
WHAT'S THE BIGGEST INTERIOR DESING MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE?
Scale and proportion. From too small of an area rug, to too large of a sofa. Scale and proportion are challenges for the untrained eye.
WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR PEOPLE WHO DON'T HAVE THE "EYE" FOR INTERIOR DESIGN?
I think it’s important to hire professionals who do have expertise in the field. Though, if you are on a budget (as all of us are), there are definitely great resources that can help with that process. Homepolish is one of our favorite design consulting services.
In general we like to follow these tips:
+Chandeliers should be 30” - 36” above a dining table. That helps create an intimate setting.
+Drapery should just skim the floor. 1/4” above the floor to be exact.
+Paint all of your walls, not just an accent. If you’re brave enough to paint one wall black, paint them all—or it will look like you ran out of paint.
WHERE DO YOU SEE PARK STUDIOS EXPANDING?
Very soon we will be more than a lighting studio. We are in the process of manufacturing hardware (think drawer pulls and knobs) and updating our pillow offering. More than anything I would love to design furniture and rugs. We want to be a one-stop shop for affordable, great design.
FINALLY, TELL US! YOUR SECRET LA FURNITURE SHOP SPOTS?
A+R on La Brea, Noir / CFC, all of the local flea markets, St. Vincent de Paul, and we are craigslist lovers.
C+C Holiday Gift Guide Nº 3: The Wellness Babe
A healthy lifestyle isn't just a fad to her. The Wellness Babe in your life lives it through and through, so gift her something useful and fashionable this holiday season.
1. My Mira Fit, $169. A fitness bracelet that also serves as a piece of jewelry. It will track her lifestyle without interrupting her fashion.
2. Farmers' Market Basket Small Square, $14. Crafted in stoneware in the same shape of farmers' market berry containers, perfect for storing her morning fruit for smoothies.
3. David Kirsch Wellness Energy Bubbles, $39.99. The healthiest and non-sugary way to give her body an energy boost.
4. Alo Moto Legging, $110. Leggings that fit into her lifestyle, she can go from mat to meeting or running about town.
5. Yogitoes Skidless Mat-Size Yoga Towel, $59.70. For super-sweaty workouts, this mat towel keeps her from slipping and sliding.
6. Eyeko Sport Proof Mascara, $25. For beautiful eyelashes the day and night long, this smudge proof, waterproof, and sweat proof mascara can keep up with her lifestyle.
7. Be Biotin Capsules, $32. She can't squat her way to better hair and nails. but biotin capsules are super-potent to keep both looking great,and can be taken every day.
8. Pointe Studio Grip Socks, $12. From barre to pilates, ballet and yoga, these grip socks with compression arch support will keep her in-step in class.
9. Keep Not Settling The Everygirl Mug , $15. She doesn't do anything halfway. Not her workouts and not her morning coffee.
10. In Transit Muscle Therapy, $22.99. For her tired muscles after an early spin class, this is pain relief that she can bring on-the-go.
11. Frends Mother of Pearl Headphone Caps, $50. To dress up daily headphones, mother of pearl makes that jog on the treadmill a little fancier.
12. Adidas by Stella McCartney Track Pant, $77. A comfortable and stylish choice for running a mile, or running errands afterward.
Create & Connect: Aiming For Success with Michelle Madsen
With Michelle Madsen blogging full time, working photo shoots, meetings on top of meetings, and even slotting in time for a trip to Canada, it’s amazing to think that someone who works so hard for their own brand, as well as others, is just so relaxed. So naturally, we had to get into her mind to see how she deals with the busy trap while still keeping her cool.
One look at Michelle Madsen’s Instagram, and you’re immediately drawn into the cool hues and minimalist aesthetic that she’s built for the past 3 years. This is how she’s built her blog, Michelle Take Aim, to look like - cool, calm, and collected, a total reflection of how she is in person. But with her blogging full time, working photo shoots, meetings on top of meetings, and even slotting in time for a trip to Canada, it’s amazing to think that someone who works so hard for their own brand, as well as others, is just so relax. So naturally, we had to get into her mind to see how she deals with the busy trap while still keeping her cool.
“I think one of the biggest things about blogging that makes it hard to juggle is bouncing around from creating content, being active on social channels, meetings, events, travel, editing, writing, etc.. It’s a lot of juggling, all while making life seem pretty seamless and fun! I do blog full-time now and it definitely keeps me on my toes, as crazy as that may seem.”
-Michelle Madsen
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You're a full time blogger and owner LOVE NAIL TREE - how to do you balance the two while also doing digital marketing for clients?
Every day is different - whether I’m working on photoshoots and emails, or out from meetings to events, I try to plan ahead and prioritize what’s most important for the day. I’m a big list-maker. I have a ‘master list’ and a daily list… sometimes it’s a little ridiculous. The biggest thing that keeps me bouncing around with blogging is that it’s a few jobs in one. It can be a little overwhelming to jump from creative to social to running the behind-the-scenes side of the business like emails and deadlines.
"I’m a big list-maker. I have a ‘master list’ and a daily list… sometimes it’s a little ridiculous."
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The Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard is the perfect tool to switch from one device to another with the touch of a button, which makes multitasking so easy. What are your best hacks for multitasking?
I just recently starting dividing my month into days where I focus on different parts of my business. For example, I spend a full week brainstorming and shooting content, the next week will be a lot of writing and editing and then I have more free time in my day-to-day to focus on the business end. It’s been a huge help.
What did you do before you became your own boss?
Since out of college I’ve been working mostly for myself. My husband and I have a clothing line, LOVE NAIL TREE, and before blogging I did this full time. Being an entrepreneur has lots of perks but it’s also so hard to turn it off.
Is there anything these you want to add under your belt for future projects?
I have some ideas in mind - one is starting a brand with a friend. We are in the planning stages! I have also started dancing again and would love to take it on as a bigger project and incorporate into my blog one day.
C+C Holiday Gift Guide Nº 2: The Multitasker
She's here, there, everywhere, and we've got the perfect gift ideas for the multitasking maven.
She's on the phone and computer at the same time. She's making breakfast and answering emails. Doing two things at once is a breeze for the multitasker. When she really excels is juggling three or more hustles. Spinning plates? She's got this. So you should get her something special this holiday season that gives her a little luxury.
1. PORTER Subscription. $30/year. For all her down time-- not that she has any, or for catching up on the plane, a PORTER subscription from luxe e-commerce retailer Net-a-Porter, gives her 6 issues and access to the mag's digital edition, so she can access it where ever the day takes her.
2. Gold Black Pearl Hydrogel Eye Mask, $60, For sneaking little moments of luxury, this eye mask brightens skin, reduces fine lines, and diminishes under eye circles. Wear it for 20 minutes while writing emails at night.
3. Rockins Super Skinny Flora Silk Scarf, $145. Forget skinny jeans, a skinny silk scarf is where it's at. Perfect for taking an outfit from day to night, because you know she doesn't have time to go home and change.
4. Bag-all Shoe Bag Organizers, $38. Made for travelers, but also made for alpha females who keep a second wardrobe in their trunk (or bag seat, or oversized bag stashed under their desk). These shoe bags will keep her favorite pairs safe and un-scuffed.
5. Yes to Blueberries Eye Firming Treatment, $15.00. Sleep isn't big on her to-do list, so an eye cream that can be used day or night, that improves skin elasticity and reduces fine lines is at the top of her Christmas wish list.
6. Moment Wide Lens. $99. Turning her smart phone into a camera, this lens takes beautiful shots that she can easily mount. Even if her eyes turn blurry from stress, this lens keeps everything in focus.
7. Pinch Provisions Minimergency Kit for J. Crew, $18. Perfect in a pinch this little kit will take of any on-the-go need. From hair spray for those crazy fly away days to clear nail polish for fixing snags in stockings, she'll always look primed and put together.
8. New MacBook in Rose Gold, Starting at $1299. She'll be an unstoppable and stylish machine with the newest tech from Apple that keeps pace with her world.
9. Mac Eye Shadow X 9 Palette, $40. Forget individual shadows. What she needs is a multitasking palette that's just as adept at making all work as she does.
10. S'Well Bottle in White Gold, $42. The bottle that is on everyone's Xmas list, and for good reason. It keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and hot for 12. A full day deserves a bottle that can keep up.
11. Russell and Hazel Signature Solid Binder, $14. If she needs to stay organized, help her do it in style. These eco-friendly, chic binders are solid in style and
12. Furbish Studio Hustle Bangle, $28. It's the perfect little stocking stuffer that lets her know that you know how hard she hustles.
Fundraising Fundamentals with Away -- Plus a Carry-On to Fly For
Get your company off the ground. Advice from two former Warby Paker execs.
Away, founded by Jen Rubio and Stephanie Korey is a direct-to-consumer luggage company from two former Warby Parker execs. To get their company off the ground they raised over $2 million in seed funding, banking on the idea that luxury travel accessories needed rethinking. They wanted to create luggage for the way "people really move" that didn't also cost an arm and a leg.
The duo created a beautiful, high-end minimalist carry-on without the high-end price tag. At under $250, Away just made traveling in style (hello: silk lining, removable laundry bag, TSA approved lock, charging ports) a whole lot easier. In fact, you're going to plan a trip just to take this bag for a spin.
We checked in with Jen and Steph to talk fundraising, believing in your product, and of course, the best meal they've ever had at an airport (shoutout to the Delta terminal at LAX).
For someone looking to raise capital, where is the first place to start?
STEPH: The best place to start is researching how companies in a similar industry and stage as yours have raised capital. There’s a ton of information online. If you can get introductions to founders who have done it and learn from their experiences, that’s the best route forward.
What went into fundraising for Away? How did you establish what you needed?
S: We thought first and foremost about building a company, not fundraising. We developed a plan and a financial model, and figured out where in that plan we would need capital to keep moving forward. We worked for many months and only started fundraising when we reached a point where additional capital was needed to keep making progress.
Women notoriously don’t talk about money. Do you find asking for money scary?
S: Not at all, investing in a promising early stage company is a great opportunity, not a donation. Early stage investors are constantly looking for the next big deal and early stage companies are looking for great investors who can help the company grow. It’s a win-win situation for both parties.
"Investing in a promising early stage company is a great opportunity, not a donation."
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For women who don’t have a background in writing business proposals, what would you suggest?
S: Utilize your network, that’s exactly what mentors are for. There are actually a ton of great resources online, and if you can couple that with advice from someone you trust, that’s ideal.
If comfort and trust are key to any good business deal, what would you say to women who are offered the funds, but don’t like the deal?
S: With any negotiation, the most important thing is understanding your options. If you don’t like the terms of the deal, you can absolutely go out and try to find better terms elsewhere. Once there are multiple investors interested, that helps to set a “market rate” for the deal.
What did working for Warby Parker teach you about direct-to-consumer brands?
S: We learned so much from Warby, they’ve set an incredibly high bar for modern retail brands. The most important takeaway was the power of an incredible customer experience - if you singularly put your customers first in every decision you make, they will be loyal brand ambassadors forever.
How do you gain the trust of a customer? How do you gain the trust of investors? Are the tactics similar?
S: I think it’s very similar. You gain trust from anyone by being very honest, thoughtful, genuine. Never try to trick or exaggerate to an investor or customer, you’ll lose that trust forever.
What sets Away apart from other luggage companies?
S: It’s so disappointing to be bogged down by cumbersome luggage, dying electronics, or lack of organization. More than anything, we wanted to eliminate some of that so people can really focus on the joys of travel.
While working at Warby Parker and Casper, we saw those companies completely transform the previously poor consumer experiences and high prices for the eyewear and mattress industries. In January of this year, we decided the luggage industry needed similar improvements, and created Away to offer consumers the highest quality luggage for a fraction of the price with a great consumer experience.
JEN: While we’re starting with luggage, we’re really on a mission to create a brand and community that encourages people to explore new places and cultures and equips them with whatever they need to do that as joyously and seamlessly as possible. Our own travel experiences and desire to cultivate authentic connections globally have been huge driving factors in the product, brand, and community that we’re building. Away takes a people-driven approach to everything we do: making things beautiful and functional, creating things that are emotionally and technically meaningful, and continually thinking about how people will interact with us.
People’s attentions are more scattered than ever. Do you think the “elevator pitch” is more or less vital than before?
J: People are being pulled in so many different directions now that you need to be able to communicate your idea in a way that they’ll remember after your conversation. What’s more important than a staged “elevator pitch” is being able to gauge the person’s interest or initial reaction so you can tailor your conversation to be something they’ll remember. A polished, effective pitch is nice, but to be engaging you have to be able to be fluid.
"To be engaging you have to be able to be fluid."
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What are some of the most important questions you need to ask investors?
J: Do you understand our business and our approach? Can you refer me to entrepreneurs you’ve worked with? What kind of follow-on investments do you see the company needing? What’s your preferred way (method, timing) of communicating about the business? What’s your end game?
Not only do question like these help you figure out if you and the potential investor are aligned in the business and the strategy, but also aligns expectations for future investment rounds, a potential exit, and involvement in the company. It’s also important to be aware of potential personality or culture clashes since you could potentially be working with this person for a long time.
Best meal you’ve ever had at an airport:
J: The Salt Lick at AUS for a last shot of BBQ before leaving town. Pak Loh Chiu Chow for dim sum at HKG. For best selection, the Delta terminal at LAX wins: airport versions of some of my favorite LA restaurants, like Lemonade, Border Grill, Real Food Daily, and Lotería.
Tip for being a good traveler:
J: Leave time for the unexpected. Some of my favorite travel memories are experiences that came up along the way that I never could have planned. It’s great to have a sense for what kind of trip you want—seeing friends, touring sights, total relaxation, etc.—but allowing yourself to take advantage of surprises along the way will often lead to something really special.
When you want to get Away:
J: I go on Kayak with a budget in mind and then start typing in airport codes.
Images courtesy of @joannepio for @thestyleline
Sleeping in With Ariel Kaye of Parachute Home
Except pssst, she likes waking up early on weekends.
Parachute Home is a direct-to-consumer home essentials brand based in Venice Beach, CA, helmed by Founder and CEO Ariel Kaye. Prior to launching Parachute, Ariel spent ten years working in brand development and advertising in New York City, but after an amazing night's rest in luxurious sheets at a hotel in Italy, she was on the hunt for the same experience at home. When she couldn't find it, she took matters into her own hands: "If you can't find it, create it."
Create it, she did.
We caught up with the bedding maven to find out what she's thinking about at 4am and if it's possible to relax when you're in the business of bedding.
Your favorite bedtime drink?
I love to wind down with chamomile tea. It is almost instantly relaxing, and there’s good reason for that, too. It’s rich in calcium, magnesium and other trace minerals that naturally relax muscles and nerves.
Do you sleep with the windows open or closed?
I try to bring the outdoors inside as much as possible with big, open windows…I love being cozy under warm blankets and feeling a fresh breeze.
Snuggled under the covers or throw them off?
I’m one of those people who is half in and half out. I always end up with one leg above the covers.
Early to bed or early to rise?
I’m in flux, honestly. I definitely prefer life as a morning person and try and get to bed by 10:30pm on the weekdays. I especially love waking up early on the weekends. There’s nothing better than getting in a long workout and a delicious breakfast all before 10am. l do still find myself burning the midnight oil on occasion –there’s something about the wee hours of the night when when you feel like you’re the only one awake and there are zero distractions. I can be super productive then.
The last time you slept in? What did it feel like?
I love sleeping in on vacation. My boyfriend and I went to the Ojai Rancho Inn a few weeks ago, and we turned off our phones and woke up at 11am. It felt like heaven.
What’s on your nightstand right now?
My days are so frenetic, I keep my room clear of clutter to keep calm. I only stock my nightstand with my essentials: a himalayan salt lamp, a tall glass of water, book and my iPhone.
How many pillows is too many pillows?
There can never be too many pillows. I have four right now, plus two decorative ones on top.
"There can never be too many pillows."
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What’s the color scheme in your bedroom? What does it reveal about you?
I’m all about neutrals. My bed currently has our Ash Percale Bedding, and it’s accented with our newly launched Essential Quilt and Shams in Graphite. I accent with a few plants to bring some color and greenery into the space.
It’s 4 a.m. and you’re wide-awake. What are you thinking about?
Work. Always work.
Guiltiest TV pleasure to watch in bed?
I don’t watch much “guilty pleasure” programming. Right now I’m obsessed with “Fargo” and “The Affair.”
A bad bedtime habit you can’t quit?
My biggest tip for the perfect night’s sleep, which I have a very hard time following through with, is disconnecting from your phone. Get rid of the blue lights and put your phone outside your bedroom. Don't look at your computer in your bed. I don't do a great job at it – the first thing I pick up in the morning is my phone – but there are times when I try to be diligent, and it's amazing how it affects the quality of my sleep.
Something most people don’t know about you?
I’m a trained opera singer. You’d probably only know this if we’ve been out to karaoke together and I’ve had a drink or two!
Don’t lose sleep over:
The small stuff. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the little things, but don’t lose sight of the big picture.
"Don’t lose sleep over: The small stuff."
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Why are luxury sheets so important to you? How do they make your life better?
You spend ⅓ of your life in bed, so your sleep experience matters. A good night sleep impacts every aspect of your life - your health, happiness, productivity. We spend time counting our steps, obsessing over the ingredients in our food and making sure that we are taking care of our bodies. It’s important to take that same type of consideration with the way recharge each night.
Sheets come in direct contact with your skin, so it’s extremely important that they feel good and that they are free from harmful substances. I sleep better at night knowing Parachute sheets are made of the finest, long staple Egyptian cotton and that they are Oeko-Tex and REACH protocol certified, which means no toxic chemicals or artificial dyes.
Your dream sleepover?
Does a sleepover with my best girlfriend count? Talking until the sun comes up and laughing until it hurts...there’s nothing better!
Motivation Monday: Links We Love to Start the Week
Donut ask us about the weekend.
Monday! It's here again. If you're having a hard time getting started, we've got you covered. From Willow Smith dropping a secret album a la Queen B to history making elections in Saudi Arabia, here are the links we love to start your work week right.
FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHT
Japanese women are fighting for the right to keep their surnames after marriage. For over a century, married couples in Japan have been legally obligated to have one surname. 96% of the time it's women taking the man's last name. 5 women are suing the government to change this.
NAME DROP IT
Willow Smith, daughter of Jada and Will, sister of Jaden, dropped an album on the 11th only making subtle (or not so subtle?) references to it on Twitter. She's named it Ardipithecus. As for the explanation of the name, Willow says: “Ardipithecus Ramidus is the scientific name of the first hominid bones found on earth...I wanted to name my musical compilation after it because, while I was making these songs I was in such a transitional state." Which, great name for an album, but when we were 15, we were thinking about what we were gonna wear to winter formal. (Prince also dropped a surprise album. Guess it's a thing now?)
GRAB A TISSUE, AND SOME POPCORN
Transparent, Season 1, pushed TV boundaries. It made us laugh, cry, and open our hearts just a little bit more. Apparently Season 2 is the "best TV show of this year." Maybe it's time to get thee to Amazon and do some binge-holiday-watching.
HEY TRUMP, LET'S TALK IMMIGRATION
HelloGiggles is talking the power of art. They're chatting about street artist Banksy's newest work surrounding Steve Jobs and immigration (hot on the heels of Trump's hellish immigration proposals). Check it out and then be sure to check out our DTLA office tour with the HelloGiggles crew.
SAUDI WOMEN MAKE HISTORY
For the first time in history, Saudi women were allowed to both vote and run in council elections. 1,000 women ran, so far 5 have won seats. Long overdue and EPIC.
HAVE A COKE AND A SMILE
And because we all deserve a laugh as we head into long days and nights filled with family: The Best Comedy Moments of 2015.
Meet the Mentors: Create & Cultivate Dallas
Wondering which #CreateCultivateDallas mentor is the best fit for your blog, business, or brand?
From entrepreneurship to blogging to social media, our mentors have all the bases covered. Check out all of our Dallas mentors and their areas of expertise below! They're amazing, multi-talented women and we can't wait for you to meet them in January!
Wondering which #CreateCultivateDallas mentor is the best fit for your blog, business, or brand?
From entrepreneurship to blogging to social media, our mentors have all the bases covered. Check out all of our Dallas mentors and their areas of expertise below! They're amazing, multi-talented women and we can't wait for you to meet them in January!
Rachel Schwartzmann - CEO & Founder - The Style Line
Best for: Social Media, Blogging, Entrepreneurship
Rachel Schwartzmann is the Founder and CEO of The Style Line LLC. She created The Style Line in late January 2011 via tumblr, which now hosts a following of over 488k+ followers on that platform alone; and has fostered The Style Line’s brand in it’s growth, since. In August 2013, she relaunched The Style Line, built their website and brought on a small team of contributors. Rachel has worked with companies including Tumblr, IBM, and numerous fashion brands and has been featured in esteemed sources including Women’s Wear Daily, Teen Vogue, Conscious Magazine, Darling Magazine, Mashable and Refinery29.She has also partnered with WWD’s MAGIC Trade-show in conjunction with Teen Vogue, as a digital media influencer speaking to brands about the importance of online presence and social media marketing. In both September 2012 and 2013 she was chosen as one of Tumblr’s participating influencers in their seasonal fashion week program, partnering with companies including SONY, MILK Studios and the CFDA. Rachel has also spoken at Columbia University, Goldman Sachs and 92Y’s Passport NYC program, and participated as a mentor in Columbia University’s Women@CORE mentoring program. She has published work for The Huffington Post, and NYLON Mexico and has blogged for companies including Jeffrey Campbell, ASOS and Nasty Gal.On October 1, 2015 she launched The Style Line’s in-house content consultancy, CONNECT(ED)ITORIAL™ whose efforts focus heavily on helping brands building and maintain a strong brand blog/editorial arm.
Devon Cruse of DevonRachel.com
Best for: Blogging, Styling
As a Dallas native, Devon has worked her way from the ground up to be where she is now. Just a few days before she was set to graduate from Texas Tech, she was offered a job by celebrity stylist Taylor Jacobson in LA. The rest is history. Get the best tips on how to get into the styling game and become a full-time blogger from Devon at her session next month.
Jessy Fofana - Founder and CEO of LaRue PR
Best for: PR
Jessy Fofana is our go-to for all things PR. With her PR agency LARue PR, she has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to utilizing PR to strategically grow brands and get them on the right radar. Not only that, she is our seasoned PR correspondent for the Create & Cultivate blog. Get her advice in-person at Create & Cultivate Dallas!
Jay Goldmark - Co-Founder of EmiJay
Best for: Entrepreneurs, Philanthropy, E-commerce
Jay is the co-founder of EmiJay, a hair accessory and apparel brand, who dipped her feet into entrepreneurship at the age of 18-- as a college freshman. Still in college, she is mastering the work, life, and school balance. Hear how she brought EmiJay to life and pick up her tips on how to balance it all at her mentor session.
Kendi Skeen - Creator at KendiEveryday.com
Best for: Blogging, Entrepreneurship
Kendi, creator of Kendi Everyday and Dallas native, has been killing it in the blogging game since launching kendieveryday.com in '09. Fast forward 6 years. Kendi's style has evolved, but her blog has remained a go-to guide for the every girl with a high-low approach to personal style. Hear from Kendi on how she's grown her blog (while owning her own boutique) at her mentor session!
Brandy Pham - Jewelry Designer + Founder and CCO of Planogr.am
Best for: Entrepreneurship, Jewelry Design, E-commerce
Brandy Pham started a luxury jewelry line that fulfill's every minimalist's dream, being it's simple and dainty. But her approach to social media strategy is anything but. When she couldn't find what she wanted within Instagram, she created Planogr.am, a visual Instagram scheduler that is every marketer's dream. If you're looking to launch a product or an app, or want to hear about taking matters into your own hands, Brandy is your girl.
Amy Locurto - LivingLocurto.com
Best for: Social Media, Blogging, Branding
Known for her DIY party ideas, cute food, printable designs, delicious recipes and love of cats, Amy’s goal is to inspire others to be more creative through her whimsical and fun style on LivingLocurto.com. Amy is also a Pinterest Ambassador and is a content creator for brands such as Coca-Cola, Universal Studios, FedEx Office, Seagrams Escapes and eBay.
Maxie McCoy - Creator of MaxieMcCoy.com
Best for: Life Coaching, Soul Searching, Career Development
Maxie is a dynamic writer and speaker with a message: how to find and follow your inspiration for an extraordinary life. An inspiration luminary, Maxie delivers heart-busting writings, actionable videos, and customized sessions on maxiemccoy.com. (and often for the C+C Blog). She built her career first as a sports broadcaster in Dallas and went on to build the global offline communities for Levo League. If you need a little soul boost in your career or your life – Maxie's your girl.
Soniya Monga, Global Agency Partner Lead at LinkedIn
Best for: Marketing, Career Development, Strategic Partnerships
Since 2010, Soniya Monga's career journey with LinkedIn has grown exponentially. The maven built their presence in Canada and took the helm as the company's global agency partnership lead. She was also named Marketing's Top 30 Under 30 when she was regional account director for LinkedIn, North Asia. Hear some of Soniya's best tips for building strategic partnerships and how she's been able to expand the brand internationally at her session.
Melissa Lawson,Director, Influencer Partnerships & Marketing at Clique Media
Best for: Marketing, Influencer Partnerships
For the past two years, Melissa has worked to grow Clique Media's channels as Campaign Strategy and Execution Manager, Senior Manager of Publisher Partnerships, and most recently Director of influencer Partnerships and Marketing. Hear from Melissa on how she's been able to climb the ranks at Clique Media, and hear some of her best tips on how to market your brand through strategic partnerships and more at her session.
If you've already got your #CreatecultivateDaIlas tickets, check your inbox in the coming weeks to make your official mentor selection.
And if you don't have tickets...what are you waiting for!? Click here to get your tickets now - they'll be gone before you know it!
Good Vibes Only: Touring the HelloGiggles Office
We pop into the HelloGiggles office to chat the new Time Inc. acquisition, Ryan Gosling, and Sweet Valley High.
HelloGiggles played nice on the internet. And won. The company, founded in 2011 by Zooey Deschanel, Sophia Rossi, and Molly McCleer, had one initial goal: to be a place to make the internet smile. Almost five years later, the site has turned its posi content readers into full-fledged giggle junkies, with a reported readership of 18 million uniques a month.
Sales Director Evelyn Weisskohl told us, "I was a fangirl before I worked here. This office is exactly like reading the site, but in real life."
At the moment, IRL, HelloGiggles has a staff of 29-- 4 of whom are based in New York. It's a number that Sophia expects to at least double over the next two years, as the team also intends to take over the office space next door.
A recent acquisition by Time Inc. for a reported $30 million, is making the expansion possible. Sophia, who is staying on and will report to Time Inc.'s executive VP says, "It feels very validating to go from my apartment to being a part of a public company like Time Inc. We are going to be run independently but have all the benefits of this legacy brand as partners."
We popped into the company's DTLA office on the heels of the purchase and in anticipation of Sophia's trip to Dallas for Create & Cultivate this January. Click through to get the deets on their digs and the happiest staff, maybe, ever.
All images courtesy of Jeff Mindell.
HelloGiggles office designed by Clayton Asher Doyle of Plantation Design.
Future So Bright for Artist Nobel Truong
Making a living on acrylic cacti and boobs. Find out what's next for designer Nobel Truong.
When you graduate high school at 16, there's a good chance you're gonna be ahead of the game. For artist and producer Nobel Truong, it's certainly proving true. After graduating from UC Berkeley with a degree in philosophy, she crossed the pond to attend Cambridge and study philosophy and business. Degrees which, at first glance seem a bit incongruous, but have served her artistic existence well. "Keeping an open mind and being flexible is something that is important to bring to any business model," she says. "Even if you do not work with a physical product, it is always important to consider the different ways something can be executed."
From ceramics and furniture to prints, acrylics, and textiles, Nobel has her creative hands in all mediums, producing projects out of Nobl, her creative studio.
We checked in with the San Francisco-based designer to get the goods on her process, her seemingly endless supply of creative juice, and why she prefers transparency in both business and her materials.
Where did the idea for the illuminated cacti come from?
I had a dimly lit apartment and needed more lighting in the space. I had also just learned how to use a laser cutter and wanted to work with acrylic-- plastics are the best material to cut on a laser cutter. I was really inspired by the Memphis Group and was a bit nostalgic of the mid-century decor and architecture of my hometown in Southern California, so I felt succulent themed lighting would be most fitting. I had some idea of a succulent lamp from the start, but it went through a few iterations before it became the product that I have now. I debuted the cactus lamp at Pop Up Flea in Los Angeles in September and the support for the product has been so great that I began making more fluorescent acrylic pieces and larger scale cacti.
Who are some designers you admire?
Marcel Breuer, Le Corbusier, and Mies van der Rohe. I am a huge admirer of the structural forms and function that marked Bauhaus architecture and the play on colors and shapes pioneered by the Memphis Group. I also draw a lot of inspiration from the works of Noguchi, Ray and Charles Eames, and Nelson for the furniture I design and build. I am particularly interested in mid-century modern furniture and home decor. All in all, I think there is an appeal to good design which transcends different creative fields and it is for this reason that I look to architects, industrial designers, and graphic designers for inspiration in my work.
How do you feel being female in the male-dominated design space?
It definitely has its challenges and there have been times where I felt intimidated by my peers in the field, but I have also learned that if you are passionate about your work and you are driven in what you do, then gender really does not matter. As I continue to work in the field, the peers I used to be intimidated by have now become sources of inspiration and motivation. Any doubts I have had in my ability and work are now new projects or challenges to take on. I have always worked by the motto that "you can do anything" and so I never really saw issue with hauling my own lumber to the shop among the primarily male woodshop community. Beyond this, I also often look to Florence Knoll, Ray Eames, and other female figures in the industrial design space as inspiration to continue pursuing the field and not let the fact that I am in a male-dominated design space steer me away from my creative endeavors.
"If you are passionate about your work gender really does not matter."
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How did you make the transition from objects to furniture? Has working in a larger medium been more challenging than expected? In what ways?
Actually, a lot of my work grew out of necessity. I started with housewares because when I had housemates the only furnishings I had control over were my bowls and cups. So, I took ceramics classes and made bowls and cups. I moved into my own apartment this January and couldn't find furniture that fit my aesthetic, was conservatively priced, and was also space conscious. What began as an attempt to make something I could not find in the market eventually amounted to me learning how to operate woodworking tools and CNC machines. My first woodworking project was actually a sofa for my apartment after taking a woodworking safety class and spending a few days researching and sourcing materials.
The transition to a larger medium definitely has its own learning curve, but it's something that is made a lot easier with modern manufacturing techniques and CNC machines. There are a lot more things to consider in a piece that will occupy a 10ftx10ft space as opposed to a small 3in cup. How structures are supported and how they will look as people move around them creates a different set of design problems. All that said, I have been really enjoying the challenges of building large structures and am constantly thinking about ways to incorporate the simplicity in my smaller scale designs in my large scale build-outs.
Creativity is most often associated with the individual, but is there a social dimension to creativity that's particularly relevant in the 21st century. Have you found the need to mesh these two concepts?
I definitely think there is a social dimension to creativity, but I do not think it is one to overshadow one's creative vision. What I mean by this is that I think it is important to stay true to one's creative vision while also keeping in mind the social impact and responses your work will generate. There is a lot of exposure and resources for creatives today through different social streams, and it is important to learn how to handle this information and use it to your advantage. On this point, I do find myself meshing the two concepts to the extent that I capitalize on social streams to draw inspiration for new work. From a product development perspective, I want to produce work that is an addition to someone's home, so it is important to research what would suit the spaces of my target market. I am not sure if this is particular to the 21st century, but I do feel that the technology available today has made this kind of information much more accessible and easy for creatives to learn, grow, and adapt to.
How do you feed your creative soul?
Honestly, just a stroll through the neighborhood. There are so many hidden gems sprinkled throughout the city landscape are often overlooked because they are lost in the dry suburbs. Neutra's house is right in the heart of Silverlake, for example, and there is a Noguchi garden in the office complex across from South Coast Plaza. I have spent hours reading about some of these works but nothing really compares to moving through the spaces in person. Beyond this, I have always found the characters I cross paths with in the city to be particularly inspiring. Chinatown during lunch hour, for one, has always been my go-to for color inspiration with all the residents in their colorful apparel out shopping in the market.
"Chinatown during lunch hour has always been my go-to for color inspiration."
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Picasso once said, "Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist." What are some rules you've broken? What are some rules you've stuck to?
I have broken a lot of rules in both my creative and entrepreneurial endeavors. As far as design is concerned, there are a lot of design elements that some might deem staples of the industry which I don't exactly conform to. This is because I try to trim away as much unnecessary frill as possible and focus primarily on the quality and structure of the core product.
As far as my business is concerned, I do not follow the typical retailer format. I do not wholesale my products and price everything as direct-to-consumer. This is namely because I feel really passionately about pricing transparency and the movement towards direct-to-consumer businesses. Since I began making home furnishings and accessories because I could not find what I wanted at an affordable rate, I wanted to make things affordable and assessable for others as well.
All that said, there are some principles and rules I have always stuck to in both my creative and business pursuits: I have always worked towards the thought that the best design is one where there is nothing left to take away. Whether that means designing shelving units that require no hardware for assembly or a business that is completely vertically integrated, I have always felt passionately about eliminating excess and middleman work to focus on the core of a design or business.
"The best design is one where there is nothing left to take away."
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What's next for you?
Definitely more large scale sculptural work and installations. I am particularly interested in the interaction between lighting and acrylic and would like to create a large scale build-out to highlight the interaction between the two mediums. The aim here would be to create an interactive experience through lighting castes on acrylic work. Beyond this I am also looking forward to working more with a variety of materials and fabrication methods in future projects such as welding, sewing, and lathe work.
For everyone heading to Create & Cultivate Dallas in January, don't miss Nobel's cacti installations (for inspiration and totally Instagrammable photos) all over the venue!
C+C Holiday Gift Guide Nº 1: Ride or Fly Girl
You know the lady in your life who is always hopping in the car for a weekend getaway, or grabbing the next flight out of town for a early am meeting? She plays hard, works harder, and is maybe the hardest person to shop for-- she's been around the world and knows what she likes. Don't worry. We've got you (and her) covered.
You know the lady in your life who is always hopping in the car for a weekend getaway, or grabbing the next flight out of town for a early am meeting? She plays hard, works harder, and is maybe the hardest person to shop for-- she's been around the world and knows what she likes. Don't worry. We've got you (and her) covered.
1. Olio Lusso Kaleidoscope Collection, Choose from a range of luxurious Olio Lusso products wrapped in vivid cello.
2. Molami Headphones $100, When you're always on-the-go, listening to music and zoning out is a must.
3. The Away Carry-On with Limited Edition Gift Book Set $225, Possibly, the best-looking carry-on on the market.
4. Yes to Grapefruit Rejuvenating Facial Wipes $5.99, Skin will be soft and bright, even after enduring stale airplane air.
5. Lou & Grey SignatureSoft Pants $59.50, For red eyes, or cozy travel days, a drawstring pant is the most stylish plane/car wear.
6. Parachute x Clare Vivier Travel Kit $199, 100% Merino Wool, bold colors, and a carrying case that doubles as a pillow cover? That's fly.
7. This is Ground Mod Tablet 2, $299, To hold all electronic travel needs, give the most wonderful gift of organization.
8. Ray Ban Round Metal Frames $175, Round frames a la the 1960s make it possible to look rad, even on four hours of sleep.
9. Superga Classic Sneakers $65, These sneakers are made for a brisk speed walk through the terminal.
10. Kate Spade Passport Holder $78, For work jaunts out of the country, the hazy floral holder is a chic and easy way to spot a passport.
11. 3.1 Philip Lim 31 Hour Bag $798, Splurge on a purse that's the ideal travel companion for quick out of town overnights.
Create & Connect: Sisilia Piring Works Hard, Cuddles Hard
Hear from Sisilia herself on why the Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard works with her fast-paced lifestyle. This week on the Create & Connect series presented by Logitech, Sisilia tells us all about what's coming up next, what inspires her, and a former job with a "sassy" boss.
On set Sisilia Piring is cool, calm, collected. You would never know that the fashion photographer, style blogger, and self-professed adventurer is also a mother of two. Having shot with clients such as Levi's, Reformation, Burberry, and Estée Lauder to name just a few top-notch brands, her work is clean and bright. Plus we love a lady who takes a break during the workday for "cuddles." A bonus of working from home.
Though her work speaks for itself, we wanted to hear from Sisilia herself on why the Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard works with her fast-paced lifestyle. This week on the Create & Connect series presented by Logitech, Sisilia tells us all about what's coming up next, what inspires her, and a former job with a "sassy" boss.
+You’re a full time mom and full time creative. What’s a life hack that works across both jobs?
Staying organized by making out schedules and lists ahead of time. Not really a life hack but this helps me tremendously because it's easy to forget something when you have a fussy child screaming at you!
+Juggling a wide array of clients can make it difficult to stick to your creative vision. How do you jump between clients? And how do you make sure that your aesthetic aligns with a client’s needs?
Typically when a client reaches out it means we have similar aesthetic already, which makes the initial process go by quickly. I usually print out a mood board for all my shoots and keep it handy so whenever I'm chatting with that client I already have a visual of what we have decided on and this makes it easier for me to remember which story goes with what client.
+How does being a photographer benefit you as a mom? And vice versa?
Being a mom has kept the playful side of me alive which in return inspires a lot of my work. A lot of my work right now is colorful, fun, and playful. You can thank my kiddos for that. The kiddos benefit having a mom as a photographer because they typically get the fun props I shoot with and we go on fun family adventures when I'm scouting for locations or when I’m traveling for a shoot. They love being on the road and get so excited in exploring different cities.
"Being a mom has kept the playful side of me alive which in return inspires a lot of my work."
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+What did you do before making the leap to full time photographer?
I was a caregiver to a sassy blind woman for a couple years.
+Do you have any side projects? Or your eye on in the near future?
My husband and I own a mobile screen printing business. It's called The Ink Truck and it's basically screen printing on wheels. We don't design our own shirts but instead offer our services to brands to use as a marketing tool. We are also in the process of building our own creative agency with a couple of our friends. A one stop shop where we offer photography, motion, art direction, graphic design, retouching, and screen printing services.
+Walk us through how you balance your personal and professional life.
I'm not a big phone person so if I don't have to be on it I have it put away. When I'm working from home we have lots of breaks throughout the day for cuddles, dancing, and singing. We also drive down to our neighborhood coffee spot which happens to be next to a park and grab a cup of joe and play with the kiddos.
"I was a caregiver to a sassy blind woman for a couple years."
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+You’re late, you’re walking out the door for a meeting, and your kid spills all over you. You:
Try not to raise your voice and find a new outfit ASAP!
+Van Gogh once said, “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” What small things lead you to where you are now?
That photography class in the 8th grade that inspired my love for photography, ditching school so I could play with Photoshop and make my own website, meeting my husband at work, moving to Chicago, dressing up my friends and photographing them.
+When you feel creatively drained, who/what/where do you turn to?
I call my mom, plan a family trip, even if we are going just a couple hours away, meditate, and write.
+How do tools like the Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard keep you streamlined and focused?
It's so nice to have the Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard with me because it makes the process of moving from one device to another seamless, especially when you're in a hurry.
+How many hours of sleep do you need?
All I need is 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep with blackout curtains and I'm good. Ha, that's what I wish for anyway :D
The Future Is Female, But THIS IS NOT So Great
It's probably pretty clear that Create & Cultivate is all about empowering other women. Which is why the slogan, "The Future is Female," is something we can get behind (and wear proudly on a shirt). However the controversy that erupted this week between LA brand Otherwild and British model Cara Delevingne over the slogan is divisive, and took on more than a life of its own.
Apparently, Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. By another woman.
It's probably pretty clear that Create & Cultivate is all about empowering other women. Which is why the slogan, "The Future is Female," is something we can get behind (and wear proudly on a shirt).
According to a recent New York Times article, "The original 'The Future Is Female' T-shirt design was made for Labyris Books, the first women’s bookstore in New York City. The photographer Liza Cowan took a picture of Alix Dobkin, her girlfriend at the time, wearing it in 1975."
Of the shirt, Cowan told the paper, “It’s taken on a life of its own. I don’t know what to make of it. But I think the slogan is great, I love that women are wearing it. It’s kind of a call to arms, and it’s a statement of fact.”
However the controversy that erupted this week between LA brand Otherwild and British model Cara Delevingne over the slogan is divisive, and took on more than a life of its own.
Apparently, Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. By another woman. (Insert unhappy emoji here.)
OTHERWILD vs. DELEVINGNE
Rachel Berks, who heads up LA-based design label, Otherwild, has made the following claim: "Otherwild used @lizacowan's image of Alix Dobkin in the shirt (1975) with permission, as originally seen on Kelly Rakowski's @h_e_r_s_t_o_r_y. Otherwild's redesign and reissue of the FIF tees and buttons is protected under copyright law, which mandates that any reproduction of an existing known public work must be altered at least 20% from the original."
Here's where it gets tricky.
Delevingne took to her Instagram account to share the following with her 23.4 million followers: “THE FUTURE IS FEMALE. A lot of you have been asking for one of these – so I decided to put them up for sale, with proceeds going to Girl Up!” The shot is of Delevingne, plus her model friend in sweatshirts that look identical to what's being sold on Otherwild.
The result was a very public, very catty fight. It wasn't pretty or forward-looking. Berks reposted Delevingne’s photo, calling her a “celezbian,” which has since been deleted.
In fact, posts and comments from both parties have been wiped.
In regards to Delevingne, Berks took to Instagram again, writing: "Delevingne's choice to lift and manufacture Otherwild's design, claiming it as her own to sell with an undisclosed charitable offering, is indefensible. Her actions ironically counter the very message of the slogan 'The Future Is Female', and it's confounding that she would do this to a small queer feminist-owned business after purchasing the product from us just a few weeks ago."
On their site Otherwild states that they believe, "in an inclusive, expanded and fluid notion of gender expression, identities and feminisms." This apparently doesn't include celezbians.
Let's call this opportunity miffed, missed, and mishandled.
It's hypocritical to espouse inclusion but go for blood the moment you feel wronged.
Tweet this.
WINNERS vs. LOSERS
Let's look at who loses here. One, women. It's not great when such a positive message gets undermined and overshadowed by controversy. There are ways to handle what you feel to be professional screw-ups, and then, there are public temper tantrums. (Insert second unhappy emoji.)
Moreover it is yet to be seen what consequences the negative press will have-- on both the proliferation of the message as well as the giving component. Otherwild donates 25% of profits to Planned Parenthood. Delevingne promised, "proceeds from every shirt sold support Girl Up's campaign to promote the health, safety, and education of girls in developing countries."
Who wins? Hopefully what the argument has caused is the desire for more young women to learn about the history of the slogan.
LET'S GET RID OF THE vs. & EXAMINE OUR CHOICES, TOGETHER
The bummer is what was missed. Sure, stand up for yourself personally and professionally. On her side, Delevingne should have contacted Berks first. She should have credited Berks in her original Instragram post (which has been edited to thank Otherwild). Berks, however angry, should not have posted such a hot-headed response. Don't text angry. Don't Instagram angry. Don't go to bed angry. Tips for life, ladies.
This was a perfect opportunity for women to come together. Neither of these women own the slogan.
Instead of unity we got a schism. Instead of a "call to arms" we called names. It's hypocritical to espouse inclusion but go for blood the moment you feel wronged.
To her credit, Berks has admitted that her initial post was "reactionary." Delevingne has yet to comment beyond Instagram. In conversation with Think Progress, Berks said: "I hope that she does the right thing. I don’t have high hopes that she will." Which sounds like she's still pretty angry, and more interested in being "right," than being unified.
In the future, that is perhaps, female, let's work with each other-- because one thing is for sure: The Future Is Not vs.
Lindsay Jang of Yardbird Talks Hong Kong Female Bosses
Chinese culture is male-dominated, but Linsday Yang of Yardbird fame never thinks about gender roles. Her approach seems to be working.
Three years, three successful ventures. Lindsay Jang has seen the kind of success most only ever dream of. In part because she doesn't just dream, she hustles.
After opening Yardbird (considered by many one of the best restaurants in Hong Kong) with chef Matt Abergel, the duo then opened RONIN and Sunday's Grocery. And then Jang launched MISSBISH, an editorial and e-commerce site focussed on fitness, food, and fashion. And she has two kids (Lili and Ronin). And she still manages to sleep. She's a one-woman ampersand. Did we mention TOPFIT? Her boutique fitness space. The hits keep coming, and yet she has a pulls no punches attitude. How does she do it? We checked in with Lindsay to find out how, her favorite spots in HK, and how she feels about gender roles in business.
Must eat Hong Kong spot?
Yardbird, RONIN, and Sunday's Grocery... Obviously!
Must shop Hong Kong spot?
The Lane Crawford warehouse in Horizon Plaza.
When you want to splurge you head to?
Céline.
When you want to save?
Best place to unwind?
Happy Foot for a 50 minute foot massage followed by a 75 minute body massage.
Best place to get caffeinated?
I'm not a coffee drinker, but if I was, I'd head to Coco Espresso.
How do you make the most of 24 hours?
Wake up early, get my kids off to school, clear my inbox, workout, meet with my teams, hang out with my kids after they finish their daily activities, cook dinner, watch Netflix (if I'm not asleep by then).
How is the female boss scene different in Hong Kong than New York?
I feel like people don't talk about it as much in Asia as they do in the US. Gender is not a key point of separation when it comes to success, or at least it's not publicly discussed.
Other boss women in Hong Kong that you admire?
Kim Kollar, Yenn Wong, Peggy Chan, Jaime Ho Ku.
The last woman you had lunch with who gave you a great piece of advice? And what was it?
Stephanie Arsham. She reminded me how important it is to unplug and be present around your loved ones. Ignore technology for a few moments and truly engage.
Something you can get in Hong Kong you’ve never found anywhere else?
An airport check-in in the city center with a high speed train that drops you inside the terminal. Super efficient. HK has the best airport in the world.
Chinese culture is male-dominated. How does that make you feel as a female boss? Do you think about it?
It never crosses my mind.
Do you ever change your leadership style based on what country you’re working in?
No. Team building, in my opinion, is the same everywhere. Empathy and positive leadership translates globally.
Are female entrepreneurs treated differently than male?
Not in my experience.
Do you get tired of being asked how you balance motherhood and a successful career?
Sometimes, but then I realize that people are genuinely interested so I'm happy to share.
Are female entrepreneurs treated differently than male? "Not in my experience."
Tweet this.
When you have time off you:
Sleep.
If you didn’t live in Hong Kong, you’d live:
In LA.
What’s the recipe for success?
Hard work, kindness, trust.
The Season's Most Wanted Bags According to BagSnob
Tina Craig of BagSnob (now Snob Essentials) knows bags. And with everyone making holiday lists and plans to get out of town, we asked her about the season's must-have bags and what you should be carrying when you head to the airport.
Don't worry, not everything will cost you December's rent.
5 BAG HIT LIST
I am having a serious Loewe moment. I’ll wear anything J.W. Anderson creates! Available on My Theresa and at Nordstrom for $2,450.
Also having a love affair with Coach, thanks to Stuart Vevers and his reinvention of the brand. The Surrey bag says it all: Wanted. At Coach for $605.
3Derek Lam’s 10 Crosby Mini Prince Bucket Bag
This swingy bag will be swinging from my arm all season long. It’s the perfect mix of bohemian ease and urban chic; the result is a piece that’s impossibly cool, much like Derek himself.
I’m obsessed with Nikki Erwin’s graphic backpacks! Laidback, nonchalant, and effortless: her brand Donatienne illustrates the very definition of LA style. At Donatienne for $595.
Victoria Beckham City Victoria Canvas and Leather Tote
Few women exude sexy sophistication as well as Victoria Beckham. I’ll wear just about anything she tells me to, just in hopes of capturing a bit of her breed of glam for myself. On NET-A-PORTER for $2,120.
BAG SPLURGE
Matching Chanel Mosaic Paneled Flap Bag and Pencil Skirt
As decadent and striking as can be, Chanel’s intricate mosaic motif in a coordinating pair is a must for the season.
BAG SAVE
Elizabeth and James Croc-Embossed Cynnie Sling Backpack
Elizabeth and James is a favorite of mine. Their croc-effect Cynnie bag eerily resembles the real thing without the hefty price tag of a legit exotic.
BEST BAG FOR HOLIDAY TRAVEL
Our Gisele tote will take you from plane to fun effortlessly! The large pockets hold everything from passports and boarding passes to the iPhone 6+. It’s super-roomy for stashing a sweater or scarf and a pair of flats, yet the size is not overwhelming. It comes with removable shoulder strap for those hands-free days when you need to balance your Frappacino while texting your BFF the latest gossip. At Snob Essentials for $128.
LBD OF THE BAG WORLD
Chanel Classic Flap
A bag that needs no introduction speaks for itself. There is truly no bag more timeless, aside from perhaps the enduring Hermès Birkin, than the quilted Chanel Flap, and it’s definitely the most versatile of all.
Links We Love: What Everyone Is Talking About This AM
Monday is here! But don't let that get you down. We've rounded up some good reads that will make for a few laughs and good chatter around the water cooler.
Ryan Gosling hosted SNL for the first time in his entire career. He laughed as much as The Notebook made you cry. Vulture recapped the whole spiel. This is first on the list, because, well, it's Ryan Gosling.
In case you missed the news, Facebook mogul Mark Zuckerberg and wife Priscilla gave birth to a baby girl, Max. With the announcement of their little bundle of joy came the pledge that the family would donate 99% of their Facebook shares, currently valued at over 45 billion dollars to charity over the course of their lifetimes. But Forbes breaks down what kind of tax break that might mean.
Carrie Fisher of Princess Leia fame said that talking about her weight loss for the almost here Star War: The Force Awakens is "a stupid conversation." After 40 years in the spotlight, her press tour for the movie just might be the best thing ever.
A bit of controversy has sprung up between British model Cara Delevingne and brand Otherwild, a Los Angeles-based, queer female owned company. Delevingne posted a photo wearing a sweatshirt with the slogan "The Future is Female." What followed was a bit of nasty fight. Here's hoping that the female future looks a little different than this.
Texas politician Wendy Davis (of 13 hour filibuster fame) talks about why she hates losing for Lenny Letter. Spoiler: just as you've always suspected, the things worth fighting for are always the hardest.
For a little #MondayMotivation. Did you know that Bea Arthur of Golden Girls fame was one of the first female marines? Now you do. Now take go take your Monday by the cojones.