11 Things I Bought and Loved in January

A suede tote, my new foundation, and the most expensive jeans I've ever owned.

Over the past few weeks, I've hosted two Vision Board Workshops at my house. It's something I've done with our community over Zoom for a couple years (and I love these virtual sessions), but the in-person experience hit different.

Each woman who attended showed up with such intention—to grow, connect, and build relationships. Their vulnerability and willingness to share their unique experiences really inspired me. There was no pretense of perfection; instead, each of us were in the middle of navigating all kinds of transitions: new babies, career moves, the endings of relationships, relocating to new cities, and so much more.

One new mother shared that she'd lost touch with who she was and what she wanted. Another woman said she wanted to rediscover her "fire"—the passion for life she hadn’t experienced since settling into the routines of adulthood. It struck me how much beauty lies in this messy middle—and how powerful it is to share it with others and remember that we're not alone in our experience.

The art of building community

A few people shared their surprise that I’d open up my home for a community event—inviting "strangers" into my living room, making breakfast in the kitchen with my mom refilling cups of coffee. Well, why not?

I truly believe in the power of in-person connection, and creating a sense of intimacy is what unlocks openness among those present. I’ve realized that if I wait for someone else to take the initiative, in-person gatherings may never happen.

Be the one who goes first

When I planned these workshops, I had no idea who would come or if anyone would actually sign up. Would people talk to each other or stand around awkwardly? Would they have anything in common? I felt those fears and then moved forward anyway. When I hit "publish" on the workshop page and saw sign-ups start rolling in, I trusted that the right group of women would end up in my living room and receive what they needed. And we all did.

These days, we’re often so busy looking down at our phones that these moments of fully present conversation (with eye contact!) feel like a rare gift. So, my challenge to myself—and to you—is this: Go first. Send the invite, plan the dinner, gather people together. Even if it feels scary, I promise: everyone is craving connection.

11 Things I Bought and Loved in January

Lots of fun finds I've been dying to share with you guys this month! I’d love to hear about any new discoveries (beauty, wellness, books, fashion, home decor, food) you’re obsessed with, so leave your recommendations in the comments.

1. Suede Tote That Fits Everything

I carried this bag all through Paris, and it’s the ultimate carry-all. It fit my laptop, toiletries bag, and travel essentials in-flight, and looked good with every outfit. Each Parker Thatch bag is part of a limited edition run, and you can really feel the quality. (We just interviewed the incredibly chic founder on the site.)

2. A Luxurious Olive Oil

I’ve loved the Wonder Valley brand for years (this dinner party intensified my obsession). The olive oil is truly high-quality, and they just released their Olio Nuevo, which is made from super young olives at their height of flavor. The result is a bright, intensely fresh flavor that’s made for dunking bread and drizzling over salads. A very worthy way to treat yourself.

3. My Signature Home Scent

After months of perfecting this design, our large, luxurious Daybreak candle is available at Casa Zuma. I burn this one daily—it’s really become our signature home scent, and the amber recycled glass vessel feels really elevated. So excited to hear what you guys think.

4. Coffee Table Book to Inspire

This coffee table book feels more like a peek inside designer Leanne Ford's creative process. In it, Ford chronicles the journey of finding her “wow does this need work” dream house and then moving (with family in tow) across the country to turn it into a unique home with her signature style.

Read on for the best foundation I’ve ever used and find out if those jeans are actually worth it. Upgrade to a paid subscription to get the full list.