They say physical appearance is what you notice first about a person. Their eyes, their hair color, or how tall they stand. We pretend that these facts, and how we interpret them, mean something. But there are others who instead capture us with their energy—their warmth and curiosity. Meleana Estes immediately pulls you in with her passion. Her love, interest, and excitement for the natural world is infectious. It’s Meleana’s connection to her family, her art, and to her native Hawai’i that weaves a narrative thread through her everyday rhythms and routines.

Meleana knows that nothing is created within a vacuum. Inspiration surrounds us, and it’s our responsibility to attune our perspective to the potential within everything we confront. It’s this understanding—the connection between and the potential within everything—that brought Meleana to her work as a stylist, lei expert, and author of the recently released book, Lei Aloha: Celebrating the Vibrant Flowers and Lei of Hawai‘i.

Lei Aloha: Celebrating the Vibrant Flowers and Lei of Hawai’i by Meleana Estes

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Lei Aloha, $24.99

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“Lei Aloha” Copyright © 2023 by Meleana Estes with Jennifer Fiedler. Photographs copyright © 2023 by Tara Rock. Published by Clarkson Potter, an imprint of Random House.”

Meleana Estes Shares the Rituals That Inspire Her Creativity and Keep Her Close to Nature

Her book serves not just as an ode to the art of lei making, but as a love story to the culture surrounding it. It’s clear, from speaking with Meleana, that the beauty of lei surpasses its aesthetic hold. Layered within the native flowers are stories of her t?t?’s generosity, of moments where she would adorn Meleana and her friends in lei. There are the birthdays, surf contests, and other celebrations where lei are abundant. As Meleana shares, “it is woven into all parts of our lives.”

In our conversation, Meleana shares how she fuels her creative life—peppering her work with pauses for surfing, swimming, and treasured moments with family. She speaks about the essentials: why she needs to jump in the water before she touches her computer and why noticing the day’s “small beauties” is a practice integral to her work, her art, and her world. Dive in.

What’s the first thing you do each morning?

My morning ritual is a long cuddle session with my 10-year-old son. I have big goals every week to wake up earlier than him and stretch and do my breathing but it never seems to happen before he jumps in my bed. That time with him is so important to me and fleeting—any day he could be “too cool”!

Tell us about your life as a designer. What does a typical day look like?

I finally get to my routine after my son heads off to school.  I start my day with a walk around Diamond Head, a lovely coastal walk near my house. If I’m planning to make lei that day, I’ll carry a pair of clippers and a bag with me so that I can pick materials as I walk. If the water is beautiful, I might jump in the ocean for a quick surf. I try to do this first thing before opening my computer.

It is a balance, tackling that list of to-do’s and giving my brain the space to feel creative and calm so I can notice the small beauties that inspire me in my world.  

There are lots of emails to read through these days as I’m deep in promotion for my new book, Lei Aloha and I just launched a jewelry brand, HIE Heirlooms of Hawai’i. But, I do start to melt if I am at my computer for too long, so I break it up with creative pauses where I am able to dream up new projects or work on existing ones. These breaks can be color coordinating my hanging mu‘umu‘u collection or strolling down the street to pick some fallen coconut seed pods I saw on my walk for a table runner I plan to make. It is a balance, tackling that list of to-do’s and giving my brain the space to feel creative and calm so I can notice the small beauties that inspire me in my world.  

You just released your book, Lei Aloha. What do you hope readers will take away from its pages?

I am so excited for Lei Aloha to be out in the world. It is a culmination of beautiful stories collected from treasured individuals in the lei community of Hawai’i and transporting photos into this unique part of our Hawaiian culture. 

I hope people feel the Aloha (love) in which people in Hawai‘i share and receive lei, as it is woven into all parts of our lives. Lei is used to celebrate birthdays, surf contests, weddings, and even funerals. Sometimes there is no particular occasion but you feel inspired to make a lei because you see a certain coastal plant you don’t always get to use or your own trees are blooming. You are celebrating the joy of using these materials—and somehow, I find, the perfect lei recipient always shows up. 

I hope people feel the Aloha (love) in which people in Hawai‘i share and receive lei, as it is woven into all parts of our lives.

It doesn’t matter if you make it yourself or pick one out from a local lei shop, it’s always an act of Aloha.  The health of the practice relies on the health of our people and our environment. If Hawai‘i becomes overcrowded, we’ll lose space to grow our flowers. If our native forest is compromised with invasive species, we’ll lose materials that way, too. We touch upon these issues in Lei Aloha. So as much as I hope this book shares the beauty of lei, I hope it also highlights the fragility of these resources and the importance of the health of Hawai‘i as a state. 

Your love of lei spans cultural and personal significance. Can you share how lei making connects you to Hawai‘i and your family?

I was born and raised in Hawai‘i. When I lived on the mainland for college in Boston and Fashion School in New York City, I still remained extremely rooted in Hawai‘i. My t?t? on my mom’s side is native Hawaiian. She was a renowned lei maker and is still remembered for the aloha in which she shared lei to not only her ‘ohana (my family), but to all of Hawai‘i. Her generosity was endless; my whole volleyball team would have beautiful head lei after important games. And after paddling races, she was on the beach with armfuls of lei hanging for my entire crew. Even when I moved out of the state, she always carefully packaged a box of lei to send to me and my roommates for my birthday.

I credit the importance of lei to me to her. She was also a musician and made sure I knew how to play a few songs on the ukulele and encouraged us to have at least one hula in our back pocket for when you get called up unexpectedly to dance at a l?‘au. While I loved spending time outside of Hawai‘i, I always knew that I had an extra layer of blessing being raised in a place with a strong culture. I wanted that for my life indefinitely.  

My t?t? would make lei for all of us for a p?‘ina (party). There were lei po‘o for her six granddaughters and more for my mom and her four sister in-laws. There was tightly strung puakenikeni for her two grandsons, my dad, and her four sons. And if wasn’t our party, then there were always lei for the host or guest of honor. My whole family has taken this on, she instilled it in all of us. My sister and I always make sure the “important” person has a special head lei. And my Uncle Speedy and Aunty Polly never show up to a party without armfuls of freshly strung pua kenikeni. We are all, in our own way, carrying on her love of lei and sharing lei.  

We are all, in our own way, carrying on her love of lei and sharing lei.  

Your jewelry collection, HIE | Heirlooms of Hawai‘i, is “inspired by the women of Hawai‘i, past and present.” How does this intention manifest in your designs?

As children, my partner Noël and I always loved and admired both our own ‘ohana’s (family) bracelets along with favorites of aunties or older cousins. We grow up associating certain bracelet styles with women we love and admire. HIE was created to continue the tradition of this style of bangle being made and passed on through generations, as it had become less commonplace for our generation. We draw inspiration not only from the bangles that these women wore, but the strength and beauty they exude as well.  

What’s something you’re committed to doing every single day, no matter what?

(Almost) every single day I jump in the ocean. Of course, there are days missed here and there, but whether I quickly submerge in my workout clothes after a walk or get in an evening surf with my son, the ocean is essential and cleansing for me. My dad instilled this in me. He would go for a quick exercise swim on his lunch breaks, and when he arrived home from work we would hop in the car for the quick five-minute drive down the hill to our local beach. We would joke that his gills needed water. But it passed on to my sister and me. It’s a reset. If things feel crazy, I can scream them under water to let go or just float on my back and take in the sky view. It centers me.

How does the design of your space reflect your priorities and goals?

Like any creative, the look and feel of my space affects my productivity. As someone who also loves to collect beautiful things, balancing the clutter is a challenge. I am so fortunate to have a cottage on our property where I can keep my colorful mu‘umu‘u collection, my vibrant textiles, my lauhala (woven) hats and where my big flower projects can explode. I have this open wall where I can hang fabric swatches, a recently-found vintage postcard I love and I always have the words to an ‘oli or chant in Hawaiian that we recite before gathering in our native forest hanging on the wall. It is a thank you for the plants, for the ‘?ina (land) and for their gifts. This chant focuses on lei, but it encompasses gratitude for all of our surroundings. When I look at this on my wall during hectic moments, I feel grounded in my work, the book and my intention to share lei, bracelets and whatever else I decide to design next with the world.

Are there any daily or weekly “chores” you always enjoy?

I love to weed plants! I find clearing a hillside of weeds and giving what you have planted room to breathe. My mom lives on Kaua‘i (where I grew up) on the same land as her three brothers. I grew up with big family yard work days, followed by ocean cool-off dips and pau hana (post-work) pupu (appetizer) potlucks out in the citrus orchard. Maybe it’s nostalgic, the feeling of a long day outside working together to take care of our land and the loving warmth of my family, but either way, it’s a chore that makes me smile.

Is there a scent you use to relax / energize / meditate? 

This is a great question for a lei maker because the fragrance of the flowers and foliage is so much a part of the creation! There is something about the pua kenikeni flower that calms me. It takes me to the cool flowers of my t?t?’s garage where she would string lei for orders and to share with family and friends. Now I never throw away extra flowers after stringing lei. There are little bowls around the house, keeping that feeling of lei sharing close.

Does music play a part in your daily life?

Music is such a part of my life. I always have Spotify going. Music at home is a constant. I love Hawaiian music for dinnertime. My Uncles inherited my t?t?’s love of music and Hawaiian music played a big part in family parties.  The steel guitar or the sound of a stand-up base brings that nostalgia of a family gathering and the warmth I felt there.

How do you keep yourself energized throughout the day?

Every day feels so busy that I barely have time to realize I am tired! To keep my focus, I take stretching breaks for my sore back. I truly I snack all day and love a big, lovely sit-down dinner. I am not sure if this is the best thing for metabolism and this and that, but I love to cook for my family. Small meals during the day (avocado toast, string cheese, apples, and way too many peanut butter pretzels) are my go-to’s!

Where do you turn for inspiration when you’re feeling creatively blocked?

When I am creatively blocked, it is usually because I have a big decision to make. Aside from happily thumbing through my collection of vintage photos and books, my creative block is usually a paralyzing decision I have to make. My brain bounces back and forth between creative mode to task-oriented mode probably at an unhealthy pace. But I have learned in the last year that I can not be productive in either mode if I have a pending decision weighing on me—be it the vibe for an upcoming photo shoot or hiring a new assistant. So, I try to check those boxes first which is really a challenge for me because I tend to avoid hard decisions. But I realize now how clearing those as fast as possible helps keep my brain on track to make room for those creative moments.  

What do you do to prioritize health and wellness?

I feel lucky to have grown up with a mom who would take us to the playground to play as she ran laps on the field while keeping a watchful eye and a dad who would do stretching and (embarrassing at the time) the occasional jumping jack set during my day-long volleyball tournaments in high school. For them, exercise equated to mental health, not to weight loss. My dad was a psychiatrist and would take his patients on walks during their sessions. Blood flow and movement—walks, runs, surfing, yoga, pilates—these are essential for me. But I will say, I know that movement is not the whole picture for me anymore. Stillness is becoming more and more necessary for me to prioritize business goals. I can feel more acutely when I need to stop and sit and breathe or tap for five minutes to get to a calm place.  

What’s the best career advice anyone ever gave you? 

The best career advice anyone ever gave me came from a dear friend who has had an illustrious career in fashion. She said, “Just start. Mele, you are a perfectionist and have this beautiful grand picture that it is holding you back from just starting”. 

I learned that I am my biggest roadblock. That is why I am SO proud of my book and HIE. They are two tangible items that have been in my mind for over 10 years. I cried when I got my first copy of Lei Aloha, I was astonished to have actually pulled it off. My co-author Jenny Fiedler and publishing team at Ten Speed Press are also to credit for this. There’s nothing like a hard deadline to get me to make decisions.   

How would you describe your work/life balance?

My work has peaks and valleys. There can be huge photoshoots on a deadline with table runners and lei to make and then it’ll be quiet for weeks. I could not have pulled off my book without my husband knowing that there might be two days where I just need him to do all the drop-offs and pick-ups and run a flower errand for me. He is amazing. But on these hectic days, I always take the time to make a meal for us to sit with and read before bedtime. I try my best to be less distracted and stressed in these moments, and I am grateful my husband gives me this grace. He knows I am doing my best to be present even in those high peaks of work stress.  

What’s the best spot in your house?

I love our cute back porch. It looks out to L?ahi or Diamond Head, this landmark mountain at the end of Waik?k? Beach, and is framed by majestic, vibrant green coconut trees. In the evenings, Diamond Head turns pink at sunset and the moon rises between the coco palms. It is so calming to sit there.  

Name one fashion or self-care product you can’t live without:

I can’t live without a pareu, or sarong. They are beach cover-ups, sun protection, lei-making blankets, or a towel if you forgot one. And if you have to pop into a nice lunch from the beach, you can tie it around your neck and it becomes a lovely dress!  

You need to unwind after a long day. What’s your go-to method?

I love to take a shower, put on something lovely and comfy, and start chopping—with a crisp glass of wine. Whether it is a simple pasta, a salad for just me, or even plating a small cheese platter because my husband is making dinner, closing the day with my family and sharing food and time together is a grounding priority for me. Kaiea sets the table, we light a candle, hold hands, say what we are grateful for in our day, and give a small thank you to whomever we feel is right that day.  

What’s your favorite time of day and why?

I am a sunset-loving person. (I also never quite get up in time for sunrise.)  I love the way the mountain walls take on an orange-pink glow, the clouds turn a lavender color, and that people pause to watch the sun sink into the ocean. Sometimes we are in the ocean as a family, sometimes on the sea wall, and sometimes in our backyard, but we always recognize that this change in the day is happening and notice something beautiful that marks it.

The post “The Ocean Is Essential”—Meleana Estes on the Art of Making Leis appeared first on Camille Styles.

Stacie Krajchir is one of those people who just kept crossing my path until I realized—we were destined to be friends. We first met at a Fourth of July parade in Malibu a couple summers back. I had broken my foot a few days before and was hobbling around on crutches and feeling very sorry for myself. A mutual friend introduced me to Stacie, this cool, creative multi-hyphenate, and we spent the rest of the morning deep in laughter-filled conversation.

We didn’t keep in touch, but a few months later, I was browsing my favorite shop in Malibu when my eyes landed on the most exquisite ceramic salad servers. I bought them on the spot and carefully packed them in my suitcase back to Austin where they quickly became one of my favorite pieces to use in our recipe shoots.

Dive Inside Stacie Krajchir’s Creative World

So, I was surprised to receive a DM from the shop owner saying that the maker of the spoons had seen them in one of my Instagram posts and wondered if she could share the image on her own feed. “Of course,” I responded, “But who’s the maker? I need more of her stuff!” If you guessed it was Stacie Krajchir (operating under her studio name, SLO | STUDIO) you’re right. If it was kismet that brought us together, it was a mutual love for each others’ creative pursuits that birthed the launch of our very special Casa Zuma x SLO | STUDIO collection—live on the site today.

On a recent trip to Venice Beach, our team captured Stacie in her studio as she crafted her one-of-a-kind pieces. Today, I’m excited to share her wit and wisdom about art, travel, creativity, and the rituals that fill her days with presence. Scroll on for my interview with Stacie Krajchir and hop over to Casa Zuma to be the first to shop her ceramic nesting bowls. (And of course, the serving spoons that started it all!)

SLO | STUDIO x Casa Zuma Nesting Bowls

Each of these limited-edition sets is shaped by hand in Venice, California. How do we use them? Salts and spices, spreads and dips, honey and butter, and even to hold our jewelry on the bedside table. 

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Hand Thrown Antipasto Bowls, Set of 3

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SLO | STUDIO x Casa Zuma Ceramic Serving Spoons

You know those items in your home that are small in size but spark ridiculous amounts of joy when you use them? These handmade serving spoons are it, lending wow factor to whatever’s on the table.

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Hand-Thrown Ceramic Serving Spoons, Set of 2

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What’s something you’re committed to doing every single day, no matter what? 

Sleep. A full, good night’s sleep sets the tone for my day and anything I want to accomplish. I wear earplugs and a silk sleep mask for extra added measure—that’s how serious I am about it. These are necessities for when I travel, too.

I aim to make at least two phone calls each day. Not texts, but old-school calls to friends or family. With everything being so digital now, I committed to more phone calls in 2023. I have lifelong friendships and I want to make an effort to be and stay connected in conversation on a regular basis. 

I cherish doing the New York Times mini crossword with my 11-year-old son Milo. It’s our little bedtime ritual. I love how he really gets into it! He’s quite good. 

How does the design of your space reflect your priorities? 

I’m a Cancerian through and through. This means I surround myself with things I cherish—almost everything in my home holds meaning for me or a cherished memory. From stacks of home design books in every room to large stones collected from beach walks that sit on the sunroom window sill. I cherish my collection of vintage Hawaii books and keep trinkets from here and there, near and far.

There are about 16 years worth of stacked, dried leis from personal or family celebrations and occasions. These things are a constant in an ever-changing life. They bring me comfort, and I have a deep love for small things that feel big in my heart. 

I have a deep love for small things that feel big in my heart. 

What’s the first thing you do each morning? 

There are a handful of birds in the backyard that sing and chirp in symphony outside the bedroom window. It’s a nice, slow, and gentle way to wake. I get to experience a slice of nature as I start my day.

I lie in bed for a few minutes and think about three things that I’m grateful for, saying these things aloud.  Then, I’ll take a moment to visualize the rundown of my day. I try to think of anything ahead that might feel challenging and ask for help or guidance around whatever that is. All of this happens even before my feet touch the ground.

For the first hour of the day, I don’t open my phone.  I will look at the time and turn off my alarm, but I stay off my phone for one hour. This is my sacred time. No incoming information, no visuals, no social media, no texts, or emails.  This silence is when my mind is the clearest and most raw—having this clarity is when big things get worked out. I started this practice about nine months ago. It’s been such a blessing.

I make a cup of Peet’s Garuda Blend coffee. I’ve been drinking Peet’s since college. I’m a loyalist that way with almost everything actually. I have been drinking coffee from the same cup for four years. It’s a ceramic mug I hand-carried from Colectivo 1050 in Oaxaca. It was an incredible trip that sparked so many things inside me. 

I’ll sit in the sunroom and write for a bit. Then I pull a card for the day from my Kim Krans tarot deck. Usually, I do the question and it helps me set the intention for my day. My Casa Zuma mug is part of this ritual. Every week I place a fresh flower in water and it sits along the edge of the window next to my favorite rocks. All of this makes me feel all the good things.

Are there any daily or weekly “chores” you always enjoy?

The pitter-patter of cleaning and tidying the studio. It doesn’t really feel like an obligation. Instead, it’s more of a gift for myself, because I love walking into a fresh clean space to work. When the doors open in the morning and the sunshine pours in, I feel invigorated and excited to create.

About a year ago, I started an accomplishments list in my phone’s Notes app. Every few days, I add an accomplishment. This can be as simple as having a really hard conversation, playing tennis twice this week, or spending time decluttering that drawer. Doing this has shifted my mindset around what I’ve accomplished.

We forget about the little things that are actually the journey to accomplishing bigger things. I looked back at 2022 recently and it was a huge gift to see in writing all the small, big, and in-between things that I accomplished. 

Is there a scent you use to relax? 

I love Papier d’Arménie. They are scented burning papers I discovered when I lived in Paris 30 years ago. The papers come in a booklet and you fold each piece of paper like a small accordion, light it and place it on a glass or ceramic surface. They’ll burn like incense for about five minutes. The scent is rich and feels luxurious.

Milo loves the ritual of burning the paper—we light one at night. I also keep a sheet of them in my closet, drawers, and linen closet. Milo gifts me a new booklet every Mother’s Day. It’s become a sweet tradition.

My friend Satsuki’s balm and candle are intoxicating.  I don’t even need to burn the candle because the scent is just the perfect blend of Amberwood and vanilla. 

I use the balm as perfume when I go out—that’s how sexy it feels!

Does music play a part in your daily life?

Some days yes, others no. I am a huge fan of pure silence. I think that’s part of my ADHD—I need quiet. Pre-podcasts, I would drive from San Francisco to L.A. in silence, with no radio for most of the way. 

Because my mind is constantly going, moving, thinking, and creating, I find that in the silence is when I can hear the most truth and I weave into clarity. 

If I am cleaning the house, hanging with friends, or entertaining the music is on. It’s usually all over the place depending on my mood—De La Soul,  Stevie Wonder, The Eagles, Post Malone, Missy Elliot, Chaka Kahn, Norah Jones, bill withers. 

The silence is when I can hear the most truth and I weave into clarity. 

How do you keep yourself energized throughout the day? 

That’s a hurdle for me. When I go hard,  I go hard and suddenly it’s 3 pm and time for school pick up.  I often set an alarm to remind me to pause three times during the day.

My energizers are a walk, a call with a friend, and reading through a few New York Times articles. It just shakes the snow globe up!

Where do you turn for inspiration when you’re feeling creatively blocked? 

The fastest way for me to shift my creative energy is to shift my environment.

I am surrounded by a lot of books, and I might grab one and sit for  5-10 minutes. Lately, Yung Pueblo and Joan Didion have been getting a lot of love. Or, I grab a magazine or design book for quick inspiration. I will pop over to Pinterest and  IG, but those usually pull me into a bunny hole and I do my best to avoid that these days.

Magic is everywhere. I just have to be willing to stretch outside my comfort zone.

I find that a good field trip is the best remedy for inspiration and spark. Recently, I drove solo in the middle of the day to Nickey Kehoe and +COOP in LA. The visits were just what I needed. There’s creativity flowing in every direction in both shops. They’re the ultimate home general stores.  Not only was it inspiring but I also happened to meet the owner of +COOP unexpectedly when I asked what artist created the installation on the wall. (Turns out, it was her husband who happened to be sitting in the couch in the store.) Magic is everywhere. I just have to be willing to stretch outside my comfort zone.

What do you do to prioritize health and wellness?

I allow myself to say no to things that I really don’t want to do, so I can say yes to the things that I want more of. Setting boundaries is a huge part of my wellness. I’m an extroverted introvert, so I really need quiet and alone time. It recharges me and refills my bucket so I can show up for the people I love and show up for myself. 

I’m also a self-care ninja. I am incredibly in tune with what I might need and I no longer feel guilty about giving that to myself. Whether it’s alone time, a Netflix marathon, a drive along the coast, a quick surf, lunch with a friend, a massage, working out, or shutting my laptop and opening a book for a little bit. I just do it and know I’ll figure out how to return to my regular “scheduled programming” as needed.

Part of my health and wellness is asking myself how I’m feeling emotionally, physically, and mentally and honoring whichever area might need some attention or a boost.

My girlfriends and I started a Sunday evening grounding session. It’s 45 minutes and such a beautiful way to close the week and begin the week ahead. Community is my biggest value, so giving myself [a weekly dose] of it in this way is a huge gift. It’s like going out to hang with the ladies and not having to get dressed!

What’s the best career advice anyone ever gave you? 

You can do  it all, just not all at once. 

How would you describe your work/life balance?

As an entrepreneur who has 11 jobs, I don’t even know how to begin to answer this! I previously worked as a morning show producer. The job description literally said to be a master multitasker. I wore that philosophy as a badge of honor for over 20 years. However, about two years ago I realized multitasking is the most unproductive and unintentional thing I do. Instead, I’ve learned that being intentional about how I spend my time and focusing on less in a given timeframe is a lot more productive for me and far less stressful. So now I have what I call “structured flow.” I use the Pomodoro Technique where I set timer 25 minutes, tackle a task, take a break, and repeat. It has changed my life.

However, lately, a lot of my work entails collaborating with friends which auto-sets that work-life balance in the best way! My work-life balance is much better now and feels more purposeful. 

When I pick up my son I commit to digital detox—zero tech. I shut my phone off and hide my laptop. I want to be present, see what’s happening, listen better, and also be a role model that we don’t need technology to have fun.

What’s the best spot in your house?

The sunroom! It’s my morning afternoon and evening spot. The sunshine pours in and flows into every ounce of your body—it feels healing, energizing, and magiccal. This space is a huge draw for everyone who spends time here. 

What’s one fashion or self-care product you can’t live without?

Serums! My friend who is a beauty editor and knows my obsession with serums just sent me an entire box of face oil, moisturizers, and serums. It’s Christmas every day! I have also used Nivea Essentially Enriches Body Lotion for 38 years! I also love Freedom Moses—the brand has so many colors that fit every mood.

You need to unwind after a long day. What’s your go-to method? 

I take a bath, and if I’m being honest, sometimes twice a day. The bath is where I accomplish creative brainstorming—I bathe the way people lay down for a nap. Sometimes it’s at 3 pm or a standard evening ritual before bed.

What’s your favorite time of day and why?

I love the super quiet solitude of early morning before the world wakes and Sundays during summer between 4 and 7 pm. That is a very magical time of day when everything feels just right.

Shop the SLO | STUDIO x Casa Zuma Collection

These special, one-of-a-kind pieces are made by hand in Venice. Head to casazuma.com to shop the collection today.

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SLO | STUDIO x Casa Zuma

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The post “The Bath Is Where I Do My Creative Brainstorming”—How Stacie Krajchir’s Daily Rituals Keep Her Inspired appeared first on Camille Styles.

Not to fan girl (or make this about me), but I’m going to fan girl—and make this about me. See, for years Remi Ishizuka has been my favorite Instagram follow. One of the beautiful things we don’t often talk about on social media is our ability to witness development, progression, and growth. Of course, the cliché rings true: Instagram is a highlight reel of our greatest achievements—whether that be a promotion, brand launch, proposal, marriage… you know the posts. And while Remi may have once reached social media stardom thanks to highly-produced, splashy fitness images, she’s earned her place at the top because what she shares is exactly and unapologetically who she is.

Having relocated from California to Austin, Texas, Remi’s Instagram feed is a thoughtful and in-the-moment reflection of what it means to run a farm in 2023. Alongside her partner, Nate Pontious, Remi is regularly seen caring for the *cutest* sheep, gathering eggs, and calling the cows back home. It’s entertaining, and for this city gal—humbling. And while multi-hyphenates abound in our digital world, knowing that Remi does all of this while running her online fitness company, HomeBodies, well, I have to ask: when does the girl sleep?

Remi Ishizuka: Life in Fitness and on the Farm

And here’s the thing: Remi is funny. While many of us have tried to perfect the curated and highly aesthetic look of life online, Remi carries herself with a certain ease that says, I’m perfectly at home with myself. She’s cracking jokes left and right, exuding authenticity with her quick laugh and vibrant look of comfort and delight. Dopamine, serotonin, endorphins—whatever the chemical reaction, a quick spin around Remi’s profile and you’re bound to feel that infectious joy yourself.

So where does her endless energy come from—and how can we experience it ourselves? We sat down with Remi to get a peek into her dynamic, ever-shifting life. From balancing content creation and running a successful fitness program to what she learned after coming back from rock bottom, this is Remi real and unfiltered—a state she’s never afraid to embrace.

Get to Know Remi Ishizuka

Tell us about your career and starting a business. What has life been like as an entrepreneur?

I’m a health and wellness content creator and co-founder of HomeBodies, an online workout program. It’s ironic because I was always considered a “skinny fat girl” who ate hot Cheetos and Cup Noodles for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I was always uncoordinated and bad at sports, so if you told me I would one day be a brand ambassador for major sports brands and wellness companies, I would have laughed!

Looking back though, everything (good and bad) had to happen in my life to put me on the path I am on now. It trips me out thinking about it. I learned my work ethic from demanding 9-5 corporate jobs. I realized what my non-negotiables are after a seven-year toxic relationship. My health had to hit rock bottom so I could turn my life around. To this day—getting demoted and quitting my full-time job was the worst, yet best day of my life because it opened up other doors.

All of that to say, being an entrepreneur and getting to tap into my creativity daily—while inspiring my internet fam to live a healthier and happier life—have become the greatest blessings of my life that I will never take for granted.

I stopped waiting for outside circumstances to happen to me to feel happiness, wholeness, freedom, and love.

What has been your biggest learning over the past year?

This past year, I stopped waiting for outside circumstances to happen to me to feel happiness, wholeness, freedom, and love. Instead of waiting for what I want, I am able to generate those feelings of love and wholeness through meditation from within. It’s been my secret sauce to creating my life—I finally get it.

How would you describe your personal style?

Clothes: comfy, cozy, sporty.

Interior: minimal, zen, organic.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

A typical day consists of staying on top of communication with my managers, coordinators, and assistants via email. I also plan, research, shoot, edit, write, and schedule content for both brands @clubhomebodies and @rrayyme. 

I’ll usually finish editing the minute the shoot is done because it’s my favorite part! It’s just so rewarding to see all our hard work come together.

What time is your wake-up call?

I go to sleep around 10 p.m. and wake up at 6:30 a.m. Something I’m so proud of is that I haven’t hit snooze in two years! The trick was using an alarm clock in my bathroom (not the bedroom). Now as soon as I hear it, I jump awake to go turn it off. And once I’m up, I’m up! It’s 100% helped me build a consistent wake-up time.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?

I head straight to the closet and get dressed in workout clothes. Then I brush my teeth and cleanse my face thoroughly (this step has been a game changer for clear skin versus just splashing with water). After that, I’ll use a light toner. I don’t do my full routine here because I work out and shower again.

What does your morning, pre-work routine look like?

Once I’m dressed, I put my sneakers on and head downstairs. Nate will greet me with a delicious espresso shot and I’ll have it over oat milk with some Texas lavender honey. 

Then, I fill up my water bottle, drink a big gulp and roll out my mat. The longer I think about it, the more I’ll procrastinate, so I just press play on my laptop and get after the next HomeBodies workout I’m doing. I haven’t gone to a gym in four years and there are no signs of going back. It’s such a time-saver!

Once I finish working out, I shower and go through my skincare routine. But before going downstairs to start my work day, I will do a Joe Dispenza meditation ranging from 15-30 minutes. It makes such a huge difference in the trajectory of my day. My creativity will be on point, I will feel at ease with work, deal with anxiety better, and just overall feel joy that day. Since meditating consistently for over 10 months, I have so much more clarity around my goals and outlook on life.

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish.

• First I cleanse my skin with the gentle cleanser from Face Reality.
• Then I’ll go in with a double cleanse and use Sunday Riley.
• I use Perricone MD Plasma Plus toner.
• Then it’s the Youth to the People hyaluronic acid [moisturizer].
• Face Reality gel moisturizer.
• Face Reality SPF.

Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser

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Ultra Gentle Cleanser, $28

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Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip French Green Clay Cleanser

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Ceramic Slip French Green Clay Cleanser, $35

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Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ The Essence

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Cold Plasma Plus+ The Essence, $179

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Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Lightweight Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid

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Superfood Air-Whip Lightweight Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid, $48

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Face Reality Hydrabalance Hydrating Gel

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Hydrabalance Hydrating Gel, $26

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Face Reality Daily SPF 30 Lotion

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Daily SPF 30 Lotion, $30

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What will we always find in your refrigerator?

Tubs and tubs of cottage cheese (Nate’s secret protein weapon), miso paste, fresh farmer’s market meats, and kimchi without fail.

What are your morning rituals? 

Make my bed, get dressed, have coffee, workout, meditate, skincare, eat breakfast, then work.

What are your favorite books?

• Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself
• Atomic Habits
• The Power of Less

What’s always on your nightstand?

A scrunchie, dried-up contacts here and there (what! I’m being real), headlamp in case we lose power (it doesn’t happen often but it does), AirPods for PM meditations before bed.

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack?

Anything I can sing along to. I love listening to Rihanna radio on Spotify when I’m getting ready!

Do you work out in the morning?

I do HomeBodies PERSIST workouts. It’s a one-year program that drops new strength and conditioning workouts three times a week. They usually range from 30-40 minutes long and they are potent!

What’s your daily uniform?

• Vuori Yosemite Bra
• Vuori Daily Legging
• The Upside Sweatshirt
• SeaVees Slippers 
• Corkcicle Waterbottle

Vuori Yosemite Bra

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Yosemite Bra, $58

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Vuori Daily Legging

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Daily Legging, $89

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The Upside Saturn Crew

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Saturn Crew, $139.99

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SeaVees SeaChange Slipper

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SeaChange Slipper, $60

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Corckcicle Classic Canteen

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Classic Canteen 25 oz, $34.95

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If you had one extra hour every morning, how would you use it? 

I’d go outside and see all the animals on the ranch! That’s one thing I haven’t hard-scheduled into my morning routine even though I live on a ranch with 80 sheep, 17 chickens, five goats, two donkeys, four dogs, two pigs, and a cow. It would be so great to go on morning feedings with my partner Nate not just at sunset.

What are one or two things you do every day to live a more present life?

I practice being present during my meditation by opening up my awareness. In doing so I feel the energy of JOY and it’s actually my favorite practice because I’ll start bursting into laughter or tears of joy. It’s helped me become more mindful and grateful in my present life as well. 

If you could pin your success down to one thing, what would that be?

PERSEVERANCE. Showing up day after day especially on days you don’t feel like it… because if you master that resistance you’ll become unstoppable! I became a full-time content creator after 5+ years of consistently putting out content rain or shine. Nate and I built a 365-day workout program and started our business HomeBodies together by showing up every day in 2020 when all gyms were closed to work out with everyone. 

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: my water bottle.

If there were more hours in the day, I would: spend more time looking out into the horizon.

Healthiest morning habit: meditation.

Worst morning habit: checking my phone.

One thing I want to be known for is: making people’s lives brighter.

The one thing I fear the most: nail picking.

When I feel that fear, I: cringe lol.

The book I always recommend: Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself.

One trait you need to succeed in life is: unshakeable discipline.

Bath or shower? And what’s your favorite shower/bath product? Shower—eucalyptus hanging on the shower head.

The post Remi Ishizuka on Fitness, Farming, and Finding Joy After Hitting Rock Bottom appeared first on Camille Styles.

It’s a cliché for a reason: the 9-5 desk employee yearning for a workday of inspiration—the freedom to set your schedule to align with your energy, daily rhythms, and whims. And while the fantasy remains, few of us ever act on our desire. Of course, there’s a trusting leap from security that comes with stepping away from the corporate sphere. But by trusting yourself and believing in your talents, the dream of sharing your perspective through your chosen medium can become a reality. That’s a truth and a journey that artist Aileen Fitzgerald knows well.

Though before transitioning into her life and career as a painter, Aileen’s days weren’t tied to the repetitive cadence of the 40-hour workweek. Before becoming an artist, Aileen worked as a nurse. And though the schedule was unpredictable at times, it organized her days into the common divide between work and life.

Aileen Fitzgerald on Finding the Simple, Innate Beauty in Every Day

Now, as an artist and the owner of a small business, creating separation between her work and her life has evolved into a tricky balance. Because when you pour your passions and perspective onto the canvas, the simultaneous pleasure and challenge can be all-encompassing. So much so, that you can’t step away.

But step away, Aileen does. She’s the certain sort of creative who understands that inspiration can come from every experience, no matter how minute. Aileen makes time for morning bike rides, reading, swimming, playing with her daughter, and gathering with her family.

At the core of it all is a deeply felt love for moments of connection—the “cherished moments” and conversations that fill her with their simple, undeniable beauty.

We spoke with Aileen about how she navigates her days and creates space to put herself in the path of inspiration at every turn. The conversation was enough to convince us: the artist’s life isn’t inherently beautiful. It takes work and perspective to find those things you connect with, the people you love, and the moments that leave you in awe.

What’s the first thing you do each morning?

Meet whichever primal need comes first to mind—hunger, sex, or relieve my bladder! 

Tell us about your life as an artist, what does a typical day look like? 

Each day is different as I juggle painting time and administrative work. My ideal artist’s day starts with a bike ride to my downtown studio. I try to complete my least favorite tasks first—this typically involves time on the computer. The sooner I can wrap up emails and orders, the faster I can set the scene to paint for the remainder of the day!

What’s something you’re committed to doing every single day, no matter what? 

Finding adventure or wonder throughout my day. It can be as commonplace as a different turn on my bike route, as grand as a spontaneous trip to the river, and as minute as finding a snail shell to show my daughter. It all feels on a similar scale to me, really. It comes naturally now and makes for high contentment.

How does the design of your space reflect your priorities and goals? 

I am massively affected by my environment (at home and at work). I’ve always believed your space is a physical reflection of your energy. I prefer to feel primarily soothed, which for me means “light and bright” in my design. The stimulation in my studio is low and soft, and I direct this energy into my paintings.

Casa Zuma Las Flores Vase

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Are there any daily or weekly chores you always enjoy?

Yard work! Hands down my favorite. There’s something about getting your fingers and nails into the earth that’s quite grounding. My daughter and I are often outside, so including her in watering or planting is always a joy.

Do you have a favorite scent?

I’m still figuring out what scents I enjoy the most. I’m constantly burning through candles and enjoy a different scent each time. 

How does music play a part in your daily life?

I love music during my commute because it starts my day with singing and dancing. I’ll play a variety of music when painting—you’ll hear 6lack, Brothers Osborne, Khrangbin, Nathaniel Rateliff, H.E.R., Ryan Bingham, Celeste, FKJ… I enjoy all kinds and the hours painting fly by.

How do you keep yourself energized throughout the day? 

If I need a dose of energy, I take a quick walk outside the studio. Austin’s downtown business district is always bustling and I come back feeling quite energized. It also doesn’t hurt to have Houndstooth [Coffee] right down the street.

Where do you turn for inspiration when you’re feeling creatively blocked? 

Offline, always. Feeling blocked doesn’t occur too often because I implement my go-to inspirations on a daily or weekly basis: grounding myself in nature, strolling through an antique mall, and flipping through vintage design/art/photography books.

How do you prioritize health and wellness?

Once you find the things that consistently feel good to you, you tend to pick them. I like to feel good! I enjoy meal prepping to make easy meals for the week. It takes two minutes to make a nutritious meal when you’ve spent one hour on a Sunday to prepare. It’s even more rewarding when the ingredients are from the Sunday farmer’s market. I enjoy moving my body most by riding my bike. My commute to work via bike is the best 30 minutes of my day!

What’s the best career advice anyone has ever given you? 

I honestly don’t know. I went against the career advice of many of those closest to me when I switched careers, and it was a really difficult time. I’ve gone against artist career advice and implemented practices that best support my energy and process. I think the best overall life advice I’ve ever heard and will offer is “energy is currency.”

What has surprised you the most about being an artist?

How deeply connecting it is. I used to fear that switching my career from nursing to painting would mean giving up my most cherished moments with people. I’ve been so surprised to learn how much vulnerability is a part of being an artist. The connections and conversations I’ve had leave me awestruck. 

How would you describe your work/life balance?

It was much easier to keep things separate when I was working as a nurse. I’d clock out and leave my work at work. “Work” thoughts are constantly on my mind as an artist and owner of a small business. Once dinner time rolls around though, I’m ready to enjoy cooking/reading/time with my people.

What’s the best spot in your house?  

Home: the backyard. I consider this my outdoor living room. If I’m working from home, you’ll find me at my café table outside working. Completing emails while surrounded by bamboo and flowers is the ultimate balance.

Studio: I recently had a new window installed in the back room of the studio, and the sun patch that pours in is the coziest spot to work in.

Name one fashion or self-care product you can’t live without: 

My vintage jewelry cuff. I can’t remember the last time I ever took it off my wrist, so it’s a part of my body now.

You need to unwind after a long day. What’s your go-to method? 

WINE. Just kidding, a walk around the neighborhood. But a glass of wine while cooking a delicious meal doesn’t hurt.

What’s your favorite time of day and why?

Early morning. I wake up early enough to pack lunches and get ready before my daughter wakes up… and try to spend at least 30 minutes hanging out with myself. My introverted self thrives if I start the day with reading or outside.

The post “Energy Is Currency”—Painter Aileen Fitzgerald Shares the Daily Rituals That Keep Her Inspired appeared first on Camille Styles.

Roti Brown knows the beauty of a quiet routine. She allows her mornings to open organically, creating space for the rituals her mind, body, and spirit crave before she slips into her day. This can be as simple as sipping a glass of water, or as impactful as a morning workout. But whatever her early hours bring, there remains a single consistency: Roti Brown always prioritizes what makes her feel good.

In our mile-a-minute world, the ability to carve out time for ourselves can seem like a luxury. But in an effort to protect our days, we’d argue it’s a necessity. Through the way Roti moves throughout her morning, it’s evident that she shares our sentiment. And for all you skeptics, don’t worry: her work has only benefited from the time she’s given back to herself.

As a creator, Roti is mindful of the balance between seeking out external inspiration and turning inward for answers. She embraces a slow morning and recognizes the time that she spends before opening her computer is sacred. But still, like the most refreshing and authentic among us, her intentions are met with a healthy dose of 2023 reality. She *sometimes* resists the pull of social media and keeps her habits simple. Oh, and she knows the importance of a weekly, fresh bouquet.

Step Inside Roti Brown’s Creative World

That’s because Roti Brown is aware of the simple little details that make life all the more beautiful. She seeks quiet and pauses to appreciate the magic of fresh air. And of course, Roti knows that simply stepping into the kitchen—and taking on a new dish—is a recipe for growth.

If you’re wondering how you can find more time for yourself throughout the day, Roti’s routine is bound to spark ideas. Read on to discover the rituals that ground her days in creative bliss.

How do you start each morning?

I try my best to stay off Instagram first thing in the morning. Instead, I like to pick up a book to start my day. I usually make a matcha and head out for a morning walk or to an exercise class. I try to make the first part of my morning routine about me. I take the time to do what I need before focusing on work or outside requests. I love a slow morning and think of the time before I open my computer as sacred. It’s a small way for me to recharge before getting busy for the day. 

I try to make the first part of my morning routine about me.

What’s something you’re committed to doing every single day, no matter what?

Drinking water and spending a good amount of time getting fresh air. 

Recycled Glass Tumbler, Set of 4

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How does the design of your space reflect your priorities and goals? 

I love finding inspiration in my environment—tranquility, warmth, and a balance of beauty and simplicity are important to me. I tried my best to make sure they shine through in my studio.

I’m also deeply inspired by nature and pulled a lot of my favorite elements into the design process. Wood, stone, and neutral tones played a big role in the overall design. 

In terms of my goals, I’m a content creator by trade, so it’s a plus to be in a space that naturally encourages me to capture its beautiful moments. I strive to be authentic in the things I share and the work I put out.  I want to share the things that make me feel something, the things that speak to me—creating inside Somi [my photo studio] really makes that easy for me.

Are there chores you actually look forward to doing? 

Not at all a chore, but I go to the flower market every week and pick out a new set of fresh flowers for my house. It’s a small thing I do for myself that I look forward to all week long. 

What are your favorite scents?

I’m not really one for meditation, but the smell of things cooking relaxes me. That might sound strange, but I’m always making a lot of stews and soups with warm spices—recipes that require time and layers of flavor to come together. I like to get lost in a book or sometimes go down an endless social media scroll while waiting for the ding of the timer to go off. 

I do think there’s some nostalgia there. My family is from a small island called Tobago where stews like curry are a big part of the culture. Those dishes have always been my favorite thing to eat and cook, so even the smells relax me and make me feel grounded. 

I love gathering with people I care about, I love the conversations that come so easily with food as a lubricant, I love connecting with new cultures and sharing mine through food, and I especially love cooking as a love language. 

What role does food play in your daily life? 

A huge role. Three of my favorite things to do are cooking, eating, and dining. For me, food is about so much more than sustenance. I love gathering with people I care about, I love the conversations that come so easily with food as a lubricant, I love connecting with new cultures and sharing mine through food, and I especially love cooking as a love language. 

Gathering Board

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How do you keep yourself energized throughout the day? 

By scheduling breaks, otherwise I burn out early in the day and don’t get anything done. 

Where do you turn for inspiration when you’re feeling creatively blocked?

Typically I like to turn to nature. Something about being in a beautiful landscape feels like a creative reset. 

But when I’m experiencing a more intense creative block, I like to take up a passion project. That’s actually what pushed me to create my photo studio, Somi. During the pandemic, I was burned out. I had exhausted my creative muscles and wasn’t sure how to get back to loving my creative process. Taking on a renovation project that I had my hands in from start to finish was so helpful in reigniting my creative spark. I’m really excited to be sharing Somi with everyone now that it’s finished! 

What do you do to prioritize health and wellness?

Reading, exercising, and scheduling downtime.

What’s the best career advice anyone ever gave you?

A long time ago, a mentor told me to value the power of momentum. They encouraged me by saying that whatever I wanted to do, I should just get started and keep going. I love that advice, because looking back, the small steps I took toward my goals played a huge role in where I am now. 

How would you describe your work/life balance? Do you keep things structured and separate, or are you a master of multitasking? 

I’d say this is a balance I’m still trying to find. For now, it looks like micro boundaries. Some days I sleep with my phone in another room so I can’t check emails or go on Instagram late at night/early in the morning. 

What’s the best spot in your house? Why? 

I’m often found sitting on my couch, feet up on the coffee table, swallowed in a blanket. It’s cozy and warm (which is great because I’m perpetually cold) and there’s a view of the backyard to my right and a skylight directly above me. 

Name one food or kitchen item you can’t live without.

Probably curry powder or my Instapot. I use both in (almost) every recipe. 

What’s your go-to method for unwinding after a long day?

Phone on Do not Disturb, dim lighting, and soft music. After running around all day, I’m really good at doing nothing for a little bit. 

What’s your favorite time of day and why?

Sunset when I have time to enjoy the view. If not, I do love mornings. I think it’s the quiet and the cool air. 

For more inspiration to help you establish supportive rirutals, watch Camille take you through her time-stamped morning routine.

The post Slow and Sacred—How Content Creator Roti Brown Crafts a Morning of Simple Rituals appeared first on Camille Styles.

Starting each new morning with a warm drink is one of life’s simple pleasures—and it’s a ritual that’s shared by cultures around the world. Whether you’re a coffee, tea, or lemon water enthusiast, there’s something about the repetition of preparing your warm bev of choice and settling into a favorite spot to enjoy it that’s so grounding. (In fact, it’s this simple act that inspired the Ritual Mug, our first Casa Zuma product!) Matcha, a Japanese green tea powder that dates back to the 12th century, is a much-loved tradition I wanted to learn more about. I was intrigued by its reported health benefits, but had had some not-so-great matcha experiences at local coffee shops. After talking to some of my matcha-loving friends, it became clear that learning how to make a matcha latté at home is the key to fully appreciating a cup. And I knew just which friend to ask for her go-to recipe.

Jules Acree is a digital creator and matcha-loving entrepreneur. She promised that her lightly-sweet and comforting hot matcha latté is incredibly easy to make at home, so I spent a cozy afternoon in her light-filled kitchen in Austin so she could teach me her ways. Jules says that she likes to make her matcha lattés at home so she can use a ceremonial-grade matcha and control the level of sweetness. Scroll on for her simple method—she shares how to prevent clumps and get that frothy, barista-style finish.

Spice Bowl

This handcrafted spice bowl is the perfect vessel for sugar or spices with its rounded shape, pebbled matte finish, and tiny wood spoon for scooping.

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Casa Zuma Spice Bowl and Spoon

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A brief history of matcha

Before learning about how to make matcha, I did a little research and found out that in the 16th century, matcha was discovered in China by a Buddhist monk, who brought it to Japan. The monk noticed that drinking matcha madre him feel more calm and alert, thereby improving his meditation sessions. As these benefits (which we now know are from matcha’s caffeine and L-theanine) became more widely known, it became the basis for Japanese Tea Ceremonies.

Health benefits of matcha

From Jules: Matcha is extremely high in antioxidants. It has caffeine, but because it’s paired with the amino acid l-theanine, it has a more calming effect on the mind and body than coffee. The result is a more sustained energy without the dreaded caffeine crash.

What does matcha taste like?

It depends on the quality of the matcha used, but it should have an earthy savory taste with a bit of nuttiness.

How do you make a matcha latté at home?

• First, sift your matcha powder to eliminate clumps.
• Spoon the sifted powder into a mug, and add hot water. Quickly whisk in a zig-zag motion until frothy—about 30 seconds.
• Add your milk, sweetener, and salt, and whisk again.

Scroll to the bottom of this post for the recipe card, and a DIY matcha video from Jules.

What type of milk works best in matcha:

Feel free to use your milk of choice—any type works great, but I prefer one that creates a nice foam in my frother. I like cashew milk and sometimes I use hazelnut rice milk… it can be paired with whatever you like best.

Do you add sweetener?

It depends on my mood—sometimes I add maple and a little salt.

The Ritual Mug

Holding this mug in our hands each morning serves as our daily reminder to slow down and be present.

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Casa Zuma Ritual Mug

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What should I look for when buying matcha powder?

I personally get mine from brands that source in Japan. Organic is not always necessary because Japan has higher standards for farming and sometimes these smaller farms can’t afford to pay for the certification.

You want a brand that tests for heavy metals since matcha leaf is grown in ground and we consume the whole leaf (matcha is green tea leaves mashed up into a fine powder). Also, matcha that isn’t bright green is not good quality, so keep an eye out for color.

The Gathering Board

Handmade in Seattle from Walnut (large board) and Oak (small board), it’s an all-in-one cutting board, serving board, and stylish display object for the kitchen counter.

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Casa Zuma Gathering Board

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Is it worth it to buy ceremonial-grade matcha?

Yes! The taste and antioxidants found in ceremonial-grade matcha make it well worth the price.

Organic Matcha

Crisp, aromatic, and flavorful, Ippodo Tea’s Organic Matcha is top quality. Its bright green and vibrant nature means it’s full of life and ideally light for everyday sipping.

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Ippodo Tea Organic Matcha

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Why use a matcha whisk?

Using a matcha whisk to mix the matcha with the hot water is the best method for eliminating clumps, and it keeps us rooted in matcha’s origins—it’s an important part of the ritual.

How do I make an iced matcha latté without clumps?

Sift your matcha, and then vigorously whisk it. You’ll want to whisk in a zig-zag pattern, not a circle. Your whisk will get those clumps out so you can then pour it over ice and enjoy.

The post Skip the Coffee Run—Here’s How to Make a Matcha Latté At Home appeared first on Camille Styles.

Conversation with Riley Reed is something to savor. “While I’m a photographer, I am very inspired by words,” she says over a cup of coffee in her South Austin home. She reflects, adding thoughtfully, “In fact, many of the images I’ve created have begun with words.

The founder of Woke Beauty, everything she does serves one powerful intention: to raise our ideas about beauty to new levels of consciousness. She brings a calm, focused honesty to any subject. It’s a signature approach on which she’s built an elegant and free-flowing career. You can listen to Riley interview writers and activists on her podcast, catch her moderating panels of beauty industry disruptors, or even book her for a session of therapeutic photography.

She’s one of the most inspiring people we know (and the first person we asked to interview for this series). Read on to discover the rituals that infuse Riley’s life with beauty.

How do you start each morning?

I take a few moments to think of how grateful I am to be here: here on earth, here in my home, here during this season of life, here with my body and my mind.

Casa Zuma The Ritual Mug

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How does the design of your space reflect your priorities and goals? 

What you value is what you see. I think it is interesting and important to take stock of what you have displayed in your environment. In every single room of our home, you will find books. Many of them are memoirs, slices of literature, symbols of design, nature, remedies, commitments to social justice, and stories on love, loss, growth, and all the things human in between. 

I have a deep love for beauty, nature, and the little things. I covet trinkets gifted from family and friends. I enjoy discovering new visual artists, collecting art abroad, and finding ways to bring nature into the home, whether through dried florals gathered down the street, pebbles found on the Gulf, or wind monsteras from our local nursery. 

What’s the best spot in your house? 

Definitely our couch. 18 months ago, when couches were all on backorder, I rented a U-Haul and went down to San Marcos, determined to find a couch at one of the outlets. Low and behold, I happened upon a brand-new Cloud Collection couch at the Restoration Hardware outlet. It had just been dropped off as a return, marked down 50%, and I was ecstatic. It has become the staple centerpiece of our living room and is one of the most comfortable items of furniture I have ever sat (re: laid) on.

How would you describe your work/life balance? Do you keep things structured and separate? Or are you a master of multitasking? 

I have certain boundaries in place to help me stay focused and to remind myself that no one part of my life is dependent on another. Those include things like a Notion template (thanks Jules Acree!), an office, a ‘do not disturb’ timer on my phone, and clear communication with those I love.

However, truth be told, my work and life are pretty blended. I don’t see how they couldn’t be. I don’t have a board of advisors so my husband, family, and friends are who I go to for advice and feedback. My writing and my photography are both deeply personal and dependent on who I am as a person, what I care about, and how I want to engage the community. My podcast oftentimes focuses on mental health and features guests I genuinely look up to (in both work and life). There isn’t a straightforward answer here, which feels on par for being a socially conscious artist a solopreneur. 

Where do you turn for inspiration when you’re feeling creatively blocked?

A creative block generally equates to inertia. If I feel like I’m in that space, I take myself outside somewhere beautiful where I can hike, read someone else’s lived experience on a bench, witness massive trees and delicate flowers, or lie in a patch of grass. I deeply value nature and the feeling of being small.

What are your favorite scents?

One of my closest friends, Cassie, is an apothecarist and has an acclaimed collection called High Sun Low Moon, found in boutiques transnationally. She has two loose incense blends: High Sun which encapsulates yang energy with a bright and clearing aroma and Low Moon which honors yin energy with a sensual and velvety aroma. I use both equally depending on my mood.

Are there chores you actually look forward to doing? 

When I was little, my main household chore was laundry. I’ve always considered folding clothes an art form and, much like making a bed, something that should be done with purpose and gratitude. My mom taught me that clothes can last forever so long as they’re cared for properly. Knowing that textiles make up a shocking percentage of waste, I go the extra mile to pay attention to materials, labels, and to hang dry when necessary.

I love the sound of the washing machine, the scent of detergent, and the feeling of warm towels.

What’s the one beauty product you can’t live without?

Promise perfume by Dominique Ropion in collaboration with Frédéric Malle. I discovered Frédéric Malle’s perfumery in New York City after modeling in a campaign. The hair stylist on set was wearing Portrait of a Lady and I was mesmerized by the notes. The boutique was gorgeous and moody. There were a plethora of scents created in partnership with Frédéric Malle from all over the world.

I spritzed Promise on one of my wrists before getting a glass of wine with my husband next door to sit with it. Multiple people asked me what I was wearing. It spoke to the power of perfume as an integration with one’s own aura and Ropion’s philosophy: “A good perfume,” he likes to say, “must always appear obvious.” 

Frédéric Malle is one of my teachers. He believes in providing everyone with the opportunity to find the perfume that connects with their personality. His perfume bottles have no marketing, no famous ambassadors, nor launch events. He invests in what’s inside. He gives perfumers total freedom—considering himself an editor, and his perfumists writers—and even has a map that visually describes the different characteristics of all the perfumes he offers. Promise is considered equally the deepest and darkest of them all. I like to think it is a reminder of my threshold for others’ needs, no matter how difficult, and my willingness to go great lengths, no matter how far.

Does music play a part in your daily life? How? 

I listen to it every day. I turn it on during photo sessions, I use it to set the mood for cleaning, driving, and hanging out with friends. I even love some good lo-fi beats for focusing during work.

What’s your go-to method for unwinding after a long day?

Lighting a candle, making a nourishing meal, and spending time with my dogs and my husband.

What’s the best wellness advice anyone ever gave you?

I lived with my grandma for a summer after my first year of college. We used to go on long walks in her neighborhood in Santa Barbara. She would always remind me to breathe in the fresh air, to honor all of the living things, and to take ownership over my own energetic effect on the environment. That summer and those teachings symbolize the best piece of advice she’s ever given me: “We are mostly not physical.”

I remind myself often that the quality of being well is determined by factors I can’t see.

What’s the best career advice anyone ever gave you?

Rejection has always been hard for me to handle. I can easily fall into the hole of thinking that my worth is determined by outside factors and external parties. But that involves pouring a lot of time into appeasing others, attributing value to contracts that aren’t my own, and attaching myself to brands whose priority is themselves.

I had a phone call with my dad once after receiving an email that made me feel really small. I was in tears, frustrated and disappointed. My dad told me that I was forgetting my own worth, that I was ignoring the viability of a brand and business I had created out of thin air. He said three words that I have ingrained into my ethos: “Bet on you.”

What’s something you’re committed to doing every single day, no matter what?

Telling my husband I love him.

What’s your favorite time of day and why?

My favorite time of the day is dawn. I love how slow and still it feels. It remains the quietest time of day and offers space to be totally free to do whatever I want. There is so little that can interrupt me and so few things that can distract me. Even the trees seem like they’re still sleeping. 

The post “What You Value Is What You See” How Riley Reed Creates Ritual in Her Everyday Routines appeared first on Camille Styles.

Alexandra Valenti’s East Austin studio is a sanctuary of flow. It’s a place where emotion and memory take shape in vibrant color. The light-filled space is where the longtime photographer first began experimenting with paint five years ago. Admired for her sophisticated use of color and form, Alexandra now creates large-scale paintings full time.

You can feel the heartbeat of her work. There’s a playful freedom that makes each piece feel intimate and unique. Picasso once famously said, “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.” Alexandra embodies this ethos as a prolific artist who continues to bravely evolve. She is always in motion, always experimenting, always playing. Read on to discover the rituals that help this painter find her flow each day.

What’s something you’re committed to doing every single day, no matter what? 

Sleeping well. 7-8 hours a night. Nothing good or productive happens when I don’t get a good night’s sleep. I bought an Oura Ring a few months ago, and I nerd out on it all the time. The first thing I look at when I wake up is my sleep score. 

How does the design of your studio reflect your priorities and goals? 

The studio is an open space. The center of it has two work benches with paint supplies, and one part is for administrative priorities. The walls are covered with paintings. This is to say, the entire space is just about making work. And my goals are just that simple. Make art every day. 

The Ritual Mug, Casa Zuma

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What’s the first thing you do when you arrive to the studio? 

Answer emails (boring!) and then I start painting. 

Are there any daily or weekly tasks at the studio you always enjoy?  

I try to keep the studio as organized and clean as I can. I straighten up frequently and water my plants. It helps me think clearly. The fantasy of a messy artist’s studio doesn’t work for me. 

What’s your favorite scent?

I have a favorite candle from Carrière Frères. I love the Lycopersicon Esculentum Tomato candle.

Does music play a part in your daily life? How?

Definitely. I go through phases. This week it’s been Harry Nillson, last week it was The Beastie Boys. The week before it was The Elvis Soundtrack. And I do listen to a ton of podcasts. So it varies, as you can tell. 

How do you keep yourself energized throughout the day? 

Exercise. Mostly weight training and yoga. And my morning smoothie which has a ridiculous amount of stuff in it. 

Where do you turn for inspiration when you’re feeling creatively blocked? 

I take a step back and try not to force it. That usually means that I’ll leave the studio and do something to get me out of my head. Go for a walk, get a massage, do a yoga nidra meditation. I’ll lean into self-care stuff which allows me to relax.

Most creative blocks come from feeling tense and constricted, i.e., no flow—and flow state is the goal. But the best way to kick me out of creative stagnation is to travel. I went to NYC in July, walked eight miles a day, and went to see every museum show I could. I couldn’t wait to come back home to paint—it completely invigorated me.

What’s the best wellness advice anyone ever gave you?

Be committed and be consistent. Because it’s all cumulative. So whether it’s supplements or exercise or meditation, nothing happens overnight. 

What’s the best career advice anyone ever gave you?

Be committed and be consistent! 

It’s really as simple as that. Show up to the studio every day, put in the time, and put as much care and attention toward your work as you can. There’s no quick fix, no overnight success. And also: make sure you love what you do. If you don’t, you probably won’t show up at all. 

How would you describe your work/life balance? Do you keep things structured and separate? Or are you a master of multitasking?

I thrive with structure. So I keep my work/life separate and I keep regular “work hours.” After I leave the studio, I try not to think about the work. Usually I will go home, or go to a class, make dinner, be with friends, then in bed by 10:30 p.m. Sometimes before bed, I’ll open up my iPad, import a photo of a painting I had been working on that day and make notes so I know what I want to do the next day.

Giving myself some space gives me clarity. 

What’s the best spot in your studio? Why? 

It’s an open space, but I would say the couches by the large open windows that look out onto the courtyard. 

What’s your go-to method for unwinding after a long day?

Swimming with my dog, Buck Henry. 

What’s your favorite time of day and why? 

Early morning. It’s quiet, it’s coffee time, and it’s full of possibilities. 

The post “Be Committed and Be Consistent”—Painter Alexandra Valenti on Following Your Inspiration Every Day appeared first on Camille Styles.