Where were you born and where did you grow up?
I grew up in Indiana – small town USA. I attended a private university in the city, and eventually moved to a university town. I decided to make the leap to the Island in June of 2007; it’s where my heart has always been. I just celebrated six years of citizenship!
What has been your career path?
I started off teaching English at a private high school for a couple years. Then I decided to give graduate school a try. I wasn’t diggin’ that and took a job for local government in the environmental field. I worked as a recycling and reuse director for seven years before coming to the Island. Anytime there’s a lag or I need extra cash, I go back to hospitality. I am a service-oriented person, and my work needs to have purpose!
What is the one aspect of your work that really gets you fired up?
I love styling people – helping them feel and look their best! Supporting local artisans, being a part of gift conspiracies and seeing parts of myself get sent all over the world as gifts!
What are you passionate about outside of work?
Contributing to my community and spending time with my family. I also enjoy my “dirty therapy” – making bouquets from my yard is one of my favourite things.
What’s the best life lesson you’ve learned in the last five years?
Just go for it! Keep going. Keep learning. Keep your head up. Wash your face and get up and just keep going!
Which of your innate qualities or daily practices has led to your success?
Innate leadership skills and taking risks. Also, I am told that I have a magnetic personality.
What is good style to you?
Any style that makes you feel amazing!
How would you describe your personal style?
People describe my style as boho chic or elegant chic. I like to combine a little old with a little new. Classy, yet creative. Create a look that is a bit unique and reflects a bit of my personality.
Fashion & Beauty
Uniform: Black leggings, stylish tunic, a great pair of boots and power hoop earrings!
All-time favourite piece: Earrings are by far my favourite accessory. They can truly “make an outfit.”
Favourite pair of shoes: My pair(s) of black Fly London boots.
Favourite day-bag: Favourite day-bag has to have a pocket on the outside for the quick drop of keys and phone; a pocket on each side in the inside, and a really great cross body strap.
Favourite work tool: My favourite work tools are for making, repairing and retooling jewellery. I love to get creative and take something outdated and bring it back to life.
Favourite jewellery piece or designer: Currently my favourite piece is a necklace made by a local artisan. It’s a copperwire-wrapped labradorite. Absolutely stunning and one of a kind!
Fashion obsession: Arm stacks. Also known as arm parties. I love to mix and match metals, stones, textures. Have some fun!
Necessary indulgence for either fashion or beauty: Clean and natural skincare that works. I have an amazing line that I use for pro-aging, and it has changed my skin! I also never leave the house without mascara. We all have “our thing” that makes us – without mascara, my eyes just disappear! I want my eyes to sparkle and shine!
Scent: Lavender mixed with an earthy scent like cedarwood or sandalwood.
Style Inspirations & Life
Style icon: Grace Jones all the way.
Favourite fashion designer or brand: Smoking Lily in Victoria. She’s so creative and inspiring!
Film or TV show that inspires your style or that you just love the style of: Sex and the City, of course! Those ladies rocked it!
Favourite cocktail or wine: Nothing beats a Bombay gin and tonic or a nice red wine.
Album on current rotation: I am currently obsessed with Dominic Fike. His story and music. His lyrics. His life experience for such a young soul. His energy live is intoxicating!
Favourite flower: The dahlia. They are fussy and demanding, but their beauty and longevity far outrank the rest.
One thing that consistently lifts your spirits during hard times: Spending time with my sister and besties. There’s nothing like a good glass of wine and some laughter with your girls.
This feature appeared in the fall edition of Boulevard Central Island.