If you’re searching for a living, breathing example of what it means to have “good energy,” let me introduce you to Radhi Devlukia. After our first five minutes together, I felt myself fully embracing her contagious zest for life. It’s clear that Radhi is excited by the everyday, but she also radiates the calm energy of someone who’s truly comfortable in her own skin, giving you permission to take a deep exhale and be fully yourself in her presence.

When you enter the Los Angeles home that Radhi shares with her husband, Jay Shetty, you feel the gentle California breeze blowing through the open doors and windows. A candle perfumes the air with a spa-like scent, and the multitude of plants throughout the space bring nature in. As she showed our team around her space, it was evident that Radhi felt a true connection with every thoughtfully-designed item in the home. She’s beautifully integrated her family, spirituality, and heritage throughout every element of the life she’s created, and our entire team walked away feeling inspired to bring such an intentional approach to our own daily lives.

Radhi shares her wisdom for living a glowing life in the Spring Issue of our magazine, The EDIT! Read it here.

Scroll on for Radhi Devlukia’s morning routine.

Radhi Devlukia Shares Her Intentional Morning Rituals

Born and raised in the UK, the rich traditions of her Indian culture played a significant role in shaping Radhi’s path toward wellness from an early age, leading her to develop a deep appreciation for the mind-body connection and igniting her curiosity for culinary exploration. If you’re one of the millions of fans of Radhi’s recipes and mindfulness practices, let me assure you: her radiant spirit is as genuine in real life as it is on Instagram.

The girl glows—and she fully practices the healthy, happy lifestyle that she preaches. Read on for my conversation with Radhi Devlukia. We talk about leading an intentional life, and the release of her very first cookbook, Joyfull.

How has your background influenced the way you integrate wellness and cooking?

There’s one quote that I would say gave me the push I needed to start sharing what I had learned and was learning with the world online. It’s a quote by a spiritual teacher His Holiness Radhanath Swami where he said “Knowledge is useless unless it is shared.”

I realized how lucky I was to have grown up in a culture where we had delicious, vibrant, and abundant plant-based meals, to have been taught by such incredible teachers, and to have found and studied Ayurveda and holistic wellness. I felt the best way I can show gratitude for that is to share it with others. I saw how much it changed not only my health but my whole life, and I wanted everyone to be able to experience the same joy and change I felt. 

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

It has been constant learning. If you’re an entrepreneur and working for yourself, it’s not always glamorous—you have to be able to do everything. You get to understand your entire business from the foundation because you have to do things from scratch. 

When you’re an entrepreneur you are choosing the path of what you want to do, so even when it’s hard and exhausting—it’s YOURS and there is so much passion, dedication, and motivation.

What has been your biggest learning over the past year? 

To face my fears. Taking on the things I’ve been avoiding out of fear. And it made me realize that when you familiarize yourself with something, it becomes less scary.

Let’s get into your morning routine. What does a typical day look like for you? 

5:00 am. Wake up, brush teeth, scrape tongue, and stand on my marma mat.

5:30-7:00 a.m. Make CCF tea (cumin, coriander, fennel) and take it to the mediation area, where I do breath work and mantra meditation.

7:00 a.m. Work out—either weight training with Louise Hazel at Slay Gym or cardio. 

8:30 a.m. Shower (body scrub), and then I do an abhyanga massage using herbal oils and massaging the entire body. This helps your lymphatic system to drain toxins and helps calm the nervous system. 

9:00 a.m. Breakfast—usually a protein shake and hummus avo toast with sprouts, and start the work day with my team!

What time is your wake-up call? And how much sleep do you usually get? 

Wake up at 5 a.m., usually 7.5 hours of sleep.

What are your beauty must-haves?

Osea Ocean Cleansing Milk

$54 at Ulta Beauty

The Organic Skin Co. Set the Tone Hydrating Rose Mist Toner

$24.99 at Target

The Organic Skin Co. Vitamin Sea Serum

$34.99 at Macy's

Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream

$69 at Ulta Beauty

True Botanicals Renew Chebula Active Serum

$90 at Credo

Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum

$15.99 at Target

Live Tinted Hueguard

$34 at Ulta Beauty

Lip Sleeping Mask

$24 at Laneige

Age Defense Vitamins

$49.99 at Inner Glow Vitamins

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream 30ml

$190 at Dermstore

Shani Darden Intensive Eye Renewal Cream

$69 at Sephora

What do you eat for breakfast?

A protein smoothie and usually a toast, like this hummus toast from Joyfull.

Get Radhi’s Hummus Toast Recipe

What will we always find in your refrigerator? 

Pepperoncinis, tofu, fresh herbs, and all the condiments like sauces, dips, ketchup, and English mustard.

What are your favorite books? 

Spiritual Warrior by Bhakti Tirtha Swami and The Journey Home by Radhanath Swami, Bhagavad Gita.

What’s always on your nightstand?

Peppermint Halo Essential Oil

$33 at Saje

Stress Release Essential Oil

$33 at Saje

Restore 3

$169 at Hatch

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack? 

Jahnavi Harrison—Rise and 2000’s Bollywood Hits.

What’s your daily uniform?

I work from home, so usually sweats or workout shorts and an oversized vintage t-shirt.

5″ Airlift Energy Short

$78 at Alo

Airlift Intrigue Bra

$68 at Alo

Core Sweatpant

$65 at Elwood Clothing

Empathy Always® Grey Crewneck

$98 at The Mayfair Group

What are some things you do every day to live a more joyful life?

• Breathwork 
• Go outside and feel the sunrise or sunset 
• Make time for family connection 

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

Having a spiritual practice expands my capacity to give, and the more you give, the more you get back from the universe.

Sentence Finishers

I never leave the house without: lipstick or peppermint hal.

If there were more hours in the day, I would: study 

Healthiest morning habit: CCF or meditation 

Worst morning habit: checking my phone 

One thing I want to be known for is: helping people connect back to themselves and understand themselves better 

The one thing I fear the most: not making the most out of the time you have with people. 

When I feel that fear: I plan time and take action. I find ways to make the moments special. 

The book I always recommend is: Bhagavad Gita

One trait you need to succeed in life is: Humility 

Bath or shower? Shower 

What’s your favorite shower product? True Botanicals Pure Radiance Sugar Exfoliating Body Scrub.

The post Radhi Devlukia Glows With Good Energy—And She’s Sharing It With the World appeared first on Camille Styles.

Every interview in our Wake Up Call series is an opportunity to go behind the scenes of our favorite women’s rituals and routines. We learn what keeps them inspired, engaged, grounded, and present. Whether it’s morning workouts, time with family, or a few moments of silence spent solo—it’s true that the AM hours impact how the rest of our day will unfold. Today’s feature feels extra special since I get to interview a personal friend, Odette Annable. (And yes, I’ve been wanting to know the secrets behind her morning routine forever.)

Odette and I met in 2020 just months before the pandemic, and hit it off within seconds. What I love most about Odette is that she cuts straight to the real talk, listens with a kind and open ear, and holds space for others to be themselves. Plus, she is hilarious and a true cheerleader of a friend. While I don’t get to see as much of this busy gal due to a full life as an actor and mom, we soak up every opportunity we have to connect.

Odette is currently spending time filming Walker and raising two beautiful girls, Charlie and Andi. Of course, there’s so much more that goes on in between, so we’re thrilled she gave us a peek into a day in her life. Trust me: you’ll be inspired.

Tell us about your career. What has life been like as an actor? 

I started my acting career at the ripe age of four. I’m not sure if having a camera in my face and performing at such a young age was an advantage or disadvantage. My parents did a beautiful job of balancing a normal childhood and allowing me to pursue my dreams in the acting world. I never felt pressured to go to an audition, and when it felt like too much, I would pull back and focus on friends and school.

I pride myself on my work ethic, showing up on time, being prepared, and giving it my all. Because of those things (and a little tenacity), I believe I have set myself up for success in this business. Working as an actor is my passion. I love showing up to work and I am still fascinated by movie making. I do not have a plan B, and in some ways because of that, I haven’t given myself another choice but to keep going. Being an entertainer comes with many downfalls. The rejection is real. It won’t stop. You have to get used to it and not take anything personally, but it’s still worth it to me to keep pursuing.

I haven’t given myself another choice but to keep going.

What has been your biggest learning over the past year? 

35 was the year of massive change and evolution for me. My entire life was uprooted and I moved to Texas. In many ways, I was rebuilding and pouring a new foundation. I am 38 now and this past year, the word “presence” has been highlighted over and over again. Change has not been easy for me—I am a creature of habit. I found myself trying to predict the future or anticipating what would come next, and I was simply missing the magic in front of me. Of course, learning to be present is difficult to master, but I am challenging myself this year to do a lot more of it. 

How would you describe your personal style? 

I am drawn to timeless pieces that stand the test of time. Raw, organic woods for my home. My heart will always be with neutrals, but lately, I am really drawn to mixing patterns, leaning into a little bit of the unexpected. You can always find me in a straight leg jean with a sweater draped over my shoulders and a good pair of boots. Ultimately, I am drawn to a balance of feminine and masculine. 

What time is your wake-up call?

I wake up between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m. That’s only because I have two small children, otherwise I would love to occasionally snooze past that if I were given the opportunity. The older I get, the more I realize that waking up early and seizing the morning is a powerful way to set yourself up for the most productive day. I need at least eight hours of sleep. If I have one minute less, you might want to steer clear. (Just ask my husband.) I am in bed around 8:00 p.m. and will fall asleep around 9:30 p.m. 

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

I make an English breakfast tea. Small pour of 2% milk with one Stevia. Always. 

What rituals set you up for success? 

I always feel the best version of myself when I make my bed first thing in the morning, drink a glass of water, apply my skin routine, and get dressed before I even walk of out my bedroom. I know that doing the small things that make me happy will always set me up for a successful morning. If I sleep in and try to rush through the morning routine, things will usually fall apart. One of my girls has severe ADHD and getting ready takes a bit longer. If we don’t allow ample time to get ready for school, we will inevitably be late. This is a consistent lesson that I keep learning. In my family we like to say, “Did you PPP?” Prior Planning Pays. Get as much prepared as you can the night before to set yourself up for the day. 

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish:

I start by washing my face with one of few cleansers that I rotate: Shani Darden cleansing serum, iS clinical cleansing complex, Ourself daily purifying cleanser. I love a gel cleanser that breaks down makeup efficiently without stripping your skin. All of these do exactly that.

Cleansing Serum

$38 at Shani Darden

iS Clinical Cleansing Complex

$48 at Bluemercury

Daily Purifying Cleanser

$55 at Ourself

Then I use the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta extra strength daily peel face pads, followed by the Advanced multi-perfecting red oil serum by an incredible Korean skincare line called Venn. I see the fantastic Brooke from The Road Acupuncture in Austin who transforms your skin through acupuncture and facial sculpting. She carries Venn, which has been my new favorite. 

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel

$153 at Dermstore

Venn Advanced Multi-Perfecting Red Oil Serum

$130 at Saks Fifth Avenue

What do you eat for breakfast?

Breakfast is the least exciting meal for me. I’m all about a decadent lunch or dinner. BUT… if I’m home, I will make some hard-boiled eggs and a quick smoothie for the whole family. I usually add spinach, frozen berries or mango, coconut milk, chia seeds, and a plant-based protein powder. Sometimes I’ll get crazy and add a nut butter and some flax and hemp seeds. I don’t use a recipe, I measure with my heart. 

What will we always find in your refrigerator? 

Cholula. Genoa Salami. Siete Tortillas. Come to think of it, you can make a nice snack out of those three.

What are your morning rituals? 

I’m going to be honest here. I fluctuate from being “on” and “way off” consistently. One of my goals for 2024 is to try some more consistent discipline. In an ideal world, I would wake up before the kids around 5:30 a.m. Drink a tall glass of chlorophyll water, meditate, and get a workout in. Either yoga or pilates. Make my to do list for the day, drink my tea, and crush. 

Unfortunately, I have yet to make that a consistent routine. Here’s to accountability this year and not being too hard on yourself if you slip. You can always start again. 

What are your favorite books? 

• The War of Art
• The Secret History
• The Four Agreements

What’s always on your nightstand?

A bottle of water, Thorne Vitamin D/K2 drops, RMS Lipnights overnight lip treatment, Osea anti-aging body balm, and Arrae Calm supplements that have magnesium and L-theanine to aid me to sleep. Just trust me on all of those. 

Thorne Vitamin D Liquid

$17 at Target

RMS Beauty Lipnights Overnight Lip Mask

$28 at Credo

Osea Anti-Aging Body Balm

$84 at Credo

Calm Supplements

$39 at Arrae

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack? 

Depends on my mood really. Here are some of my favorites: First Aid Kit Radio (I love a folk vibe). I also love Nora Jones, and if I’m feeling like having a little more energy, you bet I’m throwing on Harry Styles Radio. 

Do you work out in the morning? 

This past year, I started working with a personal trainer and it changed the game for me. This was an investment that was worth it because unless someone is holding me accountable, I have a really difficult time self-motivating. We started off with 45 minutes and then pulled back to 30-minute sessions which felt more realistic to me. I think if you can start off with something that doesn’t feel too overwhelming to you, then you will be more likely to achieve your goals. I also like to incorporate yoga, pilates, or a boxing class for some variation once a week. 

What’s your daily uniform?

My uniform includes jeans, a t-shirt, sweater, boots, ballet flats or loafers, and a great coat. 

Pima Boxy Crew

Buck Mason has my favorite tees. I have the black, white, and grey colorway in the Pima boxy crew and wear it multiple times a week. They have such a good fit. 

$45 at Buck Mason

Cashmere Fisherman Sweater

Jenni Kayne has the most beautiful sweaters. I love her cashmere Fisherman sweater for a good wardrobe staple. 

$425 at Jenni Kayne

Agolde 90s High-Rise Pinch-Waist Jeans

$188 at Saks Fifth Avenue

Babaton The Slouch Wool Coat

I just got the Babaton slouch coat in burnt cedar and love it. Timeless, well-priced, and chic. 

$398 at Aritzia

Jada Square Toe Ballet Flat

You will always find me wearing Freda Salvador shoes. Their ballet flats, boots, and loafers top my list every time.

$350 at Freda Salvador

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

Reading. I need to do more of it. I love a good book.

What do you do every day to live a more joyful life? 

I practice gratitude and try not to take anything for granted. I have worked hard for the beautiful things I have in my life. My marriage, my kids, my family, friends, my job, and so much more. I give thanks every single day because I know it can all be taken from me in an instant. 

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

I couldn’t possibly pin it down to one thing. I think success is a combo platter of discipline, perseverance, believing in yourself, not taking anything personally, and a little bit of luck. It takes a lot of hard work. If you put in the work, you will see success eventually. 

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: my phone. 

If there were more hours in the day, I would: sleep more.

Healthiest morning habit: waking up and saying thank you.

Worst morning habit: scrolling on my phone.

One thing I want to be known for is: a role model for my daughters.

The one thing I fear the most: whales. All whales! 

When I feel that fear: I stay on land.

The book I always recommend is: The War of Art.

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

Bath or shower? Shower. I do not take baths. 

What’s your favorite shower product? I love ROZ shampoo and conditioner. Hanni makes a great moisturizer that you apply in the shower so you step out already moisturized. This is a big deal for me because I’m always cold, so I’ll usually skip the body and get dressed right away to avoid being chilly. 

This post was last updated on March 28, 2025 to include new insights.

The post Odette Annable Starts Her Day With Small Moments of Happy—Here’s How This Mom of 2 and Actress Gets It Done appeared first on Camille Styles.

Mari Llewellyn radiates an inner light. And as I’ve gotten to know her over the past year, I’ve seen firsthand that her glow is so much more than skin deep—it comes from a genuine kindness and a heart for others. It would be easy to try putting Mari in a box (she’s beautiful, blonde, and has 1.5 million followers on Instagram), but within five minutes of meeting her, you pick up on the type of depth that speaks to lived experience. Mari has faced struggle and overcome challenges, and her story is proof that true, lasting change is an inside job.

When Mari and her husband Greg moved to Austin last year, they were searching for a slower pace, somewhere they might like to start a family in the near future. In addition to growing their successful supplements brand, Bloom Nutrition, Mari’s podcast Pursuit of Wellness, was topping wellness charts (it’s one of my own weekly must-listens), and she and Greg both landed on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list. But beyond her achievements, Mari embodies a grounded, feminine energy—she’s a self-proclaimed “horse girl,” bakes sourdough, collects eggs from her backyard chickens, and openly shares her dreams of becoming a mother. 

ICYMI, Mari is the cover girl on the latest issue of Camille Styles EDIT. In our interview, Mari shares the story and struggles that propelled her to create the inspiring, fulfilling life that she’s living. Be sure to read our heart-to-heart on page 30 for major inspiration on tackling your 2025 goals. Since Mari has one of the most dialed-in daily schedules of anyone I know, I invited her to join our Wake Up Call series as well. Read on for Mari Llewellyn’s morning routine, and how she gets it all done each day.

Solstice Mug – Large

$40 at Casa Zuma

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

As a student, I never anticipated becoming an entrepreneur. I always gravitated towards writing, art, and language. At university I studied design & merchandising, and wasn’t necessarily the best student. Little did I know, my fitness journey would change everything about my life. I learned how to keep my own promises and show up for myself. My passion for health and nutrition organically turned into a business. I started posting workouts, recipes, and being candid about the ups and downs of my journey. I wanted to share my knowledge with others, and my social media platform quickly grew. I cultivated a community of women who could relate to me, and wanted products to help them on their own journeys. With the help of my (very) entrepreneurial husband, I soon had a Shopify website selling PDF workout guides. This escalated into selling physical products like resistance bands, and we began sampling supplements for what would become Bloom Nutrition. 

Life as an entrepreneur is exciting, stressful, beautiful and lonely all at the same time. It has taught me so much about partnership, leadership, grit, determination, and failure. It’s not about how quickly you win but how many times you’re able to get knocked down and stand back up. Bloom is truly a culmination of years of hard work, sweat and tears. I’m so proud of how far we’ve come, but know we have so much more in us. 

What has been your biggest learning over the past year? 

My biggest learning over the past year has really been about establishing my own values. For many years, all of my energy went into our business. This was necessary at the beginning, but now we’re in a place where I’m able to have a life outside of work. I’ve established hobbies, like horseback riding, and have a much more active social life. There are things that bring me joy and allow me to show up at work as the best version of me. 

In a few words, how would you describe your personal style? 

I feel like I have many sides to my style. If I had to label it, I’d say I’m simple, classic, sporty with a horse girl twist. I love Kendall Jenner’s style. 

Let’s get into your morning routine.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

• Wake up 6:30am
• Make my ‘sexy water’ with Bloom colostrum, electrolytes & glutamine
• Walk my dog
• Red light therapy
• Lift weights at home (drink a Bloom energy!)
• Make breakfast (sourdough toast, 3 eggs from my chickens + berries!)
• Get ready for work
• Head to Bloom office for meetings, podcast recordings etc.
• Horseback ride 
• Early dinner
• Walk
• In bed by 8:30PM

Casa Zuma Daybreak Candle – 8oz

$48

Shop Now

Women’s Tasman Slipper

$110 at Ugg

Luna Recycled Carafe and Glass Set

$74 at Casa Zuma

What time is your wake-up call? And how much sleep do you usually get? 

I wake up around 6:30am. I aim for 8 hours every night

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

Drink water, pee and put activewear on! Then I walk my dog

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish:

• Ice Roller
• Red light therapy (face and body)
• For skincare, I use: Clearstem cleanser, Face Reality Mandelic Acid, Beta Gel, Brightening Serum, Ceramide Booster, Moisturizer,  SPF
• Makeup: Clearstem sunscreen, Westman Atelier concealer, Saie super gel, Rhode blush, Priya translucent powder, Makeup by Mario bronzer, Benefit Lip Tint, Victoria Beckham Feather Eyebrow Gel, Eyelash curler

What do you eat for breakfast?

• Sourdough (either made by me or from Thoroughbread or Swedish Hill in Austin), 3 eggs from my chickens (!!) and a handful of berries 

What will we always find in your refrigerator? 

Grass-fed meat and berries.

What are your morning rituals? 

• Red light therapy
• Morning affirmations w/ Superhuman app
• Spending time with my animals
• Moving my body

What are your favorite books? 

• ACOTAR (lol)
• Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
• 101 Essays that will change the way you think Brianna West
• The Midnight Library Matt Haig

What’s always on your nightstand? 

My Hydroflask with ice water, Clearstem lip balm, and a red light lamp

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack (or podcast)?

I’ll listen to Giggly squad or Pursuit of Wellness (lol), or watch a Youtube vlog by Julia & Hunter Havens 

Do you work out in the morning?

Yes, generally weight lifting, walking or pilates for 40 mins – 1 hour

What’s your daily uniform?

If I’m working from home, I’m in activewear. I love wearing my friend Sami Spalter’s collection, FORM. If I’m heading into the office it’s generally jeans, a top/jacket

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

Horseback riding before work.

What are some things you do every day to live a more present life?

Spend time with friends, put my phone away, and spend time with animals.

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

Tough to say. But if I had to have an answer, I think it’s my grit. My childhood left me with a little bit of a chip on my shoulder, and it has pushed me to focus on personal development, and proving to myself I can do it. 

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without…

A large water.

If there were more hours in the day, I would…

Spend more one-on-one time with my husband

Healthiest morning habit…

Red light therapy and positive affirmations

Worst morning habit…

Checking my texts/emails too early

One thing I want to be known for is…

Being present and kind with everyone I encounter

The one thing I fear the most…

Not fulfilling my full potential

When I feel that fear, I…

Act on it

The book I always recommend…

Can’t Hurt Me, by David Goggins

One trait you need to succeed in life is…

Perseverance

The post Wake Up Call with Mari Llewellyn appeared first on Camille Styles.

Writing this Wake Up Call series is one of my greatest joys. It’s an opportunity to go behind the scenes, stepping into the lives of women who inspire with their light and ambition. There’s something special about going beyond the veneer of success. In these interviews, we experience the rhythm of their routines, learn about their cherished rituals, and share a real, unfiltered conversation. In this way, Laurel Pantin’s journey becomes more than a story of success. It’s a reminder of the beauty found in connection, creativity, and following your curiosity wherever it leads.

Laurel’s career across fashion and editorial is rich with experience at top publications, including InStyle, Teen Vogue, and Glamour. Now based in Los Angeles, Laurel has carved a unique path that marries this background with her passion for storytelling—whether through the brands she consults for or in her newsletter, Earl Earl. She doesn’t just dabble in creativity; she’s mastered the art of helping others see, feel, and connect through style and story.

Laurel Pantin On Cultivating Intentional Style—And Building a Timeless Closet

What sets Laurel apart is her commitment to authenticity—she doesn’t just follow trends; she digs deeper, exploring what it means to connect with one’s own style. Her wardrobe philosophy isn’t about accumulating pieces but rather curating them with intention, a practice that translates into how she guides her clients and readers. Laurel’s eye for timeless fashion and ability to interpret design in nuanced ways make her a standout in the creative field.

Ahead, we delve into Laurel’s life, uncovering the joys, challenges, and inspirations that shape her work. From her morning rituals to the wardrobe essentials she swears by, this conversation offers a glimpse into how Laurel stays inspired and, above all, true to herself.

Tell us about your career and what you’ve been up to lately.

I worked in magazines for years as a fashion editor before going over to the retail side, working as the Fashion Director at large for ByGeorge. Along the way, in 2021, I started writing a fashion newsletter on Substack. Now the newsletter, Earl Earl, is my main focus, along with a small group of private clients I style, and a few consulting clients. 

What has been your biggest learning over the past year?

The biggest thing has been going fully out on my own, rather than working for a magazine or other brand. I was always interested in going out on my own, but felt the risk was too huge, or that jobs wouldn’t materialize. I was lucky that I built my Substack up while still employed full-time, so the transition was relatively smooth. 

How would you describe your personal style?

Practical, masculine, silly.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

I have two kids, 6 and 4, so my mornings are a total whirlwind. I get up with them and get them ready for school—make breakfast, pack lunches, and then shoo them into the car. It’s full-on until I drop them at school! After drop, I usually try and exercise—I take Lagree classes four-ish times a week. I have a lot of physical energy and if I don’t exercise it turns into anxiety. After that, I usually go home to start writing or working, or I run to an appointment or meeting.

Every day is different, but working the way I do lets me have a lot of flexibility. 

What time is your wake-up call?

I do a lot of my writing at night after the kids go to sleep. I’ll usually log off around 11:30, and once I do I’m out. I’m usually too tired to read or anything before bed, I just pass out. Then I usually wake up when my kids wake up, which is typically between 6:30 and 7. I’m so glad they’re finally sleeping past 6!

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

Pee! Ha! Then I usually change out of my nightgown (I sleep in an old fashioned old lady cotton nightgown… ) and get started with shuttling the kids downstairs and getting them fed. With kids this age it’s literally like throwing two bouncy balls into your living room and then trying to get both of them under control. It’s hectic! A lot of the time I don’t even brush my teeth until I get home from my workout.

What rituals set you up for success?

I don’t have a great morning routine, other than making sure my kids are set for whatever they have going on. After I exercise I like to have something to eat—usually a couple of eggs with some veggies or avocado or yogurt with slivered almonds. Something quick and satisfying. Then I brush my teeth, do my whole skincare thing, and if I have somewhere to go I’ll shower, otherwise I’ll sit and start working.

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish.

I keep it SUPER simple, both AM and PM. I’ve learned over time that my skin looks better if I screw around with it less. Or it looks just as good with two or three products as it does with seven hundred. I use a few more things at night than this, but morning is very wash and go.

First Aid Beauty

Face Cleanser

$24 at First Aid Beauty

Dr. Diamond’s Metacine

Instafacial Plasma

$200 at Dr. Diamond's Metacine

Iris & Romeo

Weekend Skin SPF 50

$50 at Iris & Romeo

What do you eat for breakfast?

I try to eat something with a lot of protein in the morning. One of my go-to’s, which sounds kind of disgusting, but is great…. Is two fried eggs over a bowl with edamame and steamed spinach, then nutritional yeast on top with some hot sauce. I get kind of fixated on one thing and eat it every day for like four months, and then I decide I can’t ever look at it again. I also like plain yogurt with chopped, peeled cucumber, and sliced almonds for breakfast. Or freeze-dried blueberries and almonds. I really cannot cook, so everything has to be simple simple simple. I also hate to clean up after a meal so I try to make as little mess as possible.

What will we always find in your refrigerator?

Seltzer, yogurt, cheese, tortillas, and something like Ghia, Kin, or Athletic Brew. I don’t drink, but I like having something drink-like at the end of the day.

What are your favorite books?

I love to read! I always have my Kindle under my pillow so I can read for a minute or two before I go to sleep—even when I’m totally exhausted I usually read at least one page.

The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach

$10.61 at Target

Doctor Sleep by Stephen King

$10.99 at Target

The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen

$14.99 at Target

What are your favorite Substacks?

• Shop Rat
• Consider Yourself Cultured
• The Love List
• Time Less

What’s always on your nightstand?

Lip balm and water! I’m allergic to beeswax, so I have a few very particular lip balms I love. These are my three favorites.

ILIA

Lip Wrap Reviving Balm 26 Reviews

$24 at Credo Beauty

La Bouche Rouge

Refillable Fine Leather Lipstick Case

$60 (reg. $80) at Violet Grey

VMV Hypoallergenics

Boo Boo Balm

$33 at Derm Warehouse

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack?

I do not have cool taste in music—I love cheesy girly pop. My best getting-ready song is “Run Away With Me” by Carly Rae Jepson. I also love this remix of The Very Best’s album, so maybe that is kind of cool. Maybe my music is cool! 

Do you work out in the morning?

I like to get it over with! It also helps my brain warm up and I get a lot of ideas while I’m exercising. If I’m not doing a Lagree class, I like to go for a super long walk. I have some friends who I meet up with once a week to walk on the beach—one of the perks of living in LA!

What’s your daily uniform?

I really like getting dressed, and for the last few years I’ve kind of fallen into a rut or routine that’s starting to feel very routine. So I’m trying to take time to get myself dressed now and enjoy the clothes I’ve collected. 

When I’m just rushing out the door though, I usually wear my favorite pair of Wrangler jeans, a Comme Si button-down, and my loafers from The Row. It’s a completely effortless outfit but still looks polished.

Wrangler

Women’s Wrangler® Cowboy Cut® Slim Fit Jean

$49.99 at Wrangler

Comme Si

La Shirt Classica, Cotton Poplin

$275 at Comme Si

The Row

Soft Loafer in Eel

$1,290 at The Row

What are your top three most-prized possessions in your closet?

• Junya Watanabe Fishtail Skirt
• Bright orange Hermès Victoria bag
• Dries evening coat

What advice would you give someone who wants to start collecting fashion more mindfully but who doesn’t have an unlimited budget?

• Resale. Identify the references you really love—e.g., if you’re really drawn to Christy Turlington in the 90s, research who the designers during that time and search for those designers secondhand. 
• Be patient. It’s taken me over 15 years to amass the pieces in my collection. 
• Embrace the search. I found my Prada heels on the RealReal for $120.

A fall trend you’re into?

I don’t adhere to trends. Instead, [I recommend following] your emotional response: buy things you’ll love and treasure and actually wear. If you don’t know what you like or how to put things together, enlist someone to help or keep doing your research. Don’t try to fit a mold that doesn’t feel authentic to you. There are certain currents in fashion happening that I really like, but the thing that keeps fashion interesting is when people express themselves through their clothes.

Don’t try to fit a mold that doesn’t feel authentic to you.

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

Oh man, I don’t even know! I’d love to be able to read quietly alone for an hour every morning, or just flop around in bed and zone out. But in reality I’d probably work or exercise. I always feel like I have too much to do and too little time, so I think I’d fill that hour pretty quickly.

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

Exercise is the main thing, I know I have to do it or I can’t really function. Quitting drinking was another thing—my life has improved 200% since I quit. I also have to spend some time snuggling with my kids! I’m very touchy and I love to scoop them up and roll around with them.

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

Oy, maybe a feeling like I’m always trying to feel successful? That sounds dark, but I’m always wondering what else I can do or try to be better. That was true in my jobs, and it’s true still as a solo act.

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: my phone.

If there were more hours in the day, I would: stress out about how to use an extra hour!

Healthiest morning habit: working out.

Worst morning habit: not brushing my teeth before drop off.

One thing I want to be known for is: being warm and kind.

The one thing I fear the most: letting my kids down.

When I feel that fear, I: spiral!

The book I always recommend: The Art Of Fielding and In One Person.

One trait you need to succeed in life is: persistence and kindness.

Bath or shower? What’s your favorite product? Both! I love a bath, but usually take a shower. I love the splash salve from Hanni in the shower. I’m usually too lazy to moisturize after taking a shower and this does that step for me.

The post A Look Inside Laurel Pantin’s Closet—and the Rituals That Keep Her Grounded appeared first on Camille Styles.

For Clare Vivier, founder and designer of Clare V., getting dressed in the morning is a ritual that borders on self-care. It’s a moment to check in with how she’s feeling that day, embracing a sense of play and fueling her creativity for the day ahead. As Clare showed me around her closet, well-organized and abundant with colorful clothing and accessories, it’s evident that the art of getting dressed is rooted in her love of storytelling. This passion guides all of her endeavors, and is especially on display in the cheeky messages that emblazon so many of her designs. Her playful mix of french and colloquialisms on much-loved apparel speak to a cultural mash-up that’s all her own.

Our team spent a recent Thursday morning with Clare at the Silverlake home she shares with her husband. Feminine and classic, it’s full of the books, family photos, and collected tabletop pieces that speak to a home full of lived experiences. Originally from Minnesota, Clare has a soft-spoken confidence that instantly puts you at ease—she’s a founder who leads through the power of her unique vision. Read on to learn how Clare Vivier starts her day and lives life with inimitable style.

In conversation with Clare Vivier

What has been your biggest learning over the past year?

That I have to schedule more than I did before. Especially at work—I have to schedule time to not be in meetings so that I can get actual work done. As the company grows, there are more and more things to meet about.. which leaves less time for actually doing the work!

In a few words, how would you describe your personal style?

Masculin/Feminin

Eau de Parfum

$125 at Clare V.

Sweatshirt

$165 at Clare V.

How Clare Vivier Gets It All Done

What does a typical day look like for you?

• 6:30 AM: Roll out of bed, put on my robe and let my two little dogs Paco & Coquette out to the backyard. 
• 7:00 AM: Make coffee and head upstairs to shower & get dressed
• 8:00 AM: Out the door and drive to work.
• 8:30 AM: I make my breakfast and usually an espresso and sit down at my desk.
• 9:00 am: meetings start.
• 1:00 PM: make lunch and a little walk outside along the LA river (did you know LA had a river?). Our office is in Frogtown and right on the river path.
• 4:00 PM: I make myself a snack, usually popcorn or some nuts and chocolate.
• 6:00 PM: Pack up and head back home.
• 6:30 PM: Chat with my husband, and cuddle with my pups before eating dinner. My husband loves to cook and usually has dinner ready for me. How lucky.
• 8:00 PM: Watch a show together while folding laundry or doing a little cleaning.
• 10:00 PM: Head upstairs to start my nighttime skin routine, consisting of my Shani Darden products. Sometimes I have pack for a trip the next day. If not, at 11 PM I get into bed and read.

Clare Vivier’s Morning Routine

What morning rituals set you up for success?

I make a pot of coffee and listen to a podcast, then head upstairs to shower and get dressed. My closet is my happy place. Sometimes it’s clean, sometimes there are clothes and bags everywhere.

This time in my closet, trying on clothes, is my morning ritual.

Describe your morning beauty routine:

I have a very minimal beauty routine in the AM. I apply Japanese Curel face cream, REL cream blush n Devon, and Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions mascara. That’s it. Almost zero time spent on beauty.

RMS Beauty Kakadu Beauty Oil

$64 at Dermstore

Doré La Crème

$36 at Credo Beauty

Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

$26 at Thrive Causemetics

What do you eat for breakfast?

On the weekends, I have an egg on a Guerrero corn tortilla with my cousin Nikki’s hot sauces, her company is Hot Mama Salsa and everything she makes is delicious. 

La Chava Lavanda – Peach Habanero Hot Sauce with Lavender

$10 at Hot Mama Salsa

What will we always find in your refrigerator?

A few french cheeses and chilled red wine

What are your favorite books?

Recently, I loved All Fours by Miranda July and Bee Sting by Paul Murray. I’m currently reading God of the Woods by Liz Moore which I’m enjoying. 

All Fours – by Miranda July

$26.10 at Barnes & Noble

The Bee Sting – by Paul Murray

$17.99 at Target

The God of the Woods – by Liz Moore

$17.00 at Target

What’s always on your nightstand?

An eye mask, and a few books I’m reading.

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack?

I listen to podcasts in the morning. On Mondays, I listen to Smartless. On Tuesdays and Fridays, I listen to Pivot. Wednesdays and Thursdays are a little bit out there, but it’s usually On With Kara Swisher.

Do you work out in the morning?

On the weekends and when I’m on vacation, I always hike or go for a run. I also take tennis lessons once a week.

Clare Vivier’s Personal Style

What’s your daily uniform?

Gosh, I really don’t have a uniform. I dress pretty different everyday depending on how I’m feeling and what I have going on that day, but I wear button down shirts often. I love Les Prairies des Paris and Clare V.

Suzette Shirt

$215 at Clare V.

Emilette Oversized Shirt

$245 at Clare V.

I wear flats to work—a few favorites:

Lambskin Triangle Mary Jane Ballerina Flats

$1,050 at Neiman Marcus

Shannon wr

$1,150 at Church's

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

Check in with Oscar, my kid, who is in college at CalArts. Play with my dog.

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

My parents. They always instilled in me the importance of independence, creativity, hard work and giving back to my community. 

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without:

…an extra outfit in case I want to change.

If there were more hours in the day, I would:

…go for a hike every day.

One thing I want to be known for is:

…being a kind and supportive mom, partner, friend, company leader. 

The one thing I fear the most is:

…failure

When I feel that fear, I:

…do something creative

One trait you need to succeed in life is:

…perserverance.

The post Waking Up With Clare Vivier—How This Fashion Designer and Founder Starts Her Day appeared first on Camille Styles.

I always feel a spark of magic anytime I visit Ambitious Kitchen. The homepage is a study in all things aesthetic, eye-catching, and totally delish. Of course, there are the recipes rich with flavor and color, but there’s also the variety and volume of inspiring dishes Monique Volz develops (and tests, photographs, and thoughtfully writes about…). Having founded the healthy living and food blog over a decade ago, Monique claims a unique corner of the internet. It’s one that’s evolved alongside her growth as a blogger and business owner—and the vibrant, devoted community she’s built.

What Monique makes clear with every recipe is that what she creates isn’t just food—it’s a story. She weaves narrative, reflections, and personal anecdotes seamlessly into her recipes. From her writing, we learn not only about Monique, but about the ethos that runs through her brand. Ambition, in her words, isn’t just about getting things done. It’s about being present for the pursuit and honoring the journey that takes you to where you want to be.

Waking Up With Monique Volz of Ambitious Kitchen

Monique’s commitment to presence influences not only her work, but how she lives out every day. As a busy mom of three boys (under four, no less), Monique manages the shuffle of motherhood and running a small business with grace, acceptance, and a healthy dose of real talk. In reflecting on her morning routine, she jokes that she wishes she could share something more akin to the aspirational TikToks saturating every FYP. But she embraces the AM chaos, prioritizing those points of connection with her sweet family of five.

Often, in true Ambitious Kitchen fashion, that means sitting down to a tasty, nutritious breakfast. “Setting the tone for the day in a joyful way is important to me,” she tells us. It’s evident in how Monique describes her morning rituals and navigates her work, that she’s found a balance that supports her best in this season of life. By remaining mindful of what fills her cup—and aligning her day with exactly that—she’s able to consistently pour into her passions, grow her business, and make time for what matters most.

We sat down with Monique to learn more about her morning rituals. From her minimalist beauty routine (that yes, we will be stealing) to the outfit formula she swears by to her rules for success, Monique has plenty of inspiration to share. Let’s dive in.

Psst… For more delicious recipes (125 to be exact, including Glowing Skin Vitamin A Smoothie, The Best Cinnamon Rolls You’ll Ever Eat, Buffalo Chicken Chop Chop Salad, and more) pre-order The Ambitious Kitchen Cookbook, set to be released Fall 2024.)

The Ambitious Kitchen Cookbook by Monique Volz

Pre-order for release date on Sep 10, 2024

$31.50 at Target

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

I started Ambitious Kitchen when I was just 22 years old, and was able to take it full-time three years later, so this entrepreneurship journey has been what feels like most of my career. It’s been a blessing being able to share my passion for food and wellness with others for over 10 years now.

It’s also helped me heal from trauma, practice vulnerability, succeed, fail, and pick myself up again. It has taught me the importance of structure, time management, organization, and above all, determination.

From the beginning, I was determined to create a blog, even if I didn’t know what the path would be yet. In my 20s, I worked hard, often letting go of nights out and a social life to run my business and get it to where it is today. I’m so proud that I’m able to touch so many people’s lives with my recipes and storytelling. Whether that means getting them in the kitchen to try a new technique or recipe or just bringing my readers together for a joyful, comforting, and nourishing family meal. 

What has been your biggest learning over the past year?

To know my limits and to take breaks to be the best version of myself. To recognize when I am performing at my best and being willing to let go of things, or move things when I know my time or mental health will suffer. As an entrepreneur, I always want to say yes to everything, but setting boundaries has been critical, especially since I have become a mother.

How would you describe your personal style?

Feminine, romantic, and a little edgy.

What’s your daily uniform?

Black sweatshirt or shirt, jeans by Madewell, thick black belt, cute vintage colorful or patterned blazer or jacket, platform shoes or black boots! Pretty much my go-to outfit.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

It really depends. If I’m testing recipes, I’ll typically test them two days a week and do up to 5-6 recipes per day. They don’t always turn out perfectly, and I like to test most of my recipes 2-3 times before they go on the blog. When I’m not testing recipes, I’m writing and editing them, managing my employees, filming videos for our upcoming YouTube series, voiceovers or filming for reels, and doing A LOT of admin work. It’s crazy how much of my time has been spent doing the tasks I don’t love, but that’s a part of being an entrepreneur!

What time is your wake-up call?

Typically between 5:30 and 6 a.m. My kids wake me up most mornings. I probably get 6-7 hours of sleep a night. I definitely wish it was more!

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

Snuggle with my boys, talk to them about our day, and of course, drink a cup of coffee. 

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

I wish this sounded like one of those incredibly inspiring morning routines that you see on TikTok, but the truth is, mornings are very chaotic for us. We have three boys who are four years old and under, and getting them fed and dressed in the morning is busy. Typically I wake up between 5:30-6 a.m. with my kids. I’ll brush my teeth and immediately get downstairs to unload the dishwasher and start coffee. I drink coffee with Califia Toasted Coconut AlmondMilk (so good!) then I’ll make homemade pancakes, waffles, smoothies, muffins or take something out of the freezer if we are in a rush.

Spending time with my boys in the morning is so important to me, and I love being able to offer them something nutritious before they start the day. I always felt so rushed when I was a little girl to get out the door and my mom hardly ever made breakfast. Setting the tone for the day in a joyful way is important to me.

After breakfast, everyone gets dressed and then we walk or scoot to school by 8 a.m. or so. A few days a week, I do a workout and strength train before starting my day. I’d like to do this more, but it feels like I’m in a very busy season of life, and I’m accepting that it won’t last forever!

What rituals set you up for success?

I always write down a list of what I need to accomplish and then rank it in order of importance. It’s difficult for me to get through all of my to-dos on any given day, but assigning importance to tasks helps me prioritize.

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish:

There are two products that I currently use before I start my day. Dr. Dennis Gross daily peel pads followed by Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine SPF mixed with an organic rosehip seed oil. If I don’t have anywhere to be, I keep a fresh face without makeup, which I think is essential to clear skin! I switch it up often though. I like to keep my skin super hydrated and glowing.

Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

$92 at Dermstore

Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30

$140 at Elemis

Instant Glow Rosehip Oil

$39.99 at Trilogy

What will we always find in your refrigerator?

Siggi’s yogurt, Califia Toasted Coconut Almond Milk blend, Persian cucumbers, sambal oolek, gouchujang, honeycrisp apples, Siggi’s yogurt, cottage cheese, pickled jalapeños, and lots of fresh fruits.

Do you work out in the morning?

I used to work out almost every day, but now my focus has shifted from how often to the quality of my movement. I do heavy strength training three days a week and other days I’m out walking as much as I can.

What do you eat for breakfast?

For breakfast, I typically like to enjoy baked oatmeal or smoothies. Lately I’ve been loving my blueberry muffin smoothie or my lemon poppyseed blueberry baked oatmeal.

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack?

Any of my Spotify playlists. Most of the time, I like to keep it chill. 

What’s always on your nightstand?

My Hydroflask water bottle and a good hand or body lotion. (I love Nécessaire body lotion!)

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

I’d carve out an hour to focus on self-care and self-health, whatever I needed to fill my cup. To be honest, I’d love to go for a long bike ride every morning by the lake or catch up with a friend or my mom over coffee or head to a fun workout class.

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

Put away my phone during moments that presence is important, like dinner or when I’m playing with my kids. I always feel more joyful and present when I don’t have my phone. There isn’t a need to take it out to capture moments—the moments simply exist and I’m there to soak them all in!

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

Determination and ambition. Just wanting to succeed in what I do and figuring out what that looks like to me and how to do it. And never, ever giving up.

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: SPF.

If there were more hours in the day, I would: do more self-care.

Healthiest morning habit: going for a walk within 1 to 2 hours of waking up.

Worst morning habit: not drinking enough water and drinking LOTS and LOTS of coffee.

One thing I want to be known for is: inspiring others to feel their best.

The one thing I fear the most is: losing someone I love.

When I feel that fear, I: focus on the present.

The book I always recommend: The Body Keeps the Score.

One trait you need to succeed in life is: unapologetically being yourself and living YOUR truth.

Bath or shower? What’s your favorite bath product? Bath. Love Epsom or magnesium baths!

The post Monique Volz Makes the Internet’s Most Viral Recipes—and She’s Sharing Her Secrets appeared first on Camille Styles.

As someone who spent the early years of her career working in the CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) space, I consider myself a bit of a grocery food nerd. I love scouring the store shelves for up-and-coming brands, looking at packaging and shelf placement, and nerding out about all the work it takes to bring a brand to life. With this context—and honestly, obsession—you can say that when I had the chance to interview DEUX CEO and founder, Sabeena Ladha, my inner fangirl was freaking out.

Sabeena Ladha Shares Her High-Vibe Morning Routine

Sabeena, a fellow Texan, grew up snacking on junk foods. (Relatable.) But over the years, she began to develop a desire to find a balance between better-for-you foods and less-than-healthy options. With this dual-craving in mind, Sabeena took her favorite snack—cookie dough—and reformulated it with clean ingredients and superfoods. (Gooey Brownie is my personal fave.)

Now with additional product lines like DEUX DRIP and the addictively snackable Donut Holes, Sabeena is continuing to grow the brand and bring a better-for-you perspective to some of our favorite sweet treats.

The team recently visited Sabeena at her Los Angeles home, where she shared a peek into her morning routine, the habits that set her up for success, and her hot-take skincare routine.

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

At my house in Texas, we ate the Standard American Diet. I played sports and exercised, so externally I seemed “fine.” But really my insides were made of partially hydrogenated oil. Fast-forward to my first job at PepsiCo, I absolutely loved brand building, managing a P&L, and running big national programs and Super Bowl commercials. However, my eating habits were changing, and I wanted to work in the better-for-you space. I stayed in big CPG for a few years and left a little disheartened that I wouldn’t be able to impact the industry as deeply as I wanted to. But I was grateful to have learned the gold standard CPG.

I then went to McKinsey as a consultant in the Digital practice. This was back when “direct-to-consumer” was blowing up, and my career shifted from retail to digital. There, I developed a strategic skill set and became an excellent problem solver. 

My last stop before DEUX was at M13 in venture. I built the venture studio from scratch and launched three brands while I was there. (Surprise, all focused on women’s health!) It was there that I fell in love with startups.

I attribute a lot of our success at DEUX to diverse experiences, both mine and the team’s. It’s not quite linear, and at the time didn’t make the most sense. But those pivotal experiences built the skills that are now second nature and I use every day.

I don’t know that any passionate entrepreneur can ever be balanced, and I don’t know that I want to be.

Entrepreneur life now is incredibly fun and rewarding, but it takes over your life. I know we’re supposed to strive for “balance” but I don’t know that any passionate entrepreneur can ever be balanced, and I don’t know that I want to be. We have an astrology reader meet with each team member when they join (yes, really) and she emphasized my “house of career.” It will always be important to me, so I’m okay that it is so intertwined. I’ve learned to embrace the highs and lows that come with it. 

What does a typical day look like for you?  

I’m up at 6:15 (no screens!) and usually at the gym by 7. I work out, get ready for the day, and am on calls around 830/9. We now have a great office we share with a few brands like Bala and Brightland, so I am at the office most of the day.

Assuming I don’t have a founder dinner or event, I walk my dog around 6:30 and answer emails while my husband cooks around 7. (I am the luckiest woman in the world.) We usually watch a show together to wind down and cuddle with Pablo! 

What time is your wake-up call?

I am such a night owl by nature. I have quite literally forced myself to become a morning person. If I don’t do my workout in the morning, 1) I am cranky, and 2) It probably won’t get done. I used to run on maybe six hours of sleep for the first couple of years of the company. Now I try to get eight. I’m a better leader and teammate that way. 

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

Aside from brushing my teeth… honestly, I have a Celsius. It’s for my workout! But I do not touch my screens—that used to be a bad habit of mine. I’m trying to do the whole Huberman “get sunlight in your eyes” thing but it’s too dark at 6 a.m.!

What morning rituals set you up for success?

I will say it for a third time because I think it is so important: not looking at my screen first thing. I heard someone once say it’s equivalent to letting a hundred people into your bedroom in the morning at once. That sat with me. It’s absolutely terrifying and incredibly hard on your nervous system. 

Active rituals: exercising first thing, reviewing my calendar to make sure I’m prepped for every meeting, taking my probiotics, fish oil, multivitamin, maaaybe vitamin C, collagen in my coffee, and journaling. (Not all days, but the days that I’m tense.)

What’s always on your nightstand?

Pretty much just my journal and The Daily Stoic. I try to keep the bedroom free of clutter.

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish: 

This might be a hot take, but I don’t wash my face in the morning. I’ve had really bad cystic acne for many years, and the only thing that’s helped is doing less. It sounds counterintuitive, but it changed my skin.

Now my nighttime routine is stacked. I use the Summer Fridays cleanser, alternate days with Biologique Recherche’s cult-favorite toner, and occasionally swap in the AlphaRet Overnight Cream. I usually use the Summer Fridays’ Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil, then The Outset’s Firming Vegan Collagen Prep Serum. After that, I moisturize to get super glassy before bed.

Super Amino Gel Cleanser

$35 at Summer Fridays

Lotion P50

Price varies at Biologique Recherche

AlphaRet Overnight Cream

$140 at Skin Better Science

Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil

$55 at Summer Fridays

Firming Vegan Collagen Prep Serum

$46 at The Outset

What’s your daily uniform?

If it were up to me, boyfriend jeans and a white tee! Nowadays though, I have a ton of customer and investor meetings, so I’d opt for a casual white button-down and criss-cross jeans. I dress a bit more masculine during the week than on the weekends. 

LMND Chiara Relaxed-Fit Cotton Button-Front Shirt

$90 (reg. $180) at Neiman Marcus

AGOLDE Criss Cross Upsized Jean

$198 at Revolve

Favorite getting-ready soundtrack? 

Kaytranada. It gives “glass of champagne while putting on makeup in the bathroom with the girls before dinner” vibes. Without being over the top. 

How would you describe your personal style? 

Trendy, feminine, chic. 

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

Wow, don’t tempt me with a good time. I would stretch (what an old person answer!) and make a proper breakfast. Nutrition is so important, and I often shortcut with a protein bar. 

What do you eat for breakfast?

Most mornings, a Think peanut butter bar (my shortcut). If I have time, egg tacos are my fave. Or Greek yogurt, berries, and our DRIP—honestly tastes like dessert.  I need protein in the morning to stay full and fueled.  

What will we always find in your refrigerator? 

DEUX cookie dough and now donuts! No really, the amount I eat my products is wild. Salmon, fruit, and veggies, a leftover coffee from the morning, wine…

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

The most impactful way to add joy to my life is taking the extra step to make something special. That looks like buying fresh flowers, lighting candles, and taking an extra loop around the neighborhood for my walks. 

What has been your biggest learning over the past year? 

I’ve gotten really good at recovering quickly. Not just the bad, crazy fire stories (I have way too many of those) but also the amazing adrenaline-pumping, dopamine highs. Practicing stoicism is a goal of mine, and remaining even-keeled throughout the journey is something I will continue to prioritize and strive for. I think it’s made me a stronger leader. 

What’s something you’re looking forward to this year?

So many things! On the business side, we are launching our Donuts nationally in over 1300 doors very soon. But also spending time with the team is what I am most excited about. We’re lucky to have a really fun, hard-working, positive team. It really is a dream team.

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

Tenacity. I have this general belief that I can solve anything. 

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: A snack. I have a fear of being hungry.

Healthiest morning habit: Exercising. Or not looking at my phone. 

Worst morning habit: Celsius.

One thing I want to be known for is: Creating something meaningful. 

The one thing I fear the most: Failure. 

When I feel that fear: I remind myself “there’s nothing you haven’t gotten through.” 

One trait you need to succeed in life is: Delusion. 

The post The Founder of DEUX Swears By This Daily Habit to Set Her up for Success appeared first on Camille Styles.

As a lifestyle editor, I love the breadth of topics I get to cover from romanticizing our lives to the latest wellness trends. But one assignment that’s hard to beat? Getting the chance to interview fascinating women whose careers I’ve followed my entire life. Case in point: writing about supermodel and beauty brand founder Molly Sims’ morning routine, and uncovering exactly how this woman I admire gets it all done.

Molly’s modeling work has involved campaigns for Jimmy Choo, Escada, Giorgio Armani, Michael Kors, and Chanel (i.e., some of the biggest names in fashion). Her podcast, Lipstick on the Rim is a must-listen, Molly’s brand YSE is a mainstay in all of our routines, and her multi-media company, Something Happy Productions creates some of the most binge-worthy content we’ve ever consumed. Of course, this isn’t a comprehensive list of all of her many achievements and accolades. Cataloging that would span this entire article. But I’ll write this: the “don’t meet your heroes” adage? It doesn’t apply to Molly—the woman is an absolute delight.

Molly Sims’ Morning Routine

“I almost cancelled—but I never cancel,” were Molly’s first words when we got to her LA home. The scene was a whirl of activity. She was meeting with her YSE team to review marketing initiatives, wrapping up a day of back-to-back interviews for her podcast, and prepping for her family to go to London in two days.

But when she got in front of the camera, Molly showed up. Her eyes sparkled with energy and her laugh came quickly with an infectious ease. Clearly, she’s a professional—but Molly is also a natural. Alongside giving us all of her best angles, she had us doubled over with her wry sense of humor. Molly works hard while also keeping it real—even stopping the shoot to quickly clean up dog poop in her yard. While other celebrities or professionals at the top of their game can feel inaccessible, Molly moves with a certain comfort and openness that immediately welcomes you into her world.

I should pause here to note: Molly’s skin? Perfection. As she’s dove deep into the world of beauty with her newest venture, it’s clear that Molly practices what she preaches. Her morning and evening skincare lineup is gold, and we were taking notes as she outlined her entire routine. And when we asked her about YSE Beauty, it became obvious that this is more than a business—it’s a passion. Molly has an eye for aesthetics and a gift for surrounding herself with beauty. And as a result, she’s living her most inspired and vibrant life.

Read on for our interview with Molly. We cover everything from her morning routine essentials to the workouts she can’t enough of, and I have a feeling you’ll find her just as refreshing and down to earth as we did.

Tell us about your career. What has life been like as a model and actress?

Honestly, I never thought my career would be what it is today. I mean I came from Murray, a really small town in Kentucky, that was only really known because of their basketball. However, life unfolds very differently than you think it would. I’ve been so blessed in being able to travel all over the world for modeling, acting with incredible and talented individuals, and being able to dive into the beauty industry with my skincare line YSE Beauty.

I’ve always been very curious in life and I think this has helped shape me who I am today. Life is about pivoting. Fun fact: I have always thought that with my love of true crime and politics, that maybe I’ll go down the path of a lawyer… that’s totally not what happened. With my mom as such a great inspiration to me with her love of beauty and having the ability to learn about different cultures, it made me appreciate fashion and beauty so much more and find an interest in it that later became my passion.

Life unfolds very differently than you think it would.

What has been your biggest learning over the past year? 

Well, I had a fourth child named YSE Beauty. We are still in the newborn phase, but are about to start getting the courage to walk and it feels damn good. Having a DTC brand has been all-encompassing. Learning so much about influencer strategy, marketing, social strategies, manufacturing, product development. It takes a lot to run a business. But, for me, I love learning. I love learning who my customers are, who these YSE women are, what they need from me, and what I can learn to do better for them. It gets you incredibly invested.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

• Wake up with the whole Stuber clan in bed. Grey is the hardest one to get out of bed. If we are ever late to drop-off, it’s usually because of Grey.
• Then I panic-check my calendar to make sure I am not forgetting anything.
• Pilates with Erika Rae from Forma Pilates. I typically switch off between pilates and cardio.
• Make a great cup of coffee. I love my coconut creamer that I use.
• I’m a huge breakfast girl. I usually reach for these delicious egg white muffins that we keep in the fridge.
• Get dressed for the office. When I’m not being lazy, I love to dress up for work. I love to “dress for New York” even though I live in LA. Helps me feel more productive.
• Go to the office and power through all my meetings. Usually I order a bone broth and salad from goop Kitchen for lunch.
• Pick up the kids at 3 p.m. (at least, I try to most days) and then head to their sports practice. This part of the day is usually man on man defense. It’s a lot to tackle—no pun intended. 
• Usually we try to eat something for dinner in between all the chaos. 
• Then we end the night always with binge-watching a cooking show. It was the only thing we could always agree on as a family. We love Nailed It, Bake or Break, and Is It Cake. 
• If I get any alone time before bed, I love to do a red light therapy mask for 20 minutes right before I go to bed and drink a cup of the Moon Juice Magnesi-om.

What time is your wake-up call?

I usually wake up at 6:15 a.m. and the kids wake up at 7 a.m. Grey wakes up at 7:40 a.m. and leaves at 7:42 a.m. for school.

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

Usually it’s mediating between all the bickering in the morning with the kids. It’s constant “Are you going to let Grey stay home ‘cuz that’s not fair since I was really sick last wee.” Don’t get me started on the arguing that ensues if one of them is touching the other.

What are your morning rituals? 

Doing my skincare routine and face rolling with my Golden Sculpt Face Roller. I never miss a day. Okay, I’m lying but I will say I am pretty damn consistent with my skincare routine because it is truly the only way to see results. Consistency is key!

What do you eat for breakfast?

I have made the same smoothie for as long as I can remember. It’s a Vanilla Protein Blueberry Smoothie and it hits the spot every time. I use:

• Vanilla protein powder
• Collagen
• Flaxseed
• Blueberries 
• Vanilla almond milk

If I don’t make that, I’ll have either egg white muffins or egg whites on Carbonate Bread (Emese, my best friend and I are obsessed with) with a quarter avocado and sriracha. 

What will we always find in your refrigerator? 

Protein balls, roasted chicken cut up, turkey base to go over pasta, spaghetti squash base or cauliflower rice base, sweet potatoes, etc. Honestly anything that goes into a harvest bowl.

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish:

skyn ICELAND Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels

$34 at Dermstore

Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads

$72 at YSE Beauty

Morning Cocktail Vitamin C Serum

$85 at YSE Beauty

Skin Glow SPF 30 Primer

$48 at YSE Beauty

Wide Awake Brightening Eye Cream

$65 at YSE Beauty

Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel

$27 at Revolve

It Cosmetics CC Cream

$39.95 (reg. $47) at Nordstrom

Flush Balm

$30 at Merit

Vacation Glow Highlighter Stick

$39 at YSE Beauty

Shiseido Eyelash Curler

$25 at Target

Westman Atelier Eye Want You Mascara

$45 at Credo

Hourglass Unlocked Soft Matte Lipstick

$38 at Bluemercury

Victoria Beckham Tanlines Gloss

$32 at Neiman Marcus

Twin Flames Liquid Shadow

$26 at Danessa Myricks

Do you work out in the morning? 

Yes for 45 minutes to an hour. I switch between pilates and cardio. I do also love to incorporate weights somehow.

What are your favorite books? 

Signs by Laura Lynne Jackson and the The 5 Principles of Parenting by Aliza Pressman.

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack? 

“The Eras of Us” by Fletcher or “Loving On Me” by Jack Harlow.

What’s always on your nightstand?

Picture frames, candles, book, Therabody, a red light mask, YSE Beauty Wide Awake Brightening Eye Cream, and a Vitruvi. Oh, and usually a used tissue or gunk stuck to my nightstand from my kids.

In a few words, how would you describe your personal style? 

Chic, elevated, down to earth. 

What’s your daily uniform?

I usually switch it up between these brands below. You can never go wrong with a great pant, chic blazer, and a cool flat.

Cropped Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan

$495 at Jenni Kayne

Signature Stripe Turtleneck

$570 at Toteme

Blaze Milano Missy Black Everynight Double Breast Blazer

$1,221 (reg. $1,696) at FWRD

Kelela Top

$278 at Dôen

Moussy Vintage Arden Straight Tapered Jeans

$360 at Neiman Marcus

Le Monde Beryl Mesh Mary Jane Ballerina Flats

$520 at Neiman Marcus

Céline Polarized Square Sunglasses

$500 at Nordstrom

Nili Lotan Paloma Cotton-Blend Tweed Jacket

$1,150 at Net-a-Porter

alice + olivia Weezy Full Length Jeans

$330 at Shopbop

Boyfriend Blazer

$648 (reg. $925) at TWP

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

I would do an infrared sauna or cold plunging. 

What’s one thing you do every day to live a more joyful life? 

I say a prayer.

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: my sunglasses.

If there were more hours in the day, I would: lay down.

Healthiest morning habit: making my morning smoothie.

Worst morning habit: looking at Daily Mail.

One thing I want to be known for is: being a connector.

The one thing I fear the most: going to the doctors.

When I feel that fear, I: take a deep breath, and really try to center myself.

The book I always recommend is: The Secret History by Donna Tart.

One trait you need to succeed in life is: to be curious and to be passionate.

Bath or shower? Shower.

And what’s your favorite shower/bath product? Nécessaire Body Wash.

The post Waking Up with Molly Sims—How This Supermodel, Mom, and Beauty Brand Founder Starts Her Day appeared first on Camille Styles.

They say don’t meet your heroes. But in the years that I’ve contributed to this column, I’ve encountered countless women who exude the same inspiring energy in person as they do online. Founders, thought leaders, CEOs, and creative directors whose behind-the-scenes realness matches exactly what you’d hope for. And that’s certainly the case with wellness entrepreneur and creator, Sanne Vloet.

Previously a Victoria’s Secret model, Sanne has shifted her focus to the world of wellness. Now, her resume reads like that of someone transforming the industry—because that’s exactly what Sanne is busy doing every day. She’s the founder of the fitness brand Soul Sync Body, connecting her community with empowering, low-impact movement. When she’s not filming workouts or teaching classes, Sanne’s working on Nekohama, the matcha brand she co-founded with her husband, Max. And she’s sharing daily inspiration with her 900K+ followers on Instagram, where you’ll find vibrant recipes and healthy habits that yes—will change your life.

Sanne Vloet Shares Her Intentional Morning Routine

When our team visited Sanne at her LA home last month, we were greeted with the expected weekday morning traffic. And though we arrived a few minutes late, harried and apologetic, Sanne welcomed us with an open-hearted warmth. Not only did we feel at home, but she made us each feel special—approaching our conversations with genuine interest. Though her talents and accolades garner awe, it’s Sanne’s presence that you remember long after you’ve met.

This observation is consistent with how she’s built her life. It’s one of evident beauty and intention, displayed through her minimalist aesthetic that prioritizes objects of sentimental significance. But it’s an energy that goes beyond the material, extending to her creative interests as well.

Take Sanne’s passion for food. She crafts nourishing meals and joy-inducing recipes, while also focusing on ingredients that help her feel her best. What’s more, Sanne loves sharing these gifts with others. She taught us how to make the perfect matcha, spilled the secrets to her protein-packed chia pudding (more on that below), and passed around squares of Nekohama’s insanely delicious matcha chocolate bars. Of course, we ate it all up.

But what’s most inspiring of all, is Sanne’s orientation toward gratitude. She’s able to embrace the full spectrum of emotions—while still leaning toward the sunny side of life. Ahead, discover the rituals and routines that keep Sanne grounded and aligned. Don’t worry, we’ve taken notes for you.

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

I always knew I wanted to do something for myself but wasn’t quite sure what. After finishing high school, I gave my modeling career a go, and after one year in Paris, it took off. At 18, I was traveling around the world, participating in numerous campaigns, editorials, and runways. I learned a lot during those years, working on set, being behind significant productions, and collaborating with various people.

However, after a few years, I began to notice that this wasn’t something I wanted to do forever. I felt uninspired on set, couldn’t express my creativity, and the intense travel and solitude became overwhelming. Starting my own business was always a dream of mine. When I began my YouTube channel in 2017, I shared all aspects of my life, including recipes, skincare, lifestyle, and fashion. Health and wellness were integral to my daily modeling life, but I enjoyed delving deeper into understanding it.

Witnessing many young girls around me struggling with their health and mental well-being, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, inspired me to start my businesses, Nekohama Matcha, which I run with my husband, and Soul Sync Body, my wellness platform. I had no prior business experience, but I learned everything along the way. I believe the most crucial aspect of being an entrepreneur is not being afraid to try things out and constantly improving. Nothing is perfect from the beginning! I’ve truly enjoyed sharing my passion for fitness and nutrition with others, hoping to inspire them.

What has been your biggest learning over the past year? 

Delegating and relying on my team were significant learning lessons. It’s funny, I’m not a perfectionist at all, but when it comes to my business, I tend to be one! This year, I’ve learned to hire a team and allow them to assist. This has really helped me find a better balance between work and life. I’ve learned to be more present when I’m with my loved ones or to do things outside of work that fulfill me.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

I usually wake up around 6:30 a.m. and will do my morning routine, including tongue scraping, brushing my teeth, and a quick skincare routine. After making a cup of tea, I take five minutes to journal my thoughts. Following this, I will do a 10-minute priming meditation/gratitude practice by Tony Robbins, which shifts my body and mind into a positive mindset.

Taking this phone-free, quiet time in the morning is crucial for me. Then, I incorporate a workout to move my body before the workday, whether it’s a Pilates session, a stretch with a foam roller, or a strength workout. After a cold shower, I make breakfast around 8:30/9 a.m., and my day begins!

What time is your wake-up call?

I usually wake up around 6:30 a.m., but it depends on the day. I take my sleep very seriously, aiming for at least 8 hours. If I go to bed later than 10 p.m., I’ll wake up a little later. I’ve noticed that I am much more clear and energized throughout the day with adequate sleep. I love tracking my sleep with my Oura ring and my alarm is my vibrating mattress by Eight Sleep.

Oura Ring Gen3

$299 at Best Buy

Pod Cover

$2,245 (reg. $2,295) at Eight Sleep

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

The first thing I do is kiss my husband good morning and give a little cuddle to my dog Katsu, who patiently waits next to my bed when I wake up.

What rituals set you up for success?

Pre-workout, I always make sure to foam roll, a habit I started a few years ago that has been a game-changer. It reduces stiffness, aligns my body, and helps maintain proper form during exercise. Wearing a cute workout outfit sets me up for success.

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish.

I wash my face with the Amino Cleanser from Allies of Skin, a gentle gel cleanser that I love. I keep my skincare routine simple, especially in the morning. I spray my face with Avene mineral water, add some hyaluronic serum from Dr. Barbara Sturm for extra hydration, and use Allies of Skin daily moisturizer. Sunscreen is a must—I love the one from Summer Fridays. It feels light and doesn’t make my face greasy.

Allies of Skin Molecular Silk Amino Hydrating Cleanser

$41 at Thirteen Lune

Shade Drops

$36 at Summer Fridays

For makeup, I use a light layer of Ilia foundation, Kosas concealer, Saie bronzer, Pat Mcgrath blush (in peach lotus), Atelier Westman for highlighter (in classy golden peach), Refy lipliner (in blush), Rhode lip peptide, and I switch between Maybelline and Gucci mascara.

ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation

$54 at Nordstrom

Revealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer

$30 at Revolve

Sun Melt Cream Balm Bronzer

$32 at Saie

Pat McGrath Divine Blush Legendary Glow Cheek Color Balm

$29 at Nordstrom

Peptide Lip Treatment

$16 at Rhode

What do you eat for breakfast?

I love a savory breakfast with protein. It helps me stay full and energized and balances my blood sugar levels. As it’s winter, I’ve been enjoying adding squash to my diet. A typical winter plate includes eggs, cottage cheese, avocado, and squash. I share many healthy breakfast ideas on my app, Soul Sync Body.

What will we always find in your refrigerator? 

You’ll always find Nekohama matcha powder (stored in the fridge to remain fresh), almond milk, eggs, dark chocolate, and probably a couple of spreads like hummus or a veggie dip. My fridge is usually very full of produce!

Ceremonial Matcha

$60 at Nekohama

What are your morning rituals? 

A five-minute meditation, journaling, and making my morning matcha are part of my daily ritual. Making matcha is a true ritual for me; I love the mindful process.

What are your favorite books? 

I must be honest, I haven’t been reading much this year, but I did enjoy Atomic Habits by James Clear last year and have been implementing a lot of his teachings. Reading more is a 2024 resolution!

Atomic Habits by James Clear

$13.79 at Target

How would you describe your personal style? 

Elegant, neutral, timeless, and comfortable.

What’s always on your nightstand?

My phone and my Stanley cup with water are essentials. I bring that bottle everywhere with me. Besides that, I like to keep the bedroom clutter-free.

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack? 

I usually listen to a playlist called “Coffee House” on Spotify.

Do you work out in the morning? 

Yes! I work out five times a week. It’s my favorite way to start the day. I either do a Pilates or strength workout from my wellness app, Soul Sync Body. Sometimes I do this in the gym or at home, and it usually takes me about 45 minutes.

What’s your daily uniform?

You can often find me in workout clothing! Some of my favorite brands are Alo and L’ore from Bandier. My go-to sneakers are from the brand Mercer Amsterdam. If I’m not wearing workout outfits, you’ll often see me in a good pair of jeans, a T-shirt, and a blazer or a comfy sweater or blazer.

Being tall, I love the jeans from Khaite. They are long and worth the investment because they last a long time. For basic tees, I reach for Re/Done or Cuts shirts, and for blazers, I like the oversized styles from Frankie Shop. I probably have the same blazer style in four different colors. I am such a golden jewelry girl so I will add some chunky earrings from Heaven Mayhem.

Airlift Double Trouble Bra

$68 at Alo

3″ High-Waist Airlift Short

$64 at Alo

The Re-Run

$174 at Mercer

Oversized Boyfriend Blazer

$165 at The Frankie Shop

The Danielle Stretch Jean

$460 at Khaite

The Bambi Belt

$380 at Khaite

Tabi Gold Earrings

$105 at Heaven Mayhem

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

I would take my dog for a hike or a long beach walk. I sometimes take him to the beach early in the morning for 20 minutes, but an hour would be amazing.

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

I take my dog for a long walk and listen to a podcast. I enjoy this time by moving my body and listening to something inspiring or educational that brings me joy.

My husband and I sometimes have coffee or matcha together in the morning, driving somewhere or making it at home. I cherish these moments when we can sit and chat before our day starts, finding little micro-moments to spend together in your relationship is so important to me.

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: my phone and Rhode lipgloss.

If there were more hours in the day, I would: probably sleep.

Healthiest morning habit: not looking at messages and email when I first wake up.

Worst morning habit: having caffeine less than 30 minutes after I wake up.

One thing I want to be known for is: being a positive and kind person.

The one thing I fear the most: not being able to spend enough time with loved ones.

When I feel that fear, I: meet up or organize a fun activity together.

One trait you need to succeed in life is: have a growth mindset.

Bath or shower? Shower.

Favorite shower/bath product: Alo Mindful Magnesium Bath Soak.

The post Sanne Vloet’s Morning Routine Is Built On “Micro-Moments” of Mindfulness appeared first on Camille Styles.

I’ve always admired those people who possess a firm, unwavering understanding of what they need to feel calm, centered, supported—and simply, good. Their rituals suggest a self-knowledge and trust that they can structure their days around the habits that ground them. And no one embodies this more than Amanda Gunawan. As the founding principle of OWIU, a Los Angeles-based architecture and design firm, and founder behind the sister brand, OWIU Goods, Amanda has blended her passions with her work to build an all-encompassing, inspiring life completely on her own terms.

But rather than leaning toxic—as American work culture often does—Amanda’s dedication to her career feels holistic and fully integrated into her design-centric life. As she says of her work in the conversation ahead, it’s “very much an embodiment of the way that I operate my life.”

Amanda Gunawan Shares Her Everyday, Inspiring Rituals

Born in Indonesia, and having grown up in Singapore, Amanda now resides in LA, a city she credits with much of her ability to find creative energy in all that she does. The team visited Amanda in her bright and airy home, marveling at how the space fully encapsulates the person behind its design.

Read on for insights into Amanda’s daily rituals and her non-negotiable wellness practices that fuel her curiosity, maintain her energy, and her push forward in life, every day.

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

Meditation, every day without fail, and movement in the form of physical exercise, which I guess is a form of active meditation too.

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

The spaces I design are always thoughtful and intentional. I never want a space to feel suffocating or to communicate something in an overt way. These spaces are always calming and centering because a feeling like that is what I find sustainable in the long-run. I feel like I just described everything that would define my ideal state in life.

What’s the first thing you do each morning?

The first thing I do when I wake up is start the day with a meditation. It really helps me set the tone for how I want to go into the day.

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

I love Sundays when I have to meal prep for the week ahead. I have so much fun planning the meals I am going to have for the week, going grocery shopping, preparing the ingredients, and getting everything ready to cook to save time during the week. I enjoy food a lot and it’s very important to me that I am not just eating for sustenance. My meals are always the most enjoyable part of each day so I take a lot of pride in making sure that I am always eating delicious food. It makes it all the more enjoyable knowing I get to take credit for them.

My meals are always the most enjoyable part of each day so I take a lot of pride in making sure that I am always eating delicious food.

Is there a scent you use to meditate? 

No. I actually try to make sure there isn’t and love the feeling of sensory deprivation when I meditate. I do, however, love the smell of tuberose. In fact, I only ever buy perfumes with tuberose in it. It’s my scent! And I like it because it is my grandpa’s favorite flower. He used to grow them in his backyard and would leave fresh tuberose all over his house. I have my fondest memories in that house, running around and playing all sorts of games with my cousins, subconsciously taking in this scent and associating it with feelings of happiness up until today. It serves as a source of comfort to me.

Does music play a part in your daily life?

Yes. It most definitely does. Music keeps me energized, relaxed, focused, happy, excites me, accompanies me through the daily heartaches of life and then gets me through them. I definitely cannot live without it!

How do you keep yourself energized throughout the day?

I incorporate lots of movement into my day. I make sure I get a run in, and if it’s not a cardio day, then I make sure I accompany whatever workout I am doing with 10k steps. I also have two extremely active border collies who will never let me get through the day without exercising them. In that way, they keep me accountable too. Do not be surprised if you find me taking out my roller blades from the trunk of my car and roller blading my two dogs around the office. Sometimes, you have to do what you have to do. That and meditation—even a short 15 minute one mid-day can really perk me up.

Complete Matcha Set

$235

Shop Now

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

Books! I have a little library in my house/office and it’s almost impossible not to resolve any type of creative block after spending some time there.

There are times I simply go out and just fully take in Los Angeles. That’s the best part about living in a city, there’s always something going on—you just have to look instead of see. Head to a coffee shop and people watch, go see some beautiful architecture, visit a museum or window shop at the coolest new spot. There’s always something to learn. Inspiration is truly everywhere.

That’s the best part about living in a city, there’s always something going on—you just have to look instead of see.

What do you do to prioritize health and wellness?

Because I run my own company, I will never run out of things to do. I make my own to-do list and so I’ve learned to go about my day by seeing it as a series of priorities. Some days, it may be different but on most days, my priorities should not change. Health and wellness is ranked at the very top for me so I rarely sacrifice the things that correspond to that. For example, meditation and exercise contributes to health and wellness and is therefore something I rarely miss. I also try my best to cook my own food so as not to order out too much. I love home-cooked food because you know exactly what’s going into your meals.

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

That you are not really living unless you’ve failed, unless you are living life so cautiously that you might as well not live at all and. You better learn to get used to failure and stop viewing it so negatively. Instead, welcome failure as an opportunity to learn and grow

How would you describe your work/life balance?

I am honestly one of the worst people to ask about work/life balance because there is none for me. I love my work so much that it rarely feels like work—it is very much a part of my daily life. I am always immersed in it, and the work that I do for OWIU (our design firm) is very much an embodiment of the way that I operate my life.

Every time someone asks me what I like doing for fun, I kind of blank for a second trying to think of something that is not related to my work. I think I’ve just somehow made all of my hobbies and passions a subset of my career.

What’s the best spot in your house?

My meditation room. It’s really quiet and cozy, it has the best light, and I somehow feel very peaceful when I am in it.

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

I’ve been loving DamDam’s hydrating essence mist for lazy days because it is so easy to use and you don’t need to apply anything else but sunblock after.

DAMDAM Paradisi Hydrating Essence Mist

$36.62

Shop Now

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

I close the door of my meditation room/library and spend hours in there just flipping from book to book with lo-fi music playing on the speakers, the AC turned on, under a cuddly blanket.

What’s your favorite time of day and why?

Mornings. There is something about the morning light that I feel is so good for your mental health. I am sure there’s science backing this up, but I haven’t looked it up and just know it in my gut. Being able to watch the sunrise and the world wake up is such a beautiful feeling.

The post Amanda Gunawan Will Teach You How to Find Inspiration Everywhere appeared first on Camille Styles.

Brands come and go, but those that blend a compelling story with a beautiful product stick in our minds forever. Daily Drills—with its much-anticipated collection drops and uniform of everyday essentials—checks every box. But more than that, the pieces evoke a refreshing ethos of leisure. Communicated through innovative colors and comfy, elevated fits, Daily Drills is a go-to for playful styles and a wardrobe of timeless, dopamine-boosting clothes. The brand confirms: we need to make time for rest, play, and for ourselves to live a purposeful, grounded life.

Given a peek inside Mary Ralph Bradley’s life, co-founder of Daily Drills, it’s obvious that the brand is inspired by the rituals that she and her co-founder (and best friend!), Kennedy Crichlow, practice daily. Her lifestyle evokes a laid-back, but intentional approach, with a schedule that’s punctuated by beach walks, ocean dips, and many an Aperol spritz. In a day and age where a brand’s success is largely driven by a captivating origin story, we look to the founders as an extension of the lifestyle being sold. With a window into Bradley’s world, it’s evident (obvious) that she is the real beach-loving, sunset-chasing deal.

Mary Ralph Bradley on Cultivating an Energizing Daily Routine

Bradley embodies a launch-and-adjust approach. While some stay stuck in the ideation process for years, Bradley and her co-founder, Kennedy Crichlow, decided simply to take the leap. “I had always dreamed of having my own clothing company,” says Bradley. When Crichlow approached her with the opportunity to launch an apparel brand, Bradley knew this was her chance. “A week later, we had a brand name and logo, an LLC in a month, and released our first collection just four months later.”

It’s proof that, with passion driving your decisions and an aligned product set in place, anything is possible—and success is well within reach. Ahead, we spoke with Bradley at her southern California home about everything from curating a decidedly Cali-cool vibe to the biggest learnings she’s gathered at every step of her journey. And from our conversation alone, it’s clear: Mary Ralph Bradley is just getting started.

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

Life has been a crazy fun ride over the last three years. Daily Drills was born in 2020 when Kennedy sent me a text that she wanted to start a clothing line. I was currently running my own social media business with my sister, but had always dreamed of having my own clothing company. So I took the leap and said yes! A week later, we had a brand name and logo, an LLC in a month, and released our first collection just four months later. 

I started Daily Drills from my Brentwood apartment just one year after graduating college and now I am married, with an office and a full team just a mile away from my house in Palisades! The whole journey has been lots of fun, lots of learning, lots of what-are-we-gonna-dos and even more I-can’t-believe-we-did-that’s!

The best part of it all is that I get to do it alongside my best friend and business partner. No matter what happens, I always have someone to ‘cheers’ with after the good moments and someone to share the burden with after the tough ones. 

What have been your biggest learnings over the past year? 

• Life doesn’t always go to plan and that’s okay!
• Things are better as “we.” Just because I can do it on my own doesn’t mean I have to! Everything is better as a team, whether it’s with my business partner or in my marriage. 
• Quality is better than quantity! One of my mottos is to say yes often, but say no enough to make your yes’s count. I love being spontaneous and saying yes, but I don’t have to say yes to everything. I’ve learned to use my yes’s wisely, and make them count. 

In a few words, how would you describe your personal style? 

Effortless. Oversized. Styled. 

Let’s get into your morning routine. What does a typical day look like for you? 

My mornings always start with a walk with my husband to the Palisades Village to pick up my favorite coconut iced tea from Alfred. Then I head back to the house to get ready for the day.

I pick out an outfit, style my hair, do my makeup, water the plants, freshen up the house, and head out the door. Oh and film my ootd! 

My office is a bit less than a mile from my house so I get there around 9. I work hard in the AM until lunch around 12. Have another wave of work in the office until 5. Then I head home and do any filming/brand partnerships I have that day. After that, I eat dinner with Houston [my husband], sometimes watch a show, and head to bed! 

What time is your wake-up call?

6:30 a.m. is my ideal. The coffee shop opens at 7, so that’s when you will see me there. Nine hours of sleep is ideal, but I have been catching lots of red-eyes as of late, so sometimes I’m not as lucky.

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

Open the window shades for natural light and make my bed.

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

Love a morning walk and talk—a walkie-talkie! I love how it sets the pace for the day, gets in some vitamin D, and allows space for my husband and I to chat with each other about the day. Or, if he’s not with me, it is the perfect time to call my sister or my mom and catch up.

What are your morning beauty routine essentials?

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Beautycounter All Bright C Serum

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Beautycounter Countermatch Adaptive Moisture Lotion

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Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40

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After my walk, I will shower off and do my makeup for the day. I like to keep it simple.

Kosas Revealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer and Daytime Eye Cream

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DIBS Desert Island Duo

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Patrick Ta Major Sculpt Crème Contour & Powder Bronzer Duo

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LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask

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What do you eat for breakfast?

I usually don’t do breakfast before work. I’m an iced white coconut tea girl! I always feel better waiting until 11 or 12 to eat.

What will we always find in your refrigerator? 

I am more of a *a la carte* refrigerator girl. Aka, sparkling water, stuff for charcuterie, a bottle of wine, and some fruit from the farmer’s market.

Solstice Mug

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What are your morning rituals? 

Walk, Talk, Tea, Ready, OOTD, Go! 

What are your favorite books? 

Loves Does by Bob Goff.

What’s always on your nightstand?

A glass of water to drink in the AM, my Hatch alarm (it’s the way to wake up), a jewelry dish, and my phone.

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What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack? 

Always a country girl! I say, “Alexa, play today’s hot country!” 

Do you work out in the morning? 

Always a walk. I love to do Pilates at a local studio 1 to 2 times a week and love to add a Megan Roup Sculpt Society after my walk a few times a week.

What’s your daily uniform?

Walk: Daily Drills Go! Set 

Work Uni: White tee, jeans (winter), poplin shorts (Summer), a sweater (Jenni Kayne) in my bag, tennis shoes, and a work bag.

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

I would love to do an ocean dip every AM if I had the time to wash my hair!

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

My husband and I love our “Gentle Hours.” We started this during Covid. We try not to work, look at the news, or bring up stressful or work-related conversations from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. This has helped a ton and my friends know this about us so they help us keep ‘em gentle.

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

I think I have always been myself… true to things I love and have always been consistent. When I set my mind to something I will find a way to get it done. I have been like this since I was little. 

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: an iced green tea or sparkling beverage of sorts! 

If there were more hours in the day, I would: jump in the ocean… stretch… drink more water. 

Healthiest morning habit: make my bed.

Worst morning habit: I snooze my alarm once.

One thing I want to be known for is: my kindness 

The one thing I fear the most: the dark! 

When I feel that fear, I: set the house alarm hahaha and put on a worship song. 

The book I always recommend is: Love Does by Bob Goff.

One trait you need to succeed in life is: good humor.

Bath or shower? What’s your favorite shower/bath product? Shower! Neutrogena Body Wash and Oil.

The post “I’ve Learned to Make Every Yes Count”—Daily Drills Co-Founder, Mary Ralph Bradley, on Building Her Buzzy Brand appeared first on Camille Styles.

We’re big fans of Adriene Mishler, who you likely know in the online world as Yoga with Adriene. With over 12 million YouTube subscribers, a community of 1.3 million on Instagram, (and countless devotees across the world), we feel pretty lucky to have gotten a little behind the scenes of the very talented Find What Feels Good CEO’s daily rituals.

Adriene’s outlook on routines and finding time for herself amidst a busy schedule is refreshing, approachable, and—zero surprise—full of feel-good moments. Ahead, she shares what she’s learned by committing herself to supportive practices, connecting with others, and living out her intentions each day. There’s wisdom to be found in all of her words, and we can’t wait to weave every bit of it into our own lives.

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

No matter what, I am committed to saying a prayer and moving my body each day, both with intention. The approach may change from day to day—but as long as it is intentional, the day feels whole.  

What’s the first thing you do each morning?

First thing in the morning, I drink water and take care of Benji and my plants. Watering myself, opening the blinds for the plants to receive their light, and tending to my darling friend is honestly how I begin. In that short little time I get to check in. I am not saying I don’t hustle some mornings, but through that sweet holy trinity of movement I can at least take stock of how I want to move into the day. And the days are usually full, so focusing on the how is a real gift. I encourage all of my friends to focus on that because how you move influences how you feel in any given moment. 

How you move influences how you feel in any given moment. 

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

I clean like my grandma Emma Martinez—deep, daily, with pleasure, and with a high bar. But this is because I rely on my space to reflect back to me an environment that resembles how I want my energy to be. Unhurried, present, clutter-, and chaos-free. I love to sweep and I enjoy making my bed. I do not enjoy putting laundry away.  

Is there a scent you use to relax?

I love a classic, comforting sandalwood. It grounds the space while also giving it some character.  

Does music play a part in your daily life?

Music plays a huge part in my daily life. I am definitely one of those people who have some sort of soundtrack playing almost all hours of the day. Music is such a powerful tool for bolstering an energy, a focus, and helping to build an environment.

I think the fact that my parents had music in the house a lot and growing up in Austin has led me to value the role music plays in our lives. I love to put together soundscapes for projects and playlists for people and places, and I enjoy working with music playing. I think the only time I prefer quiet is while reading, sleeping, or in Savasana to end my yoga practice.  

How do you keep yourself energized throughout the day?

Mostly by remembering to build in breaks. When I do not have short breaks in between meetings or tasks, I notice the toll. Just because I can do it, doesn’t mean I should. I find that when I remember to build in those little breaks to step away for a snack, to water the garden, move my body, or help a friend, I am able to return to my work tasks with a better sense of self and the energy I want to offer.  

On the weekends or days off, I love to recharge over slow meals, long walks, and sometimes massage. Doing this on the days off plays a big part in my staying energized later in the week—especially when I have to be ON for many hours of the day. 

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

Oh so many places to turn! My best ideas come when I am driving on a long road trip. I love this setup as I cannot be distracted too much, I can listen to podcasts, music, and be with my thoughts following them wherever they go as I drive and drive. Same goes for being in nature, though this can take some time if I have been spinning a lot of plates.

I am also truly very inspired by my friends and community. When I see someone put their heart into something and think for themselves from that place, I am in awe and admiration. It gives me great hope. Finally, I have a background in film and theatre, so going to the movies, a play, or sitting down for a film night can also get my wheels turning. In fact, I am thinking of producing a play again in Austin. Should we do it?  

What do you do to prioritize health and wellness?

Remembering that I am a role model helps me prioritize my health and wellness. And before anyone goes rolling their eyes, I think it is important to remember that we are all role models! We model our approach to life for the young people in our lives, our loved ones, our neighbors, and our community at large. It’s a sweet realization to remember: you matter. In this season my life, keeping that affirmation at the forefront has helped me give more time on the calendar back to myself and my health. Without guilt, shame, or difficulty.  

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

The best career advice anyone gave me was when I was acting professionally and considering whether or not to move to LA after I had worked on a David Gordon Green movie here in Austin with Nic Cage. The advice was to seek an environment to have a voice in that could work in tandem with my acting. The idea being that if I can own my voice somewhere, I will always have something I care about to pour into.

As a working actor, you often shape shift at other’s demand and call. This advice to me as a young, hustling actor really empowered me to continue to cultivate myself outside of working to pay the bills. (Truly, I did so much commercial work back then and it was a  hustle.) It also helped me discover that my passion is truly where creativity and service come together. It turns out that this advice would serve me well beyond auditions and being on set. It came with me onto the Yoga With Adriene YouTube channel, where the second-best career advice came to me and that was the note to do it again, but this time, just be yourself.  

How would you describe your work/life balance?

I would describe my work/life balance as a work in process. Currently in a major renovation.  

What’s the best spot in your house?

In the humble breakfast nook with Benji at my feet.  

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

Any arnica or magnesium balm. I love it. I use it on the usual tight places, but I also love to use these guys before a workout or practice. Camphor or eucalyptus with a little arnica or mag-boom puts me in the mood to be in my body and breathe more consciously.  

Also, [Living Libations’] Seabuckthorn Best Skin Ever and a hair tie or scrunchie.  

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

My go-to method for transitioning from a long day is to soak in an Epsom salt bath with a book. Then shower off, jump in bed, and pick up the book wherever I left off. 

What’s your favorite time of day?

Sunset. I love this time of day wherever I am in the world. It’s poetic if you take the time to pause. This is also the time of day when we are usually cooking dinner. I love cooking with my partner while the sun sets. Favorite time of day indeed.  

What’s one thing you’d love everyone to know about yoga?  

Usually, I would say that I would want everyone to know that you don’t have to be good at yoga to do yoga! But these days I really lean in to remind myself and others that yoga is a sacred practice. Let it be that for you. Let it be. Soften, slow down, and remember that yoga is a time to connect with the divine. At-home yoga can be a perfect setup for just that.  

The post “As Long As It’s Intentional, the Day Feels Whole” —Adriene Mishler on the Transformative Power of Movement appeared first on Camille Styles.

Liana Levi lives by these words: “I believe that just being a good person attracts good energy.” After witnessing her monumental growth and A-list clientele over the past few years, it’s clear that her theory stacks up. Within months of purchasing a reformer machine at the beginning of the pandemic, Forma Pilates had become the go-to class for every major model and celebrity, including Hailey Bieber, Kaia Gerber, and Kendall Jenner. She’s literally one of LA’s best-kept secrets.

But the celebrity fanfare is just the icing on the cake for Levi. The initial goal was to keep herself grounded and instill purpose during a chaotic and uncertain time. Not only has that intention transformed her business, but it’s also changed the lives of those around her.

“I believe that just being a good person attracts good energy.”

Waking Up With Liana Levi

Located at the back of her LA home means space is very limited and also explains why in-studio workouts are by referral only. But scarcity has created heightened demand for the popular instructor. Increased pressure from her growing virtual community saw her launch Forma Online so those of us who can’t experience in-person can now take both reformer and mat-based workouts at home. And Levi promises: they’re just as challenging.

With so much buzz circulating Levi and her pilates studio, we reached out to learn more and she very graciously let us into her beautiful home to spill all on her morning routine from skincare to supplements, and so much more.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

A typical day for me starts with a 5-10 minute guided meditation, leaping out of bed, whisking up some Alfred matcha, a morning walk with my two cavapoos, then off to training from 7 a.m. until about 1 p.m. I like my first meal to be a little backyard bowl pick-me-up, then it’s afternoon sessions with a break to check emails and let everyone know I’m alive and well! I wrap up my day cooking dinner and watching a show.

What time is your wake-up call?

I wake up every day at 5 a.m. naturally no matter what I do. I’m always an early morning riser. I try to get at least seven hours of sleep—eight if I’m lucky.

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

As soon as I wake up, I chug a bottle of water I keep on my nightstand and take a Lypo-Spheric Vitamin C and clean vitamin D.

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

I love my mornings—it’s really the only hour I have to myself. I have two dogs, and I take them on a walk every morning to get my matcha from Alfred. I guess you can call it a form of active meditation or grounding. Breathing the fresh, crisp morning air while the streets are calm and quiet is the time I get to gather my thoughts and energy and plan my series for the day.

What rituals set you up for success?

My internal conversations with myself. I am a perfectionist and I’ve learned how important it is to be kind and gentle to yourself. I have a long list of affirmations that I read and recite daily to keep me centered and focused for my day.

What do you eat for breakfast? 

I intermittent fast so my first meal isn’t until around 1 p.m. after I’m done teaching my morning sessions. I eat small meals, but my ideal breakfast would be some Nancy’s probiotic yogurt with organic berries, granola, and some honey on top.

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish. 

I currently alternate between two amazing facialists who are always keeping me up to date with the best products for my skin—Skin by Charlotte and Dr. Barbara Sturm. 

I start with a cleanser. I alternate between the Enzyme Cleanser by Dr. Barbara Sturm and Environ Focus Care Clarity+ Sebu Wash Gel Cleanser. 

Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser

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Environ Botanical-Infused Sebu-Wash Gel Cleanser

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I use Biologique Recherche P50W every other morning. 

Biologique Recherche Lotion P50W

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SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

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Dr. Barbara Sturm Darker Skin Tones Hyaluronic Serum

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Osmosis +Beauty Boost Peptide Activating Mist

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iS Clinical Reparative Moisture Emulsion

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Lira Clinical SPF Solar Shield

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Then I’m ready for my makeup. I start with Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation, Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Biscuit— then a little MAC blush on my lids. I use a MAC mahogany liner and smudge, then some mascara to finish. 

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NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

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MAC Cosmetics Lip Pencil

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What are your morning media rituals? 

Instagram. I take pride in managing Forma’s IG. I think it’s so important as a brand to create content daily that can motivate and inspire people to move their bodies.

What are your favorite books?

• The Alchemist
• The Untethered Soul
• The Universe Has Your Back
• Think Like a Monk

What do you always have on your nightstand to ensure a smooth, successful morning?

A clock, water, lip balm, and my vitamins.

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack?

Forma playlist!

Do you work out in the morning? 

This is a work in progress for me as I’m trying to find time for myself to get into my studio for at least 20 minutes every morning. Sometimes this happens at 5 a.m.

What’s your daily uniform? 

One of our cute Forma tops and a pair of athletic leggings is definitely my go-to combo for fashion and function. Some brands I love:

• Set Active
• Good American
• Ernest Leoty
• Lululemon
• Alo
• Koral

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

I would do Pilates!

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

Turn my phone to airplane mode for dinner, have a girl’s night, and try to take a weekend off here and there to go on a mini vacation. 

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

Not losing sight of my true self and what inspired me to do what I love every day. Being transparent, honest, and a real person. Organic growth is the most successful type of growth in my opinion. No fluff—what you see is what you get. I believe that just being a good person attracts good energy. 

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: my phone.

If there were more hours in the day, I would: make more time for myself. 

Healthiest morning habit: vitamins and meditation.

Worst morning habit: reaching for my phone right away in the mornings. 

One thing I want to be known for is: helping people. 

The one thing I fear the most is: disappointing people I love. 

When I feel that fear, I: take a deep breath and remind myself that life is too short and there’s no need to sweat the little things.

The book I always recommend is: The Alchemist. 

The three traits you need to succeed in life: self-worth, honesty, and drive. 

Bath or shower? And what’s your favorite shower/bath product? Shower. I love my Shu Umera hair products. 

This post was originally published on August 3rd, 2021, and has since been updated.

The post After Visiting Her at Home, It’s Clear Why Liana Levi Is LA’s Best Kept Secret appeared first on Camille Styles.

We all have those pieces of jewelry we gravitate to most. For me, it’s a simple set of stacking rings I wear daily on my left-hand ring finger. Through hours of typing, sets of tennis, and nightly kitchen experiments, these rings sit with me like a loving friend, encouraging and inspiring me in all I take on. That’s exactly the intention Jennie Yoon weaves all throughout Kinn. Her fine jewelry brand invokes a refreshing stance on jewelry: the goal is never to hide behind our accessories. Rather, we should feel celebrated by the pieces we connect with—allowing our jewelry to support our unique paths and become an integral part of our stories.

Jennie has crafted Kinn’s ethos well, envisioning her designs as a second skin. But it isn’t simply a passion for the product that drives Jennie. Eight years ago, her family home was robbed, and much of her mother’s jewelry—heirloom pieces passed down between generations—was taken. The pieces were one-of-a-kind, with their value derived as much from their beauty as the sentiment each ring, necklace, and bracelet invoked.

The experience inspired Jennie to build a business founded on the belief that the jewelry women wear—grandmothers, mothers, sisters, and friends—should reflect our own unique narratives and inspire meaningful connections throughout our own lives and beyond.

Waking Up With Jennie Yoon

Jennie extends this purpose-driven mindset beyond business, too. She wakes up each morning with a well-practiced orientation toward gratitude. As a mother, creative, and a woman constantly pursuing her curiosity, Jennie knows that she doesn’t have time for it all—and she doesn’t pretend otherwise. Instead, through the past year in particular, Jennie has learned to pursue less. And no, this doesn’t mean she ignores her innate motivation. Instead, she says no without guilt, seeing the practice as a gift to herself, her family, and her career.

Life as an entrepreneur has made me change fundamentally, from the way I think to the way I act and the way I want to live my life.

From our conversation, it’s obvious that everything in Jennie’s life has benefited from this perspective. She’s unapologetic about her priorities, setting healthy boundaries between work and her family, making time for self-care, and never saying no to her morning cup of coffee. And while her creativity and passion drives her professional pursuits, she also describes herself as practical. (“I’m a Virgo to a tee,” she tells me.)

It’s obvious that Jennie’s created a routine and practices rituals that allow for moments of spontaneity, inspiration, and creativity at every turn. The observation is much like how she styles and envisions her jewelry. Jennie takes classic shapes and minimalist silhouettes and infuses an originality that’s impossible for others to recreate. Why? Because every piece—from her hoops to her rings to the bracelets lovingly layered around her wrists—comprises and communicates exactly who Jennie is. Her brilliance, her imperfections, and her unapologetic push to live life on her own terms.

Below, Jennie takes us behind the scenes of her morning routine. From the podcasts that energize her morning commute to her game-changing tip for leveling up your avocado toast—plus why pursuing the entrepreneurial path is a leap she would never take back—Jennie has plenty of inspiration in store. This is how the self-proclaimed morning person gets it done.

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

I was employed at a global tech accessories brand when jewelry began to play a larger role in my life, following an unfortunate event with my family. In 2015, my parents’ home was robbed and much of their jewelry was stolen. Those pieces were mostly antiques and personal treasures that had been passed down to my mother from her parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents—so they were not easily replaceable.

I collected whatever photos I could of the lost jewelry and visited the Los Angeles jewelry district in hopes of finding someone who could re-create at least some of my mother’s beloved jewelry. A bench jeweler took on the project, and I soaked up as much knowledge about jewelry as I could from it.

When I gave my mother the first piece of jewelry I re-created, she was in tears. We got to start again from scratch.

Life as an entrepreneur has made me change fundamentally, from the way I think to the way I act and how I want to live my life. Most of the time, it’s for the better, and occasionally for the worse. It truly feels like a rollercoaster ride, but it’s truly been one that I wouldn’t ever take back. 

What has been your biggest learning over the past year?

The pursuit of less and the gift of saying no without guilt. I’ve learned to say no to things that I find drain my energy and don’t fill my cup. I’ve made the conscious choice to not do things in both my personal life and business simply because that is the trend or what everyone else is doing. Instead, I’m creating my own path based on my vision. 

How would you describe your personal style? 

I’m a Virgo to the tee. I’m very practical, especially more so now as a mom. My style is classic staples, simple with a splash of color from time to time. I love the ability to accessorize myself with jewelry for my classic looks. 

Let’s get into your morning routine. 

I’m usually up before the rest of my family as I’m naturally a morning person. I love being up on weekends while the rest of the world is still sleeping. That bit of quiet to think for myself, a really good coffee, and either catching up with the news or a bit of strategic or creative work is what gets me pumped. Next, I’m getting a good breakfast ready while I get Kaia, my 3-year-old, ready for school. Breakfast usually consists of green juice/smoothie, cereal, eggs, avocado, granola and fruit. It’s important to me that we get all of our brain food. 

A really good coffee, and either catching up with the news or a bit of strategic or creative work is what gets me pumped.

Since I have a long commute to work each day, I take on my most critical meetings in the car while my energy is high, or I listen to my daily podcasts (CNN 5 Things, NPR news, Glossy, Barron’s Streetwise, Gloss Angeles, Smartless, the list goes on). I’m usually in the office by 9 a.m. for my first meeting! 

What does a typical day look like for you? 

I time block. Each day is very different and focuses on different agendas.

• Monday is more of a general work day and setting up sprint goals for the week.
• Tuesday I focus on branding and marketing.
• Wednesday is focused on performance.
• Thursday, I work on our wedding and engagement collection, Vow by Kinn.
• Friday, I’m usually pushing through tasks that need to be completed before the weekend 

What time is your wake-up call?

My alarm goes off at 5:40 a.m. daily. I probably need more sleep, but I try to do at least 7 hours a day. 

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

Make my coffee.

What rituals set you up for success?

My morning routine typically looks like: morning coffee, get dressed, and get mentally ready for the day. During this time, I think about what I want to accomplish for the day and/or what I have ahead of me. My kids usually wake up right around when I’m ready, and then I start making breakfast and try to rush us out the door.

The rituals that set me up for success are being able to set small, achievable goals and being able to compartmentalize between each time block.

During this time, I’m off my phone and talk about the day with my kids (or what they dreamt about, etc). Once they’re dropped off at school, then I’m switching my mental gear back toward things I want to achieve for the day. 

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish.

Skincare:

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Clinique All About Clean 2-in-1 Face Cleansing + Exfoliating Jelly

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iS CLinical Active Serum 

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Epionce Renewal Facial Lotion

$102

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Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid

$29

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SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

$182

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Summer Fridays Light Aura Vitamin C + Peptide Eye Cream

$42

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Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

$22

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Makeup:

OGEE Contour Collection

$138 (reg. $174)

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Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick Compact

$52

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Anastasia’s Brow Powder Duo

$23

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Glossier Boybrow

$17

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Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment

$16

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What do you eat for breakfast?

It used to be eggs but I’ve cut back to help my cystic acne postpartum.

• A smoothie. Almond milk, avocado, apple, banana, and spinach/kale. (You can switch out the avocado if it’s too thick with cucumber or celery.) Side note: apples and bananas are what makes it sweeter for the kids! If you want to hide the green color, add blueberries or strawberries. 
• Avocado toast w/ truffle oil.
• Coffee + a lot of water! 

Brightland Olive Oil. Malibu Farm Cookbook.

What will we always find in your refrigerator?

Condiments, of every kind.

What are your morning rituals? 

A few minutes of staring at the ocean with coffee. My brain is usually quiet for a minute or so.

What are your favorite books?

• Psychology of Money
• Crying in H Mart
• Rich Dad Poor Dad
• All of Emily Giffin’s books
• Principles: Life and Work
• Start With Why

What’s always on your nightstand?

My Five-Minute Journal, a piece of Kaia’s artwork, and water.

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack?

Bob Moses, Kaskade, Alesso, Above & Beyond, Teo, Sza, Stromae. Depends on the mood! 

Do you work out in the morning?

I do heated yoga and I just picked up tennis on weekends. To be truthful, I wish I could make more time for workouts. We have summer Fridays coming up, and I hope to get more of this squeezed in during this time. 

What’s your daily uniform?

Jeans and a crisp washed-out shirt with a blazer or All Saints leather jacket.  

All Saints Dalby Slim Fit Gold Leather Biker Jacket

$499

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

I’d probably try to get the day started early so I can end early. Dinner is a no-interrupt zone for me, and I have a hard boundary about being present with my family. If it means I can start the day early so I can be home early to do more things that I want, I’d love that. 

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

1. Practice gratitude. I personally love to write in my iPhone notes whenever I feel grateful. I also like to talk about our day and our favorite parts of the day with Kaia before her bedtime. She now looks forward to asking me: “What was your favorite part of the day.” 
2. Reflection. I’ve been consistent with journaling for at least five minutes a day. This allows me to reflect on the day and the wins, big or small. 

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

My family. From my husband to my parents to my network of friends who I can bounce ideas off. When they say it takes a village, I truly believe that applies to every aspect of your life, not just child-rearing. 

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: Rhode lip treatment.

If there were more hours in the day, I’d: go to the Strand to walk with my dog + scoot with my daughter.

Healthiest morning habit: I don’t look at my phone until after I’ve dropped off my daughter at school. 

Worst morning habit: coffee, lots of it.

One thing I want to be known for is: being the one who lived her life to the fullest.

The one thing I fear is: losing the ones I love.

When I feel that fear, I: give my husband or best friend a call and talk it out loud.

The book I always recommend: Essentialism and Thinking Fast and Slow.

One trait you need to succeed in life: resilience.

Bath or shower? What’s your favorite product? Bath. Not a bath product, but I love a nice glass of wine in the bath with a good show. 

The post The Pursuit of Less? How a Mindset of Gratitude Helps This CEO Get It Done appeared first on Camille Styles.

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

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 Ten Speed Press, 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 tutu’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 tutu 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 lu‘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 tutu would make lei for all of us for a pa‘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 ‘aina (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? 

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 tutu’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 tutu’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 Leahi or Diamond Head, this landmark mountain at the end of Waikiki 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.

Kate Arends doesn’t want to be put in a box. In a world that encourages marketing ourselves as a brand, Kate is hesitant to constrict herself to a niche. Because what’s the point of trying to encompass our wants, quirks, dreams, and accomplishments to a single elevator pitch if those thirty seconds could never dream of containing our multitudes?

It’s with her many identities—designer, mother, founder, and creative director of Wit & Delight—that Kate has built her brand. In images, videos, and blog posts, Kate captures and exudes the creative grace of a life oriented toward beauty.

And while I find myself audibly gasping, oohing, and awing at Instagram post after post, the experience feels unlike any scroll I’ve taken through an influencer’s page. There’s no attempt as aspiration—to show a life clearly out of reach. Instead, woven throughout the stunning interiors, inspiring words, and intimate vignettes, there’s a quiet knowing that with a simple shift in perspective, we can all uncover the same magic Kate has found for herself.

Shop Kate’s bedroom.

Waking Up With Kate Arends

Of course, this isn’t to discount her originality. Take a spin through Kate’s St. Paul home and you’ll find woodland-inspired wallpaper, velvet tufted couches, and colors only a well-trained eye can coordinate. We caught up with Kate on a snowy Monday in Minnesota. And while we expected spring-like weather when we got off the plane, Kate’s home proved to be respite enough.

I’ve been running a business long enough to realize it doesn’t get easier, you just get more comfortable with discomfort.

Kate is proof that no one’s success looks the same. As one of the original bloggers in the design space, Kate is familiar with the challenges and triumphs of building a career online. With products and collections at some of the biggest retailers (Target, Anthropologie, and West Elm are all on her roster), one might think she logs long hours every day at her desk. But Kate is consistent with exercise and time outdoors, prioritizes play, and carves out intentional time with her family.

Curious how she gets it all done? We sat down with Kate to learn the ins and outs of her creative career—plus the routines and rituals that inspire her work and help her days unfold with ease.

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

Crazy? Always evolving? I’ve been running a business long enough to realize it doesn’t get easier, you just get more comfortable with discomfort. And I’m thankful for this lesson, thankful for the lesson in resilience. I try to make my schedule both flexible and disciplined. I’m also thankful that continuing to learn and challenge myself to evolve is part of the job. Regardless of what I’m working on, there is rarely a dull moment. 

What has been your biggest learning over the past year?

I’ve learned to let go of a lot of trying to do it all. When it came to possibilities for our business and my life, I once liked to keep all doors slightly ajar just in case they came to fruition. I’ve realized that when every opportunity is important, it can be hard to figure out what matters most. So I’ve been saying no more than ever. 

Shop Kate’s kitchen.

In a few words, how would you describe your personal style? 

Classic with a splash of whimsy.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

6-8 am: I typically get up at 6 for a workout before getting the kids ready for school. If I can peek at my email, I try to do it at this time. 

8:30-11 am: I try to get 90 minutes of focused work done. Depending on what I have going on that week, it could be designing a product line or working on a project for our home (e.g., making product selections, deciding on paint colors, creating punch lists for a contractor). A few days a week I dedicate this time to writing for our site, Wit & Delight, and newsletter, House Call.

11 am-3 pm: Lunch, email, and meetings. I use this time for 1-1 consultations on Tuesdays and Thursdays, planning and production meetings with my team, tasks related to upcoming projects, etc. I also often take new business calls during this time.

3-5 pm: I am either shooting content for our channels, picking up whatever priority project is hot that week, or tending to things around the house. 

5-8 pm: Family time!

8-10 pm: Reading or catching up on emails.

What time is your wake-up call? And how much sleep do you usually get?

6 am. I’m in bed by 9 pm and usually asleep by 10-1030 pm after doing some reading. 

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

Drink water and start my workout. I alternate between pilates, HIIT workouts, and strength training. 

What rituals set you up for success?

At certain times in my life, I’ve had strict morning routines; at other times, there was no routine other than surviving (hello, years when I had two kids under two). What I’ve come to learn is you have to be flexible with your time and religiously strict about what makes life move smoothly. That means prioritizing daily movement for my mental and physical health, deep work (something that moves my business and goals forward), and quality time with the people I love. Everything else gets done if time and energy allow. It’s kind of the antithesis of what I see a lot of successful people do for their routines, but it’s one I can live with. And isn’t a routine that’s sustainable most likely to remain a routine? I think so. 

What I’ve come to learn is you have to be flexible with your time and religiously strict about what makes life move smoothly.

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish:

I brush my teeth, then I wash my face with Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser and apply the SkinCeuticals vitamin C serum. After that, I use Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen mixed with Drunk Elephant bronzing drops and apply my makeup.

Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser

Brightening Cleanser, $38

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SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic with 15% L-Ascorbic Acid

C E Ferulic with 15% L-Ascorbic Acid, $182

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Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun, Rice + Probiotics Facial Sunscreen

Relief Sun, Rice + Probiotics Facial Sunscreen, $14.95

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Drunk Elephant Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops

D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops, $38

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What do you eat for breakfast?

I drink hot water with lemon. Then I make a cup of coffee and usually eat an apple or make oatmeal (¼ cup oats in ¾ cup water, simmer for five minutes then top with flax seeds, hemp seeds, maple syrup, and walnuts). 

What will we always find in your refrigerator?

Fresh herbs, kale, good cheese, eggs, olives, salami, mustards (dijon, brown, hot deli), pickled things (hot peppers, cauliflower, carrots), and big tubs of beans and rice for making bowls throughout the week. 

What are your morning rituals? 

I never skip coffee or my skincare routine. 

What are your favorite books?

It’s often changing but a couple that I have read more than once in the past two years:

• Age of Innocence by Edith Warton
• Atomic Habits by James Clear
• Normal People by Sally Rooney

What’s always on your nightstand?

Nivea Creme, Bag Balm, whatever I’m reading, and AirPods.

NIVEA Creme

NIVEA Creme, $11.56

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Bag Balm Hand Moisturizer

Bag Balm Hand Moisturizer, $8.49

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Apple AirPods Pro

AirPods Pro, $199.99

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What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack?

Lately, it’s been Midnights by Taylor Swift. But I am always making playlists and giving recommendations.

Do you work out in the morning?

Yes, at least 30 minutes of movement. I rotate between HIIT, pilates, and cycling. I take at least three hour-long walks a week, but in the winter I do them in the afternoons due to lack of sunlight and negative temps. 

Shop Kate’s living room.

Shop Kate’s Dining room.

What’s your daily uniform?

I work from home but I get dressed daily. A uniform for me in the winter would be a cream babaà sweater, Levi’s vintage 501s, red socks, and black loafers. 

babaà jumper no16 natural

jumper no16 natural, $285.42

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Levi’s 501 Original Cropped Women’s Jeans

501 Original Cropped Women’s Jeans, $108

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

I would read, write, or design things just for myself.

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

You’ll never have enough time to get it all done, so I focus on what matters to me when I’m overwhelmed. Sometimes this means closing my email or ripping up the to-do list. I ask myself what can be done to ensure I’m working toward the future I want for myself and my family. It makes what’s actually important crystal clear. Knowing that time is a finite resource can be overwhelming in itself, but it can also help bring your priorities into focus. 

Shop Kate’s office.

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

Never giving up on myself. And never being afraid to pivot. 

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: my wallet.

If there were more hours in the day, I would: spend them fostering curiosity—in nature, in a museum, and playing with my kids. I wish we had more time to just play. 

Healthiest morning habit: being grateful to have another day on this earth.

Worst morning habit: thinking I have to follow a strict routine to be successful.

One thing I want to be known for is: my courage and empathy. 

The one thing I fear is: failing to raise my children to handle adulthood. 

When I feel that fear, I: remember the best thing I can do is set a good example with my own actions.  

The book I always recommend: Atomic Habits.

One trait you need to succeed in life: resilience.

Bath or shower? And what’s your favorite shower/bath product? Bath, but we don’t have one at the moment! I love this conditioning rinse by R+Co.

The post Waking up With Kate Arends—How the Creator of Wit & Delight Stays Inspired and Prioritizes Joy appeared first on Camille Styles.