A Tradition Unlike Any Other

The Best of Saks Friends and Family

The Low Down: Featuring Kathy Fang, Chef and Restaurateur

When it comes to brains and beauty, Kathy Fang takes the cake! I am beyond thrilled to introduce the woman behind the fourth ediiton of The Low Down and the star of “Chef Dynasty: House of Fang.” Kat is not only a critically acclaimed San Francisco-based chef and restaurateur, but also a mom to two little ones under the age of five. Her incredible work ethic is visible if you step foot into her highly sought after Fang Restaurant and the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree! Her father, Peter Fang, opened the traditional Chinese mainstay, House of Nanking, in 1988 which has a cult-following and always sports long lines to get in. Kat is also a two-time “Chopped” champion and has appeared on multiple cooking competitions/series throughout her career including: Beat Bobby Flay, Guy’s Grocery Games, and Alex vs. America. I can tell you first hand after weathering out a hurricane together in the British Virgin Islands many years ago that Kat can take a look at random ingredients in a refrigerator and put together a delicious meal like no one else! She is a visionary, an entrepreneur, an incredibly hard worker, a fellow University of Southern California graduate and someone I’m grateful to call my friend! Please welcome, Kat Fang!

1. Please tell me a little bit about yourself. Where are you from, where did you go to college and what did you see yourself becoming when you were younger.  

   I’m a San Francisco native, born and raised in the city. I was 7 yrs old when my parents opened House of Nanking. I grew up in their restaurant and watched them work day and night. I saw our business grow from a small mom and pop shop into the iconic place it is today. At a very young age I got to experience a chef’s life, from accompanying my Dad on trips to the market to finding produce for his dishes, to staying out late and eating at all the best restaurants in the city. While these perks were fun for a kid, I also found it to be frustrating at times as well. There were times I wanted a normal life, one where I would go home with my parents after school and get to sit around a dinner table and have dinner in the early evening. Perhaps an evening where we could play board games and watch tv together. That never happened for me and thus I grew up convinced that the restaurant life was not for me. My parents also never pushed me to take over the business. In fact they wanted me to be a doctor or a lawyer. For most of my youth, I thought I was going to be a pediatrician. When I moved down to LA to attend USC, I went with the intention of becoming a Science major. And within months, I switched majors and went into business. I realized quickly the medical field was not my passion,

2. When did you know you wanted to be a part of the family business? Did you always dream of starting Fang from the beginning? What did that process look like?

   I didn’t realize I wanted to get into the family business until I worked in corporate America. I worked in wealth management at Merrill Lynch and then moved into operations at Neutrogena. I was incredibly bored at both these companies and found myself uninspired and stifled. As soon as I would get home from work, I would cook for my room-mates or plot out all the new restaurant openings and hit the town with my friends. When I started to think about a career change, I couldn’t help but think about getting into the family business. Food was the only thing that excited me and so I made the decision to quit my job at Neutrogena and move back to SF, move back to my parents place, back to where it all began for me, House of Nanking.

3. Congratulations on your fabulous new Food Network Show! Please tell me a little bit about how Chef Dynasty came to be and what it was like filming the show? The world is ready for more episodes! Are you willing to do more?

   Within the first year of opening Fang, I started to get approached by people from the TV world, telling me I should consider being on TV or on the Food Network. And when I explored that idea, I came up with the dream of having my own cooking show, where I teach people how to make Easy Asian Recipes. After multiple pitches and meetings in a span of 5-7 years, nothing stuck. I was rejected and turned away. Cooking competitions were becoming the “it shows” and thus I decided to go that route and started to compete and ended up winning Chopped twice . It wasn’t until 2020, deep into the pandemic when a producer emailed me about wanting to do a reality show, with me being the star of the show. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I could do a reality show. I did not think my life was interesting enough for one. I hopped on zoom and it ended up being one of the best 1 hour conversations I’ve ever had with a stranger.  I don’t know if it was because I was stuck at home for so long but I opened up to him and shared my life story and something just clicked. He took that footage and my past footage from the internet, pieced it together into a 2 minute sizzle and sold the show! I couldn’t believe it. 

   We filmed the show over a span of 6 weeks with additional weeks thrown in afterwards. Those 6 weeks were intense, I was basically working two jobs while balancing mom life. Restaurant life is tough, let’s just throw production life in there too. I would have to be in 4-6 different locations throughout the day and then come back to work a dinner shift. When I look back at it now, I miss it. We spent so much time with the crew that they all felt like family to me. There was this emptiness when we wrapped the show and everyone had left. Those six weeks were some of the most incredible and most memorable weeks of my life. 

4. Who inspired you to be a leader and why? 

   I grew up with the dream of becoming somebody that my parents can be proud of. I always wanted to do something notable and for the longest time my parents were my inspiration. My dad always pushed me to be better, to grow and when I realized I could do something great with my passion for food, I honed in on that. I have always pushed myself to do more. It’s not enough to just run a successful restaurant, you have to get yourself out there. I would write for various publications, create a blog, and compete on television. I’ve been doing that for over a decade now, and it’s finally paid off. What’s interesting is, now that I have kids of my own, my inspiration has actually shifted. I look at my daughter and she drives me to do more.  I want to set a good example for her and other younger girls who can see themselves in me and hopefully I can spark their desire to dream big. 

5. What is the best piece of advice you were given? Regarding anything from business to parenting to personal development, etc.? 

   The best of advice I’ve had so far is from my Dad. When we opened Fang, he taught me to be flexible. In life, things don’t always pan out the way you want them to. You can do everything perfect and the end result may not be what you expected. And that’s ok, you treat it as a lesson or an opportunity to learn and pivot so that you can continue to move forward towards your goals. This applies to work life, personal life, parenting…This is a piece of advice that has really helped me get through the last 14 years of running Fang and I now apply it to how I raise my kids. 

6. What advice would you give to other women who are running a business and raising children?

   Don’t give up on your dreams and don’t be so hard on yourself! Running your own business is essentially raising another baby. When you have two priorities in life that cannot be sidelined, you have to find a way to do both. It does not have to be one or the other. As I mentioned before, my kids motivate me to do more because I realized the importance of setting a good example for them. And while there are nights I feel guilty for not being able to stay home to have dinner with my kids or say goodnight, I always make it a point to make the time we do spend together, one of quality. And for those nights I’m not there, I plan for the days I will be there and make the most of it. 

7. Is there anything you wish someone had told you along the way?

   Yes!!! Get mentors and don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice. The journey as a mom and a business woman can be a lonely one if you are afraid to share your struggles. And while I am lucky enough to have great girlfriends in my life to vent and decompress with, I never took the time to foster relationships with female friends on a more professional level. When we talk about women supporting women, this is how it gets started. If you reach out to someone for help, you will be at a point where you will pay it forward and want to do the same for another. We don’t have to do everything on our own.

8. What does work/life balance look like for you? 

   I work Monday- Friday (lunch and dinner service). I keep my weekends free for my family unless there are major events happening at my restaurant. Every other Friday, I will do date night with my husband. And we always make sure we travel at least 1-3 times a year. On a day to day basis, I make time for coffee in the mornings, a short workout and then it’s work work work. And lastly, I try to make time for nights out with friends, it’s not super consistent but I make a big effort to make it happen and when it does it can be a huge stress reliever.

9. What are some of your favorite traditions and do you place a priority on certain things? 

   Lunar New Year is one of my favorite and most important holiday of the year. It’s deeply rooted in tradition and I grew up with it. I now practice all the superstitious habits my grandparents practiced with my kids and I make sure we eat all the traditional dishes on Lunar New Year’s Eve. It helps me feel connected to my heritage and also allows me to share a part of our culture with my kids in a fun way. 

   Christmas is our favorite tradition as a family. Because we love decorating our home for Christmas, we started the tradition of buying our Christmas tree 3 days after Thanksgiving. We also keep the tree at least 2 weeks past new year’s eve to prolong the wintery festive feel in our space. Our kids love it and as adults we love it too. 

   Sunday Movie Night with kids! - Because I’m not home in the evening on weeknights, I make it a point to do sunday movie night on the couch with my kids and husband. My husband makes popcorn and we cuddle on the couch and watch a family friendly movie. It’s these small special moments that make my heart full and satisfied. It’s one of my favorite traditions at home.

10. How, if ever, do you prioritize your well-being? What are some things that you try to squeeze in on a normal busy day that you feel has impacted your day-to-day life?

    I actually prioritize my well-being a lot because I find it helps me with managing stress on a day to day basis.  I’m a creature of habit and love doing certain things on repeat. There is something very therapeutic about that for me. The first thing I do for myself is make a nice cup of cappuccino in the morning. My jura coffee machine is one of my favorite appliances in my kitchen. The smell, the first sip starts my morning off on the right foot because it’s the first few quiet minutes I get to myself in the kitchen. Then the chaos ensues, as I prep breakfast and the kids start to run around. After I drop off my kids, I work out. No matter how short or long of a workout I can squeeze in, I do it. Working out relaxes me and gives me energy. The last thing I do on repeat which gives me a sense of comfort and relaxation is my dinner at home. From Monday-Thursday I eat the same healthy meal (a bowl of bone broth, a side of green vegetables sauteed in garlic and ginger, and 2 ounce of protein). Being able to eat this way week after week for years makes me happy. My body craves it when I travel and it gives me a sense of comfort. I come back from dinner shift, take a shower and sit down to a quiet meal, a clean home-cooked meal.

11. What adversity has challenged you the most, yet made you a stronger person?

    The pandemic has been the most challenging experience I’ve had to date. While the restaurant industry is a very competitive and tough space to be in and be successful at, it’s not an industry that could disappear overnight. For the first year of the pandemic, that’s essentially what happened. We were not allowed to open our restaurant for service. We were given the option of doing takeout and we knew that was not going to cut it and keep us afloat. It was better for us to just stay closed. We were essentially out of a job for 1 full year. To make matters worse, there was an uptick in anti-Asian sentiment during this time frame as well. Not only were we not able to open our businesses due to government restrictions, we began feeling fearful and apprehensive to even leave our home. The experience has definitely made me stronger.

12. What are you most excited about on the horizon? Do you have any collaborations coming up that you can share about?

    I’m really excited about a new cookbook/memoir I want to write with my father. This has been a dream of mine and I think it’s the perfect follow up to our new show Chef Dynasty: House of Fang. Aside from that, I’ve been asked to do many guest chef appearances for notable female run businesses and social clubs. This process has allowed me to meet so many incredible female entrepreneurs and it’s been so uplifting to work with other women in different industries. There’s one collab coming up that I’m particularly thrilled about that involves jewelry! The women behind Cast Jewelry are amazing and I’m so grateful for all the opportunities that have come along the way since the show. 

13. You meet so many inspiring women every day, how do you feel we can better support the motto of “Women helping Women?” 

    The best way to support the motto is to reach out to other women and help find ways to support what they do. When someone makes it a point to reach out and provide help or recognition, it creates a sense of community and gratitude and because of this, the recipient will want to pay it forward and do the same for other women. It has a ripple effect so just remember, you can be the one to start that ripple. 

14. How would you describe your sense of style?

    My sense of style veers towards classic chic with a touch of modern 80% of the time. I’m a huge fan of high waisted jeans and a tightly fitted bright colored quarter length cashmere sweater. It’s my go to uniform for work because it’s timeless. For date nights however, I LOVE dressing up. I love form fitting dresses and flirty necklines, bold rings, and earrings and almost never leave the house on a date night without a cashmere coat. So it’s 80% classic effortless chic and 20% glam!

15. What is your favorite splurge or investment “High Bar” piece in your wardrobe? 

    Bags and Jewelry are my favorite splurges. My Hermes Birkin 30 Craie is one of my favorite splurges because it’s a high bar piece that is timeless. I can dress it up or down and it always elevates my outfit. 

16. What is your favorite trendy yet affordable “Side Bar” piece in your wardrobe? 

    Fendi tights!! The logo patterned tights is a trendy winter look that I’ve been obsessed with. I plan a lot of my date night outfits around these tights. A pair can set you back close to $400 which is not bad if you get good mileage out of it and can pair it with many different looks during the winter. Plus it’s been a cold year in the Bay, the tights have kept me warm on those nights I want to wear a dress, so it’s fashionable but practical too. 

17. What is one thing on your wish list for Spring 2023?

    The Fearless Muse ring from Cast Jewelry. I’m currently obsessed with their different collections and capsules. Their designs are bold, beautifully crafted and stunning. I’m looking to add a  few new pieces to dress up my Spring and Summer outfits.

I am beyond grateful for the time, Kat, and for everyone reading I highly recommend that you tune into “Chef Dynasty: House of Fang” if you haven’t already and that next time you find yourself in San Francisco that you make a point to visit both House of Nanking and Fang! Cheers and Bon Appétit!

Here Comes Peter Cottontail

A Magical 4th Birthday

When the planning for Madison’s 4th Birthday party began, it all centered around a picture that my sorority sister sent me of a giant bow made of balloons that she said reminded her of Madison and me! That in addition to a pink and white striped jacket from the Chanel ‘23 Cruise Collection put us in motion.

The next most important item was Madison’s dress so I reached out to my favorite children’s brand, Charlotte Sy Dimby and embarked on a dream collaboration to design the perfect dress to mark the occasion. Monique, Charlotte sy Dimby's designer set out on a "fabric treasure hunt" and found the perfect pink striped organza. It was exactly what I envisioned for a standout party dress. 

Then bows! Since Madison's very first birthday I carry on a tradition passed down by her grandmother. Every year I gift her a 5-piece China set (complete with a tea pot). Charlotte sy Dimby handstitched bows look almost identical to the china decor. I instantly knew they had to be part of the design. I also love pearls and thus was delighted when I learnt the team could adorn the smocks with pearls.

L’Amour shoes were the very first shoes I bought Madison so I have always had a soft spot for them. It felt only natural to select one of their designs for the party. I chose the Josie Scallop Sandals. They are perfect for our warm weather and the bow detail instantly spoke to me.

For the hair bow, I chose a pearl monogrammed bow from @winn_and_william which can be found here.

And a party would not be complete without a party hat. Storybook Goods' pink hat with a bow and embroidery was just what we needed for the event. This particular monogrammed party hat is something we have used to mark the occasion of each of Madison’s birthdays, and is certainly something we treasure.

Madison didn’t get to have a proper first or second birthday party due to the pandemic, so we are making up for lost time! This year it was very clear that pink bows were going to be the main theme for her soiree. As she is turning four, she very clearly wanted her input to be noticed and thus requested to add in rainbows and unicorns, two of her favorite things. In fact, she asked Santa for a unicorn for Christmas, and his response was to give her a unicorn for a few hours for her birthday. It was THE big treat of this year's party!

We decided on hosting an outdoor tea party for all of her closest friends with lots of fresh flowers.

The invitations features key highlights of the party : Madison in her dress, the bounce house, the unicorns and balloons. The design was created by the ever so talented Shop Love Lucy. Sweet and girly, they made our little guests very excited!

The party décor is centered around the balloons and fresh pink flowers. My biggest suggestion is to make the floral arrangements yourself. In the United States, my favorite place to get flowers is Trader Joes. You can find the prettiest blooms at a very good price that enables you to put together the prettiest bouquets.

I feel very fortunate to have Benedicts Catering to help with organizing the furniture which has quickly become my favorite party décor. Small pink tables and picnic benches are the perfect way for our tiny guests to enjoy their tea in this year's special bow adorned china set. 

Our main attractions are riding the unicorn and a bounce house. While I’m not particularly fond of jump houses, I find the ones from Inflate48 to be quite beautiful and enhance our décor. In addition, the four year old crowd seems to be quite smitten with jumping and sliding. 

The oversized pink ballon bow from Pop of Color AZwas the main desired feature to tie our theme together and was perfect in every way.

The party favors consisted of gluten and dairy free cookies from Bear and the Honey Bakery. Since two of our children have allergies we have to adapt but that does not prevent us from having a tasty party. Instead of tea the children sipped apple juice.

We also had a special unicorn cake by Jewel's Bakery which was a huge success.

The giant “4” from Alphalit Phoenix was quite literally the icing on the cake for this birthday girl!

Madison and I are so honored to also be included in an interview about the design process and the party on their website. Cheers to 4 years!

Sunshine and Rainbows

The Luck of the Irish

Hippity Hoppity Easter’s On It’s Way

The Low Down: Featuring Sade Strehlke, Journalist

On today’s edition of The Low Down, I’m so honored to have an esteemed journalist who has worked for the likes of The Wall Street Journal, Teen Vogue, TIME, Shape, Refinery 29 and most recently was the editor-in-chief of Pop Sugar. She is a mom to three children under the age of five and attended the University of Southern California for her undergraduate degree where we met as sorority sisters and continued her studies at Colombia’s Graduate School of Journalism. Sade has always been incredibly fashion forward and humbly describes herself as a storyteller. Her editorial experience spans nearly a decade and ranges from fashion, beauty and wellness to celebrity and women’s lifestyle spaces. I’m so delighted to have you take away some of her pearls of wisdom of her life in journalism and being a mom all while continuing to nourish her own interests. Welcome, Sade!

1. Please tell me a little bit about yourself. Where are you from, where did you go to college and what did you see yourself becoming when you were younger.
   
   I’m from The Bronx in New York City and I went to school — basically my whole life (5-17) — on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. After a middle school talent show, I wanted to become an actor, became “the” Theatre kid and went to the University of Southern California in Los Angeles to pursue a degree in Theatre.
   
   The very first thing I wanted to become when I was really little, however, was a neurosurgeon. After a couple of science classes that dream faded quickly. 

2. I would love for you to share your road to becoming a journalist.
   
   Soon after starting at USC, I realized I didn’t want to be an actor anymore, but I did finish the degree. After graduation, I dabbled in tech, but ultimately started my own fashion blog. After a few years I decided to apply to Columbia’s Graduate School of Journalism. When I graduated, I had internships with The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, the latter turned into a full time job after three weeks. From there, I kept looking for interesting and cool positions that would challenge me but ultimately just allow me to tell really cool and important stories. After WSJ, I worked at Teen Vogue, TIME, Refinery29, SHAPE and then up until recently, Popsugar, where I was the editor in chief.  

3. At what point did you see a road into fashion?
   
   I’ve always loved fashion and shopping. My mom just has the best sense of style and shopping is easily one of my favorite activities — it’s why I started the fashion blog and why I love reading and reporting on the topic. 

4. Where do you see yourself 5 years from now? What is your dream position? 
   
   Oof, this is a hard one and I really don’t have a clean answer. But, I guess, just telling cool stories still.

5. Who has inspired you most along the way?
   
   So many people, but ultimately my mother, grandmothers and great grandmother. They always told me I could be anything and are fabulous storytellers.

6. What is the best piece of advice you were given? Regarding anything from business to parenting to personal development, etc.?
   
   Always raise your hand for the hardest assignments and always respect your peers, subordinates and superiors. Respecting others can go a long way in forging meaningful relationships, even if you don’t see eye to eye. 

7. What advice would you give to other women who are working and raising children?
   
   I don’t have a neat answer for this either — it’s very hard. I once read an article in The Atlantic about a group of sorority sisters from Northwestern, and the author followed their life trajectories into career and parenthood… the happiest ones were the ones who picked one lane or another. I always remember that as I struggle with deadlines and diapers. So, my advice to other people in similar situations is to just do the best you can and don’t be afraid to fail. All that matters is that you pick yourself up in the end and keep on going the best you can. 

8. Is there anything you wish someone had told you along the way?
   
   I know now, but wish someone had told me sooner: “An opportunity that’s meant for you will not miss you.”

9. What does work/life balance look like for you?
   
   There isn’t really a balance, it’s just about trying to do as much as you can do and also carving out time to nurture yourself and your interests, even if that’s just an episode or two of Housewives. 

10. What are some of your favorite traditions and do you place a priority on certain things?
    
    Traveling with my mom. It’s something we did a lot when I was a kid, growing up and even well into my 20s, but with kids and a house that all slowed down… we recently went on a trip with my middle child, however, and it was magical. Definitely want to carve more time out for those types of experiences. Otherwise, no, I don’t place a lot of value on traditions. With work and three kids, it’s really just go, go, go and, again, do the best you can! 

11. How, if ever, do you prioritize your well-being? What are some things that you try to squeeze in on a normal busy day that you feel has impacted your day-to-day life?
    
    Working out and cooking or eating at home. I’m still pretty bad at a regular routine, but sometimes I’ll get a sprint of a month or two of cooking and regular workouts and it’s so therapeutic. It’s amazing actually.
    
    And, I never skip blowouts or manicures… lol, they’re just my things thanks to Frances (my mother). 

12. What adversity has challenged you the most, yet made you a stronger person?
    
    Oof, so many. When my husband and I moved back to the East Coast from Los Angeles for graduate school, he was at Yale Law, but left after a year to finish his graduate work in mathematics at MIT. As a result, we lived apart for five-plus years. It was hard, but him pursuing his passions and dreams, made me work harder than ever to reach my own.

13. I know you meet so many inspiring women every day, how do you feel we can better support the motto of “Women helping Women?”
    
    Just always make time for each other. Whether it’s a friend, sibling, parent or someone who’s just looking for some advice and guidance, taking five minutes to chat can really make a difference.

14. How would you describe your sense of style?
    
    Minimal maximalist. I love oversized, comfort clothes in neutral colors: navy, black, forest green, etc. But I also love color — pinks and yellows in particular — and I love over-the-top accessories. I’m all about the mix. 

15. What is your favorite splurge or investment “High Bar” piece in your wardrobe?
    
    I’m obsessed with handbags. I always have been… I don’t know why! But I just love handbags… small ones, big ones, totes, everything. Bags are my person. I’m a big fan of Celine, Chanel and Bottega Veneta. 

    I tend to focus on the big pieces, or that’s where I invest the most… so bags, shoes and coats. I scored this tan, Givenchy coat from MyTheresa on mega sale and it’s my favorite, go-to. I also have this amazing, navy Chanel that I shopped from a neighbor’s closet and this gold Stella McCartney from my mom’s… right after I had my first child, Harry, I gifted myself this Erdem, embroidered trench… I just love a good coat!

    
    Another area of investment for me are jeans, sweaters and blazers. Again, the big pieces! Regardless of what you’re wearing, a blazer will just pull it all together and nothing feels better than the perfect pair of jeans! I love Frame and Moussy Vintage. Underwear, t-shirts, tanks, etc. I tend to buy from Amazon or Uniqlo. It’s all about the high-low mix for me. 

16. What is your favorite trendy yet affordable “Side Bar” piece in your wardrobe?
    
    I love a good, simple sneaker under $100 from Nike or New Balance. I also sported this bright pink dress from H&M through much of my most recent postpartum experience, and it was amazing! I’d get so many compliments! Ditto for a blue, checked-style dress from Old Navy. 

17. What is one thing on your wish list for 2023?
    
    More jewelry! It’s time to start investing in some forever pieces that I can eventually hand down to my daughters and son.

Thank you, Sade! Best of luck with all of your future endeavors and thank you so very much for sharing your inspiring journey! Cheers!

Spring Skiing Calling Your Name?

Cupid’s Last Minute Picks

Spring is Calling

Hostess with the Mostest

Shop ‘Til You Drop: Saks Fifth Avenue Sale Edit

The Low Down: Featuring Erin Donahue Tice, Abstract Artist and Entrepreneur

It is my distinct honor to welcome Erin Donahue Tice on the second edition of The Low Down. Erin is an abstract artist based in Austin, Texas who creates original paintings for collectors across the country and has recently expanded her business into tabletop and home decor. Her artwork has yielded a strong demand and has been featured in House Beautiful, Better Homes and Gardens, Traditional Home, Southern Home and Luxe Magazine. Erin has three darling young boys and embodies the term working mother. I was first introduced to Erin a few years ago through a dear friend who had moved to Austin. After following her artwork for quite some time on Social Media, I was fortunate enough to go through the commission process with her and currently have two of her original pieces in my home in Arizona. Her incredible up-beat personality coupled with her extreme talent makes her the total package in the art world. When you add on her entrepreneurial spirt and business acumen you have a woman, that in my opinion, has the world as her oyster. I am beyond grateful that Erin has carved aside the time to let you delve into the mind of an artist/entrepreneur and can’t wait for you to walk away with her pearls of wisdom. Welcome, Erin!

1. Please tell me a little bit about yourself. Where are you from, where did you go to college and what did you see yourself becoming when you were younger.

   I grew up first in the Chicago suburbs (until I was eight years old), then we moved to Columbus, Ohio where I lived until I graduated high school. I went to college in Lexington, Kentucky at the University of Kentucky (Go Cats!). As a child, I waffled between wanting to be an actress, a broadcast journalist, a writer and a psychologist. I ended up becoming none of those things, but I can see where those sparks were headed, and how they later translated into my careers as both a PR Executive, and later, an artist. 

2. I would love for you to share your road to becoming an artist and producing some of the most coveted pieces in the art world.

   After graduating college with a degree in PR, I started my career in Chicago working for one of the world’s most well-known ad agencies, Leo Burnett. I fell into a niche of doing PR for ad agencies themselves and went on to work within high-profile ad agencies in Chicago and NYC, and then eventually for a PR firm that specializes in representing clients in the advertising/media/entertainment spaces. 

   I had a thriving career in PR, and even when my husband  and I moved from New York to Austin, I kept working remotely for my firm in NYC. We soon had two sons back to back, and after the birth of my second son George, I knew I needed to pull back from my career. I took some time off, but suffered from a lot of postpartum baby blues. My son was very colicky and it triggered a lot of anxiety in me.

   I began painting in my guest house as an outlet for stress relief. It soon became an obsession, and six months after painting for fun/stress relief, some girlfriends encouraged me to sell my work.

   I had never painted in my life, so this turn of events was quite surprising for everyone, including myself! I had always thought I’d eventually go back to work in the PR world. But I decided to build a website, launch an Instagram page and have a go at the art world. Pretty soon I was off to the races. I still can’t believe it sometimes.

3. At what point did you see an opening into your new Tabletop venture? What other products would you like to procure and/or produce?

   I have always loved to entertain, to throw together pretty tables. I got this trait from my mom, who threw a lot of dinner parties while I was growing up. Once we moved into our new home in 2019. I finally had a formal dining room of my own and really began playing around with creating tablescapes, and would share them on Instagram. To me, it was another creative outlet. A way to mix materials and patterns. The Covid hit. We were eating at home ALL THE TIME! But I still wanted it to feel pretty and festive. So I created A LOT of tables for my family during that time. It was so fun and I began amassing a large collection of vintage china! In late 2022 I decided to finally expand my art business into the tabletop world and am now curating a small collection of beautiful, handmade plates, vases, candlesticks and centerpieces that are sold on my website. It seemed like a natural extension and a way to push my business in new directions. 

4. Do you plan to go beyond tabletop and if so, what would be some of your dream pieces to produce?

   I am currently working with a manufacturer to translate some of my new botanical paintings onto textiles and plates. I’m hoping to launch a small collection of products with my own designs within the next couple of months. Think china, throw pillows, fabric, wallpaper. I’m so excited to bring my artwork to life in new ways! I hope people like the way my art translates onto home products. 

1. Where do you see your business in another 5 years?

   My dream would be to have a thriving art/design/lifestyle business, with an array of home and entertaining products. I never want to stop painting, though, so I’ll always keep original artwork as part of my offering.

2. Who has inspired you most along the way?

   I would have to say my mom. She’s the first person I show my art and designs to, and she gives great feedback. She also had a thriving career in the insurance world and then later after she retired, struck up a second career and started a catering/charcuterie board business. She is so inspiring and supportive, and is such a hard worker. I think I realize how similar we are the older I get.

3. What is the best piece of advice you were given? Regarding anything from business to parenting to personal development, etc.?

   My old boss at my PR firm, Samantha Digennaro, always stressed the importance of saying thank you. We were instructed to send thank you emails and in some cases notes, immediately after client meetings. Within an hour, if possible. I’ve never forgotten how important it is to show gratitude and I try to take that with me in my art business. Sometimes it can be hard to respond to every message I get on Instagram, but I try really hard to! And I like to send hand-written notes to clients who have invested in my artwork. Saying thank you is so simple, yet so powerful.

4. What advice would you give to other women who are running a business and raising children?

   Pick when to lean in, and when to lean out. You can’t always do it all at once. And that’s okay. Don’t beat yourself up about it. Sometimes your children will need you more, and you’ll need to make that hard decision to lean back from work a little bit. Sometimes you’ll have an opening to really hustle at work. It’s not a perfect science. I do hope that my kids will eventually realize how hard I work and respect my work ethic. I have the best of both worlds because my studio is at home, so I’m able to see them a lot. I feel very blessed and realize that not everyone has that luxury.

5. Is there anything you wish someone had told you along the way?

   I didn’t realize that an artist wears many more hats than just “painter.” I am also CEO, CMO, IT, accountant, logistics, framer, photographer, and so much more. But I like it this way! It makes it more interesting and keeps me moving from one task to another every day.

6. What does work/life balance look like for you?

   I try to do most of my work Monday through Friday, while the kids are at school, and reserve the evenings and weekends for my kids. That said, sometimes I have deadlines to meet, and need to take a couple hours here and there to get some work done when my kids are around. But balance is a concept I’m always chasing, to be completely honest! Life with three little kids, a husband and a busy career does not provide a whole lot of free time. But I love the hustle bustle, and wouldn’t have it any other way.

1. What are some of your favorite traditions and do you place a priority on certain things?

   We have little traditions around my house. We got a pizza oven a couple years ago and usually do Pizza Night on Fridays. My husband, Bill, is our pizza chef and makes everyone their own personal pizza with whatever toppings we like! We also love Christmas, and like to dress up and go out to a fancy steak dinner on Christmas Eve every year. Our “happy place” as a family is East Hampton, and each summer when we get there my husband takes the kids right to the beach. I am not the biggest beach person, but I swear my husband and my boys were fish in another life! 

2. How, if ever, do you prioritize your well-being? What are some things that you try to squeeze in on a normal busy day that you feel has impacted your day-to-day life?

   I find that exercise is a vital part to having “balance,” and if I can get 4-5 workouts in a week I feel like my mind and body are in harmony, and I’m a happier person to be around! When I’m in the zone, I also make a healthy smoothie for breakfast every morning. Sometimes I just sit on my bed alone for 20 minutes and do a quick reset and that gives me a sense of harmony

3. I know you meet so many inspiring women every day, how do you feel we can better support the motto of “Women helping Women?”

   I love this question. Shining a light on other women is so important to my overall mission. I feel like there’s so much competition in the art world, and it doesn’t need to be that way. I believe that if  you are a woman with any kind of a platform (on social media, in your community, in your workplace, etc.), then it’s incumbent on you to lift other women up and support them both privately and publicly. I have worked in corporate environments where female support was hard to come by, and I’ve also worked in environments where it was showered upon me in droves. I was more confident and successful in my job the more support I received from other women. I’ve actually read research about the “power of the pack,” and how we are stronger together than apart. Women win when we help each other, not harm each other. Now that I’m in business for myself, it’s even more critical for me to seek out other women whom I can help, and also women who can help me.

1. How would you describe your sense of style?

   Classic, colorful, and a tad eclectic. 

2. What is your favorite splurge or investment “High Bar” piece in your wardrobe?

   My Manolo Blahnik Hangisi heels in both black and emerald green. They are the most classic shoe that elevates any outfit and I always feel special when I wear them. They are also comfier than they look and come in different heel heights. You can’t go wrong. 

3. What is your favorite trendy yet affordable “Side Bar” piece in your wardrobe?

   Maybe not so trendy, but definitely affordable: I love my Birdies. I have them in probably 12 colors/styles. They are my go-to slip on shoe that is SO comfortable it feels like a slipper. They go with jeans and dresses alike and I wear them almost every day.

4. What is one thing on your wish list for 2023?

   A trip to Morocco with my husband to celebrate my 40th!

Thank you, Erin, and best of luck with all of your exciting endeavors!! I encourage everyone to sign up for Erin’s newsletters here. She has a brand new collection launching online January 26th and if you live in Austin you can view the collection in person on January 27th. Cheers!

All You Need is Love

Love All: Tennis, Golf or Pickleball

Team Ski or Team Après

Disco Ball or Mattress Ball

The Low Down: Featuring Jill Koziol, CEO of Motherly

It is with great pleasure that I introduce the inaugural Low Down featuring one of my dear friends and the incredible Co-Founder and CEO of Motherly, Jill Koziol. When I think about women who embody doing it all, Jill is the first one to come to mind. Jill is one of the most impressive entrepreneurs you will ever meet and is also an incredible wife, mother, and friend! Jill has overcome the startup odds and navigates running an Inc 5000 Fastest growing private company, being very active in YPO, managing several boards all while having two young daughters and making it look easy. Though she will be the first to tell you that she has an incredible behind-the-scenes team and relies heavily on delegating. I am so grateful that she took the time to share some of her experiences as a mother and a CEO and how she manages a work/life balance or as she calls it “work life integration.” Jill is truly wonder woman in my mind and I can’t wait for you to get to hear her story and hopefully extract some of the incredible pearls of wisdom she has given us below. Thank you and welcome, Jill!

1. Please tell me a little bit about yourself. Where are you from, where did you go to college and what did you see yourself becoming when you were younger.

   I’m from a small town in Southern Maryland about 45 minutes southeast of Washington, DC. As a first generation college student I went to a state school in Maryland for undergrad and then Georgetown for my Master’s degree. When I was younger I dreamed of being an international lawyer and one day working for the United Nations or being an ambassador.

2. How did you come up with the idea of Motherly and where do you see your company in another 5 years?

   Prior to Motherly I invented, patented, and brought to market a baby goods product so I had already cut my teeth on entrepreneurship when I received a call from my now cofounder who was interested in launching a new brand for modern mothers. I jumped at the ideas because as a Millennial mother I felt motherhood was portrayed in a really outdated manner back in 2015 and knew we could do better. We built Motherly to be woman-centered, expert-driven, and empowering.
   
   We’ve grown a ton over the last 7 years and this year are an Inc. 5000 fastest growing private company in the US. Five years from now I believe we will be the most valuable parenting platform – most valuable to our audience and our media clients.

3. Who inspired you to be a leader and why?

   My father is a small business entrepreneur and leader in our community and I’ve always been inspired by him not just to be a business owner but to give back to my community. I saw how he impacted our community as an employer and as a philanthropist and he encouraged me to do the same. I’ve also always been very inspired by my great-grandmother who in the early 1900s ran our family’s publicly traded business in the background after her husband died because women couldn’t be officers in public companies. I like to think she’d be proud if she could see me now.

4. What is the best piece of advice you were given? Regarding anything from business to parenting to personal development, etc.?

   The best advice I’ve received is, “feedback is a gift, not a mandate for change.” As a start-up entrepreneur and as a mother I’m frequently given advice and feedback. Once I internalized feedback as a gift and not something I’m required to act on, I was able to view it more objectively and determine for myself what worked best for me authentically. 

5. What advice would you give to other women who are running a business and raising children?

   I’d offer that self-care is not selfish and that it is important as a mother and a business owner to prioritize your own health and wellbeing. Your family and business won’t thrive if you aren’t thriving so finding ways to fill your cup, even before others, is critical.

6. Is there anything you wish someone had told you along the way?

   I wish someone had told me that successful companies almost die a dozen times before they become successful. It’s a roller coaster for all companies and just because something is hard doesn’t mean you aren’t doing it right. 

7. What does work/life balance look like for you?

   For me it’s more like work life integration. I don’t think of it as a balance because it’s never fully at an equilibrium balance. And it’s important to note that I don’t do it all – I have an amazing support structure of paid household help who enable me to thrive at work and at home. At home, and at work, I prioritize the things only I can do and outsource or delegate the others so that I have time to workout, be present with my children, spend time with my husband, etc.

8. What are some of your favorite traditions and do you place a priority on certain things?

   Mothers are the magic makers and I’ve created so many traditions that my family prioritizes from special birthday breakfasts to spending Thanksgiving in Hawaii to our night Christmas book tradition during Advent. I believe that these are the moments my children will recall when thinking about their childhood and it fills me with such joy.

9. I know you are extremely mindful of well-being. How has that impacted your life?

   I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis nearly seven years ago and it changed my perspective on health and well-being significantly. Too often mothers don’t prioritize their health and my diagnosis gave me permission to prioritize my health from eating well to exercising regularly, and recently a meditation practice. These practices help me show up as my best self for my family and my company.

10. What adversity has challenged you the most, yet made you a stronger person?

    No one leaves this life unscathed and like everyone I’ve faced many adversities. My MS diagnosis was one of the most challenging because it impacted every aspect of my life so profoundly including my children, who were very young, my husband, and Motherly. I’m 10x as strong – mentally, physically, and emotionally – as I was when I was diagnosed and in many ways I now see MS as a gift.

11. You meet so many inspiring women every day, how do you feel we can better support the motto of “Women helping Women?”

    The most important thing I believe women can do to support other women is to pay it forward – so many people have supported me over the years and I pay it forward by taking calls from women who are trying to launch a new business, grappling with an MS diagnosis, or figuring out how they can better integrate their work and personal lives. Women need more support and less judgment and paying it forward, sharing our experiences, is a critical way to support each other.

12. How would you describe your sense of style?

    I prefer classic over trendy and tend to be more minimalist enjoying texture over pattern and a more neutral color palette. Since moving to Park City in 2020 I’ve started to gravitate more to mountain inspired fashion. So I’d say my style is California meets mountain, maybe?

13. What is your favorite splurge or investment “High Bar” piece in your wardrobe? 

    My various Valentino rock stud shoes are probably my favorite splurge – I tend to buy a new pair each season and still love my older pairs so I consider them an investment, too. But, my diamond pieces from Katie Anderson Diamonds are definitely my favorite investment items – my rings, bracelets, and earrings designed by Katie are classic while on trend and items I know my daughters will one day treasure, too.

14. What is your favorite trendy yet affordable “Side Bar” piece in your wardrobe? 

    I’ve lately been loving the fun, trendy earrings from MIGNONNE GAVIGAN – they make great statement pieces and I love the Madeline collection.

15. What is one thing on your wish list for the holidays? What is something on your children’s wish list? Something on your husband’s wish list?

    I’m going to give classic cross country skiing a try this season so a set of Atomic cross country skis and boots are on my wish list. My youngest daughter has all things American Girl on her wish list, while my oldest daughter is hoping Santa brings her a pair of air pods. For my husband, he doesn’t know it yet but a Therabody Theragun is on his list!