hellllo from shelter island, new york! we did a 2 month house swap with a couple who lives here  and we are headed back to LA in two weeks, driving across the country again! i’m sad that it’s coming to an end because it’s been such a special time here, but also ready to get back home. i’ve been going through a bit of a hellish emotional rollercoaster myself, dealing with my own trauma stuff and having a LOT of time in my own head. luckily this has given me some new scenery, a cozy fire to sit by, a bathtub, beautiful snow, and a whole different vibe than los angeles. i’ve never really spent much time on the east coast…lots of weekends to new york mostly for work, so to spend two months really getting to explore has been nice (well, as much as we can with covid). even feeling how different the beaches are and all the seafood and slower lifestyle here is cool. we will definitely be back someday! (ps I rounded up some airbnbs below that I am marking for the future)

I have also been reading and doing the exercises in the artist’s way book. I had skimmed it in the past but never really put in the real effort like I am this time. i’ve been committing to the 3 morning pages every day and it has become something I went from hating to really enjoying and needing! doing the artist dates with myself has unlocked a childlike creativity that’s been VERY freeing to explore. I highly recommend it. I have spent the last few months dealing with some really really heavy emotions and this art therapy aspect is literally saving me. i’ve been painting, shooting film pics, collaging, cooking, collecting shells, making little videos for fun and even took a watercolor class. I realized I have spent the last 10 years creating for work and never really explored this younger side of myself that just wants to create for FUN. it’s been really really cool and I will always remember this stay for this reason.

we also celebrated justin’s 40th bday last weekend! two of our friends got tested and came for the weekend. we had a blast actually. I forgot how much I missed connecting with people and just having a good time dancing, drinking, and letting loose. covid has put us in such a bubble it’s hard to even remember what that’s like. I also had fun wrapping his presents with some construction paper and magazines!

so even though I am going through cycles where I feel totally lost, depressed, and uncertain…i am also experiencing a ton of joy and freedom and fun. it swings back and forth for me during this quarantine. endless groundhog day and feeling very in transition. it’s been hard on me working less too, I guess i  didn’t realize how much work and productivity and travel distracted me from the pain underneath. while I am grateful to be facing it all head on now, it’s most definitely been a challenge. just know that this past year has put us all through a LOT. I really think we will come out of this stronger and wiser.

I had some time today and rounded up a bunch of pretty homes near here. we have spent a little time exploring shelter island, greenport, and sag harbor and it’s SO charming here. whether you need a little winter retreat or want to plan a summer trip with some east coast vibes, here’s a bunch of picks! some affordable and some just fun to look at. I love all the farms and the small town community feeling here…

this historical cottage in east hampton with all that beautiful light!

a greenport bungalow with epic reviews!

CLICK THROUGH TO SEE ALL THE RENTAL HOUSES…

this sweet cottage with a great soaking tub.

a 3 bedroom home in east hampton with a beautiful pool!

another greenport gem!

love the beautiful lawn and trees at this rental, so green!

this pretty barn in east hampton would be an amazing place to stay in the summer months.

a peaceful spot on shelter island.

a tranquile spot with a wood burning fire place.

this feels like the perfect spot to spend a snowy weekend.

classic looking spot in Sag Harbor.

this spot sleeps 14! perfect for a post-covid friend getaway.

and finally this one that you can walk to the beach from!!

a year or so ago i found a rachel comey bright pink jacket on super sale (pictured above!). it has become one of my favorite pieces in my closet and something i look forward to wearing when the temps drop. the winter months can feel dark and grey, i’m originally from michigan so i understand dark and cold! having a bright coat to wear can feel uplifting and a departure from the gray, camel and black that is the majority of outerwear. a few favorites below! – joanie

Anthro faux fur jacket $60 – cute and cropped! this little jacket can be worn all year round.

Puffed sleeve coat $228 – very much love the bright yellow/green color of this coat. it appears to be on the lightweight side so you can buy it now and wear it into spring.

Theory wool/cashmere coat $208.50 – this is a great price point for a wool/cashmere jacket. and I’m a sucker for a vivid pink. i think it’s a pretty color on everyone and it really pops.

Mango wool coat $230 – I’m into the oversized silhouette, especially for winter when you may want to layer up underneath. Wearing it open, during warmer months, would also be very chic.

Quilted satin down coat $524 – put this on the dream list! the wide quilted panels and this jewel tone make a really beautiful jacket.

J.Crew boiled wool coat $165 – i’ve had great lucky with J.Crew coats over the years. i love this one in the saffron and coral color too.

Shawl jacket $100 – this one looks to be half robe/half jacket and extra cozy.

Club Monaco relaxed jacket $159 – not a bright at the others but this shade of blue is lovely and this would work well for a polished work look with broken-in jeans and a t-shirt on the weekends.

Balenciaga floral trench$996 – another one for the dream list! but now i’m inspired to shop vintage and find a fabulous 60’s trench coat. i love to look at designer pieces and then find similar options shopping vintage on ebay or etsy for a fraction of the cost!

today i felt SO excited by jellyfish and coral and the fantastic colors of the ocean and went on a pinning spree here.

bri made the most incredible gift guide yesterday of 52 places to shop and support over the holiday season and i wanted in on the action! now more than ever, where we spend our dollars matters. there are so many amazing artists and companies creating beautiful products to love and cherish for years, these are some of my favorites!  as a note, with the exception of one or two, these are all personal recommendations of companies and items that i have bought, loved and stand by. sometimes in the age of the internet it’s hard to know what’s a general recommendation and what has been owned, used and personally tested which for me, makes a difference.  – joanie

TO WEAR (section above): 1/James Street Co – wife and husband owned company, they create beautiful knits. i love their sweaters and this beanie would make a perfect gift for someone. 2/ Ali Golden – oakland based, she used to have a shop in LA. she has her own line and also has a great curated selection of other independent designers. i saw this leopard trench on their IG and loved it. 3/ freda salvador  – i’ve followed this female founded brand for years. their shoes are beautiful and i’m obsessed with these chic rain resistant boots. 4/ hannah Keefe – i met Hannah at a craft fair a few years ago and fell in love with her beautiful handmade earrings. i love this silver pair. 5/ emerson fry –  we’ve mentioned our love for emerson fry many times on the blog. i’ve had by eye on this silver sequin dress since last year and i still love it. perfect for a post-covid party! 6/ Olo – my sister is the first person to introduce me to this Oregon based company and last year i bought my first scent from there. it’s called lightning paw and it’s beautiful. their bottles are small which makes them great to throw in your bag and they last forever, i’ve had mine for over a year and still lots left. 7/ individual medley – this is a local store that’s really close to my house. they have an amazing storefront but also a great online selection and they can use your support. this fuzzy bag is really fun. 8/ intentionally blank – they are los angeles based and i have several pairs of their shoes that i love. this mule with the deep green and the wood heel is very cool. 

STAY HOME: 1/ le feu de l’eau – they make really beautiful candles in the prettiest colors, they make a great gift. 2/ happy habitat – i love her blankets, especially this one. she has tons of great patterns and you can machine wash and dry them which is very important for a throw blanket that gets a lot of us. 3/ helen levi – helen is a new york based ceramic artists that i’ve loved for years. i have a vase and tumblers (which are great for coffee + wine) from her. and i love this splatter mug she makes. 4/ victoria morris – a local LA artist that i’ve admired for awhile. i don’ town anything of hers (yet) but i love her work. this blue vase is a beautiful investment piece. 5/ maro carpets – i stumbled on this etsy rug shop and found so many gems. she has an amazing selection and excellent reviews. i love this pink one. 6/ farmhouse pottery – this is a shop that’s near where my sister lives in woodstock vermont. i picked up a couple of mugs last time i was there which i love and now i’m eyeing their beautiful home goods like these candlesticks. 

FOOD DRINK: 1/ mike’s hot honey – my brother brought one of these home for christmas several years ago and i loved it. it has a surprising amount of uses, like on a cheese pizza! 2/ cowgirl creamery – i’ve loved their cheeses for years and always like to visit their stand in the SF ferry building (they have the best grilled cheese), the cheese of the month club is a great gift that keeps on giving. 3/ madcap coffee – this shop is in my hometown of grand rapids michigan and i always make sure to stop in when i’m back in town. they make delicious coffee and roast their own beans. 4/ fly by jing – my aunt gave me some of their chili crisps a few months ago and i reach for it all the time. on eggs, with dumplings, white rice, baked potato, the options are endless! 5/ helen’s wine – helen is our friend who really jump started my love and understanding of wine. she has an epic wine club that ships internationally and i honestly thing there is no better gift. 6/ jeni’s ice cream – ice cream is always a welcomed gift and this thanksgiving set with bramble berry crisp sounds divine. 

GIVE: 1/ helping women period – this charity works to address the lack of access to menstrual health care products for low income or homeless. 2/ eviction defense network – many people are facing eviction due to the pandemic. you can look up local non-profits in your city that are working to make sure people are able to stay in their homes. this one is in los angeles but can provide consults across the nation.   3/ homeboy industries – works with formerly gang involved or previously incarcerated men and women. it is an incredibly community that was started by father greg boyle. i have visited their LA facility and can say they are doing amazing work at creating a healing and hope for people who are often left in the shadows. 4/ preemptive love – they are on the frontlines of many war torn nations and they are committed to creating a network of peace keepers and work in many tangibles ways like feeding and clothing people. they do amazing work and i highly recommend checking them out.

KITCHEN : 1/ caraway home – I have the colorful set and really love their pots! they have held up nicely and make my kitchen look cute. 2/ apricot la – love her tie dye napkins and table cloths, use them allll the time. 3/ asp & hand – i’m a sucker for unique glassware! her cups and straws are amazing! 4/ hawkins new york – they have such a gorgeous selection always. these lidded bowls are cool for packing a lunch. 5/ dusen dusen – heavy duty patterned hand towels. 6/ brightland – their olive oils taste delicious, and the packaging is good looking on your counter. 7/ norden goods – these speckled plates would make a good gift. 8/ great jones – we love our dutch oven from them. perfect for your family member who loves to cook! 9/ material – love the steps they take towards making your kitchen more sustainable. try out their colorful recycled plastic cutting boards. 10/ lettuce grow – we just got one this year so we could plant herbs and veggies on our back patio. 11/ casa shop – always inspired by this funky curated shop and these tumblers are incredible! 12/ coming soon – these straws are ART in your cup

STAY HOME : 1/ artifact uprising – i love making quality photo books for special occasions. a great gift for your mom! 2/ wild one – love these chic looking dog toys. 3/ parachute home – their robes are my absolute fave, such a comfy gift. 4/ sheltered.co – I have one of these weighted blankets and they are worth the price. I notice a difference in my anxiety and my sleep. 5/ midland – love their choices of native american pottery! 6/ cold picnic – the rugs are stunning, a bath mat is a nice gift! 7/ vandevort – a friend of mine’s shop in san diego, love this fuzzy leopard blanket. 8/ hattie molloy – i’m so inspired by her florals and aesthetic lately and look how cool that puzzle is! a great gift since we are all spending more time at home.

1/ bliss and mischief – a friend of mine who makes such cool tees, jackets and hats here in LA. i’m eyeing this bliss off hat. 2/ casetify + designlovefest – i’ve curated a bunch of artists to make phone cases! these help support the artists and myself so thank you very much!! 3/ brother vellies – a Black owned business with suuuuuch cool shoes and boots. 4/ lacausa – one of my favorite LA brands I wear constantly, how about this black tie dye outfit for lounging? 5/ baggu – the perfect bags for the farmer’s market, the beach, anything really. 6/ holiday – I am checkered obsessed and this pj set is SO good. 7/ lykke wullf – another great LA brand I love supporting. they have such cool matching outfits and love these no waste masks. 8/ nagnata – the coolest, sustainable workout looks I have seen this year! 9/ paloma wool – endlessly inspired by their hip patterns and unique photography ideas. how about these lime green boots?! 10/ dusen dusen – had to add in this hand knotted market tote. 11/ lisa says gah – always find lovely items in this shop. love all the vote graphics this year, a good message to spread all year round! 12/ rachel craven – linen VOTE masks. 13/ rex design – perfect ceramics for a friend or sister gift, and how cute is this painted ceramic hair clip! 14/ en soie – love does rule forever! 

1/ tessa forrest – do it for yourself, a motivational journal by one of my favorite artists (prints here too). 2/ tetra shop – proud cannabis lover over here and this is THE go-to shop for cool lighters and pipes. 3/ pranamat – this is an acupunture mat that has helped me a lot with pain and anxiety, gets your blood flow circulating! 4/ field trip – how about some festive leopard rolling papers? 5/ headspace – I meditate with this app daily. i paid for the upgrade so I have more access to custom meditation courses. a great gift for someone you know needs a little calm in their life. 6/ the now – one of my fave massage boutiques has this scented candle I never want to burn out, and this rose quartz gu sha to reduce puffiness in your face. 7/ saie – this clean beauty line is great, love their tinted moisturizer. 8/ prismatic plants – CBD with beautiful packaging! 9/ golde – a Black owned wellness brand with this make your own matcha kit. 10/ small spells – artist tarot deck with the beeeest illustrations. 11/ billie – a hip razor brand you can get a subscription to. 12/ miss grass – a shell shaped grinder. 13/ osea – they have amazing scents and this vagus nerve oil + mist always helps calm me down. 14/ versed – affordable winter unwind gift set with this globe you put in the freezer. 15/ tower – LOVE their highlighter. 16/ take care space – for the yoga lover in your family who deserves a bright and colorful gift. 17/ kristin ess hair – a friend of mine made this cute travel kit. 18/ olive & june – because a pedicure is verrrry necessary these days, this kit will come in handy.

here are a few charities I have been donating to this year. my step dad is really sweet and always tells me he doesn’t need any gifts, just to donate to a charity in his name. I love that! this year I have found it especially important to donate to BIPOC organizations and charities that fight for racial justice.

GIVE : 1/ the loveland foundation – provides free therapy for Black women and girls. 2/ the right way foundation – helps transition-age foster youth attain and keep good jobs despite the overwhelming trauma they have endured throughout their lives. 3/ CASA LA – I am a court appointed special advocate to a 4 year old boy in the foster care system and think this is a great organization! 4/ the conscious kid – they promote healthy racial identity development and take action to disrupt racism in young children.

I was really excited to share our gucci bloom campaign we worked on recently. I shared a bunch of behind the scenes from the day here too! here are some of my favorite shots of the day. thank you heather for the beautiful photos and natalie for her awesome styling skills. it was a great day being creative with friends in the backyard.

they let us run free and create with no restraints which is always a treat!

we played around with a bunch of different setups to see what we were most drawn to. love this dark and moody look too…

but there was magic happening with all the rainbows and reflections on this one. we were pretty happy shooting this one.

client: gucci beauty
photos: heather gildroy
creative direction: bri emery
styling: natalie shriver

we just got back from a week in hawaii on the big island. we were able to skip the 2 week quarantine by doing the testing in one of their trusted locations right before, and then they test you when you arrive. we felt really safe and were able to do activities outside, drive all around the island, spent time at our rental, and just relax. i’ve included a few airbnb rental options below as people often ask for suggestions on where to stay. maybe plan a trip for next year or bookmark one of these for when covid calms down. it’s important to be respectful of their land and to support the small businesses right now! xx

a few favorites from the big island: sushi takeout from you make the roll (call before), outdoor seating at this delicious indian spot kamana kitchen, cool art space & little gallery to walk through over at donkey mill art center, a beach with lots of shady trees and not a ton of people: beach 69, free & safe outdoor coffee farm tour at greenwell farm, grab a coffee with an insane view at the coffee shack, hold an octopus at kanaloa octopus farm! drive up to the mauna key observatory at sunset and be above the clouds! check out the farmer’s market in hilo on wed or sat, walk through liliʻuokalani park and japanese gardens, carlsmith beach park has a super cool swimming hole! akaka falls state park has a quick easy hike to a waterfall, we got takeout bbq in waimea at the fish and the hog, fish and chips on the patio at keoki’s ono fish and chips, poke at da poke shack, and see the petroglyphs at waikoloa petroglyph reserve!

here are 6 houses from kona and 4 from kauai…

love this little oasis near keauhou bay (on the big island). it’s two separate units so perfect for a family or couple’s trip.

ok this treehouse in kona is COOL! great view to wake up to.

we just stayed in this spot on the big island and really loved it!! we spent so much time there and loved the open air layout.

it’s called the onion house, and i’m intrigued! love the stained glass and tropical pool area.

I love all the wood and windows in this captain cook area home (we really liked that area when we were driving around).

a bungalow with a japanese style in pāhoa on the big island. that area is pretty quaint, it would feel like a real escape to nature.

okay, now we are switching islands and here are a few from kauai. it’s a much smaller island with a real tropical rainforest vibe! this is the house we stayed in before and it was so cute and serene.

a few favorites on kauai: morning coffee & burrito from hanalei bread company, def get a drink at tahiti nui or tiki iniki! grab some tapas at bar acuda, wishing well shave ice…

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here is a bigger home in princeville for a family!

you can walk to hanalei bay from this bright little spot.

I feel relaxed just looking at this beautiful eco-friendly home in the trees!

recent pins that make me feel happy!

inspired by paloma wool’s new line and a collab with photographer jp bonino.  checkers, crop circles, aliens, psychadelic imagery…count me in.