Lake Pointe Design

lakepointedesignlogo1.jpeg

This summer I changed the name of my social media to Lake Pointe Design. This has been in the works for a bit; it was time to make a transition. My husband ultimately came up with the name, and I love it. It’s a nod to the place we’re raising our babies & call home. My website is still {theuncorkedtexan.com} but you can find me across social media as @lakepointedesign

I’m so glad you’re here-thanks for following along!

LY

Summer Reads

reading pic.JPG

The Summer Reading Season {yes, it is a legit thing} is my favorite. All these great new books are released, and with not much that’s interesting on TV right now, it’s the perfect time to get after some reading! This is the stack that I’ve plowed through since the beginning of May, in case you’re on the hunt for a fresh book. Enjoy!

Her Last Flight by Beatriz Williams

The Guest List by Lucy Foley

This is How I Lied by Heather Gudenkaui

Pretty Things by Janelle Brown

Sex & Vanity by Kevin Kwan

28 Summers by Elin Hilderbrand

The Black Swan of Paris by Karen Robards

The Scent Keeper by Erica Bauermeister

We Are All the Same in the Dark by Julia Heaberlin

Home Before Dark by Riley Sager

A Good Marriage by Kimberly McCreight

Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda

Feels Like Falling by Kristy Woodson Harvey

The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier

Cilka’s Journey by Heather Morris

Big Summer by Jennifer Weiner

Meet Cute by Helena Hunting

The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi

In Five Years by Rebecca Serle

American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

Photography by @JanelleNorthwayPhotography

Baby Numero Tres

family 2.jpeg
family 1.jpeg

We had the most fun announcing to the world a few weeks ago, that we have a new family member on the way! Baby Number Three is coming January 2021. Our kids have finally wrapped their heads around the idea, and are excited, and bring the questions daily. Daily. I’m still getting sick most every day, {morning & night} but my energy is back for the most part which is good. The world right now feels so wild and crazy, but this little nugget is a daily reminder to me of the good & the miracles that are still happening.

Photograph by @JanelleNorthwayPhotography

Houseplant Styling Collaboration

heather.jpeg

This past week, my friend Heather {@lifegardenstyle} and I launched our new collaboration: How to Style Your Home with Houseplants. Over the years, I’ve always decorated my own spaces with houseplants. They’re one of the top things that I recommend to clients! Plants add that missing piece of life & texture & whimsy to a space. Plus green is always a neutral in my book!

Heather is a genius around a garden with her green thumb; and truly has a gift for caring for your indoor plants, identifying their growth problems, and gives legit water advice. My watering advice comes in the form of : just use your left over La Croix cans! Ha!

Any how, we are thrilled to launch this service, and can’t wait to meet up with our first client in the next couple of days. Our service is perfect for the gal / guy who wants to bring plants into their home / office, but aren’t sure where they should add them, which parts of their space are most conducive to plant growth, and what type of plant to get for their specific environment.

Photography by @JanelleNorthwayPhotography Dresses from @ShopTwill

Design Choices

kitchen.jpeg

When working with clients, I get alot of these questions:

“Is this too trendy?”

“Do you think I’ll hate this in a few years?”

“Is this look still going to be in style?”

And my answer is always: “Do you love it? Because if you do, it will stand the test of time.”

When selecting those finishing pieces for a space, don’t pick out something because everyone has it. Select it because it feels right for the flow of your space; and it’s true to your personal style. I designed our kitchen over three years ago, and it still makes me smile when I walk in every morning. These bar stools are definitely “trendy” right now, but three years ago they weren’t. And when the trend moves on to something else, I’ll still love them because they feel like me.

Photograph by @janellenorthwayphotography

Seasonal Uniform

hat pic.JPG

One of the perks of living in Kansas City, is that we truly have four real seasons. And as a Texas gal, I sooo love being able to enjoy most of the summer without living in a pile of good ol sweat.

Easy dresses, big hats and flip flops are my go-to- uniform for the next few months. I’ve always loved dresses. They’re just easy & always look good no matter how much queso & guac you had the night before. They’re the ultimate easy piece that takes you from errands, pool, boat rides, date night & everything in between.

Emerson Fry is a brand that I found last spring, and am still loving today! Their prints are swoon worthy, and the feel of their cotton can’t be beat! The quality is also impeccable; so these are pieces that will stand the test of time for a curated closet.

Photography by @JanelleNorthwayPhotography

The Uncorked Texan & Friends: Alli Otte from @SincerelyDesignCo

allie o.jpeg

Today I am excited to introduce to you all Allie Otte from @SincerelyDesignCo. I met Allie through the Kansas City Instagram Community, and I’m looking forward to the day we can meet up in person for a glass of wine, and share design ideas! I love seeing what other designers are doing around town, and her work is amazing!

1. What is one item you believe every space needs?

Every space needs something special that brings you joy. Whether it’s a cool piece of furniture that’s been passed down through generations, a great candle with a scent you love, or a great find from an adorable boutique or antique store you visited while on vacation, a space needs at least one piece that brings a smile to your face when you enter.

2. Who / What is your favorite source of inspiration?

I find design inspiration in many different ways. I love design magazines and my IG feed is full of fantastic designers. However, my mom is my biggest inspiration. She is the reason I love to decorate, and my sounding board to this day. She taught me how to create a warm, inviting, timeless, and functional space, without spending a lot of money; and now I love creating that feeling for other people in their homes.

3. What is your proudest design moment?

That’s a tough one! Making design decisions for the home my husband and I just built was a first for me, and seeing how it all came together is something for which I am very proud. I’d say my proudest design moment though, was the first time I was hired to decorate. I have always felt honored when friends and family would ask my advice or feedback on decisions for their homes. But the first time someone wanted to pay me to decorate was a pivotal moment. I will forever be grateful for that job, and the jobs since then; for pushing me to start this venture.

Thanks so much for being a part of my feature Alli! I love these answers, especially the connection you have with your mom! The best!

You can find Alli at @sincerelydesignco

The Uncorked Texan & Friends: Ashley Moore from Moore House Interiors

ashley.JPG

I’m super proud to share with you all in this week’s edition of The Uncorked Texan & Friends- Ashley Moore from Moore House Interiors. And lucky me, she’s part of my family! Ashley is married to one of my cousins, and it’s been a pleasure to watch her build and grow her business to where it is today! Ashely is the real deal & one of the hardest working gals in town. I can always count on her to shoot it straight; whether it’s design, life or margarita advice!

Ashley has always had a eye for design, and creates that most amazing spaces. Even in our single days, her apartment was the best! The thing that I love most about her designs is that they are functional, live-able, and she uses pieces that have history, and tell a story. In a nutshell, her spaces have heart.

1. What is one item you believe every space needs?

Every space needs a rug to ground the room. I’m also a firm believer in a neutral base, and adding color & texture through accents.

2. Who / What is your favorite source of inspiration?

My mom instilling a love of design & antiques in me at fairly young age. I think business wise, two of my best business buddies-Elizabeth Garrett of @eg_interiors and Aryn Guillory of @oystercreekstudios are huge inspiration as to how they do business. And while their styles are different than mine, they are stunning. I truly find inspiration everywhere-whether it’s combing through magazines, hiking in the mountains, and seeing displays in retail stores.

3. What is your proudest design moment?

Goodness this is hard, because my house was my first project, so I’m super proud of it. But I think my proudest moment was when I finished out Buda Farmhouse. We had been with the family for over a year working. We helped them with plans, selections, and then their furniture. It was my first full service design project & their reaction and love for their home was the best. It’s such an honor knowing that I create spaces where people live their lives everyday: where kids say their first words, laughter happens, there are tears & memories made.

Thanks so much Ashley!

I can’t wait to see what you do next, and to have a Ranch Water together on a porch ASAP!

You can follow Ashley and her team @moorehouseinteriors

Confetti Pop Party Shop

mac 5.jpeg

Today I’m so excited to feature my friend Chez of Confetti Pop Party Shop {@confettipop_kc}. I know Chez from a mom’s group that I was in, and was beyond thrilled to help her launch her business back in March when she did the MOST fantastic balloons for my Boards for Babies Event. Doesn’t March feel like a lifetime ago?

Anyway, I reached out to her a few weeks ago to help me with my son’s birthday. My little man has been talking about his birthday for weeks, and has been so worried about the corona virus and his birthday. BUT, he was smiles all day long, and kept proclaiming it “The Best Birthday Ever!”. Music to my ears!

The night before his birthday, Chez did a no-contact delivery to my front door, and left me with two gorgeous Balloon Bundles, and her new Birthday Party in a Box. And let me tell you guys, she delivered. I was literally almost in tears, because I knew that Mac was going to be so excited when he woke up, and saw the birthday magic!

From her I got a Super-Hero Balloon Bundle & a Ben-10 Bundle. Each bundle came with seven helium balloons that she color coordinated for my choice. Obviously you can tell Mac is all boy! With her Super-Her Bundle, she also included a big number FIVE.

And as for her Birthday Party in a Box, I was sooo happy with what it included. Life is all about the details for me, and this box fit the ticket. Again with the Super Hero Theme, she included Super Hero Plates, Cups, Napkins, and big number FIVE sparkly candle, cake toppers, a Happy Birthday Garland, and a Super Hero Cape! Perfection!

I’m not a baker by any stretch, in fact I think I keep the slice & bake cookie companies in business! But every year for my kid’s birthday’s, I love to make their cake. I’m still using the little 6-in cake pan that I got for my daughter when she turned one. There is just something sentimental and sweet about making their cake. I’m no professional, and I thoroughly believe that sprinkles will cover a multitude of sins. The cake toppers in her Birthday Box were the icing on his cake this year!

mac 1.JPG
mac 2.JPG
mac 3.jpeg
mac 4.jpeg
mac 6.jpeg
mac 7.jpeg

Thanks again SO much Chez for making his day so special!

You can follow her at @confettipop_kc & email her at Confettipop.kc@gmail.com

Pictures by @Janellenorthwayphotography & myself

The Uncorked Texan & Friends: Aubrey Cook from ReVibed Homes

aubrey.JPG

Happy Friday! Today I’m so excited to feature my girl Aubrey Cook! Aubrey and I met through our kids at preschool a few years ago, and then I was lucky enough to have her move down the street from me. Those neighbors who walk down the sidewalk with a box of wine to each other’s house? Yes, that’s us! She’s the most gorgeous soul inside and out, and fun is never too far behind!

If you’re new around here, you might not know this, but this past Holiday season Aubrey and I joined forces, and called ourselves the #TwoTipsyElves to decorate houses for Christmas. We used our client’s decorations, brought in a few curated pieces, and transformed their spaces for the holidays. We had the best time, with the most amazing families, and hopefully we’ll be doing this again soon!

1. What is one item you believe every space needs?

Lighting. No matter how big or small your room is, filling a room with elegant lighting instantly makes a space complete. It’s often what takes me the most time to select in a project!

2. Who / What is your favorite source of inspiration?

Addison’s Wonderland {Brittany Hayes}. I’ve followed her for years! As a fellow rehabber, and lover of interior design, she can make any home / space stunning. Her use of colors and pattern mixing are some of the best I’ve seen!

3. What is your proudest design moment?

In the 10 years we’ve rehabbed homes, there are so many moments when visions and sketches actually materialize into beautiful interiors. Our most recent home was purchased by a professional soccer player here in Kansas City! We felt honored they loved our remodel!

Aubrey, thank you SO much!!

You can follow along with her to see her most recent project at @revibedhomes or contact her to help with your renovation at ReVibed.homes@gmail.com

The Best Green Sauce

dip.JPG

Back in the fall I shared my mom’s famous Green Sauce recipe on my Instagram, and I thought I’d share it here again with Cinco De Mayo coming up around the corner. This dip is my absolute favorite, and I like to make it year around. No holiday needed for me to crave this! For a dip that packs a great punch, the shopping list is simple & it’s so easy to make!

Shopping List:

4 tomatillos

4 small green tomatoes

2 jalapenos

3 garlic cloves

2T EVOO

3 avocados

4 bunches of cilantro

salt

16oz sour cream

favorite tortilla chips

To Make: Combine tomatillos, jalapenos, & garlic in a sauce pan. Add EVOO. Bring to a boil, then simmer on medium for 15 min. Pour the ingredients from the sauce pan into a blender, then add to the blender the avocados & cilantro. Once all is blended, stir in the sour cream. Salt to taste. Chill for a few hours, then serve!

The Uncorked Texan & Friends: Jenn Terry from Looms & Lighting

looms.jpg

Today I’m excited to introduce to you all Jenn Terry! Jenn is the proud owner of a rug and lighting store based out of Gainesville, Georgia called Looms & Lighting. Her wares are just stunning, and bonus points, she’s a hoot and a half! I also met her in Nashville this past fall at Creative Camp, and had the best time getting to know her! She’s the kind of gal that you don’t leave a conversation with, without a big smile on your face! My kind of people!

We were chatting on the phone this week, because Jen is on the hunt for a rug for my master bathroom, and the first thing I told her was her accent! There is nothing that sounds better to my ears than a good southern accent! I’m so excited to see what rug she finds for me.

1. What is one item you believe every space needs?

Obviously a rug! I feel that you could have the cheapest furniture in the world, but if you have a fabulous lamp, and custom pillows, no one will ever notice your furniture. This advice is especially relevant for all of the moms who have dogs, cats, and kids! Real life rooms!

2. Who / What is your favorite source of inspiration?

Matthew Carter Interiors! I love his use of textures and layers. His rooms just look effortless.

3. What is your proudest design moment?

My proudest moment was my very first client! She requested six neutral rugs, and let me go off in my own direction when deciding the rugs that she needed for her home. I showed up to her house that day in my white mini van, and I was super nervous. My client was battling cancer, and had just had a treatment, but she was so patient with me that day. On a day that she wasn’t feeling her best, I was so thrilled to be able to do something special for her. When everything was placed, she was so happy, and that was my ah-ha moment for my business.

I just love these stories! My husband told me the other day that he sees me at my happiest when I’m helping other people, and I want that to always be at the heart of any project that I’m working on for a client.

Jenn thank you SO much for your time!

You can check Jenn out at www.loomsandlighting.com & @loomsandlighting

The Uncorked Texan & Friends: Jennifer Sumko

jen.jpeg

Hello from Quarantineville! I hope you’ve all had a safe & healthy week. Our week has been full of highs, lows, sunshine & rain, ranch waters, new normals and laughs. As crazy as this time is, my kids are so so happy. I hope when they’re old and gray, that they look back on this time with happy memories…….like mom was a little kookoo but she loved us, and let us have ice cream for lunch outside so she could breathe for a hot second. Ha!

This week’s installment of The Uncorked Texan & Friends is my gorgeous friend Jennifer Sumko. I met Jen in Nashville at Creative Camp last fall, and we instantly hit it off. She has become one of my favorite follows on social media. Her feed is just like her: lots of charm, personality & positivity. She’s always sharing her favorite finds, and vintage scores; she has the best style both in her wardrobe & home. I was so happy to interview her, and couldn’t wait to read her responses!

1. What is one item you believe every space needs?

One thing every room needs is a great piece of art. A good piece of art can tie a room together and add interest immediately.

2. Who / What is your favorite source of design inspiration?

My favorite source of design inspiration is searching through antique stores. Finding just the right piece to complete a room is always a favorite part for me with design. Dorothy Draper and her love of color and mixing pattern has always been a design icon to me.

3. What is your proudest design moment?

Honestly my proudest design moment was when my Mom commissioned me to help with her house. She has the ultimate best taste! She was also a perfectionist and I knew if It was good enough for her….it was good enough!

Thanks so much for your insight. I live for a good treasure hunting day as well!

You can find Jen at jensumkovint.com & @jensumkovint where she shares her finds, has a shop full of treasures for sale & tells more about her wallpaper sourcing!

The Uncorked Texan & Friends: Laura Hobbs

laurah.jpeg

On this sweet Good Friday, I’m so excited to introduce to you all my dear friend Laura Hobbs, for this week’s edition of “The Uncorked Texan & Friends”. Laura and I first met in 2009. We had both joined the Kansas City Junior League, and were lucky enough to be placed in the same small group. We instantly bonded over our shared first names, and matching shoes! I love this girl to pieces, and am so glad to highlight her on my space.

Laura has quite an impressive Interior Design background, that I love to hear stories about. I always value her opinion when making interior choices, and life in general. She has an amazing design eye that blends different styles, colors, and textures; while leaving the space with the coziest vibe. That is truly a gift in my book. And don’t get me started on her house. It’s just the best!

1. What is one item you believe every space needs?

Every room, with the exception of the kitchen and bathrooms, needs plenty of lighting from table lamps. Table lamps provide warm light that makes rooms feel inviting. I like to choose lamps that are sculptural and add to the vibe of the space.

2. Who / What is your favorite source of design inspiration?

I was trained in the English Country style, but prefer a less fussy aesthetic these days. I am often inspired by the work of designers that I follow on Instagram, such as Collins Interiors and the wonderful Fran Keenan.

3. What is your proudest design moment?

I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to work with talented designers in New York, and am honored to have worked on some amazing projects with them.

Thanks so much for your time Laura, and for being such a sweet friend! I’m so glad we met all those years ago!

You can find Laura at @laurathobbs & help me in convincing her to share her skills with the world!

The Uncorked Texan & Friends: Jennifer Muirhead

jennifer m.jpg

Today’s installment of The Uncorked Texan & Friends, is featuring Jennifer Muirhead. I met Jennifer at Pencil and Paper Co’s Creative Camp in Nashville this past fall. That entire trip deserves a blog post in and of itself, because it was the most inspiring, magical weekend.

Jennifer and I have since kept up through Instagram, and I love seeing her work! She has the best career path ie InStyle Magazine Editor, television production, a design business in LA, and now she lives in Morristown, New Jersey with her family. I asked her the other day about it, and here is her response:

“I would say that if anything, working at a magazine during the 2008 recession definitely pushed me in a more creative and entrepreneurial direction. So many publications were being winnowed down to nothing or completely folding at the time, which was very disheartening but turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I used that time (which also coincided with the birth of my daughter) to examine what it was I really wanted to do with my life, which was design. I was surprised to “discover” this about myself, but my closest friends and family all said, “It’s about time!” So basically my time in magazines pushed me straight into design school!”

1. What is one item you believe every space needs?

Every space should have something “old” that brings warmth and character. It can be an antique rug, a vintage oil painting, or some mid century pottery-anything that has a little history will do. It makes a space unique and it’s technically recycling!

2. Who / What is your favorite source of design inspiration?

I’m inspired by Anna Spiro, Ulla Johnson, Aerin Lauder and nature.

3. What is your proudest design moment?

My proudest moment as a designer was having my client tell me how much my design has changed his family’s life. It made me feel so fulfilled!

Thanks so much for your time & sharing your journey Jennifer! Your career path resonates with me, and your spaces are just inspiring.

You can find Jennifer at www.jennifermuirheadinteriors.com & @jm_interiors

How to Design a Gallery Wall

gallery wall.JPG

One of my favorite things to add to a space is a gallery wall. The one in this picture is the third one I’ve done over the years. They’re such a great way to group some of your family’s greatest treasures, and showcase them in a uniform way. Designing a gallery wall is actually fairly simple if you have a good plan of action.

First off, the frames. As with anything, you can go high or low. Personally, I’ve found that the black frames with white mats at JoAnns and Ikea are honestly some of the best frames around. You get a wonderful bang for your buck with them. I’ve used these sources for frames for over a decade now without a problem, and will continue to do so.

Next, select the space to hang your gallery wall. I like to use walls that are either hidden in your home, or can benefit from a great design pop. In my previous home, I had a gallery wall in the hallway once you walked in to my home. In my current home, I used the wall outside my son’s bedroom that is on our cat-walk. I love having a gallery wall on this particular wall, because it’s visible from our downstairs living room.

Once you have your frames gathered up, and the space selected, here is where you need to use my personal gallery wall trick, that will save you a lot of angst and un-needed nail holes: You need to trace all of the frames you are going to be using, on old wrapping paper. We all have multiple rolls left over from the Holidays. Select your least favorite paper, and get to work tracing. Don’t forget to label the paper, so you know what frame to use when it’s time to hang them up!

After everything is traced, now start hanging your wrapping paper “frames” with simple tape. I like to start with a grouping in the middle of the space, and work my way out. Often-times it’s easier if you place the bigger frames in the middle, or have them grouped in one particular area. If you can, get an extra set of eyes, ie your husband or best friend, to come over and give their opinion. Have them stand a bit back from the wall so they can give you that bird’s eye view…….place it a bit to the right, now up…..you get the drift.

After all of your paper frames are hung, the fun gets to happen. Working from the inside out again, start nailing in your frames to their corresponding spots! Viola! Happy Gallery Wall Hanging!

Photography by @Janellenorthwayphotography

KC Local: Textured Decor

TD 1a.jpeg

Today, I’m excited to write about one of my latest finds in Kansas City. A few weeks ago while browsing the interwebs, I came across the most darling account & new home store: Textured Decor {@textured.decor}. Right in the heart of Downtown Liberty is this gem, owned by Courtney Vandendaele.

From the second you walk in the door, you are greeted with a nook that she has filled with gorgeous pillows and blankets, and a brick floor that I now need in a house one day. The rest of the store has tables, and shelves, and vignettes displaying all her goods that give off this cool, cozy vibe. She has curated items with a modern, boho/natural flair; yet there is something here for every home. She has incredible statement pillows, baskets, blankets, entertaining items, the perfect accessory for your book shelves, a darling children’s section I couldn’t stop obsessing over, and a collection of furniture with the best well-made details, and more.

I left with a rattan coffee table, that is perfect for my living room. I’ve been obsessing over one from a well known high-end retailer, and was delighted to find this gem. At a fraction of the price, incredibly well made, and the bonus opportunity to support a local business; I’d say it was a win-win purchase.

So the next time you find yourself in Liberty, take some time to swing by Textured Decor. I promise it’ll be worth your while!

TD3.jpeg
TD2.jpeg
TD 1.jpeg

Photography by @Janellenorthwayphotography

Textured Decor . 10 W Kansas . Liberty MO

The Uncorked Texan & Friends: Courtney Payne

courtney black & white.JPG

Today I am thrilled to launch the start of my new series: The Uncorked Texan & Friends. In this series, I’m going to be featuring my favorite design pals around Kansas City & beyond. There are so many incredible women in the design world today, and I’m honored to be able to showcase my friends.

I’m kicking off the series with my friend Courtney Payne. Courtney is a local Kansas City Native, who I have recently connected with. The second I met her, I knew she was a gem!! She has a fantastic eye for design, is a busy mom of two, and lives in an incredible 101 year old home, that she and her husband have renovated.

1. What is one item you believe every space needs?

I believe every space needs art on the walls. This can be in so many different forms such as a photograph, painting, print, weaving, etc. However, I always encourage people to choose pieces that mean something to them in order to personalize their space. We have art hanging in our home that I have created, my children have created, pieces we’ve picked up on travels, or have been gifted to use, etc. These pieces warm up a space and tell a story. They spark happy memories every time we look at them and helps in making our “house” our “home”.

2. Who / What is your favorite source of design inspiration?

This is a tough one! I draw inspiration from so many sources! Ones that come to mind are Emily Henderson for her airy, coastal style. I love Justina Blakeney of the Jungalow for her Boho style. I also get a lot of inspiration from stores. I love Mountain Dandy for their eclectic and more masculine style.

3. What is your proudest design moment?

My proudest design moment is what we have done with our home that we currently live in. Our home is a 101 year old Brookside Craftsman style home. We have completely overhauled this house. We have lived through 3 rounds of major renovations, painted every surface, changed light fixtures, hardware, and more. You name it, we’ve probably changed it! We have worked very hard to stay true to the homes style while transforming it into a space that works so well for our family. The change that I am most proud of is our master bedroom / bathroom / closet. We completely changed the blueprint of our 2nd floor to accommodate a new master suite and did it without the use of an architect. It took some creative thinking and a patient contractor but we did it and we could not be happier with how it turned out!

Thanks so much for your time & insight Courtney!

You can find her at www.brooksideonmain.com & @brooksideonmain

What I've Learned from the @theKCInfluence Mastermind

Mastermind603.jpg

I’ve mentioned a couple times on here, that I’m currently in the Mastermind Class with @theKCInfluence. And I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again….It literally is the best thing I have done for myself in a hot second. Today I’m taking over their social media feed to share about my experience, and a few things I learned along the way. Nothing is ground breaking or earth shattering, just simple little reminders that sometimes as adults, and busy moms & wives, we’ve completely forgotten.

Tip 1. You don’t need a license or official credentials to chase your dreams. This was one of my biggest hangups. I have two degrees in something else, and I’m currently not using them, and that’s OK. Am I using the life skills I got getting those degrees? Yes. Was it a waste getting them? No. Will I consider some kind of formal Interior Design Training one day? Maybe.

Tip 2. Meet your community in person. Technology is so great, but there is nothing that will ever surpass face to face connection. One of my most favorite things about the last several months, is all the absolutely incredible women I have met, and am now lucky to call friend! So get yourself out there. Go to that event. The first one you go to is definitely scary, and nerve wracking, but you will be SO glad you went! And if you need a buddy, holler, and I’ll come with you!

Tip 3. Be YOU. This world doesn’t need you trying to be somebody else. They already have them. They need YOU to use your gifts, your talents, your voice. Christine really encouraged us to see what we have that’s unique. What’s the one thing/s that sets you apart? Lean in to THAT, and start running.

Tip 4. Don’t over think your pictures or be too self critical. This is something I have to fight daily. I think we all do as women. My eye looks a little wonky in this, that angle is my worst enemy, etc, etc, etc. Lately my number one criteria when I decide about a picture is this…..do I look happy? Do I look like I’m having fun? And while life is not always a big rainbow fruit salad, by golly getting to create a piece of the internet is a gift. Doing what I LOVE is a gift. And none of this is lost on me.

Tip 5. Plan about 70% and then let.it.flow. Over the weekend, I definitely sit down and make my myself some sort of plan for the week. Some weeks my creative juices are flowing a little better than others, but I really like to have in mind what I’m going to do. If I have some sort of creative block, then I write maybe a word or two, so later I know the general direction that I want to go in.

Tip 6. Rest. Rest. Rest. As a creative person, you have to rest. I cannot create, when I am consuming information all the time. I’m also an Extrovert // Introvert. I love my friends, and live for a good margarita session. But I also tell my people that I’ve used all my words for the day, and I’ll chat tomorrow! Ha! Reading, baths, exercise, Bravo, date nights, church….these are all things that keep me centered, relaxed, and feeling my best!

Photography by @BethGrimm

Mastermind Gals L to R:

@jesslynn_adams @Mrsandsis @chrstineclark @lumifinejewelry @managingthechaos @lifegardenstyle

Boards for Babies Event Recap

Since January, I’ve been a part of the @TheKCInfluence Mastermind Group. So for the past several weeks, it’s like I’ve had a life coach, business coach & a personal networking group. AKA the best thing I’ve signed myself up for in a while. The girls are the absolute best, and I’m already sad about our time being almost over.

Part of our course work was to plan, and execute an event. We were divided into teams, and set off to get to work. I had the best team members-Heather & Jess. Planning this event felt like we were organizing the most outrageous birthday party. I was definitely stretched beyond my comfort zone, but also had the best dang time.

Early on, we decided that we wanted our event to have a charity that could benefit from our generous community. And we also wanted to have an activity that our guests would enjoy. Charcuterie Boards are such a hot item these days; and I’ve personally been dying to learn from a professional. When we came in contact with Marcella from The Board Babe, the idea for Boards for Babies was born. Happy Bottoms was such a natural fit, and we were thrilled for them to be the recipient.

None of this would have been possible without our generous sponsors: Green Acres Market, Cinder Block Brewery, @JanelleNorthwayPhotography, @Serendiparty_ & @midwestcookieco.

And a big shout out to my girlfriends. My tribe is the best. XO

cheese sign.jpg
cheese balloons.jpg
cheese1.jpg
cheese 2.jpg
cheese 3.jpg
cheese 4.jpg
cheese 5.jpg
cheese 7.jpg
cheese 8.jpg
cheese 9.jpg
cheese 10.jpg
cheese 11.jpg
cheese laugh.jpg
cheese gals 2.jpg
IMG_6358.jpg

Photography by @janellenorthwayphotography