We've Moved!

We are now over at www.theinspirationden.com, stop by and follow us!  

In + On: Accessories

While working as a wedding photographer you will get three questions constantly. First, "You make a ton of money, right?" (Awkward!) Second, "What camera do you use?" (Usually followed by the less exciting, "If I had your camera I'd take awesome pictures too..." Um, gee thanks.) And last but not least, "How should I hang my pictures on the walls?" ...I don't know about you, but this is a huge conflict for me! While I love personal photos on walls, I love love love interior design too and the two don't always mix. I definitely won't say it's concrete, but I will say, in general, hanging pictures of yourself, family or personal photos is somewhat of an iffy business in the design realm. I have seen it done well on occasion, but for the most part, again "in general" it's not gonna be phenomenal. That has prompted me to have this kinda-sorta rule that I use, I put my personal pictures in my personal spaces (like my upstairs hallway) and use art in the public areas. I feel like this is a good compromise, and honestly, I'm much to lazy to change out personal prints often enough to keep them up to date, so it's a much better practice for our home. I find art for my walls everywhere from Google images, to book pages, to vintage sheet music & creating my own text art. You can also search Etsy or Art.com for even more inspiration. And Aaron Brothers "buy one get one for a penny sale" is probably the best thing that ever happened to my walls. It happens twice a year, I'm sure your walls will thank me. The important part to me is that I use images that are meaningful in some way to me, or that they have some sort of significance that can be universal. For instance our dining room features images from my favorite person ever, Da Vinci, a piece featuring all of our children's birth dates along with a native american pattern (I'm part apache). It still has so much meaning!

 
I've had this thing for tortoise shell since high school when I constantly bought and broke pair after pair of tortoise shell glasses. (I'm a little clumsy.) So this past week as I looked for ways to protect my new iPhone, I was ecstatic when I found a tortoise shell case! Of course, in my search, I came across so many other beautiful shell items that I think are dreamy. It's definitely on the top of my best accessories to have list.

(Links & credit for all the inspiration images can be found on my Inspiration Den Board)

Allison Escalante - Nothing Lost

Last week I was able to sit down with singer/song writer/ worship leader Allison Escalante to discuss her first full length album, dropping January 18th! Allison's openness and vulnerability with her music is encouraging for all artist. Enjoy the interview and hope to see you at the CD release shindig and snag a copy of her album for yourself!

Here's a sample of one of her favorite songs from the album;  I Need Your Help

(Photo By Mark Brooke Photographers)

LWF: Little Woodland Friend (Amber)
AE: Allison Escalante

LWF: What is the inspiration/vision behind your album title "Nothing Lost"? 

AE: When writing this album I had decided I wanted to convey a sense of vulnerability through each song. I want to connect with people on a more intimate level, even if I don't know them personally.  Even though my heart for this album is to be vulnerable, I still have trouble with it sometimes. I was in LA at the mastering studio the other day, and as certain songs started to play, I began feeling like the walls were closing in on me. I even stooped so low as to take my coat off and cover my head with it. Vulnerability is not easy, but I feel it's necessary.

LWF: What do you hope to achieve through the release of this album? 

AE: I want the listener to know who I am as a person and understand that we all go through trials. A lot of people are uncomfortable with the idea that worship leaders have emotions, or are weak and vulnerable. I think vulnerability is sometimes misconstrued as a form of weakness, but it can also be a way of showing strength, courage, and a valid emotion. I feel like "Nothing Lost" represents that well. 

LWF: How was the album written and did you have a vision for it prior to starting the project?

AE: I went into the project with eight songs and didn't end up using any of them. In my everyday life, I started to notice how annoyed I was getting with passing pleasantries, and how fake I had become. .. So I threw out all of the songs and started writing from past failures, present tragedies and the types of memories you wish you could forget but secretly wanna keep. I  wrote one song in the studio, laid it down and from there the songs started flowing out. That's where I noticed the vulnerability, loss, and emotion coming through. Through this process "Nothing Lost" was created. My songs are about real life experiences, and through those experiences there is nothing lost. There is always a hope.  

LWF: What is your favorite song on the album?
AE: I have two... The first is "We Want to Bless You" because it takes on whatever particular emotion you are feeling at that time, happy or sad.  I listened to this song in my car for 2 full days over and over again once the cello had been tracked. I literally went from being blown away by how awesome the cello sounded against the layered guitars on the instrumental part, to crying my eyes out listening to it in the evening. It somehow took on this incredibly tragic/romantic sound. My second favorite song is "I need Your Help" because it was written for a really good friend who's wife cheated on him and then left him. This was a way for me to comfort and encourage him. 


LWF: Why are you a worship leader?
AE: I know God has blessed me with this gift and I know I'm called to usher His people into His presence through song. I take it very seriously. I'm very aware of the shape peoples hearts are in. I know they come into church broken and burdened and just want to hear God's heart for them. I know this because I'm in the same boat. For a time, I didn't take Leading Worship seriously. I was disgusted at my heart and how I had somehow come to the conclusion that I offered the Lord something amazing and that i somehow made things "Better". I quickly realized how wrong I was and decided to stop being involved in music all together. I had no intention of ever picking my guitar back up again, much less singing in front of a congregation again. But God Restores! I now stand with my guitar and sing from a place of vulnerability in an attempt to encourage people who are also going through hard situations.

LWF: Any Advice to young musicians? 
AE: I think practice is a huge part of honing your craft. It's too easy to let yourself go. Also, make sure to expand your musical interests. Don't box yourself in. Learn other styles and genres. Don't just do it because you know how to, but let things you don't know influence  you. I think it's important to be musically smart as well. There is a huge difference between a musician and an artist. Anyone can pick up a guitar and learn a few chords..  Last weekend I had the privilege of driving to the mountains with another musician to play for a group of 18- 25 year olds. We were listening to music as we drove and I sat there listening to him pick song after song apart. Initially it was slightly annoying, but as time went on I found myself incredibly interested and blessed to sit next to him and just watch. There was something musically smart about him- a definite artist. So often I don't pay much attention to songs. I know I should, but I don't. It was easily a car ride that changed my musical perspective.

(Photo by Robert Escalante)

Allison will be throwing a CD release shindig on 1/18, see flyer below for all the info!

For more info visit Allison's Website 

Xoelle - Stay Classy Inspiration Den!

As I was scouring the great wide internet for some fashion accessories for my husband Jesse, I stumbled upon a gem of a store. Xoelle: a hip, new (to me) bow tie company. I LOVED the variety of fabrics, textures, and character Elle's creations have, and am so eager to share them with you. Elle's own story is equally inspiring! 

Meet Elle designer + Creator for Xoelle!

LWF: Little Woodland Friend (Amber)

ELLE: Xoelle

LWF: How did Xoelle get started? How long have you been doing this?

ELLE: I started collecting vintage neckties in high school and planned to gift them to my future spouse.  I also had a serious love for bow ties and tried, unsuccessfully, to get boyfriends and brothers to wear them.  When I moved to a new city (San Diego!) for a new job (high school art teacher!) I met a nice young man willingly wearing a bow tie- and 8 months later we were married.  I came across the stash of vintage neckties shortly thereafter and decided to turn the lot into bow ties for him.  There were dozens so I chose my favorites to give to the Mr. and posted the rest on etsy.  They were a hit and soon I was making bow ties out of shirts and dresses and billiard felt by the dozens.  xoelle is coming up on it’s 5th anniversary this spring.

LWF: Who and What inspires your designs? What draws you to the fabrics you choose?

ELLE: I adore thrift shopping and often use my bow tie business as an excuse to purchase and collect large amounts of happy second hand fabric.  All xoelle bow ties (with the exception of some custom orders) and made out of vintage or second hand clothing, neckties, fabrics, or linens.  I design for my husband and my little son and often test my ideas on them.  I am drawn to fabrics that are bold, bright, fun, and unexpected.  A bow tie is a statement in itself so going bold is generally part of the package- and I love that!

LWF: What advice would you give a person interested in starting their own design company?

ELLE: Go!  I think that the most important thing in creative endeavors is to be authentic- be your true genuine self.  My own vision gets muddled and I second-guess myself when I pay too close attention to what other bow tie makers are doing.  If you are your authentic self, then you have no competition!  And then of course the rest is lots of hard work and late nights so make sure that you’re passionate about what you’re doing.  But mostly, just go! and do!

LWF: Lastly, what does inspiration mean to you?

ELLE: Inspiration is like this little fire that is burning inside.  I’ve found that it needs to be tended and fed.  To me that means that I have to have a happy work/life balance.  Too much work and that little fire threatens to burn out.  Most of the time when I get new ideas for bow ties or designs it’s not when I’m working- it’s when I’m at the beach with my kids or when I’m dancing at a friends wedding.  I feed my little inspiration fire by playing, and rarely taking anything in my business too seriously.  I feed it good music and rainy days and chocolate ganache lots and lots of pretty textiles- and then new happy ideas come to me and suddenly I can imagine that felted sweater as a bow tie. 

"I love what I do and it is a great privilege to outfit the necks of rad men around the world. " -Elle

Thank you Elle for letting us feature you and your company on Inspiration Den! 

If you want to see more by Xoelle check out her blog + shop below! 

Etsy Shop

Cloud Parade Shop

Blog

Twitter

In + On: Post Holiday Greens

Last time we chatted, I was anticipating all the fun holiday things I'd be wearing and doing. I never dawned my outfits this year. (All the planning wasted!) Instead, I spent most of the last two weeks being tired, ill, or taking care of someone who was. Being the girl that I am, I'm going to stage all those happy events I had planned, down to making those gosh-dang nutcracker cupcakes and take pictures of it all. In January. In 10 years we will fondly remember our faux holidays, I'm sure of it. I'm wearing that skirt and no one can stop me. In the meantime, the tree is a semi-permanent fixture. It's coming down next week, but I already miss it. I'm looking for an equal replacement with a Fiddle Leaf Fig tree for the same corner. I love having plants in the house, so of course, the next bigger and better thing would be a tree.

 

I've had a lot of people ask how I care for my plants (yes, there are that many) and to be totally honest with you - I do nothing. My husband keeps them up for me! They really never last more than a month at my hand, but even at that, I'd rather have a plant then a bouquet of flowers any day. Plants give a home a permanent & settled feeling. If you can't fit a tree in your home, try a Maidenhair Fern (available at Home Depot or Lowes). They look gorgeous anywhere and are by far my favorite tabletop plant)

   

I've had a history of under appreciating the long dress. I'm just under 5'4" so certain maxis or gowns aren't an option because they only accentuate my height (or rather, the lack of). Because they are trending right now, I'm see a lot more options on the market - plenty even I can pull off! And the top left dress is just stunning to me as it's my favorite color - shiny.

(Links & credit for all the inspiration images can be found on my Inspiration Den Board)

diptyque paris

These diptyque paris candles will be a favorite of 2013. At my Christmas party this year one of my close friends bought me a little gift: the Amber Oud Mini Candle (part of the 2012 Holiday Collection) and an amazing hand-made wreath for my door! All in all it was the the best scented gift I've ever received. Going into the new year I recommend purchasing some of these little beauties as a new accessory to your home, or simply as a way to clear the old air and bring in the new scent of 2013!  

xoxo
Amber

Where the Buffalo Roam: the musical genius of Aaron Lee Martin

Hailing from America’s heartland, singer/songsmith/superhero Aaron Lee Martin has an indomitable passion for music. Whether he’s onstage playing for packed house or in a tour-van sharing new material with a couple adoring fans, he exhibits the same raw emotionalism and devotion to his craft. Freighted with country/folk arrangements and heartrending balladry, Aaron’s music builds on—not belabors—familiar American themes. With matchless vocals and poignant lyrics, he delivers love & loss, life & death, in equal doses, while sidestepping sentimentality—and managing to have fun in the process (Kansans are a rowdy bunch!). Though he’s toured extensively (playing festivals, barrooms, and coffee shops across the country), Aaron rarely turns down an opportunity to play—not because he’s desperate, but because he desperately loves what he does. Already he’s got two full-lengths and a Christmas album under his belt (preview/purchase here), but whether you’re a longtime fan or a new convert, you can rest assured—the best is yet to come! 

Here is a sample of Aaron's solo Album available for purchase:

 Photo By Jessica Noelle Photography

LWF: Little Woodland Friend
ALM: Aaron Lee Martin

LWF: How long have you been writing/playing music?

ALM: The cliche' answer...more or less my whole life, ha. I remember writing cheesy love songs when I was 8 years old. Now I just write cheesy love songs while I'm 28 years old. But I have always loved the idea of putting my thoughts to melodies and have always loved the way that words can rhythmically fit together like puzzle pieces.

I started out on the drums, but quickly realized that it was not the most conducive instrument to write songs on as a singer/songwriter, though I feel like it immensely helped me to establish a sense of rhythm. One day, I picked up my dad's acoustic guitar and started picking out London Bridges on the bottom E string and found out that playing by ear was something that came natural to me. He showed me a few chords and I just kinda taught myself from there. Fast forward through my bleached blonde teenage years of awkward music selection and fronting alternative/rapcore bands, I discovered that I really loved folk music.

I think I finally found my voice in the singer-songwriter/folk genre, not only audibly (a little less Scott Stapp and a little more Aaron Lee Martin, ha), but lyrically. Over the last 7 years, I've acquired a banjo, other various folky instruments, and somehow figured out that I can fit my foot inside a tambourine...so that's fun! Yeah, long answer to a short question.

LWF: Where do your songs come from? Take us through your creative process…

ALM: My songs usually come from whatever I am directly or indirectly inspired by at the time. Sometimes it's sunrise, sometimes an episode of Lost. Sometimes it's pure fiction and sometimes I'm letting myself be as vulnerable and naked as I can be, while still keeping my clothes on. 

I believe there is a song for every season, emotion, victory and failure that we have. I've found that it's the usually those things that are the hardest to face and reveal about yourself, but somehow still muster up the courage to express, that people seem to relate to the most. It allows a sense of freedom for people to accept who they are and can help us to be conscious of the fact that none of us are truly ever alone. 

As far as the process goes, there is no rhyme or reason. Songs come to me often when I'm driving or in the shower, ha. I just usually hit a point where I realize I'm going crazy because I'm not writing or playing, so I write something...and then realize I am still crazy, ha.

LWF: Who or What inspires you?

ALM: Oh, I guess I partly answered this question in the last question, ha. But as far as the "Who" goes, I'm greatly inspired by a handful of authors, namely Steinbeck, George MacDonald, C.S. Lewis, Thoreau, Chekhov, and Bradbury. The intellect, wit, romance, and honesty these guys bring to the table absolutely blows my mind! 

I'm also a pretty big fan of Pete Seeger. He taught me that one voice, as well as many voices united as one, can do an awful lot to stir up things and cause genuine change and compassion to occur.  

I also draw inspiration from biblical poetry (psalms, proverbs, lamentations, ecclesiastes, etc.). There are quite a few biblical references and connections that can be found throughout my music. 

Aside from those few things, I'm sure there are a million other things that inspire me, but brokenness and vulnerability will stir my soul every time!

LWF: Anything new in the works?

ALM: Yeah, I have plans for my next 3 releases, 2 eps and a full length. They are titled "Blessings and Curses" "Vanity of Vanities" and "The Garden" and they will be released in that order.

I'm actually in the process of recording "Blessings and Curses" and I'm hoping to release it by early Spring. Here soon, I'll be setting up a Kickstarter to help fund the album, so if you feel like supporting, please be on the lookout for that at http://aaronleemartin.com/

And you can actually listen to a demo of one of the songs "Moriah" at http://harveststar.bandcamp.com/track/moriah

LWF: Aside from music, how do you bide your time?

ALM: Well, when I'm home I work carpentry. Not very good at it yet, but I enjoy learning. And I just started doing yoga. Not very good at it yet, but I enjoy learning.

Ha, I also enjoy connoisseuing various things or at least pretending like I am a connoisseur. (yeah, I know connoisseuing is not a real word, but I like it!) Making up words. And traveling. But I'd say my most fulfilling times are either spent enjoying community living with trusted friends or being completely alone in nature just absorbing and living in the moment as much as I can. This last summer, I had the best of both worlds. I was housesitting with some of my closest friends on some acreage in Central KS, with rolling hills and around 10 buffalo roaming free on the property. We spent our days gardening, taking care of puppies and riding bikes down hilly dirt roads. Most nights we'd cook a family dinner and eat together. After my roommates went to bed, I'd usually stay up until 3:00am sitting out in the front yard, listening to the coyotes and watching the stars. This was a small dose of heaven for an extroverted-introvert, such as myself.

LWF: (bonus question) What is your beard made of?

ALM: The blood of 10,000 angry Irish Men; The colors of a Kansas sunset; The aroma of cloves, soured milk, tobacco and whiskey; and snakes, snails and puppy dog tails! Oh, and I have a white patch too.

Photo By Jessica Noelle Photography

Thanks Aaron for letting us feature & Interview you. We LOVE you! 

If you're interested in hearing more from Aaron check out his website. 

Introduction & Interview by Jesse Dunstan

On + In: The Holidays

This is the first of many posts to come, I am so excited to be on board as a contributor on Inspiration Den for 2013! In light of the Ignore warningholidays, and all that surrounds them, this post will be a little different than future posts. Where in the future I'll be focusing on what's trending in fashion + home, this post is more of a fun look at the current holidays, and gathering some inspiration for them. Both On (fashion) + In (home). Can't wait! xxoo - Ashley

>>>>><<<<<

I've been thinking a lot about what I'll be wearing through the holidays this year - it seems like a good idea to end the year with some glam (it nothing else, it will make me feel a little prettier!) Tis the season for parties + getting dressed up, plus we'll be having lots of company. I'll be pulling from what I already have in my closet, maybe just adding a new necklace or patterned tights. And I don't know about you, but I'm loving all the gold & bronze I'm seeing, they have long been favorites. Here are some of my "on" inspirations for this years glam holidays:

 

 In contrast to all that glitters, I'm wanting a little more earthy look to my home. First, with having company, I won't be able to change the overall decor too much between Christmas & New Years. The tree will still be up, and the subtle browns and greens with it. My only areas to get really creative and different will be the table, buffet, and maybe ceiling if I'm feeling especially ambitious!

 

Hope that you all have a fabulously inspiring holiday season. xxoo

(Links & credit for all the inspiration images can be found on my Inspiration Den Board.)

Cloud Parade Part 2 - A Cloud Parade Day + Unique LA

A Cloud Parade Day

I hope everyone loved the new Cloud Parade video, I thought it was gorgeous! All involved really did an amazing job! As you can see by that awesome video everyone at Cloud Parade work their tails off so I thought it would be fun to share some photos of Candice and Molly and give you a little glimpse of what goes into making CP which usually consists of Early Mornings, Coffee, E-Mails, Networking, and late night work parties! To see more from CP check out their Instagram! 

UNIQUE LA

Cloud Parade does tons of research to find the raddest, hippest vendors to be apart of Cloud Parade so we thought we would take a mini road trip and check out UNIQUE LA! It was so inspiring, I LOVE handmade, local art so this was right up my alley. I was able to stop by the Honey My Heart booth but sadly missed Jella and hope to see her at the next Unique LA, I had a wonderful cup of coffee by the Handsome Coffee Roasters of whom were very dapper fellows, Discovered some new favorite stationary shops like Cardtorial + Sable & Snow, and lastly so excited about this super awesome store called Biddy Bopp Shop who have some of the most amazing masks I've ever seen! These little beauties would be perfect for that quirky/unique wedding photo opp!! 

Thanks Candice & Molly for letting me feature you lovelies! 

Check out Cloud Parade + tell all your friends about this hip, new, wedding marketplace! 

Your Cloud Parade Part 1!

Cloud Parade is a marketplace for any couple to design and purchase their "HIP," "RAD" wedding and its launching today! If your a Bride, Groom, Bridesmaid, Groomsman, or your just a wedding enthusiast (like so many of the amazing vendors featured on Cloud Parade) then you'll LOVE what your about to see! CP allows anyone to search by color, style, or product, to create a wedding that reflects you and your fiancé's vision perfectly. You can literally look up PINK - INVITES - BOHEMIA and find that exact product! The following video explains what I mean perfectly! 

Inspiration Den is all about inspiring the masses with the art of others, to create a diverse, creative community, and I think CP really exudes that! I hope you enjoy their answers to my questions below! 

LWF: Little Woodland Friend (Amber Dunstan)
CP: Cloud Parade (Candice Becklund)

LWF: What does inspiration mean to Cloud Parade?
CP: Being inspired means you are not stuck in a box… Being inspired is freedom, a way to be You! Cloud Parade is just that, its a way to be inspired with the one you love (your fiancé). on Cloud Parade you can shop and design your wedding all in one spot. Cloud parade thrives on the word "inspiration". 

LWF: Give us 5 words that best sums up CP.
CP: Hip. Wedding, Marketplace. Design. Rad. Shop.

Candice & Molly of CP

Thanks CP for letting me feature you today!

Stay tuned for tomorrows feature, A day in the life of the CP girls & a fun/inspiring day at Unique LA w/ Candice! Also don't forget to refer CP to the rad vendors you know who are looking to set up a shop!

Darling Magazine

We are all inspired by so much in life... Nature, Art, Fashion, People, Conversations, Love, Music, Books, Movies.... I love being able to dabble in all areas, and this feature is especially exciting because not only is it inspirational but also motivational and uplifting. Darling Magazine is all about the art of being a woman. I think in today's society we put a lot of emphasis on the wrong things. Instead of focusing on being a size zero or having the biggest house, why don't we focus on how we can make a home with people we love, living a healthy lifestyle, being thankful and staying positive.

I love how Darling Magazine focuses it's attention on how "All women are beautiful, exceptional, and here for a purpose". You'll find many pieces of new design, photography, artists sharing their work, DIY's, and Fashion Pieces, within the pages of this publication--not to mention the quality and look of the letter pressed cover, the texture of the paper, and the size (makes for a year round coffee table book).

All that to say I'm very happy to have been given the opportunity to interview the editor in chief of Darling Magazine Sarah Anne Dubbeldam.

LWF: Little Woodland Friend (a.k.a Amber Dunstan)

DM: Darling Magazine (a.k.a Sarah Anne Dubbeldam) 

LWF: I've ready your Mission statement and am so Inspired by it, can you tell me why your team is so passionate about embracing the art of being a woman?

DM: In our modern world, we feel like there is little guidance for young women on how to grow into a mature, wise woman. Much unlike our grandmothers' generation where women were taught etiquette and mentored in endless skills, many of us are in the dark on how to behave and function healthily as a woman in relationships, at work, or in the home. Much of the advice out there is shallow, or frankly, bad advice. We feel that women need a "modern guidebook" on how to know themselves, make wise decisions, and function in relationships with integrity, self-esteem, grace, and character. 

LWF: How did Darling come to fruition? 

DM: I was really inspired by author Wendy Shalit and her book, “A Return to Modesty,” which is a fascinating exploration on the state of the modern woman, men, chivalry, modesty, and sexuality. After experiencing personal and relational difficulties myself, and observing many women around me struggling with dating, emotional baggage, self-esteem, body issues and life purpose, I wanted to create the magazine I wish I had during the formative years of my life. My friend and Co-Creator of Darling Kelli Lane and I spent two years developing the foundation of Darling, then recruited six more girls to join us for weekly meetings of content development for another year; then we launched the website on 11.11.11, let that build for around 9 months, and put out our first print issue in September 2012! Now we have over 75 contributors in the U.S. and several countries around the world, and are currently selling Issue No. 2, available this December. 

LWF: How does the Darling team get inspired daily?

DM: We are constantly intentional about having deep conversations and asking good questions of other women in our lives. We feel that women embody a special sensitivity to the world around them, and therefore can speak well to issues currently going on in culture and the world. In asking our friends what they feel are the pressing issues of the day, we come up with content for the magazine. In order to come up with photo shoot ideas and other visual inspiration, I personally also read a lot of books (mostly fantastical fiction-type stories mixed with women's issues books), watch a lot of movies, and get out in nature to be inspired by the stillness and beauty of the world. 

LWF: Any other thoughts you would like to tell our readers?

DM: If you have a dream, go for it! If something burns on your heart, don't ignore it. Pursue what you have to in order to make a change in your small corner of the world. Also remember: Only action is real, and ideas belong to the people that execute them, not talk about them. Lastly, don't be afraid to fail.  If you do, you will only learn—as often our failures lead us to our greatest successes, and mature us to become the person we need to be to handle the dream that will succeed. Lastly, you are beautiful, talented and unique. No one can make the difference that you can. Know your worth and speak worth into those around you!

Thanks Darling Magazine for the amazing interview! 

If you've fallen in love with Darling Magazine like I did and want to see more you should check out their website and order yourself this amazing Winter Issue (makes a great gift!).

Darling's Mission Statement Above

Introduction: Ashley Wingo of Lovelock & Co.

I'm so excited about this feature on Ashley of Lovelock & Co.. Not only is she a talented blogger & photographer, but also our newest contributor! 

I thought you all would want to get to know her a bit so I asked her if she would write a piece on who she is, what she does, and what inspires her.  Stay tuned because Ash will be posting new pieces on Inspiration Den every couple of weeks, everything from Fashion and Design to pretty much anything that inspires her. 

My biggest inspiration has always come from the idea that things don’t have to be unlovely. I’m sort of a reactor - if you say it’s ugly, I’ll want to show you how it isn’t or I'll work on improving it until it isn’t. I love the potential in everything. A house or person doesn’t have to be naturally glamorous to look the best they themselves can look – you can make improvements on anything. On the opposite side of things, I also think it’s also important to be content with the unique imperfections that come along with design or photography. Work with what you got, right?!

LWF: Little Woodland Friend (Amber Dunstan)
AW: Ashley Wingo (Lovelock & Co.)

LWF: Who are your favorite designers?

AW: My long term love has been Ralph Lauren (literally since I was a kid). More recent crushes include Kelly Wearstler + Victoria Beckham. I find that I’m not really ever “sold” on one specific person or all their work – I just appreciate or are inspired by different aspects about each of them. 
   
LWF: How do you juggle a family, photography business and blogging? 

AW: Honestly, I don’t sleep enough! I try to just focus on one thing at a time, during the weekdays, it’s mainly just the kids + the personal blog, I work every night and weekends on the business. It’s definitely juggling, and tiring, but so worth it.   

LWF: What is currently your favorite outfit & piece of home decor? 

AW: My emerald lace dress + glossy black pumps. (Ironically I bought it about 4 days before Pantone’s announcement.) For seasonal home décor, it’s my Christmas tree. It instantly upped that feeling of home. Besides the tree, I kinda have a chair obsession, and my pair of wingbacks (ironically also in emerald) definitely fits the bill of “favs”.



Thank You Ashley for sharing with us, I LOVE those antlers & wingback chairs! Can't wait for further entries from you!

You can also follow Ashley of Lovelock Here.

We are always interested in getting feedback from our readers on Inspiration Den, let us know if there are any topics you would like us to cover, or if you just have a simple comment go ahead and post below or email us and we will get back to you. 

Gift Guide Inspiration For HER!

These are some of my favorite things to give as gifts this Holiday season from all of my favorite shops for any ladies in your life! And if you still looking for any gift for those guys in your life check out our Gift Guide For Him Inspiration Board! 

Merry Christmas! 

1) Rifle Paper Co. 
2) West Elm
3) Sean Woolsey
4) Typologie & Co. 
5) Darling Magazine

Bloglovin

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Jed Bridges : An Artist Interview & Look Book

I have many passions in life: blogging, fashion, and coffee (to name a few). But my biggest passion is for graphic design and type. That's one of the reasons I started T&CO. As an artist I so enjoy coming across other inspiring people, and artists with fresh ideas, who are able to think and design outside the box, and I believe today's featured artist does just that! I am so excited to introduce Jed Bridges, Director of Design at AppStack, a truly inspirational graphic designer, and great friend. Enjoy!

LWF: Little Woodland Friend 
JB: Jed Bridges

LWD: Where do you work?
JB: I'm currently the Director of Design at AppStack, a start up in Southern California. We are trying to make mobile websites and advertising really simple for small, non tech-savvy business owners. I get to work on everything from our mobile app to our robust custom dashboard. It's really fun!

LWF: What does Inspiration mean to you?
JB: Inspiration is something I'm learning how to use correctly. It takes a lot of studying and really looking to understand the principles being used in someones work. Applying those principles to your own work is the hard part. With the goal being to create something in your own voice, incorrect application of inspiration will lead to plagiarism.

LWF: How do you start the creative process?
JB: Defining the goals of a design/product is usually step one for me. A project is basically a series of decisions. Every decision should revolve around those initial goals.

LWF: What are your top 5 favorite type faces?
JB: So hard to pick just 5! Garamond, Proxima Nova, Minion, Avant Garde Gothic, Lubalin Graph

LWF: Who inspires you?
JB: Just to lista  few in no perticular order. Milton Glaser, Wilson Miner, Saul Bass, Jason Santa Maria, Herb Lubalin, Franklin Zaph, Deter Rams, Frank Chimero, Rogie King, Drew 
Wilson.

 If your interested in seeing more from Jed check out his website and his dribble page!

Thanks Jed for letting me feature you on inspiration den!

//Print//

 //Posters//

//Logos//

-Amber of Inspiration Den