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The Westward Ho

04.27.11
As my time of attending school in downtown Phenix begins to dwindle down I feel the need to reflect on some of the wonderful sites I have had the pleasure of seeing over the last few years. One of them is a historic building across the street from my school that has quite the story behind it.

Cardigan: JCrew; Vintage Camera Scarf: c/o Oh, Little Rabbit; Shirt: Levi’s; Rose Camera bag: c/o Jo Totes; Moccasins: Minnetonkas; Coffee: Iced coffee via Starbucks
In 1928 the Westward Ho opened as the tallest hotel and building in Phoenix. In 1978 the hotel closed its doors, and re-opened in 1981 as a assisted living center. A shot of the hotel appears in the opening scenes of the Alfred Hitchcock classic, Psycho. I have read rumors that the hotel pictured in the movie wasn’t actually the Westward Ho, but instead the Jefferson Hotel that still stands today. However, I feel confident in saying the WH was featured in the movie. I remember seeing the film for the first time during a movies in the park event in Central Phoenix, and thinking how cool it was to see a building that I look at every day featured in such a famous film.

On another note, the sweet husband and wife team that run the Oh, Little Rabbit shop sent me this pretty hand printed scarf. It has the loveliest print of a vintage duaflex esque camera on it, and and even features the company’s name as the manufacture on the camera (such a cute detail). The couple that resides in the beautiful Northwest hand prints their sweet designs on t-shirts, accessories, journals, and home goods. All of their items are unique, and are printed on only the best fabrics (my scarf is made by American Apparel).
I really love my scarf, and the kindness and creativity behind Oh, Little Rabbit. If you haven’t seen them around the blogosphere yet, I highly suggest you check out their shop for some inspiration, and a peek at their lovely designs.
This is an outfit I wore to class. I was staying late this day to take photos at an event that was happening in our building. My Jo Tote was the perfect bag to carry around all of my school/purse things, and my camera. I seriously love being able to carry everything in one bag and not have to worry about my camera getting messed up from my other things hitting it.

This week I am still in crunch mode for school, working on projects consistently, making time to eat and sip iced coffee (a must), and getting ready to go to Cottonwood for the weekend to see my parents (they’re there on business) and celebrate my upcoming birthday with them! I still can’t believe I’m going to be 23 next Monday! Geez!
What are you up to today? Do any of the buildings in your town have a fun history behind them?
-Chelsea
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An interview with Ilene of Much Love, Illy

04.26.11
Today we have a lovely interview with Ilene of Much Love, Illy. Ilene is the sweet lady behind the Much Love, Illy Etsy shop where she sells her beautiful handmade headbands and earrings. She has the most fun personality, and is super easy to talk to. Earlier this month I had the chance to meet Ilene and it was so fun putting a face to all the fun outfit posts I love to look at and read about each week.
Meet Ilene:

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

-My name is Ilene, 26 years old currently reside in South Carolina. Some random tid bits about me: I’m engaged to my best friend and cannot wait to be married to him! I love to snack all the time – especially popcorn, candy and PB Oreos (not all together of course!) And besides snacking, I cannot live without my cup of Joe. Love it – especially with tons of liquid creamy. Tons.

2. What got you interested in blogging, and how long have you been blogging for?

-I started blogging February of 2010. Lots of family and friends were moving away from Chicago, so I wanted to make sure that I was able to keep in touch with them. Most of them had blogs so I decided to join the bandwagon on this. Close to that time I had start my Etsy shop and so I paralleled my blog with it (note the name) and began to include shop updates but also gave my customers the chance to get to know the artist behind the shop. And besides my Etsy shop, blogging became a huge creative outlet for me that I needed during that season of my life.

3. Can you tell us about your style?

-Eclectic, I think is the best way I can describe it. I love experimenting new things – so I can go from the chic and urban look to the next day rocking the vintage-bohemian wear. I’m a huge fan of accessories and lots of color so lots of my outfits have that incorporated in the outfits too.

4. You started the very successful “Much Love illy” Etsy shop. What inspired you to open your shop, and what do you love most about owning your own handmade, small business?

-I have always been into art and anything creativity really. For the longest time, one of my best friends kept encouraging me to start an Etsy shop. She started one and was loving it! We often set up art dates; she would make her Etsy orders and I would paint or make cards. Finally, close to Thanksgiving weekend (when everyone was out of town), I had some extra time on my hands and just buckled down and opened up a shop. I mainly stocked the shop up with cards but then once the cards sold, I got kinda bored and decided to try a different product – poppy garland headbands! The shop has then expanded from headbands to jewelry to other types of hair accessories. It’s been such an awesome experience!

What I love most about having my shop is being to dream and design and then actually create a product that you hope someone will love and wear proudly. I love getting twitpics or emailed photos of people loving my work. There is something exhilarating when someone you don’t even know is wearing your stuff!

5. What are your favorite trends for spring?

-Ooooh I am loving soooo many trend right now. I’m obsessed with wide leg jeans, floral prints, big bags and chunky platforms. I especially all the bright, bold colors that everyone is rocking right now!

6. When you’re not busy blogging, what can you be found doing?

-Spending time with my family and fiance. Grabbing coffee with girlfriends. Watching movies and reading books. Photography. At the Sonic Drive thru drinking strawberry limeages.

7. With regards to fashion, what do you draw inspiration from?

-Probably everywhere and everything. I have some of my favorite fashion blogs that I keep up with (ahem, Tea Talk – *wink*), and I look forward to my subscriptions to Instyle and Lucky coming every month. My mom has awesome fashion taste so I also bounce things off of her a lot.

8. If you had to pick one outfit to wear the rest of your life, what would it look like?

-Oh fun question! Right now with my obsession with wide leg jeans, I’d go with a pair of those with a bright floral tank and some chunky platforms!

9. I recently learned (from you) that your younger sister takes almost all of your daily outfit photos. How do you think that has affected your bond with your younger sister, and what’s your personal outlook on outfit photos (because I know I see some pretty silly, and sweet photos often on your blog)?

-My sister.Ashley, and I are already super close (there are actually three of us total and we are super tight!), so we have lots of fun taking them together every day. I obviously already feeling comfortable with her, and she isn’t afraid to tell me if I look awkward and need to shift a pose. And yes, the goofy photos definitely make it in there every day. Sometimes, Ashley will shout out something like “Do the dougie!” and I start dancing the dougie (or try to!) so she helps me a ton on making the photos fun and random.

As for my personal outlook on outfit photos, I love showing off my personality in them. I don’t like being too serious ’cause I really don’t take myself too seriously all the time so why should my photos? I guess like everything else I do in life, I just like being me – and this is me: goofy, silly and random!

10. Do you have any advice for aspiring small business owners? What about someone interested in giving color in their daily wardrobe a shot (something you are great at, might I add), but is a little weary to?

-First, advice for aspiring small business owners…I’d say: Don’t be afraid of risks. Like any big dream, you can’t hold back. Get yourself and your product out there. Present stellar photos and find yourself a mentor, someone you can trust and can give you honest feedback when you need it. Seriously, you won’t know unless you try.

Second in regards to adding color to your daily outfit, start small if you are afraid to go with the big and bold. For example, if you don’t feel like rocking the loud top or the colorful pants, start by adding colorful accessories! Accessories do lot to adding a pop of color to your outfit. The next time you go shopping or raiding your closet, find bright colored jewelry or rocking a pair of color popping shoes does a lot to a more neutral-toned outfit. Keep everything else toned down but then bring out some color with a touch of accessory. It really does make a difference!

Thank you so much Ilene for doing this interview with me! Don’t forget to check out Ilene’s blog and shop for some daily inspiration and a peek at what pretty pieces she is currently working on.

-Chelsea

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The Sirrine House

04.25.11
Have you ever seen something in your neighborhood that you know you have driving past a million times before but have never noticed it. Well, while driving to see The Black Keys the other week Scott and I drove past the sweetest looking old house that I must have driven passed so many times growing up, but for some odd reason never saw it there (or maybe I just wasn’t that into vintage homes back then, maybe).
Dress: Target; Rust microfiber tights: c/o We Love Colors; Oxfords: Steve Madden

The Sirrine House was built in 1896 by Joe Sirrine for his new bride. Today it sits as a beautiful landmark, and also a historic home that offers guided tours from October through March (although I read that tours may be on hold due to budget cuts in the city).

The home has three rooms, and an amazing wrap-around porch. In the 1980’s it was restored to its original state after years of different occupants inhabiting it. I found no creepy stories about it, but I can only image the stories that the sturdy, old walls hold.
This Victorian era home has everything I love about old houses (and I can’t even see the inside!). It has the most beautiful brick, pretty trimming, and the prettiest picket white fence that surrounds the home and the land it sits on. It would be the perfect home to live in!
The house has this wonderful white fence surrounding it. I really wanted to sit on it, but I was just a little too short to jump up on it on my own. You should have seen Scott lifting me up to set me on it. Such a funny site!
The house also has its own gazebo right next to it! It would be the most perfect place for an afternoon spent reading, sipping iced coffee, and having a picnic lunch.

This particular afternoon I brought along Scott and I’s Canon AE-1 to take a few photos. I am making it my goal to take more photos on our SLR cameras. Film always seems to make the photos we take that much more special.

Tokyo Dreamer Strap: c/o Photojojo
I truly love this little home and foresee lots of photos on its pretty porch.
Do you have any historical homes in your neighborhood that are on display?
-Chelsea
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April Sponsor Highlight Post

04.25.11

This month I was yet again blessed to have such amazing sponsors, and I would love to introduce them all to you. First though, I would like to say that it is an honor to have them as sponsors, and I really appreciate all of their, as well as your support. Meet my sponsors!

We Love Colors – “We Love Colors is a unique clothing company founded in 2003 as a family run business. We offer the best selection of colors in tights, leggings, fishnets, socks and dancewear, and more! Everything is hand dyed in Miami, FL and shipped all over the world! We have items for women, children, and men from kids to plus sizes. We Love Colors is currently offering over 50 solid colors and 13 hand dyed splash colors. We hope you enjoy our colors and find your own unique expression with We Love Colors apparel.”

Tikkr Watches – TIKKR (tick-ur) watches surfaced when Cory (Stout) discovered a simple, stylish design overseas that was too fun to let sit on a pier somewhere off the coast of China. He wanted to make sure everyone in the states could sport a clean, durable, watch that added a twist of customization with each band. Watch out for more fresh, new accessories from TIKKR that will add a touch to your personal style.

Jo Totes – Jo Totes provide ladylike bags for women to safely carry their cameras and a lens or two on a daily basis, at photo shoots, and while traveling.

The padded interior can be custom fitted not only to protect a camera and lenses, but also to accommodate and organize items like a wallet, music, phone, keys, cosmetics and more. Padding is sewn directly into the interior lining on all four sides and the bottom of the bags. The bottom is also equipped with four metal feet to guard your bag from rough, dirty, or damp surfaces. Inside of each Jo Tote are removable pads which are completely customizable—you can use as many or as few pads as you wish, arranged in the way that best suits your camera, lenses, and other items. Each bag also includes pockets, strong and comfortable shoulder straps, a top-zippered closure, and a removable cross-body strap.

Oh, Sweet Joy – Hi! I’m Kim, the designer & seamstress behind Oh, Sweet Joy! Nice to meet you 🙂 I love the Lord, my husband, my ENTIRE family, design, fashion, sewing, decorating, crafting, DIY, flowers, baking, cupcakes, robin’s egg blue, Texas A&M University (WHOOP!), and my beloved Dr. Pepper. I’d rather have a bag of skittles or some swedish fish than any form of chocolate. Straight up corn syrup, please.

I hope you enjoy shopping around and sincerely hope that you find something for yourself or for a friend that will bring some joy into your life! Find more from Oh, Sweet Joy! at the following social media time suckers: twitter facebook blog flickr

Busy Bee Lauren – “Well, way back in the day, at the peak of Myspace’s awesomeness, I wrote a blog post on the really lame form of a blogging section. It was all about my professed hatred for “rolly backpacks”. It was pretty much the single most amazing piece of literature I have ever produced. In fact, I will never pass the level of awesome of that particular Myspace blog post. It was beautiful. Too bad it suffered a painful death when I deleted my Myspace for the first of 5 other following occasions.

A year passed and I heard whisperings of something called “Blogger” followed by a word that I am pretty sure resembled “awesome”. Since I like words that sound like “awesome”, I decided to give it a shot.

And here I am. My blog follows from when I was 18 and waiting for Ted, while he was on his mission to Madagascar. To him coming home, us dating and then getting married in September of 2008. Lately I have been documenting our adventures as we live in this crazy world together as a silly, happy married couple of 23 (me) and 24 (him) year olds”

Mixie – “In 2005, she (Shannon) decided it was time to launch even more cuteness and viola…Mixie was born! Named after her nickname Mc (Mick), the Mixie line was to be a rebirth of vintage inspiration and all that had been learned thus far. Mixie is dreamed up and stitched in Southern California by sweet happy close-knit people. Shannon has always loved the homegrown feel of her little business. “It’s the perfect blend of arts and crafts and fashion.”

Opal Vintage – “Opal was born from a love of vintage goodies, and the process of finding them. I get my kicks by going out and searching for the perfect find. Instead of ending up on an episode of Hoarders, or with a husband who questions my sanity, I decided to turn my love of hunting for treasures into Opal – named after my daughters birthstone – an online shop where you can buy the wonderfully unique items I find.

I have soft spots for baby clothes, kitschy home decor, bakeware, milk glass and womens accessories such as belts and boots. I love taking something that someone tossed aside and turning it into something gorgeous and one of a kind. You will occasionally see redesigned pieces in the shop that I have painted, put new hardware on, etc. These have extra love packed in.”

Moorea Seal – Hello there! I’m Moorea Seal. I love to keep busy while leaving room for a little bit of daydreaming and gallivanting through the woods.

Where I Live: I live in Seattle, Wa but grew up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Northern California. And I spent my earliest childhood in England, playing hide and seek with imaginary friends in the wheat fields surrounding my home. My reverence for nature, whimsy, and touches of magic show up in everything that I make. 🙂

What I do: I am a designer and illustrator for Freckled Nest, I have my own jewelry business and Etsy shop, I do freelance illustration, and I make music.

Campfire Chic – “I love being outdoors, especially hiking and camping. There is nothing better than lounging outside with a good book!

I started Campfire Chic during the summer of 2010 while camping in Sequoia National Park with my boyfriend of four years. What started as an Etsy shop with a few bits of ribbon and some wooden postcards and a blog discussing a few things here and there has turned into so much more. I now sell embroidery patterns, cross-stitched goods, notebooks, and more. I hope to see it grow even more this year 🙂

In addition to the outdoors, I love reading, scrapbooking, cross stitching, taking photos, blogging/social networking in general, going to thrift stores/antique malls/swap meets on the weekends, searching for treasures in used book stores, and traveling with my boyfriend.”

Pamplemousse 1983 – “My name is Maryam and I’m an Aries. I like to take pictures. I teach art at an Elementary School. It’s pretty much the best job ever. I am pregnant with my first child who is due in June.” Maryam also runs the Pampelmousse 1983 Etsy shop where she sells her fine art prints, along with screen printed baby onesies.

That Much Further West -” Hi! I’m M, a twenty-four year old who lives with her boyfriend and our two cats (Hank&Annie). I’m currently a full time student at my local CC and plan on transferring to a 4-year and majoring in Biology and eventually getting my masters in Marine Biology. I currently live in Northern California but LA will always have my heart. I’m all about cooking, grubbing, chuggin’ ice cold beers, cocktails, road trips, and photography.”

Garden of Eden Designs – Garden of Eden Designs – “My life’s number one aspiration is to make the impossible, possible. It seems like a very demanding goal, but in reality I solve it by making my passions my guide. I grew up in a very creative family and love expressing myself. Whether I am making jewelry, designing clothes, or painting, I love sharing my creativity with others which is why I started Garden of Eden Designs and my blog be one of kind.”

The Dainty Squid – The Dainty Squid – “I’m Kaylah. Queen of thrifting who can usually be found with a camera in her hand and cats on her lap. (…) I live in a small town in Ohio and I run this blog, as well as my business of the same name.”

Thank you again to everyone! Have a very happy day!

-Chelsea

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It’s All A Balancing Game

04.23.11

School has really seem to catch up with me lately. I honestly haven’t had much time to go out exploring, much to my dismay, but I guess that is just the life of an almost graduated college student.
This weekend I have some major work to do for my classes, but will also be taking a few little breaks to keep me sane. Last night Scott and I went to see Water for Elephants, which we both really enjoyed. There were definitely parts that were very hard for the both of us to watch (kind hearts to animals always), but overall it was a beautifully told story.
Today we are going to a BBQ at Scott’s moms, and maybe going to check out a pair of H&M Swedish Hasbeens for myself.
What are you up to today? How is school going for you right now?
-Chelsea
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Coffee Bean

04.22.11
On the weekends I like to visit my local Coffee Bean and sometimes sit for hours working on my blog, homework, and emails. I’ve been going to Coffee Bean pretty much since I started at ASU, and always seem to get lot of work done there. It’s kind of my home away from home.

Cardigan: Gift from my mom; Blouse: Nordstroms; Leather bracelet: J Crew/gift from Scott; Jeans: Levi’s; Butter wedges: c/o Blowfish Shoes


Since I’ve been going to this Coffee Bean for so long, all the employees pretty much know me by name and can always guess my drink order. They’re all familiar with Scott as well, and usually if one of us goes in without the other the baristas will ask where the other is.

I just love the atmosphere at this Coffee Bean. Although it is a corporate coffee company, all the baristas seem to still really care about the drinks they are making, and always offer up their advice to customers who are not sure what to get. They’re also really kind there about letting me sit for hours, using their free wifi (always buy a drink though, plus a refill).


I’m a big fan of their iced coffees, in fact, other than Lola’s its my favorite.
Where do you consider your home away from home?
-Chelsea
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Chelsea Jean

04.21.11

Yesterday was quite the busy day. I got ready a little later than I usually do, stopped by my local Coffee Bean (a little late as well), had lunch with Scott, headed downtown for class, shot these photos about five hours later, did a phone interview with the sweetest lady, and went over to Courtney’s apartment for a little Illustrator help and to chat about blogging and such. It sure was a full day, but I enjoyed it (even though the stress of the day got to me a few times, I knew it was nothing that couldn’t be smoothed out).

Jean jacket: Levi’s; Grey top: Khols; Floral skirt: Nordstroms; Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs; Amethyst microfiber, footless tights: c/o We Love Colors; Silver flats; Gap

For the past few years I have been in search of two things: one being a leather jacket that fits just right, and two, the perfect jean jacket. When I was growing up I had a dark jean jacket from Levi’s that I remember loving. Not too long ago I found it in a box and was heartbroken when it didn’t fit (too big), but that just made my mission for the perfect jean jacket seem that much more urgent (seeing my old duds seriously light a fire underneath me). So when I found this one at my local Levi’s store, I just knew it had to be mine (we’ll call it an early birthday present).


I really felt wonderful in this outfit. The colors just seemed to all work together (I love the look and feel of my We Love Colors tights), and the jean jacket just felt like me. Do you ever put on something and just know it’s you? I usually feel that way about cardigans, and skinny jeans, but it was nice to put on something you hadn’t worn in years and get that feeling where you just know the garment works perfect with your style (jean is my middle name, well, not really, but it should be).
While out shooting these photos Scott and I also snapped a couple of photos of myself in my cap and gown for my college graduation. I wanted a little photo of myself in my graduation entire to send along with my announcements. Scott and I were joking around about doing an outfit post out of the photos, but now it’s something I’m seriously considering for the big day (and what’s underneath the gown, of course).
This morning I plan on picking up my favorite iced coffee from Lola Coffee, going to my Photojournalism class, and then meeting up with Danielle and little Henry for lunch and a little chat. It’s going to be a great day!
What’s the one item that you just put on, or see and say “this is so me”? Are you a jean jacket fan? What are you up to today?
-Chelsea
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Olive and Brick

04.20.11

The other day when I was perusing the sale racks at my local Target I spotted the prettiest olive green trench coat. For years now I’ve wanted one, and because it was such a good deal I decided to finally take the leap.

Trench coat: Target; Ruffle blouse: Frenchi; Quartz ring: Stone & Honey; Jeans: Levi’s; Loafers: Target

Even though spring and summer are screaming at me to wear bright colors, I am still so drawn to neutrals, and what I like to call fall colors. This olive colored trench is no exception. I really love the color of it, and the overall look of it. It’s lightweight, and will be perfect to wear if a chill ever hits this summer (of course it will be perfect for fall though).
I’m still really digging on my giant quartz ring. I’ve received quite a few compliments on it, and I just love what a statement piece it is.

This week I am once again busy with school. I’ve already had one doctors appointment (which went really well, might I ad), attended one event that I photographed for my Photojournalism class, had coffee with my fav girl Courtney, and made plans for a few other things during the week. I’m also obsessing over the Freelance Whales album Scott bought for me. Their song, Generator (First Floor) is featured on the most recent Starbucks commercial and Scott always catches me humming along to it. That’s why he surprised me with an iTunes gift of their cd. He’s such a sweet man.

I kind of adore this wall. I love that all the yucky stucco is coming off and exposing the beautiful brick behind it.
I want to thank Scott once again for taking all my outfit photos. He’s always so patient with me, and always knows the kind of photos I’m looking for. Thank you, my love, for being my wonderful photographer. I couldn’t do this blog without you!
What are you up to today? Have you ever listened to the Freelance Whales before?
-Chelsea
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Now accepting sponsors for the month of May!

04.19.11

April was a huge month from Tea Talk! Over the past few months I’ve seen my blog grow significantly, and I have to say that my heart is so full right now from everyone’s support! May is going to be such an exciting month for myself, as I will be celebrating my 23rd birthday (only two days into the month), and also graduating from college!

I am so excited to see what all May has to offer, and I’m so happy that I’m going to be able to share it with you, all of my lovely readers.

To purchase an ad spot, please check out my sponsor info page, or contact me at Chelsea@Chelsea-Bird.com for more details.

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An interview with Katie of I Go By Katie

04.19.11

Today we have a lovely interview with Katie of I Go By Katie and Darlingtonia Moccasin Co. Katie and I have been blog buddies for around a year now, and I look forward to her posts every day. I truly admire her love for quality clothing and fun odds and ends, as well as her strong work ethic, and the fact that she makes such amazing, quality moccasins and leather goods by hand. She also takes some of the most beautiful photos in the blogosphere, and I’m happy to call her a friend.

Meet Katie:

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Katie Kukulka, I am a 24 year old photographer, cobbler, artist, blogger & collector living in Northern California.

2. What got you interested in blogging, and how long have you been blogging for?

I started my blog just over a year ago mainly to document my various projects. At the time I started I go by Katie I was experiencing a photographer’s version of writer’s block & had not taken a single photo for fun in over 9 months. I thought having a blog would encourage me to start shooting again. I’m so glad it worked!

3. Can you tell us about your style?

I think my style in a cross between 1940s inspired classic simplicity, 1950s Ivy league preppy & 1970s awkwardness. I love victorian antique jewelry, leather boots, dark denim, cardigans, neutral colors, scarves, large brimmed hats & of course moccasins :).

4. You own Darlingtonia Moccasin Company, where you sell your handmade moccasins and leather bow belts. Can you tell us how you got interested in working with leather, and also what you love most about working for yourself?

My handmade career was really an accident. One day when I went to buy what seemed like my 50th pair of basic brown moccasins. I looked down at my feet & thought, you know, these are boring. I started thinking about designs I would rather see & then decided to make them myself. After making a few pairs I thought other folks might like them too & that’s how my business came about. The best part about working for myself is being able to have full creative control. I love being able to create based on my own ideas rather than those dictated to me by someone else. It’s also fantastic being able to set my own hours & work from home.

5. What are your favorite trends for spring?

Definitely clog sandals, I am absolutely obsessed with this clog sandal trend. Every pair I see I want!

6. When you’re not busy blogging, what can you be found doing?

I love to sew garments, so when I have free time I make things to wear. I also love to knit, read, learn new skills & of course take photos. When I am not taking photos for my blog I am setting up my 4×5 camera & shooting for my fine art portfolio. Unfortunately really have very little free time these days!

7. With regards to fashion, and your own handmade goods, what do you draw inspiration from?

When it comes to fashion I suppose I would say I am inspired by emotions, seasons, tradition & my travels. I pretty much just get dressed. I buy & wear what I love. I don’t follow trends or try to fit into any particular fashion niche. I love shopping handmade, I love natural fibers, I love made in the USA garments, I love to be comfortable.

When it comes to the things I make I find inspiration in the everyday. I think about the things that make up my life, simple indulgences, my favorite places, fond memories, my childhood & the people around me. I also love to make things that have a function & that can fill a need.

8. If you had to pick one outfit to wear the rest of your life, what would it look like?

As boring as this is going to seem, I would wear a pair of dark denim jeans, a comfy loose fitting tee shirt, a long sleeve cardigan & a pair of moccasins. I care about being able to move, create & function much more than what people think of how I look.

9. You have a strong passion for photography. Can you tell us a little bit about your background in photography, and also what is your favorite photo you’ve taken (and why)?

I became interested in photography in high school & started to photograph local bands at their live shows. My peers loved the photos I took & I just kept taking pictures. After high school I ended up at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco & once I immersed in photography education there was no stopping me, I was in love. I took the opportunity to learn everything I could about film & antique photographic process which became my passion. I think my favorite photo I’ve taken is of my muddy feet next to those of a horse. It embodies my struggle between my love for adventure & my homebody tendencies.

10. Do you have any advice for aspiring small business owners? What about someone interested in photography, but doesn’t really know where to begin?

My advice to aspiring small business owners would be to do your research, both into the legal/business side of things & product development. Make sure your products or ideas possess originality & you are passionate about them. Let yourself make mistakes, embrace challenges, grow & learn.

My advice to aspiring photographers would be to just pick up a camera & experiment. Some of my all time favorite photos were accidents & I had no idea what I was doing. Just remember, new skills take time to develop, if you become frustrated it’s important that you don’t give up. Be patient & have confidence in yourself.

Thank you so much for doing this interview, Katie! Don’t forget to check out Katie’s moccasin shop, Darlingtonia Moccasin Co., as well as her blog for some daily inspiration.

-Chelsea

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