Dear Friends,

We’ve entered the time of year that seems to go at warp speed. One moment, we are enjoying the turn of summer into autumn, the next we’re knee deep in Black Friday sale emails, holiday decor, All I Want for Christmas is You, and a countdown to the new year.

In the past, the final months of the year represented a time to kick things into high gear and close out anything I hadn’t yet accomplished for the year. It seemed like my to do lists and social plans would go into overdrive.

This year, I’m doing things differently. My goal is to enter the holiday season with ease and grace, and to close out the year beautifully. To release goals and expectations, and begin to reset for the new year. To focus more on the times spent together and memories created. In short, to mirror in my own life what is going on in the seasons - as the leaves drop from their treetops, and we enter a fallow period for the earth to recharge and rejuvenate.

Without this season, we wouldn’t have or appreciate the blooms of spring, the bounty of summer, or the autumn harvest.

I invite you to do the same.

With love and light,

Well [Inspired]

I’m inspired by simple, homemade holiday decor right now.

I discovered @floydkenneyliving recently and her approach to a stress-free holiday season focusing on homemade gifts is exactly the energy I need right now. Especially loving the homemade wreaths, dried citrus, and homemade recipes.

In terms of gifting - I like to prioritize experiences, practical things, and…pretty things. For example, instead of gifts my closest group of friends has decided to take a creative class later in January - this helps to spread the joy, lessens the pressure on the end of December activities, and is the gift of being present with each other and creating memories.

For other fun and practical gifting, I’ve bookmarked this list: Side Order: Beautiful Versions of Boring Things

I also recently discovered that you can buy wrapping paper and ribbons on Etsy. I have a love for gift presentation, so this is definitely on my shopping list this year! Other options I love are simple kraft paper or using newspaper (bonus points for choosing pages with beautiful imagery like from the Real Estate or Travel section) for an easy, elegant wrapping alternative.

Well [Designed]

A concept I’ve come across recently and been observing is the “unexpected red theory.”

The idea is that a pop of red, large or small, helps to bring a room together. On a psychological level, red is a strong, bold color that immediately draws our attention and is energizing. Looking at these pictures and countless others, I like it and am certainly inspired to incorporate a pop of red (or burgundy) into my home

Or perhaps I’m simply obsessed with the combination of blue and red? Facts.

You can learn more about this trend here, and the science behind it here.

Well [Explored]

If you’re ever in the mood for Polish food and, more specifically, pierogi - you must try out Pierozek in my home neighborhood of Greenpoint, Brooklyn (also known as Little Poland). Tried and tested (many, many, many times) by yours truly, this is my go-to for Polish fare as a personal treat, on date night, or with friends.

The interior is like a restaurant-style version of the home I grew up in - exposed brick, Polish handmade dinnerware, and homemade food. I’m not the only one singing this spot’s praises, they are part of the Michelin Bib Gourmand list, and boast a NY Times feature.

Kick things off with red barszcz (if you’re getting a full bowl, get the mushroom “uszka” or “ears” which are like polish tortellini). For mains - be sure to try the classic potato & cheese pierogi, and Paulie Gee’s pizza collaboration pierogi. Leave room for dessert with the sweet cheese or fruit pierogi.

Another delicious pierogi option? Polka Dot.

Well [Followed]

I’d like to introduce you to my favorite creative to follow, Jamie Beck (@jamiebeck.co).

Jamie first came on my radar as I was standing in a looooong line to enter the supermarket in 2020. She is a Texas-born, NYC photographer who moved to Provence and has embraced a slower pace and built her life there with her husband and young daughter.

During lockdown, Jamie challenged herself to create one piece of artwork each day - which spurred the #IsolationCreation movement.

This follow is for you if you’re interested in stunning photography, life in France, cooking, style and more - check it out!

I own several of her posters and Masterworks, and have had the pleasure of meeting her not once, but twice. Her work has 100% inspired my own personal visit to Provence last year. And it did not disappoint!

Any of Jamie’s poster prints or newly released candle would make a wonderful gift. You can check out her online shop here.

Well [Lived]

Searching for a 1 bedroom home in Bushwick with insanely beautiful natural light?

Look no further.

This 1BD/1BTH home in prime Bushwick (moments from Maria Hernandez Park) is on the top floor of a boutique condo building with internal staircase leading to it’s very own expansive rooftop space with Manhattan skyline views.

Southern exposure, Freedom Tower views, and plenty of storage (including a pantry space and storage unit!) round out the space.

Check out the full listing here.

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Unless otherwise credited, all photography is original.