5 Reasons To Have A Winter Wedding

Weddings haven’t always been my line of work! But in just the short-ish amount of time I found myself in this industry, I’ve noticed one thing. Weddings are always from June to October, if not ONLY in June or October.

And that’s great! Both months offer beautiful seasonal landscapes, plus gorgeous fashion to accentuate the weather. 

But with that said, I really do think that this is ignoring some of the best times of year to have your wedding, mainly the winter! 

Winter is tied with fall as my favorite season. I love those chilly months. There’s such beauty to them (one reason why I love the Berkshires so much), and that only would be enhanced with a winter wedding. 

So why hold a winter wedding? Let me explain.

More Availability

More venues? Check. More vendors? Check. More guests? Check! 

Venues book so far out in advance, and especially in the most high profile months. But, a wedding in early February? Chances are you’re in for a treat, and the same can be said for vendors. 

I also know vendors and venues that have a specific price for the traditional “wedding season” and so catching them during a colder month could give you a price advantage. 

Speaking of, an off-season wedding could appeal more to your guests which brings me to…

No Guest Fatigue!

One of the biggest “adult” moments that happened to me was realizing I needed a separate bank account and calendar for the weddings that I was getting invited to. And don’t get me wrong, I love supporting my closest friends and the happiest days of their lives. But…

It can get exhausting! A wedding in January or February offers a change of pace to the guests. Gives them a chance to make different memories, go somewhere different, even wear something different. And, that’s my segue for… 

Winter Wedding Fashions 

How can the white of your bridal gown or the black of your tux enhance the beauty of a winter backdrop? What does a wool suit on your groomsmen look like against the beauty of snowfall? A winter wedding offers a treasure trove of new opportunities and experiences to look and feel your best on your special day. Why not make this day stand out even further? 

No Humidity!

This one is probably one of my favorite advantages. I grew up in the deep south near Appalachia which means summer after summer of the highest humidity around. I’m also not one for sweating, especially when I’m trying to look and feel my best. 

So why not experience your day in weather that crosses that right off the list? Not to mention less uncomfortable guests (no guest fans needed!). 

Something Borrowed, Something Different

Overall, this is a time of year that makes a wedding seem unexpected. Because of that, the advantages and possibilities are endless, and therefore a completely unique experience is being created by you for your significant other as well as your friends and family.

New Year’s Resolutions Fit For Anyone. Yes, Anyone.

Happy. New. Year. 

Really, I mean it! I know that it can certainly feel a bit of an empty greeting sometimes, but for me I really do believe it. 

Sure, I’m a virgo who LOVES a to-do list and starting from a clean slate, right? But that’s what January 1st brings to me! It’s the ultimate clean slate! The #1 fresh start that you can use for you and only you. 

And here’s the thing, I get it. I’ve heard New Year’s resolutions list after New Year’s resolutions list, and I’ve even tried it myself many, many, (many) times. 

Which, ultimately, is why I love the start of this year that much more. Because I’ve got my New Year’s resolutions, but this time they’re different, and I know I can make them happen. 

A Resolution On Perspective

For me, I’ve always created the New Year’s Resolutions of working out more, or actually putting down my phone and reading books for a change, just for example. But in the end, I find excuses to “start tomorrow” until I just give up altogether.  

And for me, I think it’s because I’m setting myself up to fail. I keep putting myself in this rut, that I know I will fall into again and again. Especially within the very weird (to put it lightly) landscape our society is in currently. 

So! The remedy to that took a minute to be realized, but as soon as it did I was like why didn’t I think of this before? It’s not a matter of focusing on the product, but the process. 

As a theater-maker by trade, I learned that that was where the magic happens, and the real growth is manifested. So why not apply that to my resolutions! 

And without further adieu, here are my new and improved new year’s resolutions that I made, that I think are perfect for anyone. 

New Year’s Resolutions For Anyone

Find Time For Presence and Breath

I originally wanted to say “PUT YOURSELF FIRST” because I certainly am guilty of putting the needs of others first and foremost in my life and leaving my own wants and needs behind. But, I think that this encompasses that, for those who might need that kick in the pants like I do and those that don’t. 

Find small moments of time throughout your day where you can stop (literally and physically) and breathe and think about your day. Maybe use this time at the end of the day when you reflect or maybe it’s for the morning as you get going. 

But finding time to be present in the moment will help you re-assess your work for yourself and your work for others. And it is just a good time to give your body a quick break so you can stay at your best. 

Reach For A Process, Instead Of A Definitive Goal

For the longest time I’ve had issues with going to the gym. It’s tough, it’s vulnerable, and it can get seemingly in the way. But I was focusing on end goals, losing weight, fitting into clothing, rather than actually looking at the bigger picture. 

Think of the process and how it can help you over all in life instead of just one benchmark. It’s helped me be a little easier on myself and strive for longer term wellness as opposed to one goal, and then quickly stopping. 

Engage With What Is Uncomfortable

This one is a bit different than the other two, but for me is one that I find important. In a world of social media we all find ourselves shouting into our own personally curated echo chambers. I personally have been on Facebook since 2006 so I CERTAINLY can relate to this. 

And I’m not saying to go to some extremist and have a coffee and chat with them (though I’ll admit I’m very interested in being a fly on the wall there) but what I am saying is do research into “why” other people might have different beliefs. 

Look at why they believe those things and try to understand their perspective. No one human can be boiled down to a Facebook status, and we’re all deserving of understanding why we have the complexities that we have, and that’s what makes humanity so fascinating! 

You’re Already Doing It!

In the end, if you’re striving to just be a better person, you’re already doing it! You’re already working towards goals that should be celebrated. And that, I think, is what’s most important at the start of any new year, new month, or new week even. Also, drinking more water, but maybe that’s just me. 

Congratulations to you! And cheers to a happy 2022! 🥳

You’re Engaged, Now What? Next Steps You Can Take Now!

You did it! 

You pulled off the flash mob or surprise that you’ve been planning for the past few weeks and you popped the big question to your now fiance. Or maybe you were the one that finally got the proposal you’ve dreamed of for years. 

And if you’re asking yourself, “I’m engaged, now what?” I completely understand. Working in the wedding industry people certainly find themselves asking this to various degrees, and that’s what I’m met with in consulting meetings. 

But the steps are easier than you might think! So with that said I’m breaking down the steps you should take after you’re asking yourself, “I’m Engaged, Now What?”

5 Steps To Take Now That You’re Engaged

Celebrate!

CONGRATULATIONS! What a momentous occasion for anyone! Make sure that you take time for yourself to celebrate, and enjoy the fact that you’ve reached such an exciting next step in your life. Also, don’t worry about being too stingy. For many people this happens only once, so enjoy the ride while it lasts. 

So bottom line, enjoy the engagement and make this moment last as loooooong as you want. No one needs you to get married tomorrow, it’s all up to you. 

Insure The Ring

I promise there are plenty of fun steps on this list, but you’ll thank me later for this one. Engagement rings range in price from couple to couple, but the average price over the past few years has ranged from $3,000-$7,000. That ain’t small change! Ring insurance also is cheaper than anticipated and can give you peace of mind as you move forward with making the bigger purchases for your big day. 

Make A List And Think Big!

Okay, back to the fun steps. Remember earlier when I said I love making to-do lists? This is certainly a fun one, and I encourage you to feel the same! For this step, think less of “oh which vendors should I reach out to” and more so “what all do you want my day to be like?” 

What season do you want to get married in? Do you have a dream date or hashtag? What are your favorite colors and how do you want to incorporate those into the wedding of your dreams? Think big, think dreams, and most of all have fun with this step! This is your day so you get to make the final decision on how you want it to play out. 

Make A Budget

Alright, so you’ve got your dream wedding list now let’s make it happen! Starting from a budget is going to ensure you’re putting your best foot forward through the entire process. Budgets can certainly be intimidating, but there is also freedom within a budget. It doesn’t need to be scary!

So sit down with your fiance, and consider what your budget will look like, and include in this your maximum spend amount. Also, I recommend checking out the Budget Savvy Bride as she’s got great advice on this exact topic. 

Start Planning

Okay, so you have your dreams, and the budget to back it up? Now is the time to start planning. This is where you can get less into the questions of centerpiece arrangements for the tables, and more into where we are renting the tables from.

And this certainly isn’t easy! It can involve a lot of logistical work, spreadsheets, and emails on emails. But with a consistent stream of communication between you and your fiance, it’s an incredibly doable task. 

And don’t remember it’s okay to reach out for help! Do you know of anyone in your family with strings to pull? The answer might be closer than you think. 

Not to mention this is where the work of a good wedding planner shines forth. Maybe even one that was voted Best in The Berkshires for 2021? But I digress, and don’t let me toot our horn, I’ll let our client reviews speak for themselves. 

You Can Do It! 

The wedding of your dreams is more possible than you think, and there are plenty of ways to get there and people who can help you along the way. And with that said, congratulations and cheers to the new year! 

Looking Back On 2021: A Year In Review

It’s my favorite time of year! I’m a virgo who LOVES making lists of all kinds, dear reader. To-do lists, grocery lists, secondary-to-do lists, procratinating-instead-of-getting-work-done-to-do lists…the list goes on! 

But this time of year means we’re creating the ultimate list! A year in review list! And boy oh boy what a year we’ve all had. 

So without further ado, let’s take a look at the year we’ve had at Only In My Dreams Events. 

2021 Year In Review (in no particular order)

Packs With A Purpose

At OIMDE, believing in the power of community has always been a cornerstone of our work. We love how creating events is always a community effort. And such, we always want to make sure we give back to our own community. Which is why we launched our Packs With A Purpose this year! Ranging from orgs like the Berkshire Immigrant Center, to the Berkshire South Regional Community Center, we’ve loved seeing how our curated packs can not only support the community with locally sourced items, but through donations from the profits, as well. 

Norman Rockwell Gala 

Back in July, we partnered with The Norman Rockwell Museum to plan and coordinate their annual gala, the first in-person gala in the Berkshires for 2021! Working with the museum meant understanding what proper public health precautions needed to be meant as we all navigated a new normal, and doing so together! That’s right even in 2021 there’s time for fantasy and drag queens. 

The Mount Gala

In September, coming off of a double-event weekend, we worked with The Mount in planning and executing their first ever gala! 2021 brought gala planning front and center into our work and we couldn’t be happier, and it certainly has us looking toward 2022 for more gala planning. Stay tuned for more on that fabulous front! 

Berkshire Eagle Best of 2021 

In an absolute surprise to us, we were awarded the BEST WEDDING PLANNER OF 2021! Thank you, again, to the incredible community that we get to be part of for voting us your favorite wedding planners! In an unprecedented year for all of us, we’re so grateful to still play such a huge role in creating memories that last a lifetime. 

LGBT Chamber of Commerce

Last, and most certainly not least, is one of our most recent 2021 memories! Earlier this month we were showcased among other LGBT-owned small businesses in Western Massachusetts at the official launch of the Western Massachusetts chapter of the Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Community comes in all forms, and to be part of such a vibrant LGBT community right in our own backyard is a blessing we don’t take for granted. 

Here’s To 2022!

And that’s it! Of course our entire year was filled with memories from start to finish, and we’ve still got a week and some change to go, so with that said here’s to us! To all of us. Here’s to you, dear reader, and here’s to the wonderful Berkshires community that we get to call home every day. 

Last-Minute Gifts For Anyone - Holiday 2021

It happens to all of us. You’ve done it. I’ve done it. It’s so prevalent we see how-to guides online every year! 

Last-minute gifts! They plague all of us, especially right at that final bend before the holidays, and so often with those friends and family members who you just can’t quite figure out what to get them. 

But never fear, dear reader, that’s why you read this blog right? I’m here to give you some ideas for last-minute gifts that anyone would enjoy. 

And did I mention that all of the below items are available at The Shop in South Egremont? I like to keep things convenient for ya. 

2021 Holiday Last-Minute Gift Guide (in no particular order!)

5. Holiday Coffee Table Book

Decorating for the holidays can seem daunting every year, but trust in a virgo to give you ways to find mutual function in your decoration! And as such I love a good coffee table book because this means function (you can show your guests that you’re an intellectual) as well as decoration! The perfect match for the holidays? Personally, I’m a fan of “The Golden Girls: ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas” but don’t take my word for it. Why not ask Mrs. Claus herself?

4. Cutting Board/Charcuterie Board

A nice good quality cutting board is always a find. Especially a local find that is handcrafted. This means a board for function and fashion! If you remember in my last blog I wrote how a holiday party always can get kicked off with a nice charcuterie, and that’s where a good board comes in.  

3. Glassware

Maybe it’s because I was a waiter/bartender for so long in a past life, but glasses breaking are not uncommon to me nor to anyone really! So with that said, glassware is always a nice touch! Particularly if you can find one that’s custom to wear you’re from, the gift recipient is from, etc (*cough cough* similar to our own Berkshires etched glassware at The Shop *cough cough*).

2. Local Art

I always say that giving art for someone to hang on their wall is always a nice idea. Especially local! It gives them the opportunity to brighten and customize their living space just a touch more, creates a lasting tangible memory between you and the recipient, and when local you’re supporting the local economy. Can’t say enough how much I recommend this idea! 

1. Gift Card

I just had to put this one in there. And I know I might get some flack for this. But Philip! Who said that gift cards are a good idea! It’s so impersonal! 

Honey, that was 2015 of you! A hand-written card with an enclosed sum of money for whatever the recipient wants to do with? In this economy? Sign. Me. Up. 

And you can even customize even further. Say you get a gift card to a restaurant and tell them it’s for a dinner for them and their significant other. Or even a gift card to their favorite South Egremont boutique and gift shop!? Possibilities are endless.

That’s Not All!

These are just a handful of the possibilities for last-minute gifts this year, or any year. And trust me it can be so overwhelming I hear ya! So I hope this can serve as a jumping off point for you to cross off the last of that list and enjoy the rest of your holiday season. 

Until next time! 

Holiday Party Essentials For This, And Every Year!

How many holiday parties have you been to this year? 

At this point in 2021 I wouldn’t be surprised if you have said quite a few. Between the boosters, return of friendsgiving, and Hanukkah already over even though we’re barely a week into December, it’s been a year to celebrate community and spread that holiday love. 

But we’re still not over! You’ve still got time to make this year THE year you plan your best holiday bash ever. 

But, Philip, you ask! What do I do?? Christmas feels like it’s right around the corner and then bam we’re in New Year’s! 

Dear reader, to quote the biblical angelic messengers of old, Be Not Afraid. I’m here with the tips and tricks you need! All of the holiday party essentials that can turn every other party into a ghost of Christmas Past (but maybe not the one from the Muppets, I always got a weird vibe from her). 

2021 Holiday Party Essentials

Always A Charcuterie

Honey, it’s truly phenomenal that with just some simple meats, cheeses, and fruits arranged on a nice board, you’ve got the ultimate party starter/icebreaker. During this time of year I always recommend using more holiday themed snacks (a fig spread or a goat cheese coated in chopped walnuts) but really the world is your oyster with this one. Experiment! Choose your favorites! Or ask your invitees to RSVP with their fav, and make a greatest hits charcuterie. 

And if you’re looking for the perfect charcuterie board, we’ve got you covered at The Shop. 

Crowd-Source Your Playlist

Speaking of RSVP q’s, snag your fav holiday tune from all of your guests on the invite. Build a playlist that’s inviting and has a little something that everyone will enjoy. This can also create a common ground among your guests and ensure they have something to talk about (that weather small talk will only take them through one cocktail). 

The Cutest Cocktails

Google is your friend here. Want a delightful and easy spin on cocktail classics? The internet provides lists upon lists (I’m personally a fan of this one, this one, and this one). 

HAVE FUN

I know that one comes off as maybe too obvious, but this is the arguably this is the most important of any holiday party essentials I could give you.

And as a wedding planner who moonlights as a drag queen, I’ve learned that if you’re not enjoying yourself as a party host, the crowd will smell your anxiety in no time flat. And they want to just as much fun as you do. So relax! Snag a cocktail! You’ve made it to the end of another year, and it’s time for you to enjoy and celebrate with the ones you love most. What else needs to be said?

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: EMILY JOHNSON

I know I’m not telling you anything new, dear reader, by acknowledging and just fawning over the varied and wonderful landscape of artists in the Berkshires, and our monthly artist spotlight has been exactly that! 

What I will say, though, is that through this series I’ve gained a new appreciation for the Berkshires. There really is something about this place that unlocks an artistic experience in all of us. 

Not only that, but the Berkshires creates this artistic energy year round! There’s always something to draw artistic inspiration from, and an audience who will be receptive to it. 

And one artist in particular that we work with who knows just how to put their finger on the pulse in their artwork is Emily Johnson! Someone who we love at Only In My Dreams and who’s artwork manifests through simple boutique gifts we always have room for at The Shop. 

For this month’s artist spotlight, we bring in Emily Johnson and hear her perspective of her work, the world of artist, and we should do to celebrate art and the Berkshires, ourselves. 

When did you start your work as an artist, and when did it evolve into the work that we see and sell at The Shop? 

I have always done some sort of craft, it evolved when my son Aaron (Berkshire Drag Queen Boxxa Vine) started doing drag shows and I was making merchandise for him, then into items to sell to make money for more shows.

Is there an artist in particular that inspires you and your artwork?

My mother and Aaron both are artists that sew, it skipped a generation with me. They both can make anything out of fabric and a sewing machine.

What’s your favorite spot in the Berkshires to tell people about?

I would say my favorite spot in the Berkshires is Naumkeg. I had never been there until this year and love just walking around there.

As an artist living in 2021, what is one message you want to spread to the world?

Buy Local

We couldn’t agree more! Thank you so much to Emily for speaking with us. And if you want to shop locally you can find Emily’s latest work at The Shop.
Stop by today!

Christmas Traditions Of Old And New

I’ll have you know, dear reader, that though I might shout my love for the Berkshires from the digital rooftops through this blog as much as I can, I’m not there as much as I’d like to be!

My home base is New York City, Coney Island to be exact. And though I love the foliage and scenery that a wintery Berkshires brings, around this time of year my favorite place to be is NYC, and it’s because of and for the holidays! 

The holidays in the city are a special time, and like nowhere else. Why is that? Easily, and very simply put, it’s tradition. 

The holidays in NYC always bring me the same amount of fuzzy warmth that carries all the way through the New Year, and that’s largely in part to the consistency and determination of carrying holiday traditions here and in such a massive way! No expense is spared for a Rockettes show! 

But why is this so important? Why do we celebrate our Christmas traditions year after year, sometimes regardless of finances, scheduling inconveniences, or otherwise? 

Holidays = Human Dignity

The essay Preserving Culture and Heritage Through Generations states how “Culture and its heritage reflect and shape values, beliefs, and aspirations, thereby defining a people's national identity. It is important to preserve our cultural heritage, because it keeps our integrity as a people.”

Our traditions are our cultural heritage. Regardless of your background or whoever you are, your traditions are your personal cultural heritage. Furthermore, what makes NYC so incredible is a population of humans who not only come with a wide variety of cultural heritages, but live in a place where they know they can live their lives as they see fit, and live through their traditions year after year. 

This is a cornerstone of America at large, of course, but I’m just focusing on NYC because I’m maybe a smidge bias. 

But as a huge lover of the Berkshires, I just love saying how important the recognition and understanding of cultures is paramount to the area, as well. With organizations like BRIDGE we can see advocacy for understanding and mutual recognition of our lives and who we are in respect to each other. And ain’t that just a wonderful thing? 

Traditions In The Time Of Zoom

But how do Christmas traditions sustain themselves now? We all were subject to thinking about holiday celebrations and vacations and traditions during 2020, and though 2021 might be a bit of a more relaxing environment, it’s still a new normal. 

A new normal we are all navigating. 

And we’re navigating it together! As a collective of humans with our own unique experiences and traditions that we’re individually bringing to the table. 

So this year, look at what worked last year and try that again. How does what you’ve done and what you’ve had to pivot to combine into something new? 

Because any Christmas tradition has to start somewhere. 

The History of Black Friday & More!

You know it, you hear about a bit earlier each year, and you’ve most likely participated yourself! Yup. Be it Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, or Cyber Monday (and that isn’t even all of ‘em!), holiday shopping REALLY has itself set into Americana as much as apple pie. 

But where did it all begin?? How did this weekend in particular become such a turning point for retailers and American consumerism?? 

As part of my ongoing and unofficial series on the history of American holidays (for more, check out my blogs here, and here), I’m giving you a quick rundown of the quintessential weekend for consumerism. 

Why Black Friday? 

Okay, I’ll admit it. I love Black Friday. I love getting into the holiday spirit, and snagging myself some deals for gifts for those I love. And I have certainly waited outside of a business at 10PM on a Thursday night just waiting for the store to open (only did it once, and probably won’t even again, but I did it!). 

Plus, Black Friday in its originality wasn’t a term with a pleasant connotation. According to Huff Post, the term “Black Friday” was originally used in 1869, when sales in gold dropped and created a major stock market crash. 

It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that the term “Black Friday” was used by police in Philadelphia as they dreaded the day from shoppers. 

Eventually, marketing firms have spun the name to infer the day as a moment for retailers to make some of their highest profits all year. And this has certainly held true! 

And I’ll be real, the day certainly doesn’t have the best reputation, but in recent years, campaign have been held to try and turn that around which leads us to… 👇

Small Business Saturday! 

In 2010, as America was coming out of another recession, American Express created the Small Business Saturday campaign to turn the focus and attention towards local businesses and the mom and pop shops that we know and love. 

And this has held true! Sales increase on this day year after year, with this year proving to be even better! Taking part in the occasion and investing back into your community directly is a great way to keep your community’s economy resistant during troubling times, and we couldn’t agree more! 

There’s More?!?!

Yes there is! While a catchy name for Sunday hasn’t really caught on, Cyber Monday (a day to promote online sales) and Giving Tuesday (a day to donate to your favorite non-profit) have been catching on to the train of the explosively successful Black Friday weekend. 

Will you participating in Black Friday? Let us know in the comments below! 

Until Next Time, 

Philip

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Resin Art by Natasha Wein

I think I’ve been riding the high of getting an extra hour of sleep this past weekend for days now. Sure it’s a tossup if Daylight Savings Time actually benefits us, but boy oh boy do I look forward to falling back every year. 

And while I’m not sure what that says about my sleeping habits, I do like to think that this shows how I like to enjoy the simpler things in life. Finding happiness in beauty in the world around us. 

And in the Berkshires that’s easy right? We get to look out at our own backyard and see the beauty in the world around us. It’s why we live here, and it’s why so many artists and creative types call the Berkshires their home. 

One artist in particular has found such artistic inspiration in the Berkshires, and we have gotten the chance to showcase her work in The Shop! And wouldn’t you know, she’s our Artist Spotlight for the month of November! 

This month I had the pleasure of sitting down with Natasha Wein who’s resin art encapsulates the essence of the Berkshires through simple and elegant jewelry pieces. Here’s what she had to say about her work, the Berkshires, and the future. 

When did you start your work as an artist, and when did it evolve into the work that we see and sell at The Shop? Five years ago, I moved to the Berkshires from the San Francisco Bay Area and began working creatively with almost anything I could get my hands on: paint, canvas, clay, fiber, photography, collage, and writing poetry. I founded my creative process on intuition, projection, and analysis, processing the dialogue between abstract experience and language in order to make sense of the human condition. 

Just before the pandemic hit, I moved into a new apartment with fantastic light. Ladybugs, flies, and stinkbugs gathered on the floor in large quantities—I swept them into the corner for a future project. I read up on how to work with resin, turned my second room into a resin studio with decent ventilation, and began harvesting. 

Based on your two Instagram profiles your work is very eclectic. What led to you wanting to focus on resin work specifically? What keeps me so engaged in this project is that there are multiple processes involved: harvesting, drying out the flora and fauna, actively working with the resin, sanding the edges, and finishing with jewelry fixings. I find the harvesting process absolutely delightful and full of surprise. It keeps me connected to nature and the natural rhythms of the Berkshires; each season brings its own excitement and plenty to capitalize on and also grief in learning to let go in the transitions between seasons and the cycle of growth, compost, and death.

This project has also equally excited the people in my life to join in on the harvesting. At my physical therapist’s office I am known as the “bee lady.” My friends—who I now call my “bug dealers”—drop off found bugs, snake skin, feathers, and pinecones in little tupperwares. One of my friends—who I now call my “mushroom man”—started drying out mushrooms in silica in his apartment for me and went on mushroom foraging walks in south county. I was even able to get my hands on a handful of 17-year cicadas this fall! I also take commissions and have been honored to create sentimental gifts for people including a butterfly symbolic of a friend’s late sister, a sentimental crayon in a necklace, and most recently, a pride bracelet with six tiny charms that each contain something natural from each color of the rainbow. 

With my resin work I preserve the space between death and decay—which is a space we rarely bear witness to—so this liminal space can be studied and appreciated. 

Is there an artist or mentor in particular that inspires you and your artwork? Two years ago I knew close to nothing about plants. I am grateful for the mentors in my life who know a lot about plants, trees, gardening, and ecosystems, and who teach me how to practice integrating into nature in a respectful and wild way. In terms of artistic inspiration, I am most inspired by the artistic processes and perspective of artists, musicians, philosophers, psychologists, and poets. I often listen to music, meditations, or scientific talks while working with resin. 

What’s your favorite spot in the Berkshires to tell people about (besides The Shop of course)? One humble spot in the Berkshires that I am very fond of is the giant Ginkgo tree in downtown Stockbridge. I’ve been told it’s probably about 150 years old. I visit this tree regularly and it has become a sort of symbol of my work. The Ginkgo leaf in my logo is extracted from a photo I took of a leaf a mentor gave me from his Ginkgo tree three years ago. Other than that, I enjoy the Monument Mountain Hike, Benedicts pond in the winter when the pond has frozen over, and a hidden pocket of the Green River in Great Barrington that is fantastic for cold plunges all year round. My father actually grew up in North Adams and I grew up visiting my aunt working at Mass MoCA and playing on the bug structures at an elementary school in North Adams. 

As an artist living in 2021, what is one message you want to spread to the world?  Play. Let yourself play with anything and create for the sake of creating. We are taught so young that there is a correct way to create and a correct way to be. And all too often we internalize a harsh self-critic that limits us and hardens our innate creativity and desire to explore everything as if it is new. The moment creating art truly became liberating and full of possibility for me was when I chose to respect what I create as if it is another being—and often a lost part of myself—that has something important to teach me about myself and the world. 

Thank you so much to Natasha Wein for telling us your story. If you’re interested in Natasha’s work you can check out her Instagram for Resin Art here and her artist Instagram here. And, of course, you can purchase Natasha’s work at The Shop.

Until next time! 

Philip 

2021 THANKSGIVING ESSENTIALS - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

And so it goes. Another Halloween has come and gone. 

*sigh*

Which is what I would say if I wasn’t as jazzed about the holidays this year as I already am! Seriously, I’m not one to skip out on the holidays. Halloween is only the beginning of three months of merriment and community with friends! 

But now that Halloween is over, I’m sure I don’t have to be the first to tell you how the world seems to want to launch us straight to Christmas. But never fear, dear reader! I’m an advocate for celebrating and enjoying Thanksgiving! It’s just too good of a dinner, er I mean holiday, to pass up! 

And as the holidays have seen their own fair share of transformation as we acclimate to new ways of living, it can be hard to find the right tips, tricks, and supplies needed to make sure your holidays are just as memorable as before. 

That’s what we’re here for today! Below I’ve list some items, as well as some things to keep in mind as you head into the holidays. 

2021 THANKSGIVING ESSENTIALS

Your Kitchen A, B, C’s!

So I’ve lived in Brooklyn for more or less eight years, with some lovingly life-changing years in Pittsfield, and during this time I’ve packed up all of my stuff and moved no less than 8 times. Eight! Times! As such, I’ve always been one who has loved paring down with my items (less boxes overall), and even though I’ve done that I always have my essentials! My A, B, C’s if you will! 

A! Aprons For All Occasions!

As a fabulous virgo, I’m always for the right mix of fashion meets function, and aprons are exactly that! Always having one handy in your kitchen is perfect for the holidays so you don’t mess up that outfit that’s meant to impress the in-laws (and you will, I believe in you!). I always love keeping anything from Blue Q and their aprons are no exception! 

B! Boards for Cheese, Boards for Meats, You Name It! 

Maybe it’s the millennial in me (at least according to these millennials), but I truly believe all good dinner parties call for a charcuterie. And Thanksgiving is no exception! So for that you need a good board that will last you! I recommend one from this Berkshires based company.

C! Casseroles, Tarts, and Pies, Oh My!

Keeping at least a pie dish, casserole dish, etc on hand in your kitchen wherever you live will benefit you so greatly in the long run, but especially during the holidays! These are Thanksgiving essentials that you will use year after year. I’ve found some great options at One Mercantile that I know you’ll love, too.

Hold On To What Makes The Holidays Memorable 

The holidays have changed for all of us, some of us even permanently. And while some seemingly big things have changed, so much of what makes the holidays memorable can stay the same. It’s more of how can those traditions stick around in a new way. 

Do you gather with family? How can you still make that possible? And when it gets to the moment, and half of the family is chiming in on Zoom, really lean into the “new normal”. Find humor in the strange! At this point it’s not something that any of us can ignore, and despite the new frontier of meeting together, it’s being able to meet together that’s still paramount. 

In The End, It’s Up To You

In the end, the Thanksgiving essentials that you check off every year are what make Thanksgiving memorable to you and your friends and family. So in whatever way you can support and reinforce those essentials, make that happen! 

For me, that’s what makes the holidays year after year a time to remember. 

CLASSIC HORROR MOVIES TO WATCH FOR HALLOWEEN 2021

I Love. Halloween. 

You know this already, but I really haven’t divulged into how I love Halloween year round! It’s truly a holiday that I find continuous enjoyment and creative inspiration.

How do I get my Halloween holiday fix all 12 months? Horror films. 

And to that note, horror films of all kinds! Surely, I love all the classic pieces of spooky cinema, but one of the great things about the horror genre is that it is such a broad stroke. There are so many different instances of the horror genre that fill me with glee, and are for all audiences! 

This year I wanted to expand my horizons on horror films, as well as return to some of my favorites, and here’s 6 classic horror movies to watch for Halloween 2021 that I love!

Horror Movies To Watch

Frights For The Family 

Coraline (2009)

Where To Watch: Rent on Amazon, iTunes, and Google Play

I can’t believe I’ve only just seen this film this year! The Nightmare Before Christmas is one of my favorite movies ever, and I love stop motion animation. This family-friendly fantasy is an instant classic in which our heroine, Coraline, moves to a new home with her ever boring writer parents. And in her quest for a happier life, she learns the age-old adage “be careful what you wish for”.

The Witches (1990)

Where To Watch: Stream on HBO Max & Rent on YouTube

I saw this film when I was very young and, like many of my generation, it made a lasting impact. This is due to the brilliant partnership of Anjelica Huston’s phenomenal performance and the work of The Jim Henson Company. A fanciful tale of a boy and his grandmother caught up in the plans of a hoard of witches, disguised as women. 

Haunts For The Horror History Buff

Night Of The Living Dead (1968)

Where To Watch: Stream on Peacock, Tubi, & Vudu

This 1968 classic is the zombie flick that kickstarted the modern-day wave of the zombie sub-genre, and a true independent film made on a shoestring budget of around $100,000. The film then made a box office turnaround of $30 million! Centering around the lives of 7 people trapped in a house during an invasion of the undead, this film truly put zombie films on the map with an unsettling creepiness that holds to this day. I recommend anyone doing their research into this film to learn more about George A. Romero’s interest in why he created this, and the ripple effect it has created in the world of filmmaking today. Not to mention there is an official sequel being created now! 

Ghostwatch (1992)

Where To Watch: Internet Archive!

It’s hard to track down this made-for-TV film by the BBC from 1992, but it’s worth the watch for any horror buff! In what can be seen as a modern-day War Of The Worlds, the film is in the form of a news special where a camera crew seeks to find the source of poltergeist activity in a house in England. With its use of first-person point-of-view and subtle slow-burn creepiness, this is a precursor to the found footage subgenre, a subgenre that in the past decade has taken over the horror landscape. 

Creepy Classics

Invasion Of The Body Snatchers (1956)

Where To Watch: Stream on Paramount+, Rent on YouTube

One of my favorite parts of horror films is how camp is absolutely celebrated, in any way possible. If there’s a quintessential classic of B-horror camp to me, it’s Invasion of the Body Snatchers. And even though this film has been remade again, and again, and again, and even given the Looney Tunes treatment, the original stands the test of time! It’s a masterclass on creating unsettling tension, and I can’t recommend it enough! 

Rear Window (1954)

Where To Watch: Stream on Hulu & Amazon Prime

Now, I couldn’t make a list of horror films to watch and now include an Alfred Hitchcock film could I? Hitchcock was my first foray into the world of horror when I was young, and Rear Window was one of the first horror films I’ve ever watched. Giving us an incredible performance, Jimmy Stewart places a wheelchair-bound photographer who spies on his Manhattan neighbors. Eventually, his spying gets the best of him and he tends to take things too far...

What Will You Watch?

There you have it, 6 tried-and-true classic horror movies to watch for Halloween 2021. I recommend these films to anyone, and can’t recommend enough that you take a look into any of these this year. And hey, November 1st rolls around this Monday, but that doesn’t mean the spooky season can hang around for just a bit longer. 

Have a Happy Halloween, dear reader, and in the words of my idol, Elvira. 

...unpleasant dreams…

P

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF HALLOWEEN

If you’ve been keeping up, dear reader, I’ve given you a tour through all of my fantastical fall favorites. Everything about the season that makes it my favorite, and maybe yours, too! 

Of course, this all culminates with the ultimate (in my humble opinion) autumnal celebration: Halloween! And not only is Halloween pleasing for the aesthetic and the nostalgia, but Halloween has some tried and true health benefits, as well! 

Keep reading as I go on with the health benefits of Halloween. 

Spook Yourself To Good Health

My favorite of the myriad health benefits of Halloween is that a good spook from a haunted house, horror flick, what name you, may lead to a stronger metabolism. 

According to an article in TIME Magazine, a study back in 2003 at Coventry University found that horror films could lead to an increase in white blood cells. This “good stress” from watching a horror movie can trigger a “fight-or-flight” response in the body which might lead to a short term increase in immune function. 

And while we do know that a good scare from horror movies leads to your body releasing adrenaline, it’s after the viewing when your body will also release serotonin and dopamine. 

Trick-Or-Treat Yourself

Looking for those halloween candy sales on November 1st? Make sure to put dark chocolate at the top of your list. Besides being the superior chocolate by taste (don’t believe me, then ask this survey where nearly everyone agrees with me) dark chocolate also contains flavonoids, certain chemicals found in plants that act as antioxidants. But be sure to look for around 70% cacao or higher, as less than that will have more sugar and additives. 

Community Celebration At Its Finest

We all know the nostalgic feeling of trick-or-treating, but that feeling doesn’t stop when you’re too old to go trick-or-treating (which I’m firming in the camp of you’re never too old, but I digress). 

Halloween is a time to wear a fun costume, and join your friends in the festivities. It’s the beginning of a seemingly over monetized holiday season, where the holiday still has its charm. 

So have fun with it! Use this as a time to relax, de-stress, and enjoy the festivities. 

Until next time...

Or in the words of my favorite Halloween icon, Elvira…

Unpleasant dreams…

P

THE HISTORY OF THE PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE

I’m just gonna get right to it, dear reader. How many PSL’s have you had this year? What is a PSL you ask (if you’re asking, but if you’re not just roll with me)? Why only the crown jewel of all that is autumn in our post-Y2K world! 

The pinnacle of all things autumnal! The paragon of cozy comfort! And to some, maybe a bit overdone, but we don’t need to discuss that. 

Yes, I’m talking about the Pumpkin Spice Latte. A tried and true, I would argue, modern American classic. But where did it all begin? And how could it catapult so quickly into our homes seemingly from nowhere?

Journey To The (Pumpkin) Past

The history of the pumpkin spice latte is simpler than one might think. According to Food & Wine, “pumpkin spice” as a spice blend has been in American kitchens as far back as 1798 in the cookbook American Cookery by Amelia Simmons. This listed two different pumpkin spice blends featuring the spices we all know and love, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, etc. 

But it wasn’t until the 1930’s that we saw actual pumpkin pie spice being sold in stores, the blend that we know as pumpkin pie spice today. 

This quickly became the ubiquitous taste that we all know and love during fall. A hint of both savory and sweet with just a layer of zesty spice. But only a hint, you could almost call it a bit of a fuzzy hint, like the warmth of a wool sweater on a cold day. 

Fast forward to 2003, and according to the official Starbucks archives, the tastemakers in the liquid lab “sampled a forkful of pumpkin pie followed by a sip of hot espresso to tease out which pie flavors best complemented the coffee.” And once that was perfected, a star was born. 

But why? And how? Why and how did this very simple beverage become a beacon of wonder for the fall? Professors have hypothesized that it has to do with nostalgia, coziness, and longing. It tastes like memories of simpler times, and happiness with family and friends. 

That carefree escape even just for a few moments. 

Another Round?

So there you have it, y’all. The history of the pumpkin spice latte. Sure the PSL has gotten its own fair share of critiques and backlash, but if it means I get a small moment of fuzzy joy to get me through the day (at least until my next one) I’ll take it. 

Will you join me?

Until next time,

Philip

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Shire Fire Candles

How have you been this week, dear reader? Are you staying hydrated, and drinking enough water? Finding time to reflect on the year we’ve all had?

Yes, I might just be sending you my to-do list this past week, but I do believe that this is something we could all be doing. And if the tone of this blog sounds a lot these past few weeks, well honey, strap in because I’m in my zone. Fall is my favorite season and I love to not shut up about coziness, candles, and contemplation...and a fresh batch of Bartlett’s Apple Cider Donuts.

But enough about donuts (for now). We’ve made it to the top of another month, and it’s time for another artist spotlight. Every month, we spotlight a Berkshires artisan who’s work we display and sell at The Shop. And this month is Shire Fire Candles! 

A staple in the Berkshires (you’ll recognize their label from Williamstown to Sheffield), Shire Fire has been making candles since 2017, and is owned by two youth entrepreneurs, Grace Proskin, and Izzy Brown.

We have been lucky to sit down with Shire Fire and learn more about their work, their inspirations, and a beautiful message we could all use (I told you this is a great time for reflection). 

What an incredible story about the origins of Shire Fire. Would you mind telling me more about that? Shire Fire Candles was started in 2017 by youth entrepreneurs Grace Proskin (at the time 11) and Izzy Brown (at the time age 10). Our family took a trip to Ireland, and while exploring the Irish countryside on road trips visited many local crafters along the way that sold crafts out of their homes. One of our stops was a small candle company in which a man was making local candles in scents and colors inspired by the Irish countryside. When we returned to the US, the girls came back inspired to create something of their own. The candle shop was memorable to them, and they asked, "Hey could we create a candle company just like that, but inspire the scents in color by the Berkshires? With that Shire Fire Candles was born. The girls along with their parents, researched and explored proper candle making, created relationships with suppliers, and started designing a logo. They took their first batch to a Youth Booth at the Downtown Pittsfield Farmers market and sold out within an hour.  After that, people and stores sought them out. They now have over a dozen loyal retailers that carry their products. The product line has developed from a simple line of soy candles in aluminum tins to include glass pillar, wax melts, smelly jelly air fresheners, and a full line of custom designed wedding, baby shower, and party candle favors.

I love how your candles all are named after places and highlights in the Berkshires. What made you want to do this? The Irish Candle maker the girls visited, was making his candles in scents and colors inspired by Ireland. In addition, many of them had clever Irish names. When the girls were initially planning out the idea for the company, naming the candles after popular attractions, places, and cities in towns within the Berkshires really became the idea to differentiate their product from other soy candle companies in the area. Visitors to our area really enjoy taking home a little piece of the Berkshires with them, so to have a candle named Clouds Over Greylock, Bash Bish Falls, or Mass Mocha really seemed to register with our target customers.

Is there an artist or entrepreneur in particular that inspires Shire Fire? Really the inspiration behind this entrepreneurship came from Ireland and the candlemaker located there. The girls however have had many other women owned companies reach out to them to help mentor, offer words of encouragement, or to just support their company. In fact the UMass Women Into Leadership Program reached out to them to supply soy candles for their national conference. How cool is that? They truly love each and every one of their customers, and many of them have become more like friends over the years. They could not have gotten to where they are without the support of their customers and their repeat business, along with the retailers that commit to working with them to provide quality soy candles for their shops.

What’s your favorite spot in the Berkshires to tell people about (besides The Shop of course)? Ohhh we love The Shop! Oskar is so good to the girls and their company and we try to tell people to go visit there every chance we get! Probably our favorite spot in the Berkshires to visit and talk about besides the shop is Tanglewood. It just has so much connection to our family. Both Izzy, Grace, and their sister Emma are very talented musicians. Grace and Izzy both play with the Kids 4 Harmony String program here in the Berkshires. In addition, they both participate with the Longy School of Music Advanced String Orchestra in Cambridge MA. Grace has been selected as part of Western Districts, as well as the YOLA National Youth Orchestra in Los Angeles.   Tanglewood is our family happy place to go and enjoy a night out, a picnic on the lawn and some music. Recently the girls released their Symphony on the Lawn Soy Candle in honor of Tanglewood and its impact in their lives. A quick funny side note story is that Grace had the opportunity to meet John Williams when she attended the DARTS camp at Tanglewood (although she didn't know who he was). A few nights later we attended E.T. with John Williams Conducted and she told us that "the guy on the screen was conducting them a few days ago at DARTS."

As an artist living in 2021, what is one message you want to spread to the world?  Izzy & Grace want to be an inspiration to other young entrepreneurs and artists. They also want to show other young women to not be afraid, and create something and put your work out there to see and enjoy. You never know what an idea and some little hard work can accomplish until you try. These girls continue to show that through yearly growth here at Shire Fire Candles.

Thank you so much to Shire Fire Candles for sharing your incredible story! If you’re interested in more of VER, check out the Shire Fire Candles website, and of course, see their work at The Shop. 

Until next time! 

Philip 

BEST HALLOWEEN PARTY EVER - MUST HAVE TIPS FOR YOU

If you couldn’t already tell by any of my previous blog posts (especially last week’s) it’s that I am obsessed. With. Fall. This is the season I was born into (well sort of), and as an artist this is the season where I feel the most creative. The most at home artistically! 

But What About...

Oh. And it’s Halloween season! Which festivities and merriment all month long. 

But a Halloween party is no joke. With an estimated $6 billion spent annually on Halloween traditions and trick-or-treating, you’re not going to be the only haunted celebration on the block. 

Halloween Party Tips Galore!

So with that in mind, here’s the tips you need for the perfect spooky soirée. 

Stick To Your Theme

As anyone knows, halloween means ghosts, vampires, zombies, and all other sorts of spooks to lurk around the corner. But within each of these is another subset of spooks to explore! 

Use that! Even a quick google (my girl, The Pioneer Woman, has a great list) can turn your generic halloween party into a haunted house, transylvanian palace of vampires, or zombie fest. 

Grown-Up Candy For The Kid In All Of Us

We all loved trick-or-treating as kids, but you don’t need to have bowls of Snickers and Twix bars set out at your Halloween party with your friends. 

That said there are plenty of ways for you to bring the kid out of anyone with the perfect grown-up treats. Bloody Mary syringes anyone? Mummy meatballs? Even ways to elevate the classic candied apple are going to be a surefire hit. Check out this list from delish for all you need to know. 

You’ll Thank You Later

I feel like this is so very Peter Pan of me, but as adults we will sometimes find ourselves just throwing on a sheet for our costume and asking our audience to suspend their disbelief to the point of going cross-eyed.

We lose our imaginations and resign to the world of “does it really matter?” And sure, it’s not brain surgery, but it’s seemingly the ultimate chance to unwind and escape from the world we’re in right now. And it’s good for you! 

Studies have shown that there are real world health benefits to Halloween for adults. So with that said, why not let loose? 

Have fun this Halloween season, dear reader. That’s what it’s here for. You’ve got the two months following to worry about families and holiday stress, but for now get spooky just for the sake of it. 

The Harvest Moon Rises For Love

You know this already, dear reader, but I love the Berkshires. And as obvious as that statement sounds, I mean to say I love the moments where I find myself saying, “I love the Berkshires”. And this past Monday I repeated that mantra over and over again. 

80% of the time I’ve said it’s because of the nature that we get to find ourselves in day after day. The foliage, the mountains, the streams, the list goes on! 

And this weekend had all of that in a very special way as I found myself coordinating a wedding at Chesterwood underneath the Harvest Moon. 

J & F Forever! 

The happy couple knew they wanted to get married under the Harvest Moon, with a ceremony infusing Celtic and Jewish traditions. This proved to be a beautifully intimate and personal ceremony with Chesterwood being the perfect backdrop. 

And by perfect backdrop, I mean it! After originally intending to use the garden for their ceremony, they found a small clearing in the wooded path being the garden that was lit just right by the setting sun. So in a move that the Chesterwood staff said never seen done before, the ceremony was moved to the clearing. And let me tell you, dear reader, it felt like this was planned all along. 

The ceremony then led to a cocktail hour in the garden, and dinner and dancing on the lawn underneath a coverless tent. A risk, certainly, that paid off tenfold! The bride and groom knew it would be a risk, but the weather held out marvelously and gave us a starry sky. 

And we were looking up at the stars underneath the lights strung along the tent poles as the dinner candles were reaching their end, I said to myself, “I love the Berkshires.”

Onward

After the past yearish of limbo, it’s so nice to return to a wedding that really reminds us why we love being in this business. And in that, I felt rejuvenated and ready to see how we can make every couple’s wedding experience timeless, unique, and spectacular. 

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: VERONICA MARTIN DESIGN

I don’t know about you, dear reader, but between all of the kids I saw getting on buses and the delightful dose of apple in my coffee this morning, it’s fall! Fall is here and y’all I couldn’t be more ready to dive right into the crisp and cozy weather. 

And if there’s one place that does fall right it's The Berkshires. Everywhere I turn is another picturesque view of trees and hills complemented by scenic villages and always beautiful artwork.

And maybe it’s just because it was in fall that I first saw the artwork from this month’s artist spotlight, but there’s something about her work that captures a sense of serene feel of the Berkshires in the fall for me and carries it year-around. Which is why I’m so excited to have sat down with VER of Veronica Martin Design. 

When did you start your work as an artist, and when did it evolve into the work that we see and sell at The Shop? 

What I have found is there is no point where one starts being an artist. An artist is always that. What is seen as my brand VER was a lifetime in the making, and in 2018 I established my company Veronica Martin Design.

Your cage vase work is incredibly unique, with such a refreshing design, and is a signature style for you. What led to creating work like this?

Thank you.  All of my work— the cage vases, skincare, and candles — is born out of not only a personal love but also a personal need. The notion that form must sacrifice in the name of function is something I’ve always contended with. Cage vases are a unique concept of functional art which allow you to have full control of your floral arrangements' appearance and also provide visual interest when not in use. In everything I make, the concept is natural for me to conjure and evolve.

Is there an artist in particular that inspires you and your artwork?

It’s mostly emotion that inspires me — and that emotion is mostly joy! I make art in the name of happiness. It’s what I love to do, and I have fun with it!

What’s your favorite spot in the Berkshires to tell people about (besides The Shop of course 😜)?

Favorite shopping spots: I always love to tell people about the shops that carry VER! In addition to The Shop — One Mercantile, Sett, the Showcase Boutique at Canyon Ranch, and Township Four are a few of the great places to not only find my products, but other wonderful things. The stores that carry VER curate a collection of products that speak to certain values in life. 

Favorite other spots: Personal favorite places like solitude hikes, sunset views, the best trees, and skinny dipping spots are secrets — and I tend not to tell on my secrets!

As an artist living in 2021, what is one message you want to spread to the world?

Art is a guidewire for understanding the human experience and our place in the world.  It’s a fundamental protagonist in the story of life.  Art is not only a critical human right, but our power. There’s so much going on that we lose track of certain things: ourselves, each other, mindfulness, context, beauty, breathing, digestion, the meaning of things.  Creativity. Art influences our daily well-being. Sustain art. It’s here to remind us about what is so great about us.

Thank you to Veronica for taking the time to speak with me this week, and if you’re interested in more of VER, check out Veronica’s office website, and of course, see what she’s created at The Shop. 

Until next time! 

Philip

Should You Take His Last Name? Not Necessarily.

Last names. A tried and true tradition in weddings as far as anyone can tell, really, or at least until the 11th century. Yes, the tradition of the bride taking her husband’s last name is one that exists firmly in our society. 

But if that isn’t for you? We see it all the time, with wives keeping their given name professionally, and changing their last name for legal purposes. And that’s not even looking at couples outside of the heterosexual space. And we’re all accustomed to the couples that will hyphenate their new last name together becoming “Miller-Jones” or “Hearon-Smith”.

A NEW COMING TOGETHER, A NEW TRADITION

But with that being said, we’re seeing a new tradition of “the last name” appearing. More and more couples are looking towards the idea of combining their last names into a new word, one that isn’t hyphenated, or even selecting a new word entirely. 

A couple sat down with the New York Times, and spoke about how they selected the word “Mente” to be their last name. Being the Spanish word for mind, mente was selected because it is “reflecting their commitment to mindfulness and their admiration of each other’s intellect with honoring the bride’s Colombian roots.”

Another couple spoke with The Lilly about how they went about creating their new last name from combining each or their given names. They chose “Goldtzvik” as a combination of “Goldberg” and “Cwik” as a more practical option to their hyphenating which can get a bit complicated in future generations. 

For both the Goldtzviks and the Mentes, creating a brand new last name also is a symbol of their family that they are creating together. It’s the beginning of a new journey, and this name is a way for them to kick it off. 

IT’S YOUR WEDDING, YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR NAME IF YOU WANT TO

As with anything, people can find their own pros and cons to a situation like this, but I say that first and foremost this is the couple’s decision. It’s your wedding! It’s your new life together! Do what makes you happiest! And if this is what that is, then all parties involved should support such a creative symbol of love.

Tips For The Best Back-To-School Ever

It’s that time of year again, we’re gearing up to go back to school (and for some of us that has some much, much sooner), and, wow. There’s a lot to consider! 

Believe me, I certainly haven’t looked back since I wrote my last paper in undergrad. So when I sat down to research and write this blog post, I didn’t know where to begin! “Back-to-school” is a moment in time that affects a very broad stroke of age groups, occupations, family groups and dynamics, in just lives in general! 

So with that all said, let’s dive in! Here are some handy and helpful back-to-school tips and tricks that everyone can benefit from.

SET UP (AND STICK TO) A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

We see it in studies everywhere, so it should be no surprise that this is our first tip on the list. But if you’re anything like me, it can be so hard to slip away from the vices of our phones and emails and get to bed on time. 

What do I recommend? Stick. To. A. Schedule. What time are you turning all screens off? What time are you turning all lights off? Can you do that every weeknight? This all helps you adjust to your circadian rhythm. And according to multiple studies, keeping in tune with your circadian rhythm is one of the best things you can do for your body. And for your children, a consistent routine away from screens can prove to be very beneficial in their development. 

GIVE THAT TEACHER A GIFT

We can all agree that one of the most seemingly thankless jobs out there is the teacher. Whether it’s your friend, your kid’s teacher, or you yourself, the job’s very rewarding moments with bringing knowledge can still surely take a lot of someone. So with that said, a small gift for the year can go a long way. 

And with what is gearing up to be a very challenging year for teachers this year, why not show your support and give them a gift that’ll show how much you appreciate all that they do. Sure I found a list of great gift ideas for teachers, but I always recommend our Rest and Restore Pack from The Shop. Made locally sourced items from the Berkshires, the pack is an all-inclusive spa date for that teacher in your life. And we ship!

WHEN IN DOUBT, DONATE

A rule I live by is, when in doubt, donate! Be it with your time if you have the affordability in your schedule or monetary is you have the affordability in your bank account, donating is always a kind or forward-thinking gesture for schools in the fall. You could find a local backpack drive in your area (Operation Backpack is a great initiative) or see how you could volunteer your time with a school’s programming. It might not seem like much, but a little goes a long way with volunteering. 

COMMUNITY MATTERS

As I stated earlier, this school year is proving to be a tremendously challenging one. But, one of the best assets a school has is its community, so see how you can support your local school community, and turn this into one of the best school years ever.