Where were you raised? How has that place impacted your life and work?

I was raised in the suburbs of Detroit. When I go home, I’m reminded of how down to earth my upbringing in the mid-west was. There was something simple and grounding about it that I still find comfort in. Summers on the lake, hockey games, time with my cousins and close family friends. I think that foundation has shaped how I relate to others but it also inspired me to dream and explore cities and places beyond the small town that I knew. I definitely had a desire to leave for college (I ended up in Boulder) and then moved to NYC where I spent many years prior to landing in LA.

My early inspiration as a photographer also came from discovering photographs in my basement of my parents growing up in Detroit. Seeing their lives captured so intimately made me especially drawn to images that feel nostalgic and personal. It’s shaped my own style and visual language.

What was the last thing(s) you fell in love with?

Pamela Hanson’s book of photography from the 90’s. I love the way she captures women and instantly knew I needed this in my collection.

What book are you reading?

Jann Wenner’s memoir, Like A Rolling Stone.

What gets your creative juices flowing?

Music is a big one for me. I always have it playing at home and the right song can really inspire or shift my mood. Also a good drive through the mountains really does it for me.

What’s your favorite smell? Does it illicit a memory or place?

I am in love with jasmine which is why Sweet Venus, a jasmine and neroli fragrance oil, was the first scent we designed in our collection. It doesn’t remind me of a place or memory, but I find it to be so intoxicating. It makes me feel feminine and soft.