What I Learned from My Blog Hiatus & Other Friday Finds

Business of blogging

Happy first Friday of September friends. I must say it does feel very good to be back. Even as much as running a daily editorial site (and all the social media, constant oversharing and self-promotion it requires) can feel a bit relentless sometimes, a decade in I remain inspired by the talented people and amazing design I uncover every day.

I did learn a few things about myself during my month off that I thought I’d share with you.

The day really must not have 24 hours in it, because I did not accomplish even 10% of what I’d hoped to.

No matter how many meditation apps I download, I’m very bad at finding 10 minutes to sit still.

See also: I really really really cannot wake up before 7 am. Sorry (not sorry).

I’m pretty sure I need to take a time management and organization course – I used to be the most organized person you could ever meet. I blame #mombrain. It’s a very legitimate thing.

Hello, my name is Erin, & I am addicted to my phone. This job is not so helpful with that one.

Instagram Stories sucks up way more time out of your day than you think it does. Time yourself and see.

Family and friends feed the soul.

As does really good wine. Preferably consumed with family and friends.

There’s also a lot going on in the world of more critical importance than how to redecorate your living room. It could affect all of us for at least a generation. So paying attention & getting involved is rather important. Just sayin.

But with all that, I am excited to dive back into things – I have a couple of fun new series up my sleeve, plenty more peeks of my house – nope didn’t get that finished on hiatus either – more design inspiration, entertaining tips and plenty of travels. And obviously, I always want to know what you’re interested in so never hesitate to let me know!

Now that I’m back on the interwebs, I’ve found many a fun thing that I think you should check out too.

My incredibly talented friend Kate has launched new art prints in her shop. I love them all.

Another dear friend Jen recently talked about choosing to keep your business smaller and how it can be the best thing for you. I highly recommend giving this podcast a listen.

If you need some innovative nursery ideas, Sarah’s design is damn genius.

Feeling like you need a fall wardrobe makeover? My friend Catherine is doing a fall closet prep and you should check it out.

I’m going as minimalist as I can for fall. You can see more of my inspiration here.

I want to be a more crafty mama this season and I’m feeling like I could actually pull off these fall-themed arts & crafts.

I want to thank you for your support and for just being a reader. It means the world. More fun to come!

first image via the apt34 archive

Retail Therapy & Other Friday Finds

Business of blogging

Happy Friday friends! Did this week feel as long and jam-packed for you as it did for me? Where is the summer slowdown?? I’m hoping August might usher in a reprieve (does the President take the entire month of August off? Let’s hope so). One way I’ve been injecting a little fun into my days is with the new Instagram Questions feature. Have you tried it?? You can simply ask anyone you follow a question in their stories. I’ve learned so much about people I’ve known for a long time! One of the questions I’ve gotten most frequently is “what are my favorite shopping destinations in San Francisco?” That can actually be a bit tough to answer as San Francisco hasn’t always had the best shopping, but I feel like it’s improving every day – so much so that I think I should resurrect my Retail Therapy series. Would you be into that?? For example, I’m obsessed with the new shop KIM + ONO.

The stunning new store in the heart of Chinatown creates a moment of refreshing minimalism amongst Grant Avenue’s hustle and bustle. Tiffany + Renee Tam, the sister duo behind KIM + ONO, partnered with designer Danielle McWaters of Designsake Studio to rebrand the 30-year old family business (previously called Old Shanghai). Layering craftsmanship and heritage into the new identity and retail space, the brand’s new look feels lush and astutely edited. Designsake brought in architect Alan Tse of Alan Tse Design and designer Valerie Santillo of Kamperett and together they transformed the old factory building (what was once the Far East Flea Market) to a modern interior space, bright and airy, creating a welcome respite in the heart of Chinatown. I’m obsessed with Val’s oversized floral mural on that back wall.

The new store focuses on wellness, community and sisterhood, offering not only their beautiful botanical print kimonos (perfect for bridal parties, expecting mothers, or your day-to-night fashion statement), but also curated brands like Ayurveda Apothecary, Object Enthusias Virtuvi, P.F. Candles, Odeme, Pigeon Toe and Herbivore Botanicals in addition to hundreds of unique silk and charmeuse kimonos. KIM + ONO just won “2018 San Francisco Magazine’s Best of the Bay Winner: Best Place to Shop in SF” and it’s easy to see why.

But then I also have to share a bit of sad news. Another amazing store in San Francisco, that I didn’t even get to the chance to profile here yet recently experienced a devastating fire. Yonder Shop, founded by ceramist Linda Fahey, carries both Linda’s original works but also an amazing collection of artisan pieces for your home, books, cards. Her collection was beautifully curated and edited. I loved walking into their space. Sadly, last week there was a fire in the shop’s building. Thankfully no one was hurt but Linda lost so much. A GoFundMe page to help Linda recover her store has been started and it would be amazing if you could offer even the tiniest bit of help. Click HERE for details.

For anyone not in San Francisco craving some retail therapy, my edit from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is now live! You can see it right here – and remember these are new fall pieces currently on sale. The getting is mighty good, but I think this coat, this boot, this shirt, this scarf and these jeans are my favorite finds.

If you’re curious why I feel like I need retail therapy right now, this New Yorker piece captures my current mood perfectly.

Maybe instead of adding to my closet, I should switch up a room or two in my house. Alicia is giving me major inspo.

Or perhaps I should just throw a dinner party like Cassandra.

This weekend, we are escaping back up to wine country (have you caught my latest Instagram story about my trip to Signorello Winery – one of the wineries that lost everything in last year’s Napa fires – check out it before it’s gone!) to soak up some sun and I’m thinking this line should become my summer uniform.

Or maybe I should just hop on a plane because this Italian vacation rental on the beautiful island of Capri has me entranced.

Whatever you do this weekend friends, I hope it is magic. Till Monday!

photography by delbar moradi

Alfresco Dining and other Friday Finds

Business of blogging

Now that we’re nearly halfway through July, I’m reminded to really dig into the summer feels. Long afternoon picnics. Days at the beach. Copious amounts of rosé. I want to soak in each and every ounce of vitamin D (properly covered in sunscreen of course) and try to lounge just a little bit more than usual because I know the back half of summer is going to go way.too.fast. I hope you get some good time to enjoy the slow this weekend.

Below are a few of the links I hope you can sit back and enjoy this weekend!

Speaking of picnics, this outdoor party is goals.

And so is the brand new furniture line launched by my long-time online friend Will of Bright Bazaar. I still remember when he was a teeny tiny blogger newbie – and now he’s brightening the entire world with his charm and style. Check his new collection out here.

What I’m making for dinner this weekend.

I’ve been watching a ton of stand up on Netflix recently, but Nanette by Hannah Gadsby blew.my.mind. It will make you laugh, it will make you cry, and if you’re really lucky you might be a slightly better person after watching it. I felt like I was.

A cool, stylish way to display photos of your kids.

Victoria’s trip to Spain is giving me serious wanderlust.

Scratch that, maybe I should keep up my staycation streak.

One thing I will certainly do this weekend? A teeny bit of shopping – I’ve gone ahead and picked out the ten things I want to snag during early access to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. If you are a Nordstrom cardholder you can shop their biggest sale of the year an entire week earlier than the rest of the general public. Might as well get while the gettin’ is good. You can see my list below and shop all my picks throughout the sale right HERE.

A classic pair of Vans ($39) for the win.

Some good summer stripes.

A clean and classic pair of denim.

And a good ripped and worn pair of Levis($85!).

A fedora perfect for when temps start to dip again.

A cute white Nike ($55). Yes, there’s a sneakers theme going on.

The coat I’m going to want to wear all fall.

And the top I’ll use to dress up those pairs of jeans.

A badass Alexander Wang bootie.

And the hoodie I’d like to hang out in all weekend.

Till Monday friends!

Southern Charm and other Friday Finds

Business of blogging

Summer in San Francisco is always a bit of an odd experience. It’s often gray, cold and windy. Highs rarely hit higher than 65. No really, it’s true. But I’m getting a dose of real summer now with near 100 degree temperatures in Austin, Texas.

It’s been a few years since I was last in Austin and feels so good to be back. I’m here for a design inspiration experience with Hunter Fans. It’s been such a treat to get out my usual Bay Area bubble and get a dose of that southern charm. We’ve been able to tour the Southern Living Magazine Idea house – if you’re in Austin you must go. Meredith Ellis did amazing work with her design. We’ve toured some of Austin’s most delicious (and gorgeous) restaurants and today we’re visiting the the Blanton Museum of Art and taking in some of the sights around South Congress to fuel our design engines. The day is going to end with a design challenge (eek!) so be sure to check out my Insta-Stories this week. I’ll be sharing everything there.

And since I’m lucky enough to get a major dose of inspiration this week, I thought I’d share the best interior design inspiration I’ve spied on the interwebs of late.

My bestie Cassandra as made some amazing updates to her living room. I think it’s about time I go be a house guest.

Color is making a major comeback in design. Not only did I talk about it this week, but so did Jenny Komenda and she shared one of my favorite examples of a sophisticated, color-filled home.

The Southern Living Idea was filled with print and pattern, but I love Honestly WTF’s causal Californian take on the look. Click her for major print, pattern and color inspiration.

If you’ve been wondering if pink is still having a moment the answer is yes.

Austin is full of porches and patios. Kirsten’s patio makeover is giving me major outdoor area envy.

I wish I’d had more time to research Austin before my trip. If only a book like the just released 500 hidden secrets of San Francisco existed. If you’re headed to SF this summer you need to get this book. I’m getting too because there are still so many things about this town I don’t know about!

On a fashion-related note, while in sweltering Austin, I’m busting out shorts for the first time since having Carter. It’s not something a 38 year old should do without forethought. Thankfully, Jen had great shorts styling tips for me.

Let me know if you’d be interested in an Austin highlights post. I know I’m only getting to dip my toe in this cool city but I’m loving everything I see so far.

Till Monday!

photo of the pool at our Austin home – the South Congress Hotel. I’m obsessed.

Hard Truths and Friday Finds

Business of blogging

Friends, this week. This week has been a tough one. At the outset, the loss of Kate Spade had me so sad. Kate Spade was one of the first shows I ever attended at New York Fashion Week. The creativity, ingenuity and message of female empowerment that Kate Spade ignited was so impactful. Her brand inspired me to be braver. With my outfit choices and my life choices.

And then came the news of Anthony Bourdain.

His passing has struck me down cold. Maybe because he’s been beamed into our living rooms for so many years. Maybe because I wanted to travel and eat just like he did. Maybe because he was a voice for the often voiceless and a champion of the underdog. He was the guy I always said I wanted on the proverbial “dream dinner party.” We live in a time with an extraordinary amount of pain and an extraordinary lack of kindness and human decency. The technological tools that were invited to “bring us closer together” (and on which this little corner of the internet so heavily relies) actually serve to put a very inhumane amount of distance between us.

While the losses of these two brilliant humans is tragic, I’m attempting to take the loss as a reminder to be gentle. To be kind. To reach out. To connect. Everyday. And not with a heart or a like or an emoji. But with a call. A hug. A “tell me what’s going with you lately.” We say please reach out, ask for help. But when you’re drowning in emotional & mental turmoil it can be impossible to catch your breath long enough to speak. That said I have included the contact information for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline below. Because it is the very very least I can do.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 1-800-273-8255

There were an amazing array of things that brought a smile to my face this week – from attending the Pinterest Creators Conference to spending time with treasured friends (have you seen my 16 hours in Seattle on Instagram?!) so I want to share smile-inducing links for this week’s Friday Finds in the hopes they’ll lift your spirits as well.

My friend Alicia’s house is goalz.

And this gorgeous furniture collection is making me want all the things.

While I love my wine, I’ve been wanting to cut back and I think this mocktail would definitely help.

As will this refreshing smoothie.

If you’re looking for bright and cheery right now (aren’t we all) this home tour should do the trick.

Page turners also always help me get in a good mood so I might pick up one of these summer reads this weekend.

Why overpay for a summer stray tote when you can make your own?

And in an extremely timely post, Victoria profiled amazing, inspirational women who are also struggling with mental health challenges.

We’re all in this together. Let’s take care of each other a little bit more.

Till Monday.

Getting Mighty Personal & Other Friday Finds

Business of blogging

We haven’t talked about parenting on this site for quite some time. Do you miss it? Do you wish we’d bring our Real Moms series back? While I’ve stuck mostly to all things design, I was asked by MyDomaine to contribute to their May Motherhood series. I decided to do the article after I alluded to my current thoughts on motherhood in this Instagram post and it had the most comments I’ve seen all year! Seems I might have been on to something.

So I figured if I was going to do it, I might as well really open up about how I’ve felt about motherhood in these first three years. So I got rurl real. I don’t think my story is a-typical, but I definitely think my kind of experience is the most swept under the rug story. Check out the article here. I’m quite interested to hear if it resonates with you.

In the meantime, I’m looking forward to a low-key, quiet weekend before June gets going with a vengeance. Yup, I just said June. Half the year is gone. Let that sink in for a second. Funny how things start to slow down this time of year, but the time also flies during the summer. I’m determined to make the most of every moment (it’s basically my theme for this 10th Anniversary year).

The Future Perfect has had a house in LA for a while now (in Elvis’ house of all places), and they’ve recently opened an apartment in San Francisco. I think I might need to go see it this weekend.

And this vintage furniture collection has me swwooonning hard.

And a neutral home after my own color-phobic heart.

What I plan to drink all weekend (if it gets above 60 in San Francisco).

I love a good cheese plate and this one is seriously gorgeous.

And here’s what I plan to make for breakfast. And maybe lunch too.

For some reason, my first nursery for Carter is trending. I did love that room.

In other, non-design related news:

Are you watching Ellen’s trip to see the mountain gorillas of Rwanda on Instagram? Srsly, you should. It’s so moving.

Have you seen the crazy story of a 20-something who lived in an NYC hotel & tricked the city’s elite into believing she was a successful socialite? It’s a fascinating read.

This new woman-owned company is both revolutionizing the tampon and offering a great example of turning a great idea into a successful startup.

Everything at JCrew is 25% off. I consider this a public service announcement.

And if you’ve missed a few other things around here:

My recent list of favorite things on Eye-Swoon.

The complete tour of the Sunset Bungalow on Brit & Co

I’m HIRING! We’re looking for the ideal summer intern. Deadline to apply is 5pm THIS MONDAY, JUNE 4. Get all the deets HERE.

The World is On Sale and other Friday Finds

Business of blogging

Long weekends are my favorite. And not because I’ll be BBQing or heading to the beach, but because I’m hoping to do virtually nothing at all. For three glorious days. I’m quite happy about it.

But if you are indulging in the timeless Memorial Day traditions, I’ve rounded up a bevy of ideas for you. Plus a lot of other fun stuff too cuz three days of down time means plenty of fun things to surf.

If you’re firing up the grill, consider this amazing burger recipe. If you’ve got a slow cooker, then these pulled pork sandwiches will satisfy.

I’m all about the draanks, even if I’m sipping one in my PJs. This is my all-time favorite drink. But margs never disappoint. This cocktail recipe will guaranteed to impress your friends.

If you need dessert recipes, but this grilled peaches and ice cream looks incredible. Homemade ice cream sandwiches are always a standout. And healthy popsicles will beat the heat guilt-free.

Now onto those sales I alluded to. Since becoming a mom I find that I don’t shop much anymore. Maybe it’s because I rarely go out any more. Or get dressed if I’ve been rurl. Likely. But I made the mistake (or happy discovery depending on your view) that there are a TON of spring / summer sales going on right now and suddenly I’m ready to revamp my wardrobe.

Net-a-Porter is having a massive sale. I want this dress, these sandals, this swimsuit and this tee shirt.

Nordstrom is also have their sale which means I’d like to double down with this dress and these sandals.

JCrew is 40% all new arrivals. Which means mama needs a new classic denim jacket.

Our friends in design are getting in on the sale action too of course.

West Elm is basically giving you more savings the more you spend. Have you seen their first-ever kids’ collection?!

One King’s Lane is 20% everything.

All Modern is an additional 15% off sale items

One of my favorite kid’s shops, Bitte is offering 15% off site wide with the code MEMORIALDAY2018.

Urban Outfitters is up to 50% off. Rosé pool float anyone?

And then, when you’ve tired out your credit card, there’s just the fun stuff.

Like this awesome interview with Rashida Jones, who took the steering wheel of her career and is definitely leading the pack.

If you need more female empowerment, watch the docu-series Being Serena. It will make you want to be like her (aka Superwoman).

Speaking of binge-watching, I desperately need a Show. I haven’t had a Show years. Do you have a Show. I’m currently considering Killing Eve.

Then again there’s always good ole fashioned reading. Like the 9 books to read in your 30’s. I better get crackin’. Time’s almost up.

Walking tours have grown 188% year over year. I think that sounds like the perfect way to travel this summer.

Loving Alicia’s ways to be more sustainable in everyday life.

I want to make this for dinner. Or breakfast. Or any meal really.

Speaking of food, Jen revealed her kitchen remodel and it is SO good. With an upcoming trip to Austin on the books I’m hoping I’ll get to see it in person.

Speaking of remodels, did you know that in addition to the official One Room Challenge participants there were also thousands of guest participants? There are SO many good spaces (would you like to see a round up??) but this nursery caught my eye.

And I’ve just been getting SO much inspiration from Victoria lately but I really love this round up of cool built-in benches. They scream summer lounging.

I hope you enjoy some fun in the sun this weekend friends. I’ll be in the San Francisco fog. But that’s cool too.

image via here

Mother’s Day Brunches and other Friday Finds

Business of blogging

Friends, it’s been a hectic few weeks around here and I think all I want for Mother’s Day is to collapse in a heap on the couch. That is highly unlikely however.

If you do get a few moments to yourself I’ve compiled quite a list of links for you.

If you don’t know the jewelry designer Ariel Gordon, you should. I included one of her pendants in my Mother’s Day wishlist and now I’m coveting her Berkeley home too! The inspiring home tour is over on Glitter Guide right here.

The One Room Challenge was quite the all-consuming feat. Have you checked out the rest of the reveals? I love Melissa’s office and Joanna’ backyard.

I’m also obsessed with Leanne Ford’s Echo Park home featured in the new New York Times Design section.

A little annoyed that this collection debuted the day after I finished Carter’s room.

My bff also just redid her master bedroom and it is rather lovely.

And speaking of pretty things, HonestlyWTF has a new site design! Have you seen it?? It’s rurl good.

Liz shared a lovely tour of two of my favorite spots in San Francisco. And not just because they’re in my neighborhood.

I talked about spring cleaning earlier this week and my closet is next up on my list (it used to be rurl pretty. right now it’s really not). Meg is seriously inspiring me.

If you live in Austin, love pretty things and are a good writer (or know someone who is) you should really apply to this job at Camille Styles.

Even though the One Room Challenge is over I’m never not treasure hunting and I shared my five current design cravings with EyeSwoon this week

I also hosted a little pre-mother’s day lunch at #thisoldvictorian and while I’ll be posting more soon, Alicia shared a little sneak preview.

I hope all the mamas out there feel the love this Mother’s Day. You deserve it.

Till Monday friends.

photo of my dining room by Alicia Lund

Weekend Escapes and Other Friday Finds

Business of blogging

Anyone else super happy it’s Friday?? After an extra busy few weeks I’m reaalllyyy looking forward to a very low key weekend. Do you find it is really hard these days to feel deserving of down time? I certainly do. In fact, I was just reading about the importance of play for adults. Something to to seriously consider. This weekend I am escaping the city (and even my kid) for a little R&R in wine country. It’s been a really long time since we’ve been up there – even though it’s one of my favorite places on earth. Despite the devastating wild fires last fall, wine country is very open for business. I cannot wait to spend a little time in my happy place, curled up with a good book – or if I’m being realistic, a magazine – and indulge in a little me time (you can see why I love wine country so much HERE).

I hope you’re able to relax, unwind and maybe even unplug(!) this weekend. Right after you check out our top links of the week of course.

I recently shared a stunning dream kitchen. Well, another one debuted this week and I can personally attest to its gorgeousness because I’ve been in it! If you haven’t seen coco+kelley’s kitchen you must check it out.

Victoria shared one of my favorite photographers. If you don’t know her work now you know.

I’ve definitely got some wanderlust and thank’s to Erica’s amazing recap I’ve added Hong Kong to my travel wishlist.

Since wellness is basically a state of being right now I’m always intrigued by the latest fad. I just read about activated charcoal pills. Have you tried them? Are you into them?

Similarly, “lattes” that don’t actually have coffee in them are now a thing. This pink rose latte sounds interesting. Would you give it a go?

Earlier this week, I shared something a tad personal on Instagram and to my surprise it seemed to resonate quite a bit. If you missed it you can see it right here.

Did you catch the One Room Challenge update this week? I’ve set my design direction, now it’s off to the races!

I haven’t had the shopping bug in a long time, but I’m feeling very ready to shake off the winter doldrums with a few fresh threads. Of course there are the pieces I’m coveting in my April edit, but ShopBop is having on of their mega sales right now. You can save up to $500 off! I’ve been pinning all of my faves, but I’ve got my eye on a light spring jacket, some fresh kicks and some cute jeans. Hurry hurry cuz this sale ends tomorrow.

If that’s not enough, Loeffler Randall is also having their Friends & Family sale. I’ve got this bag in my cart.

And if you’d rather dress your house than your body, One Kings Lane is have a moving sale with some incredible deals. Like this stunning four-poster bed. A sweet set of dishes. Or a cutie little pendant light.

If you’re looking for even more spring finds I’ve been pinning all my faves like mad.

Happy Weekend!

image via that kind of woman

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