The City Sage

Have a Playful, Creative Weekend!

Lately I'm trying to take better care of myself in every way possible, and that includes giving myself space to play around creatively with no ulterior motives. When I saw this fashion editorial from Tokyo Magazine, I was instantly drawn to its eyepopping 1960's palette and somber yet 'more to the story' tone; I simply had to follow whatever path it led me down!

The thing about creativity is that it comes when you least expect it, and almost never when you need it. As with all the best stuff in life, you can't push it (I liken forced creativity to squeezing dried cement from a toothpaste tube. Not gonna happen!) Giving yourself permission to explore is the most important, and often the hardest, thing to do. May you find even a moment to do just that this weekend!

Images: 1, 4, 6. 2. 3. 5. 7. Special mention to the bunny.

Feather Love Photography: Artist Workshop in San Diego

My deep respect for Noa Azoulay-Sclater of Feather Love Photography is no secret here on the blog. Last April Noa invited me to speak at her Bay Area Artist Workshop--click through for a great recap!--and it was an honor to be a part of that. Meeting her students, chatting about the role of branding and social media in building a business, and doing a Rue shoot all in the same day? What a treat!

Now Noa has announced a workshop in San Diego. She's hosting it at her home, and I'm telling you: JUMP ON IT. If you're a creative entrepreneur looking to spark new growth and transformation, this workshop is for you. If you're feeling stuck on your journey, this workshop is for you. If you want to connect with other artists and soak up the magic of Noa's studio (and pool!) this workshop is for you.

As usual Noa has assembled an incredible cast of guests (I'll be speaking again, and you can see the rest of the crew in the complete event description) but the main attraction really is Noa herself. For just a taste of what she has to offer, I encourage everyone to read a post she just wrote entitled 'Do You Want Overnight Success?'. No matter what line of work or stage of life you're in, Noa is for you. xo

P.S. Another reason to pounce? The Ace Hotel just announced that they're sponsoring the workshop, with one attendee up for winning a two night stay at the Ace Palm Springs! Images: 1. 2. 3.

Summer Outfit Essential: Tucker by Gaby Basora

Colorful prints are not something you find a lot of in my wardrobe. I veer towards the safer territory of neutral solids; paw through my closet and you'll come up with a lot of basic white button-downs, grey cashmere sweaters, and other variations on the theme. But one label I've found myself drawn to more and more lately is Tucker--they make silky, feminine prints seem positively doable!

With summer pretty much in full swing there's nothing better than a single sweet and simple outfit maker, is there? Whether it's for a day of meetings or something more, ahem, adventurous, I'm starting to appreciate the power of an abstract or a floral to punch up my standard slim jeans. And then I look at these pairings (tweed and ikat? spots on dots?) and my mind starts to spin! Oh the possibilities! 

Shop the collection at Tucker by Gaby Basora.

Wednesday Tune: 'I Belong In Your Arms' by Chairlift

May I introduce you to the song that will be in your head all summer? It's by Chairlift, and if the name 'I Belong In Your Arms' doesn't sell you, then the dancy-bright synth beats and sparkling happy mood it'll put you in absolutely will. When I listen to it I'm transported to a wonderland of pre-teen nostalgia. Think Pop Rocks, pool parties, sleepovers at which no actual sleep occurs.

This tune has an undeniable 80's appeal that reminds me of one of my favorite underdog movies from that era: Real Genius. Val Kilmer was adorable in that flick, but I had a thing for the nerdy main character--the one who bumbles his way through the plot and still gets the girl in the end. I guess I'm just a hopeless romantic! But isn't that what summer is for? So turn it up, you guys!

Recommended Activities: 1) Bop around with the kids while you make weekend breakfast. 2) Add it to your running playlist. Recommended Listening: If you like this song, you'll probably like The Piper's Song (Aeroplane Remix) by Gypsy and the Cat. Images: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 

Etsy Is My Kryptonite: Vintage Decor by Pine and Main

As always, though I love the thrill of the hunt when it comes to thrifting for my home, there's something comforting about knowing I can log on to Etsy and score a few treasures without having to sift through piles of suspicious smelling junk for hours upon end. Pine and Main is a particularly choice little gem of a boutique that specializes in pieces with that certain rustic bohemian charm.

I'm especially appreciative of their glowy, natural light photography--a definite selling point when it comes to the Etsy shopping experience! Head to Pine and Main when you're in the market for brass animals, unusual bookends, quaint pottery, or any time you're looking to create that vintage 70's California vibe that's so en point these days. Just get there before I do, mmkay?