A Lesson in Just Starting and Dolce Far Niente: The Sweetness of Doing Nothing

How does your background inform your creative journey?

So many things have shaped my creative journey: the places I grew up, family members, former bosses and mentors, and my life here in Europe. I think a lot of people look back on their old taste and cringe—and sometimes I do—but for the most part I’m proud of what it took me to get to where I am. All the things that helped my creativity evolve are so present in my work today; it really feels like a roadmap of my journey.

When did you know you wanted to create your own brand Salvē Official, and how did you make that leap?

I’ve had an inkling for the last 4ish years that the universe was calling me to build something of my own, but it took a long time to actually figure out what that was and put wheels in motion. I was talking to one of my mentors last year and he told me I just had to start, even if I wasn’t sure what the long-game was. Once I actually put pen to paper, the brand came to life pretty quickly.

What is one thing you found harder than expected, and what was one thing that felt easier than you anticipated?

Product development (which has always been my favorite part of the process) is so much harder and time-consuming than I thought. Building a community has been easier.

You’ve lived in many different cities and countries. How has this global experience shaped you and your brand?

I’m a big believer in taking chances, making leaps without knowing where you’ll land. Starting the brand in and of itself felt like a reflection of this mentality, but beyond that, I wanted a product that felt like the best of all the cultures I’ve been lucky enough to experience. The warm and inviting nature of South Africa, the “dolce far niente” mentality of Italy, and the practicality and craftsmanship of Germany. The brand is starting to take shape around those pillars and I’m so excited to see how it evolves.

Where is the city or place that most speaks to your soul?

I can’t pick just one!! Three that seem to anchor me: Cape Town, the Greek islands, anywhere on a river in Idaho.

Where do you draw the most inspiration from and who/what inspires your creative journey?

Travel, nature, and the women (specifically the moms!!) I’ve been lucky enough to meet in the world of design. Pinterest doesn’t hold a candle to the grit and creativity of the real women in my life. I’ve learned so much from each of them, and it’s so inspiring to watch them build.

What advice would you give to someone interested in starting their own business or going through a career pivot?

Do the hard thing, take the road less traveled, listen to your gut, start before you’re ready. You’ll never regret giving it a shot!

Do you have a manifestation practice, mindset technique, or ritual that you swear by?

I love the saying “Be realistic, expect a miracle.” I have a deep belief that the world is good and things will shake out the way they’re meant to, but I also understand the role privilege and hard work have in that equation. 

I fully subscribe to the belief that luck is where preparation meets opportunity, so I work as hard as I can and say yes to any opportunities that feel aligned. You never know where they’ll take you!

"I used to believe ____, but now I believe ____"

I used to believe it was embarrassing to be seen trying: trying to build something, trying to grow, etc. But the only people who think it’s embarrassing are the people who haven’t made it. All the people who have, know what it takes to build the life you want for yourself. Now I believe you shouldn’t be afraid to be seen trying, it makes it all the more satisfying when your dreams come true.