We wanted to dive a bit below the surface and are talking with Ali Aboudaya of Freelance Coffee Project, who we originally met when pouring the most delicious coffee at design lovers Brophy Market, to get the inside scoop. Come along for the ride as we share some fun dinner party Q & A below!
Ali Aboudaya and Head Roaster Adrian Navarro
You seem a bit of an everyman at Freelance Coffee, are we onto something?
I definitely wear multiple hats at the company! I manage operations, accounts, and work flow for the company and in any spare time I have I am working on social content, such as videos and photos for the Instagram and website!
We love that Freelance Coffee Projects brings community together and has created an aesthetically pleasing third space, which we can easily describe as “dreamy meets professional”, to support local creatives, has this always been the goal?
That was one of the main concepts for Freelance when we started it, a space where creativity can flourish. It is also a big theme in our social content as well, we have been focusing on local creatives and seeing how the relationship with creativity and coffee go hand in hand.
Freelance Coffee Project – Newport Beach, CA
We also love the design aesthetic from the architecture to soothing interiors to local artwork and especially the plants, is this a collaborate effort or is there someone to credit?
The credit here goes to Natalie Taormina, one of the founders of Freelance. She has a keen eye for design and feng shui. She curates all the design in our shop and hand picks everything to give it a true unique experience.
Relatedly, the plants really do have a positive effect on the vibe, who/how are they maintained?
We LOVE our plants and we want them to live forever, so we take good care of them! They are maintained weekly and we even have them checked routinely by a plant expert.
We see some mindful retail items, is there a standard here?
Oh yes, we love to fill our shop with the best of the best coffee brewing equipment we can find! That being said, we are about to revamp our retail experience so stay tuned for something really cool very soon.
We know FCP a wholesaler/roaster for other coffee shops/restaurants? Any new just off the ground places we can call out?
What is it that people don’t realize when it comes to the coffee industry?
A lot of people donāt realize the steps it takes to get that perfect cup of coffee. There is a lot that happens behind the scenes, such as green bean sourcing, sample roasting, cuppingā¦ there is a lot of trial and error that eventually leads to that perfect cup of coffee, which is pretty cool honestly.
Your favorite coffee order or experience?
My go to coffee order is constantly changing with the season! At the moment, I am a big fan of the cortado, with a perfect balance of milk and espressoā¦ but just last month I was only drinking batch brews.
Are you also a foodie / or chef at home?
I am a big foodie, I would say that most of my life schedule is based around what I will be eating and whereā¦ I also love to cook but it is usually on holiday occasions when I get super creative in the kitchen and make something spectacular.
What is your idea of a perfect dining experience?
To me the perfect dining experience is one that can be shared amongst friends and family in a memorable ambiance! Nothing is better to me than when the food is so good that everyone is just passing their plates around the table for everyone to get a little taste of perfection!
Love this dreamy vibe at Freelance Coffee Project – Newport Beach, CA
We love setting our communal table in inspirating locations with interesting people and opening the seats to the curious & adventurous.
We fell in love with Lorraine’s Pennington‘s minimalist paintings first. It was years later that we met her, by chance, and it honestly felt like a dream-come-to-life. Since then we have supported each other from afar but recently our brief scout at her gorgeous atelier turned into hours long conversation that still lingers and evokes thought + laughter. All we can say is, if you don’t know Lorraine Pennington, you should! We are grateful to bring everyone along on our next lark through these Proust inspired dinner party questions:
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Echo Park with a musician father and mother who encouraged being artistic.
What is your favorite places to visit?
I really love Italy, France and Spain.
When did you decide to become an artist?
I feel like I have always been drawn to creatingā¦I enjoyed designing jewelry and tabletop accessories like a very large wall necklace I sold at AāMAREEāS and at Garde in Los Angeles.
Art School yay or nay?
No. I didnāt go to art school.
We love your paintings and can easily describe it as peaceful, serene, organic…can you share any other cool or fun descriptions you’ve heard?
One of the best compliments was a client told me, who had one of my painting in their bedroom that they loved waking up and seeing my artwork, it put them in a good mood. I am a very positive person so my art has that energy.
We also love your jewelry which speaks so much to your aesthetic, you are no longer making but can you share any photos for us to swoon over?
I still design a few pieces of jewelry but I donāt do retail anymore.
I love that people that bought my jewelry tell me they still wear it after buying it 8 years ago.
It is still the only jewelry I wear.
What is your idea of a great dining experience?
My idea of a great dining experience is having people you enjoy with great music and lighting and of course amazing food and drinks.
Are you the chef at home?
Yes I really enjoy cooking, I usually never use a recipe.
What is you most coveted ingredient?
Fresh herbs and salt. My favorite food is sushi.
Any interesting stories of where your paintings have landed?
My paintings have been in a few magazines…recently I was at my moms looking at her magazines and I opened a house beautiful and saw my artwork. I think almost every time my work has been published I found out by surprise opening up the magazine. I have sold art throughout United States. My favorite is when I get to see where the artwork is going in their home so local is always nice.
We would find it hard to “let go” of something so beautiful, how do reconcile with parting with your art?
Yes, I find it hard to let certain pieces of artwork go. I usually hide a few I am not ready to part with!
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
I find that perfect happiness comes when you are fully present, and not expecting anything from the moment.
Any current books, shows or music you are enjoying?
I love to read and read a lot. I have been reading /studying Breaking The Habit Of Being Yourself by Joe Dispenza very intriguing book. I also read a lot of fiction.
I really enjoy going to the library since I was a little kid so books are a big part of my life. I still like to hold a book in my hand and use a handmade bookmark so no kindle for me.
I try not to watch a lot of TV but on the weekends I do watch some like we just finished Succession and I watched Yellowstone.
Music is another big deal for me I like a lot of different artist. One that comes to mind that I have listened to lately is Khruanghin.
Lark imagery by @missymphotograhy & all others compliments of Lorraine Pennington.
ā ā ā
Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining. Come on a lark with us!
We were honored to set the communal table, April 10, 2024, with our favorite minimalist artist @lorrainepennington at her beautiful + inviting atelier in West Side Costa Mesa.āØ
Here we enjoyed welcome drinks & mingling, delighted in the beauty of imperfection, shared a chef curated dining experience andābest of allāpartook in the (rediscovered) art of conversation.
Lisa Martinez & Chef Mathew RobertsLorraine Pennington shares her Artwork
With lark, it is always about the people you meet along the way! We are thrilled to introduce the enthusiastic, whole hearted and innovative Wendy Leithem owner of the film + video design haven known as The Sunlight House āļø where we will soon be setting our communal table to enjoy food, wine, design & partake in the (lost) art of conversation. Come along with us as we take a dive below the surface by way of these fun dinner party questions:
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I grew up on a farm in Yuma Arizona, and now live in Newport Beach. Newport Beach is where I raised my 3 boys and has tons of great memories.
What is your earliest design-related experience?
In my younger years I would always laugh as I could not even draw a stick man. I never even knew I had any creative ability until I bought my first beach house in my 40ās. I was always an athlete and had corporate jobs.
Sports: In high school and below, I played everything I could get my hands on. Volleyball, basketball, softball, I even competed in horse Jr Rodeo competitions (my dad was a professional rodeo cowboy). I also played flag football. After college I attempted to play pro beach volleyball, but it did not work out.
We love how you created The Sunlight House to not only be a warm + inviting home but also a commercial shoot locationāand now you are opening it to lark! You are always open and growing, what is your secret?
The Sunlight House
Usually by dumb luck! I have been super fortunate to work with people that have really taught me about manifesting and creating my dream life. Some trial and error for sure. All my endeavors just get more fun and more fun with meeting amazing people along the way.
Since so many film shoots have happened at The Sunlight Houseāis there one or two fun/cool experiences to share?
The first that comes to mind was a shoot with Kareem Abdul Jabbar. What a treat. He was shooting a Pharma ad and his team was amazing.
The 2nd was probably being asked to have my sweet yellow lab Maddie be part of a shoot. I quickly learned how to be a ādog handlerā on set. It was hilarious. After the 10th take she actually began to stop on her mark. I was nervous, but she was a rock star.
Thanks Maddie cakes!
What should people know about designing inviting spaces? Is there one easy āmust doā tip you can give them?
I always want people to āfeelā joy and light energy in any space I create. I want them to feel like they would love to hang out, invite friends over and just really feel a lightness of being from any space I create.
You have two enterprises going at the same time with Hang3 which launched earlier this year (congrats!). Can you elaborate on the underlying inspiration to support local artists?
Hang 3 is another endeavor I stumbled upon. I had a collection of my own shots from all over the world and one day I began putting them together. I then contacted some local incredible photographers from all different talents and asked for some of their favorite heart filled work and Hang3 was born. I now shoot my own images as well as recruit painters/photographers and help to broker their work to the design trade and all over. It has and is currently a wonderful learning experience.
Inspiring artwork now available at Hang3shop.com
We feel their is an expression or feeling you want to share with your endeavors? Are we onto something?
As I grow older, I find that creative endeavors and using my own creative unique gifts and sharing it with others brings me the most joy. (Besides my amazing 3 boys of course). I feel absolutely blessed to be able to do what I love and also make wonderful revenue streams
We know you enjoy curating spaces and entertaining, are you the chef at home?
Ha! My 3 boys might challenge this, but I have started to really enjoy cooking and wine pairing as I have gotten older. Sampling food from around the world and having unique eating opportunities has been so much fun.
What ingredient can you not live without?
Tequila and my hot tea! Any type of fish and Mexican food comes in at a close 2nd.
Who, if anyone in the world, would you most like to dine with?
There are so manyā¦but today it would be Leanne Ford the designer.
Her effortless creative style is so inspiring.
What is your most marked characteristic?
Always finding the silver lining or positive in a situation, no matter how dire it may seem at the time. The universe is always teaching us something for our highest good.
Design or Business school?
I actually have an MBA from my corporate days. It has helped me tremendously in my real estate investing and running my businesses. Design school probably would not have been for me. I always have to be out in the world learning.
What not so obvious thing should people know about being an entrepreneur?
All the mistakes that lead you to your right path. I think also sometimes being terrified but doing it anyway.
What word or phrase do you most over-use?
Embarrassingly, the F word can fly out of my mouth a bit when I least expect it during last minute issues or running behind for a deadline. I would also say āeverything is always working outā and āyou got thisā.
What is your idea of a perfect day?
A wonderful morning meditation, a beautiful ocean hike with my wonderful girlfriends, time spent with all 3 of my boys (they are now all older and getting them all 3 together is super hard now with them on different parts of the country). Ending with a fabulous meal, my boys/ friends or any creative souls.Ā
Who are your heroes?
First would be my 3 boys…they are amazing and handle any challenge that comes their way like gladiators. Second would be my amazing Uncle Clayton Kiewel. We just lost him. He was the patriarch in our family and the man/person we all aspired to be.
ā ā ā
Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining. Come on a lark with us!
Friday 3/22/24 w/the talented Chef Kyle Powers + Sous Chef Bryan Barnes!
Our muse for our 1/25/24 lark at Cleobellaās gorgeous 1920’s seaside cottage can be summed up in two words: Ciao Bella!
Cleobella has outgrown their gorgeous boutique, on PCH in Sunset Beach, and the time has come for release but not without gratitude and a proper goodbye.
Cleobella, Sunset Beach
In the beginning the boutique served as an oasis where the dream + determination behind Cleobella came together as one. And over the years has delighted the community with itās style + vibe and has also hosted many gatherings.
Because founder Angela OāBrien loves to create, collaborate & elevate, our gathering is an opportunity to honor the idea of chasing oneās dream and paving a path that empowers others.
We are thrilled to set our communal table with Cleobellaāand we invite you along as we dive below the surface with our (ode to Proust) dinner party questionnaire with āAngeā:
Yes! Ever since I can remember I loved dressing up, whether it was dolls, my brothers or myself. Itās when I feel most aliveā¦I step into a creative portal and I get lost. My high school days were spent modeling and that exposed me to the fashion world and travel and gave me a deeper appreciation for the art of fashion. I am an avid vintage shopper, and I find inspiration in decades from the past, its like a history lesson for me. I often describe it as a treasure hunt to spend the day searching for something that sparks the next design detail on our latest collection. I pinch myself that this is my job:-)
Can you remember your earliest inspiration (people/books/places/experiences)?
My earliest inspiration is shopping with my Grandmotherā¦sheās a professional shopper ;-)ā¦sheās always down for the hunt and she does it with so much joy! When I was 18 I got an opportunity to have a modeling contract in Tokyo for 6 months and thatās when my true love for travel inspiration started. It was then that I was bitten by the travel bug and that has continued to be a source of inspiration for all of Cleobellaās collections.
What is your most marked creative characteristic?
I lead from the heart. Intuition drives my creativity. The journey of entrepreneurship is such a journey of self, and tapping into the truth of who we areā¦give us wings to fly!!!
Who are your hero’s?
My mom, Cleobelle. This is also my great grandmotherās nameā¦I have a long lineage of Irish women in my family who possess this unique duality of feminine//strength and they inspire me daily.
Would you say food & fashion go hand in hand?
100%! Iām very sensitive energetically, and I believe in the value of creating meaningful experiences when all the senses are thoughtfully curated. The smells, the community, the atmosphere, they all raise the vibrations. I believe food should be equally beautiful and delicious and should awaken all your senses. This is why Iām so excited to partner with Lark as I know we share the same values.
We know you love a good dinner party, are you the chef at home?
Iām the chef and my husband does the dishes:-). Our daughter, Indigo, loves to cook with me. She also loves to set up a beautiful tableā¦she has such an eye for creativity and she thoughtfully designs our dinners with fresh flowers, candles and our handmade Cleobella block printed napkins. We bake together because we love dessert!
What is your go-to meal OR most prized ingredient?
Our backyard is an edible garden. We grow herbs like sage, lavender, rosemary, and thyme. I visit our local farmers market on Sundays with the kids and pick out whatās fresh and that helps determine our meals for the week. I enjoy making soups and I love to use spices from our travels. We recently made a curry soup using spices that our team in India sent us. Iām not much for using recipes, Iām a lazy chefā¦.I throw it inā¦cook for taste and serve:-)
We have always loved the look and feel of your boutique in Sunset Beach, can you tell us how you discovered it?
When my husband and I started Cleobella, we were doing business out of our home and we were spending half of the year in California and half of the year in Bali, Indonesia. At this time, our oldest, Keenan was just a baby. I wanted a separation of the work and family life. When I found this 1920ās cottage it was a grow house for marijuana and looked like a halfway house inside. I had a vision and I knew if I could renovate it, if I could sell enough handbags in the front then I could afford an office space in the back. Within 2 years we tripled our sales and outgrew the space and moved our offices to our current headquarters and design studio and fulfillment center just down the street in Huntington Beach. Our wholesale and online business began to grow and it was a dream come true.
What dream was in your heart at the time you moved in?
The dream was to build a sustainable lifestyle fashion brand that created jobs for our artisan partners and build a life that is rich in experience and travel as this is our passion.
Was there anyone instrumental in helping you transform the cottage into a dreamy + well styled boutique?
My husband, Jim O’Brien. He has always been such an amazing supporter. I have also had so many friends and family along the way who supported us from the early days when I was selling my designs at farmers markets and out of the trunk of my carā¦.I believe in the philosophy of growing a business for good. Aligning our personal values with our professional values to support our family has been a dream come true. WE now support more that 1,200 artisan partner around the world, where we have an office in India with a talented team who brings our vision to life.
How long has the boutique donned the Cleobella sign?
11 years! Keenan, my son, was a baby and now he’s a teenager…how time flys by…when you’re having fun :-0!
We know due to time and circumstance you will be letting the space go, do you want to share more about this transition?
Cleobella is in over 500 retailers across the country including Nordstrom, Shop Bop, Revolve, Anthropologie. We are focusing on building our e-commerce business and delivering timeless, sustainably made collections. Our company has grown tremendously over the last 5 years and we have some very exciting projects ahead of us.
What is your current state of mind?
Joy. My focus is moving with flow and ease. My currency is freedom and I continue to have this as the forefront of my decision making.
Business school, yay or nay?
Nay for me, personally. Growing Cleobella has been business school for me. We started this brand with $12,000 and have grown it grass roots, and always stay curious and open to the wisdom we learn from others. This has been my business school.
What is one thing people most often donāt realize about Fashion?
I would say the time it takes to build a collection. Typically, it takes about 12 months. From concept to sketch review, then to producing and perfecting samples, from there to selling, then production. Then comes the behind the scenes stuff like marketing, telling the story, then finally the product is brought to the customer. We are always working on future collections about a year ahead. We just launched our Spring ā24 collection while currently designing for Spring ā25.
What advice do you find yourself most often sharing with other female business owners?
Entrepreneurship is such a journey of self when youāre curious and open hearted you will thrive. Believe in yourself and donāt compromise your values and life will happen for you in the way itās meant to beā¦trust the journey.
What is your motto?
I have an optimistic point of view and I always have, it’s in my nature. I believe it’s a muscle and the more you lead with love…the more meaningful your life will become. Iāve always seen life through rose colored glasses, which is something I learned from my grandma. A positive mindset is so important to me. Sure, this is a trait that can get me into situations that I have to learn to work my way through, but that is the beauty in it. It keeps you learning and growing and for that I am forever grateful and humbled by this beautiful Cleobella world I have created with my husband, he’s my best friend and business partner. As well as our beautiful community of talented and hardworking people that have supported this dream come true.
ā ā ā
Thoroughly inspired, we are looking forward gathering around the communal table to enjoy a delicious chef curated meal, be warmed by each others company, andābest of allāpartake in the (rediscovered) art of conversation.
Although our Thursday 1/25/24 Lark at Cleobella w/the talented Chef Matthew Roberts is sold out, we invite you to come along through our images and stories!
Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining. Come on a lark with us!
Action leads to opportunities. Persistence pays. The key is collaboration.
Yes, yes, we are super down for creating well styled dinner parties, the look & feel, the gathering of people, the delicious food, fun with fashion, but thereās a little more to our story.
Lark is the culmination of talented people who come together to share what we are passionate about. We put our vision into action and invite e-v-e-r-y-o-n-e into the fold: the host, guest, chefs, sommelier, stylist, illustrator and the unknowing (soon to be delighted) bystander.
In our collaborative approach we change the dynamic of the typical hierarchal relationship in the kitchen and in the dining room. A leveling of the field so to speak; where everyone invests and benefits from the experience.
There is a purpose and through line to what we are creating. We are encouraging the good vibes and working this from all angles. This is because we are chasing a feeling that occurs when the energy in the room is in sync and the incremental unfolding of the evening feelsā¦right. A playful lifting of mood and endless possibilities. A collective belonging, even if just for the moment.
And when all the elements come together it is like the formation of a star, bright and beautiful. With the ever evolving landscape the results feel kismet. We walk away, bellies and hearts full, knowing there will be positive ripple effects and that the next lark will be just as great.
We are thrilled to have Hati Home open their doors to lark! We cannot wait to set our communal table in their cool + crafty showroom in West Side Costa Mesa. Their space is warm, inviting and inspiring. Lucky for us, everyone can come along with this fun Dinner Party Q+A with founders Adam & Kallie Thomson.
Where are you from and where do you live now?
Kallie and I are both from the Pacific Northwest, but have been bouncing between Bali and Costa Mesa for the last 15 years.
What experience introduced you to creating your business?
Kallie and I had both worked with artisan groups in Uganda in a previous life, and we’ve always loved that connection with makers. Kallie is a creative at heart and I like to use my analytical brain to solve complex problems, which makes us a great pair. When we were outfitting our villa in Bali, we met a bunch of artisans and I think both of us thought, wow, this is pretty cool. It took the encouragement from a friend and the co-founder of the brand (Kayla Adams) for us to think of this furniture project in Bali as a really business opportunity.
What drives you to create?
We’ve always been really interested in the question of how business can be used as a means to create economic change in communities in far of lands. Neither Kallie or myself would have thought of ourselves as creatives 15 years ago, but I think we figured out how to be good at things that brought the most value to the artisans we have been working with over the years. Creative design, understanding of the market here in the US and a drive to work hard were the things we were best positioned to bring to the table.
What is behind the name HƤti Home?
Hati means heart in Indonesian. The meaning of Heart Home was really attractive when we were looking for a name that was inspired by our intentions for how we would run the brand. I will tell you thoughā¦ the next business we start will be called Furniture Company, LLC, because we always pick names that people are confused by.
When and where did HƤti Home come about?
When we were outfitting our villa in Bali, we met a bunch of artisans and I think both of us thought, wow, this is pretty cool. It took the encouragement from a friend and the co-founder of the brand (Kayla Adams) for us to think of this furniture project in Bali as a really business opportunity.
Was there anyone instrumental in making this happen?
Yes, we partnered with two co-founders when we first launched the business. Kayla Adams and Mindy Gayer were and have continued to be absolutely instrumental in creating the business as it is today. Also, shout out to the two groups of artisans we work with in Indonesia. The owners of those workshops have been really open to our dream of creating really amazing furniture in parts of the world where that isn’t always the easiest.
What are people overlooking when it comes to choosing furnishing for their home?
I think people forget that there is so much energy built into every product. From the sun that grows the trees, to the energy that the tree puts into growing itself, the hard work of artisans working to support their families., etc. There’s so much energy put into these products. They are like little super-charged artifacts. They can either be supercharged with positive energy or negative energy depending on how things are produced and the materials that are used. Our customers live their life around these pieces of furniture, so I think it’s really important to bring the most positive vibes into your home.
We know having your own business comes with twist and turns. Any fun beginner stories to share?
Oh goshā¦ yes, make sure that your furniture doesn’t break when peoples sit in it. That was our first lesson. š All failure is a gift because it’s the only way we grow.
HƤti Home is constantly evolving, we are intrigued by your current small batch designs, can you share more about them and/or this concept?
Our editions collection came from a desire to be creative and push the boundaries of what we thought was possible in ourselves and with the artisans. We’ve spent most of our existence trying to catch up with orders for the same general products. Obviously we are really grateful for that, but we always wanted to be building a brand that evolved as our interest (and those of our customers) changed over time. Our editions collection is really just a way for us to experiment, see what our customers are liking. Some items fall flat and then others I’m sure will become best-sellers.
Business school, yay or nay?
Sometimes I wish I have a bit more book knowledge, but overall I think we get the most value out of being scrappy. I look at our difficult seasons in business as a free MBA.
Where do you draw your inspiration (people/books/places/experiences)?
A lot of Kallie’s inspiration comes from Bali. For us, it’s one of the most creative places on earth, where you can do and or be almost anything. But I wouldn’t say that our brand really wants to have a Bali aesthetic. Most of the inspiration for our new items are rooted in antiques that we find in markets or on the internet.
Do you cook at home? If so, what is your favorite go-to?
We cook a lot at home. We have season’s of inspiration when it comes to what we cook. Now days we eat a lot of salads with fish. The kids grew up in Bali, so there’s always rice on the table.
Adam & Kallie Thomson on a lark of their own in Bali!
Although our 10/12/23 lark at HƤti Home w/the talented Chef Taylor Elam + Sous Chef Matthew Roberts is sold out, we invite you to come along and through our images and stories!
Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining. Come on a lark with us!
We admire how this 3rd generation jeweler, Kathryn Miller of Mama Bijoux, brings beauty, energy and meaning to art of adornment. It’s the best feeling to walk into her gorgeous atelier, peruse the dainty heirloom offerings and become inspired. We invite you to our communal table, where you can get to know her more, with these fun dinner party questions:
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Los Angeles, specifically the West Side.
As a 3rdĀ generation jeweler are there any early day stories you can shareāwith the grandparents?Ā
My mom took me everywhere growing up as she was building her business – downtown Los Angeles where she manufactured, jewelry trade shows, and diamond dealers’ offices. I remember when she first started. She opened a small jewelry case in a clothing store in Pacific Palisades. At first it was just a fun hobby and passion. From there, she grew to owning and operating 4 jewelry store locations on the west side of Los Angeles. Her desk drawer in our home office was filled with jewelry molds and waxes and I remember being fascinated by the process of making jewelry. Every step takes a skilled artisan. I was so proud when she came to speak to my 5th grade class about how one single piece of jewelry is made and how many steps it takes from design concept, to wax molds, casting, setting, and polishing. While there have been technological advances in the industry since, so many of the original techniques are still required to make a piece of jewelry today.
How do your childhood memories around the jewelry business tie into your grown-up life?
I can admit now that there are so many ways. My mother always took time in the morning to get ready for her day to go into the stores and be the face of her brand. I watched her put on her makeup, spray her perfume, dye her eyebrows and do her hair. Her outfits were classy and elegant and embodied the look of a jewelry designer. I think about those moments when I get dressed for the day to walk into my atelier. She was very meticulous about how her jewelry was displayed in her cases. If an employee put all of the jewelry out that morning, she would take an hour to rearrange it. Even the smell of windex takes me back to being a little girl watching my parents clean their store cases. It’s wild!
How did the name Mama Bijoux come about?
Mama and Bijoux (Bijoux, meaning jewelry in French) are two worlds that tell my store. My most important job is being a mother to three little children (Ella (6), Charlotte (4), Noah (2)).
I wanted to incorporate a french word into my brand name because I grew up going to a French school in Los Angeles – Le Lycee Francais. I lived in Paris for over a year in college. I’m a Francophile through and through and the name just felt right, and felt like me.
Is there anything you hope your children to appreciate about this family tradition?
I hope my girls know they can accomplish anything they set their mind to. When I first started Mama Bijoux, I had just lost my brother a year prior (4 days after my 2nd daughter was born). It was the hardest year of my life. I was home at that time with 2 little girls under the age of two. I realized that I needed something for myself and a purpose outside of the home. My passion saved me in a way. I love every second of being creative and I love that my girls get to witness that passion. I love that they know and can see exactly what mommy does. When we drive along 17th street they yell out the window “That’s mommy’s atelier”! Making them proud let’s me know I am doing something right.
What is your most memorable jewelry market experience?
I was 12 years old when my parents brought me along to Las Vegas for the largest jewelry trade show in the world. The rules state that no child under 16 is allowed to enter. My parents made me a business card and dressed me in something “mature”. We got to the registration desk, they took one look at me and said “She’s not old enough to attend”. I was crushed. I had to wait it out with my grandmother in the hotel room. I couldn’t wait for my parents to return to show me all the treasures they sourced!
Do you have any sage advice when it comes to wearing jewelry?
Jewelry should tell your story. My most precious pieces were those I made or were gifted to me to mark a special occasion. For example, my Toi et Moi (You and Me) ring (a pear and heart diamond set side by side) was given to me by my husband following the birth of my son, my last baby. The pear diamond was passed down from my grandmother, and the heart diamond represents my baby, my heart. My Mama Bijoux signature birthstone bracelet represents each person in my family – Diamond for my daughter born in April, Blue Topaz for my 2nd daughter born in December, and Emerald for my son and husband who both have May birthdays. Most pieces are very sentimental and meaningful and will be passed down to my girls and son when it’s time.
We love that you incorporate fashion into your brand, any favorites to share?
For me jewelry and fashion go hand in hand. There is a difference between wearing your clothes and styling your clothes. Jewelry allows me to style my looks. No outfit is complete without the right accessories. I really love to mix high and low end lines. A Zara skirt with Prada shoes and all gold and diamonds. Can’t go wrong!
Are you the chef in the family?
My husband and I both love to cook. Tim, my husband, has a few signature dishes – he makes the most amazing steak, better than a restaurant and a few pasta dishes that are out of this world. He’s a rule follower in the kitchen and loves to follow a recipe. I’m more of an intuition and experimentation cook.
What is your most memorable meal (one you made or one you’ve had)?
Spaghetti alla Nerano from Da Vincenzo in Positano
Are you always up for a dinner party?
ALWAYS. I love hosting and I love sharing a meal with people I love. I’ve found the best conversations happen after a nice meal and a full glass of wine.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Being on a boat in the middle of the mediterranean and jumping off into the sea. Followed by a nice cold spritz!
What do you find yourself saying when people ask what it’s like to have your own business?
It’s the best decision I’ve ever made but also filled with challenges. It’s never as easy as it looks and when it’s really hard, I remind myself I’m on the right track. Nothing amazing has ever been easy.
Where do you find inspiration outside of the jewelry business?
Travel is by far when I am most myself and most inspired. I love that all of my senses are engaged when I travel. There is more of an opportunity to be in the present rather than thinking about the past or future.
If you could change one thing about how people think about jewelry, what would it be?
Education! There is such a HUGE difference between Fine jewelry and Fashion jewelry. Some consumers aren’t aware of why/how price differences are so wide.
What is your current state of mind?
I’m feeling excited about all the things to come as we near the end of the year!
What words or phrases to you overuse?
Yadda yadda yadda, like, so…blah blah blah.
What makes you feel the most alive?
Living my passion and living in the moment when I can mentally get there!
What is your motto?
Always step outside your comfort zone! It’s where the real growth happens.
Taking a little dip below the surface with this fun Q+A with Paige Elise in prep for our upcoming lark on Thursday 8/10/23 at her eponymous atelier set in the breezy + cool canyon of Laguna Beach.
Our introduction to Paige began at her curated retail shop Layered By Paige Elise in Costa Mesa as we love the style and vibe. Soon we learned of the Laguna location and, of course, we traversed the coast and canyon just to see it. We love how light, airy, calm and dreamy the space is, with plenty of ideas to dreamāand set our communal table!
Other recent news, she now has a third location in the charming small town of Los Olivos in San Ynez Valley. All three locations are highly recommended destinations for those seeking curated home furnishings and amazing vintage pieces, many inspired and sourced from her world-wide travels.
We can’t wait to share this inspirational space and story with all who gather around the communal table but first a few questions so you can come along!
Q. Where did you grow up?
Newport Beach, CA.
Q. Do you have any childhood memories around design that tie into your grown-up life?
I remember going to flee markets with my mom and her friends. My mom has always been into garden design & aesthetics and my love for interiors grew from watching her as a kid.
Q. We know you travel to find inspired pieces, what is your favorite vintage market experience?
My favorite buying trip was to Morocco where we filled a container with antique doors, pottery and rugs.
Q. When you set/design a gathering atĀ the dinnerĀ table, what are your go-tos?
Fresh floral & yummy cocktails are a must.
Q. You have a well curated retail offering, what is it that catches your eye (or heart) about a product?
I love buying unique pieces that not only have a story to tell, but also create one-of-a-kind spaces.
Q. Are you the chef in the family?
I am not a great cook, but I am great at making reservations.
Q. What is your current state of mind?
Currently I have loved getting to spend extra time with my kids this summer, but I am ready for the school year to start and get back to my routine.
Q. If you could change one thing about how people view design what would it be?
Not every empty space needs to be filled!
Q. What makes you feel the most alive?
Being at the barn and riding my horse with my daughter.
ā ā ā
Thrilled to share lark will have Paige & team covered with fresh florals from French Buckets + yummy cocktails by professional bartender Eric Kassel. Grateful for friends, old and new, coming together to create a memorable evening of food, wine, design and the (rediscovered) art of conversation.
Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining. Come on a lark with us!
Image captured on a super fun (& delicious) lark at Travers Residence by @vacation_media_
We recently brought all our good vibes together for a “private” pop-up communal dinner. We seldom do private events, but we can be convinced through sheer sincerity and determination ā
Lark @ Travers Residence Saturday, June 24, 2023 Newport Beach, CA ā
Image captured on a super fun (& delicious) lark at Travers Residence by @vacation_media_
Menu crafted by the talented Chef Kyle Powers ā
Image captured on a super fun (& delicious) lark at Travers Residence by @vacation_media_
Chefs whim appetizer accompanied by signature larktails:
Image captured on a super fun (& delicious) lark at Travers Residence by @vacation_media_Image captured on a super fun (& delicious) lark at Travers Residence by @vacation_media_
Birthday poem by writer Nick Banning ā
Saturnine sky with long days, long sunsets, long shadows. Summer makes the promise that take off is voluntary, yet landing is required. Is it time to show every sense but common?
The Stars eat from her hand when she lets them. Shall we dance in the sand, hummm our favorite song as the sun greets and the Stars ditch us? The clouds are like pink Spanish Galleons in the sky waiting to be Plunderedā¦
Blossoms on ice, sunflowers as big as the sun, design and elegance envelopes. Time to slip on velvet slippers or perhaps barefoot shoes and acknowledge the importance of doing nothing.
Beauty surrounds, friends warm the night, glasses of pleasure in your handsā¦with Gratitude Optimism is Sustainable and with Grateful Acceptance we give the Nod to the Joy of what is around us.
A big THANK YOU to all who came together to make this an evening to remember! ā
We are excited to introduce Zack Mundt whose talent + love for design to breathe new life into a storied WWII bungalow in West Side Costa Mesa. You cannot walk into the space without feeling a bolt of celebratory energy & happiness. Everything from the textured wallpaper to the colorful floor tiles is a delight. We love what you have done with the placeāand we have so many questions for you!Ā
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Spearfish, South Dakota and spent most of my time outside in the Black Hills.
Did you have a love of design as a child? As a child I didnāt really know that design was even a thing. Most everything around me was generally based on function rather than fashion. I definitely had a deep love of building things – tree houses, skateboard ramps, random things made of wood, and always loved the old wood structures – barns, root cellars, etc – that were in the fields behind my house and were left by the homesteaders and other early inhabitants of the area.
You are close with designers in the commercial/hospitality world, what are some of your favorite projects? Oh my – there are so manyā¦ My favorite place to go and stay and eat is the Chiltern Firehouse in London. The hotel itself is absolutely gorgeous. They have this amazing balance of true, rich, luxury in their finishes and fixtures, and there are a ton of plants and flowers that really balance it out and make it feel welcoming and calming. The service is absolutely top notch, which is vital for a complete experience. Iām working on the Magnolia Hotel in Waco TX right now and am so excited!! This one is more about bragging rights with my family š Everyone loves Chip and Joanna and this one gives me a little street cred since a lot of what we do in my world is unknown to the average person.
What is it that catches your eye (or heart) about a product/design element? When something is absolutely beautiful, or unique, or completely strange and eye catching, but still functions perfectly for a particular purpose – I love that. I also love multi-colored stripesā¦ I cant wear them, and they donāt usually fit in our home etc, but I just love it visually – definitely brings me joy.
What led you to create The Shindy? During the pandemic, our wonderful neighbor restaurant, Trenta, expanded into the parking lot in front of our office space. People kept looking in and then some started asking if they could rent it out for a party. At first we said no, but then, Leilah, my wife and partner in The Shindy, pitched the idea that we hire a designer and create a small, beautifully curated, event space. We then sourced as much as we could from manufacturers that I represent so I can use the space for design meetings, presentations, etc as well.
We know some of your favorite restaurants are Bavel and Bestia? Do you feel they may have informed the look/feel of The Shindyāin what way? The look of Bavel and Bestia are entirely their own and The Shindy is in quite a different direction. Something that is certainly reminiscent of those amazing establishments is the care and detail in how they present their product to the world. When youāre there you can feel that it is absolutely necessary that each bite is just right, and we strive to provide that with the experience we provide at The Shindy.
Are you the chef at home? Weāre actually a home full of home chefs!! Leilah, Willa (our 12 year old) and I all love to cook and create and eat delicious things. That said, I do quite a bit of the cooking. It is a time for me to decompress and unwind at the end of the day, or a great cathartic project to create something larger on a weekend. I truly love the detail of cutting each ingredient to a specific size or shape so that each cooks to a specific texture or flavor or doneness – and when those pieces come together as a whole – it is truly magical.
What is your most memorable mealāone you made or one you’ve had? Leilah and I went to Alinea in Chicago for our anniversary one year and it was absolutely incredible. Each dish is generally one bite, sometimes a couple, and truly mind blowing. The flavors and textures they create is unbelievable and the beauty of each is stunning. Each plate, eating utensil, etc is made specifically for that dish. It is like a gorgeous, miniature food circus, with the most amazing service.
What is your most prized design element? I donāt know that Iāve got one yetā¦.I more value my kitchen tools – my cast iron pans, my knives and kitchen shears, the tortilla press, things I use daily.
What is your idea of perfect happiness? Perfect happiness for me would be a small farm with enough land to grow most of the food and livestock we eat, a beautiful farm house with two amazing kitchens – one indoor and one outdoor – and enough money to hire great people to help make sure it all runs smoothly.
What is your greatest extravagance? Food – definitely. We love to go out to a great restaurant and truly enjoy it.
If you could change one thing about how people enjoy food or design spaces, what would it be? I do think people could respect the places theyāre in and the people who are working hard to provide them with a good experience.
What do you most value about The Shindy and how to see its future? I love that The Shindy is used for people to get together – be it for a dinner, a baby or wedding shower, a graduation, a birthday – I love being around my friends and family and get recharged by doing so. I love it that we are able to provide a place for people to to just that.
Who/What inspires you? Leilah and Willa inspire me daily. Iām inspired by almost anyone who decides they want something and then goes after it. Life is tough and sometimes itās a challenge to get up and go but youāve got to do it and you feel better once you get going. Thereās beauty everywhere – I definitely take tiny moments and use them to inspire me, a hummingbird in the back yard in the morning, flowers in yard when we get in the car, laughing with my daughter on the way to school, a smile from another parent as we pull out of the parking lotā¦ I tend to look for little moments of joy and keep them within to help through the day.
What is your motto? “Keep swimming!ā Once again, it truly is all about the people you meet along the way!
Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining. Come on a lark with us!
Friday, June 16, 2023 6:30pm-9:30pm $178. per person, all-inclusive four course meal + wine pairing by the talented Chef Kyle Powers + Sous Chef Bryan Barnes⚡️.
The Shindy 1663 Superior Avenue, Suite A Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (17th x Superior)
