30

I've sat down to write this post a handful of times but haven't gotten very far without feeling like my heart might burst (or, that I might tear up).  Today I turn the big 3-0, and I'm celebrating the day surrounded by 7 wonderful friends in Palm Springs... and more than anything, I feel an overwhelming sense of peace and happiness.

I look back at my 20s and while there were many highlights, I'm happy to leave them behind, turn the page, and step in to the next chapter.  What's that chapter going to look like for me?  Anything is my guess.  I've stopped creating rigid expectations for my future because I've discovered it prevents me from being as open to change as I'd like to be.   When you try to control things, you can only take 1 path- the one you know.  And I'd like to spend some time exploring what I still don't know.  My new tool for measuring success in my life is continually asking myself, "am I staying curious?  am I learning something new on a regular basis?  am I practicing vulnerability?  am I stretching in the direction of kindness, forgiveness, and goodness?"

Moving to New York was without a doubt the best decision of my 20s.  It was exactly the change of pace I needed after reeling from a premature divorce.  At that time I had completely lost myself-  the person in the mirror wasn't a girl I recognized or liked.  There's really nothing scarier then getting to a place in your life you thought you'd wanted to be in all along and suddenly realizing none of it fits you; none of it feels right.  I thought I'd figure it out as I went along, wading further and further in to the confusion until eventually I was drowning- and I started to wonder if I'd ever walk firmly on my own two feet again.  I started grabbing at things so that they wouldn't float away, unknowingly preventing the inevitable flow of change that needed to happen.

It was a sad time- one full of grief, shame, bargaining, and loneliness.   But one I had to walk through alone, to recalibrate and see for myself what I was actually made of.  The craziest part?  I don't have 1 single regret.  The weird truth is I'm a better person for the mistakes I've made.  Not only did I come out the other side of the darkness stronger - but a little softer, too.  If you're going through any of this - confusion, heartache, divorce, fear surrounding a difficult decision you need to make - know this:  patience with yourself first.  Clarity will come.  You have endless amounts of strength inside of you that you aren't even aware of- I've discovered this one time and time again.

I look back with fondness on those first few months after moving to New York at 27.  Everywhere I turned there was a new adventure waiting to happen, the streets [and myself] pulsating with endless energy.  Honestly, over 2 years in, I still feel reinvigorated by this city on a regular basis.  One day I'll write a book about the crazy experiences I've had here, both personal and work-related, but I have a feeling it'll be a much more interesting story another 30 years down the line.

This year something in me shifted in a very real way.  There's been less striving, and more contentment. I tried meditation (I highly recommend MINDFL classes for all you New Yorkers).  I moved in to a new apartment without roommates.  I learned to cook!  I designed for HGTV. I designed for an AD Top 100 firm. I spent lazy Sunday afternoons sprawled out in Central Park reading.  I experienced a few hard goodbyes, but there was also a friendship mended in the mix.  Maybe best of all, I can finally say with 100% authenticity I am perfectly okay (and maybe even pretty happy?) all on my own. 

I honestly thought I would be so depressed to leave my 20s.  Not only because the world worships youth but also because it feels like a very real "landmark" - A chance to compare yourself to your peers and the vague expectations you had for what your life would look like.  But I look back and feel nothing but gratitude at this moment for my 20s.  I'm healthy, I'm strong, I'm ready for anything... and I have 7 of the most extraordinary women by my side today.   I'm so ready for my 30s!

Cheers to all that lies ahead, and a heartfelt thanks for following along with me on this journey!

XOXO,

Sam

Best of Cyber Monday Sales

The fun never stops.  Most of the online Black Friday sales are still going through the end of the day today, and additional sales + savings are launching today in honor of "Cyber Monday."

{Image via The Mine}

Here are a few of my favorite picks from 4 companies I love:

Shop this Board:

1.) Couture Calvin Sofa, 30% off TODAY ONLY with code "CYBER30" $1,046/
2.) Hans Wegner-style Rope Chair 30% off TODAY ONLY with code "CYBER30" $499/
3.)Leopard Throw Pillow Cover $24/
4.) Banana Leaf Pillow Cover $18/
5.) Geode Druzy Crystal Bracelet $26.95/
6.)Women's Tech Fleece Full Zip Hoodie $23/
7.)  Cheetah Storage Ottoman $49/
8.) Black Woven Basket $29.99/
9.) Short Scrunch Boot, $15 off purchases of $75 or more, $74/
10.) Wonderboom Waterproof Speakers, $15 off purchases of $75 or more, $75/ (another cute option here).
11.) Holiday Artist Print Tin Candle, $12

And a few more noteworthy Cyber Monday sales not to miss before the day is over...

Carbon 38:

-Take an extra 40% off with code "CYBER38" at checkout.  This website is my favorite place to buy workout clothes an accessories, like the jeweled barre socks I'm wearing in this image:

Etsy:

-Up to 60% off when you shop Etsy for Cyber Week this week.  This or this would make the perfect housewarming gift, and this is a great groomsmen/boyfriend gift (also love this).

The Mine:

-30% off with code "CYBER30" - today only!  The Mine is a great source for furniture and home decor from a few of my favorite designer brands- like Bunny Williams Home, Visual Comfort & Co, Jonathan Adler, and Maitland Smith. 

Target:

-There are too many Cyber Monday Target deals to list them all- but a few include 30% off kids' clothes, up to 40% off furniture and rugs, and lots of discounts on holiday decor. 

Urban Outfitters:

-$50 off purchases of $150 or more, $15 off purchases of $75 or more.  Now is the perfect time to stock up on their cute boots for fall, Supergas, and strappy heels for holiday parties.  I also love all the great tech accessories UO carries.

Horne // 15% off your purchase with code BFCM2017 11/24 – 11/27, some exclusions apply

All Saints // up to 40% off everything with code EPIC30 11/22 – 11/28

J.Crew // 40% off everything with code THANKU 11/21 – 11/26, 50% off with code SHOPFAST 11/27

Kiehl’s // $20 off $65+ with code JINGLE 11/10 – 11/30

Net-a-Porter // up to 50% off sale styles

Nordstrom // xtra 20% off selected sale items + free shipping and free returns

Parachute // 20% off everything with code SALE17 through today

Serena & Lily // 20% off everything 11/20 – 11/28

Shopbop // 20% off orders of $200+ 25% off orders of $500+ and 30% off orders of $800 or more with code MORE17 , an additonal 35% off sale items

Topshop //up to 50% off + free worldwide shipping 

Happy Shopping!!

Best of Black Friday Sales

There's nothing like Black Friday.  Just when you've completely overeaten and are lounging in your pajamas, nearly every website out there makes it entirely too easy to shop from your couch.  And the best part is the sales are the best of the year.  It's the perfect time to stock up for family and friends in preparation for the Christmas season... and the perfect time to splurge on a few things for yourself.  Today I wanted to share my very favorite Black Friday picks, as well as the best deals + discount codes from top websites:

Shop My Black Friday Picks:

1.) Cocoon coat in Italian wool (Use code THANKU) $210/     
  2.) J. Crew Sam Sunglasses (Use code THANKU) $70.80/

3.) Angel Sleeve Navy Dress (Use code EPIC30) $44.80/

4.) Fringed Leather Saddle Bag $151/5.) Asymmetrical Zip Boiled Wool Coat $103/ 

6.) Circlet Gold Earrings $31/7.) Gabriela Tassel Earrings $48/

8.) Fluted Sleeve Red Mini Dress $42/ 9.) Easy High Neck Sweater $20/ 

10.) Basic Tech Cashmere Lined Leather Gloves $57/ 11.) Piper Wedge Sandals $245/

BEST OF FASHION FINDS:

-ASOS: 30% off everything with code EPIC30.

-Bergdorf Goodman: 40% off designer collections.  I love this, this, this and this.

-J. Crew: 40% off with code THANKU at checkout. 

-Madewell: 25% off with code DONTSTRESS at checkout.  These booties, chic velvet mules in rich colors, and an effortless floral dress. 

-NastyGal: 50% off everything!!  No code needed.  What I'm eyeing: a chic dress for $25, this game for my Palm Springs girls trip, a neutral knit for winter, and a silk-wrap top. 

-Nordstrom: 20% off select sale items, 40% off select designer items.

-Saks:  Earn a $75 gift card when you buy $150 or more, up to 70% off with code BLKFRI17 at checkout.

-Shopbop: 75% off sale items (ahh!), 20% off items over $200, 40% off items over $400.  I adore these, this Alice + Olivia drop waist dress, and this. 

BEST OF HOME DECOR & FURNITURE:

-Domino:  15% off lighting & living room furniture.

-Horchow:  Up to 40% off with code HOLIDAY at checkout.  My favorites are this, this, and this, and I'm dying for this wreath and these trees to up my holiday decor game.

-Pottery Barn: 20% off & free shipping store-wide.  Love this, this, and this.

-West Elm:  Up to 30% off with code SAVEMORE.  Loving this tray, and happy to see one of my all-time favorite swivel chairs is included in the sale.

Happy Shopping!

XOXO,

Sam

Julianne Moore's West Village Townhouse

I was sitting at my hair appointment on Saturday waiting for my color to process (any other double process blondes reading?  The struggle.is.real.  Shout out to the best colorist out there, Chris at Arrojo Soho!) when I picked up the latest issue of Architectural Digest.  As I was flipping through, I stumbled upon a tour of actress Julianne Moore's West Village townhouse.  I loved the modern, tailored feel of her space and immediately began guessing who her designer might be based on the style of her home- Roman & Williams?  Thomas O'Brien?  Ashe+Leandro?  As I skimmed the article, I was shocked to discover Moore designed the home herself!

Julianne had always dreamed of living in the West Village (who doesn't?) and when she discovered the townhouse she now resides in, she was instantly in love.  At the time, the 5-story home was split up in to different apartments.  The renovations were a family affair- Moore's husband's brother, Oliver Freundlich, served as her contractor. 

{George Nakashima cocktail table, Noguchi lantern, Sally England rope wall hanging}

 The main alteration they made to the house's layout was moving the kitchen from the bottom floor up to the parlor floor, where ample natural light can stream in. Julianne says: 

“I don’t really like traditional kitchen cabinets or islands, so I wanted everything to feel like furniture. I copied the hood from a Vincent Van Duysen design I had seen.  I met him not long afterward, and I copped to stealing his design,” Moore says. “Ultimately, this is probably not the ideal cook’s kitchen, but then again I’m not the ideal cook..."  

{A Jack Piersen photograph hangs above a custom cabinet with Vola sink fittings}

I love the warm, neutral tones and organic forms of many of the pieces Marianne selected for the home, as well as the art selections from noted artists (including one of my favorites, Marilyn Minter).  Here, a Louis Bourgeois piece hangs above the black marble fireplace:

The master bedroom has a truly serene feel.  The Paavo Tynell standing lamp is my favorite piece in this room:

A Nan Goldin photograph hangs above a carrara marble tub by Kohler in the master bath.  I kind of wish Moore had chosen a more interesting light fixture here...

Replacing the kitchen's original spot on the bottom floor of the home is a cozy family room.  A Harvey Probber sectional is covered in an Edelman leather.  A vintage Danish chair and an Eames rocker covered in sheepskin sit opposite the sofa:

Moore married her longtime partner, Bart Freundlich, in the backyard garden of the home with 36 family and close friends present in 2003 (before the renovations took place).

Dying to know more?  You can read the full feature at Architectural Digest.

Have a great Wednesday!

XOXO,

Sam

Gift Guide: For the Host & Hostess

As I mentioned in my last post, I'm uncharacteristically feeling the holiday spirit this season.  I've already been burning my favorite holiday candle (thanks to my brother for the early bday present!), and saw that the larger 3-wick version is currently 25% off, AND I'm getting a mini tinsel tree for my apartment.  With Thanksgiving in just a few days and Christmas not too far off either, I have hostess holiday gift ideas on the brain.  Now, if you're coming to my place, the only thing you need to bring me is a bottle of Rombauer chardonnay.  But let's try to get a little more creative...

Gift Guide: For the Hostess with the Mostest

1.) MoMa Design Store Backgammon Set, $89/2.) Insulated Wine Totes $59/3.) Craft Cocktails Book $50/4.) Sugarfina "Taste of Paradise" Candy Bento Box $28/

5.) Mr. and Mrs. Cocktail Glasses $24 (these would look cute perched on this)/

6.) Essential Canvas Tote $45/7.) Snakeskin Table Runner $39.95/

8.) Embroidered Cocktail Napkins $28 (great dinner option here)/9.) Italian Throw $125/

10.) Silk Eye Mask & Neck Wrap Set $79 (love these ones too)/

Who's ready for a 3 day work week?!  

Weekend Links 11.18.17

Happy Saturday!  I am so looking forward to going back to Oklahoma for Thanksgiving next week.  Can you believe it's already holiday season?  I've had to pinch myself a few times because I keep asking Alexa to "play Christmas music!" which is 100% out of character for me.  I'm typically a Scrooge.  No tree, no decorations... and definitely no Christmas tunes.  But as I sit in my apartment and write this, I have a CB2 white wreath on my front door and Bing Crosby singing out of my speakers.  

Weekend Links for Your Perusal:

-I've become fascinated with Belgian psychotherapist Esther Perel, and am dying to read her two books, Mating in Captivity & The State of Affairs. I found her podcast conversation with Tim Ferriss so enlightening, and she did a follow-up Q&A session with viewers last week that really touched me.  Let me just say this:  I don't necessarily agree with everything she discusses, but I have learned a great deal from the insights she shares and the topics she explores from her 34 years of work as a psychotherapist in NYC.

-So impressed with all the participants of the latest One Room Challenge, but especially digging Naomi Stein's guest room transformation (those wallpapered doors!)

-Still loving this cheery Manhattan apartment designed by Miles Redd a few years ago (sitting room pictured above). Chartreuse + vivid pink silk + chinoiserie wallpaper + Damien Hurst artwork = design heaven.

-All the feels for this post from Mari Andrew.  Isn't her instagram the best?

-Jealous of Jackie Clair's latest thrift store find, a Frances Elkins-style loop chair. Housing Works here in NY is a gold mine for finding gently-used antiques and furniture treasures.

-Looking for inexpensive art?  I dig these printable posters.

-Just purchased this table for my apartment to work as a kitchen table of sorts and I have to say I am loving it.  I generally try to avoid buying from catalog stores because I love antiques and one-of-a-kind pieces, but I needed something badly and this fit the bill.  I also purchased two of these chairs which are currently at the upholsterer getting a facelift (but are so comfortable).

Have a nice, relaxing weekend!

XOXO,

Sam

Designer Crush: Nina Farmer Interiors

Happy Friday friends!  I wanted to close out the week by sharing a new-to-me designer I came across recently that really knocked my socks off-  the chic Boston-based designer, Nina Farmer.  

{isn't she adorable?  Design crush AND girl crush, if I'm being honest}

Nina attended school at Tulane and the New York School of Interior Design before continuing on to work under top Boston and New York design firms.  She now is at the helm of her own firm, and is considering a rising star in the interior design community.  Although she’s on the rise, she has already been featured in House Beautiful 3 times.  First in March 2014 for her own townhome, then in 2015 for this lovely Beacon Hill townhome she brought to life:

In most Boston townhouses, the kitchen is still in the basement.  It is very rare to find a home with the kitchen on  the main floor, where it has access to lots of natural light.  Nina’s client did not want to spend all their time congregating in the basement, so Nina suggested transforming the main parlor room in to the kitchen:

I love the wallcovering in the client’s sons room- it’s Nobilis’s Chene faux wood grain wallpaper in a bright custom color.  The rich brown velvet on the bed is a Rogers & Goffigon fabric and the roman shade is a whimsical Katie Ridder print:

And the stunning powder bath features a leather upholstered wainscot paired with a graphic floor tile.  I also love when the trim in a space is painted a contrasting color.  

Nina was also featured in House Beautiful's February 2017 issue for breathing new life in to a classic New England home.   For the living room, she took color cues from the house’s classic red brick fireplace and wood trim and kept the palette earthy:

The original powder bath sink was kept in tact, adding a healthy dose of charm.  Nina spiced up the walls with Robert Crowder & Co marbelized wallpaper and an antique Egon Hillebrand mirror:

And any bed garnished with a few Holland & Sherry embroidered pillows is a "win" in my book:

To see more of Nina's work, visit her website here, or view her latest House Beautiful feature online here.

...and don't worry, Friday's worthy links will still be coming tomorrow, but in the form of "weekend links."  Stay tuned, and have a great weekend!

XOXO,

Sam

30th Birthday Wishlist

My 30th birthday is only 14 short days away (ahhhh) and as per usual I have a thing or two on my wish list.  Surprisingly, I feel very excited to enter a new decade and kiss my 20s goodbye.  I do reserve the right to lie about my age from here on out, though. If you happen to see me out and about, let's collectively agree I will forever be 29.  Cool?  I'd say that as I've gotten older my list of wants has evolved, but truthfully if I look back at my 25th birthday wishlist I'd still happily take any of those items, too (except for those J Crew booties... not sure what I was thinking there).  

Shop 30th Birthday Wishlist:

1.) AERIN Tortoise Shell Glasses, 4 for $59.95/

I'm loving all things tortoise (this, this, and this too) right now, and these chic glasses would be perfect for juice/water/or a whiskey cocktail.

2.) Annie Costello Brown Pom Pom Chandelier Earrings, $242 (also love this pair for less)/

Annie's earrings truly are mini works of art.

3.) Classic Style by Kate Schelter $25/

The "it" design book of the year, complete with watercolor illustrations.

4.) Geometric Heel Ankle Boot $79/

A chic bootie with a polished, brass octagonal heel?  I'm in.

5.) Precious Metal Earrings, $46/

I'm always in need of studs with a bit of sparkle.  Perfect for work or play.

6.) Poolside Collective "WTF" Bag $55/

I love poolside collective's cheeky handbag and beach tote collection so much, it's rather hard to pick a favorite.

7.) Teddy Boy Sunglasses $39/

Inexpensive tortoise-rimmed sunglasses in a versatile shape.  They remind me of my favorite Illesteva sunnies.

8.) Endless Rose Louvre Top $51/

Anything on Revolve under $50 instantly catches my eye- luckily, in this case, the piece is cherry apple red with a flattering cut.

9.) Monogrammed Cocktail Napkins, $7 each/

There are a plethora of monogrammed napkins out there, but this pair offers several thread color options and monogram styles, all for $7 each.

Friday's Worthy Links 11.10.17

Happy Friday!  Any fun weekend plans in the works?  I'm planning to jaunt up to Storm King with some friends tomorrow morning and I'd also like to watch the new Joan Didion documentary on Netflix at some point.  The film is directed by her nephew Griffin Dunne, and explores both her personal struggles and remarkable writing career. It's bound to be fascinating.  Read on for Friday's links...

Friday's Worthy Links:

-Rare antique pieces, furniture and art from iconic designer Jacques Grange's personal collection will be up for auction at Sotheby's on November 21st in Paris (collectors rejoice!).  Among the items are a spin painting by Damien Hurst, furniture and accessories by the Art Deco designer Jean-Michael Frank, works by Giacometti, David Hockney, Henri Matisse, Corbusier... the list goes on and on.  View the 130 pieces here.  A snippet of Grange's decadent Paris apartment is pictured above.

-Love the subtle beauty of designer Veere Grenney's Norfolk estate.  I especially love that chintz headboard fabric. 

-Today is day 12 of a clean-eating plan I'm trying to follow this month, so naturally all I want to stare at is cheese.

-12 restaurants that prove the Upper East Side (my 'hood!) is cool again.

-Wanting all.of.the.bags. 

-So thrilled for Leandra and her big news!

-Current mood.

-The only thing you need to be good at. 

And a few gift ideas to get your creative juices flowing for the holiday season...

Enjoy your weekend!

XOXO,

Sam