August has been a whirlwind, a beautiful blur of new chapters and settling into the life I’ve been dreaming of. With my wedding in the rearview mirror (still swooning over every detail), I’m finally catching my breath. But if you’re anything like me, you know that life never truly slows down, even when we crave a pause. This month has been filled with so many things I’m loving, and I couldn’t resist sharing them with you.
Reflections on the Wedding
I’ll be honest—coming down from the high of our wedding has given me a bit of whiplash. My “summer break” has been anything but restful, but it’s been the kind of busy that fills your heart up. We said our vows on June 21, honeymooned at the dreamy Atelier Playa Mujeres, and then I had less than a week to pack up my life in my beloved little apartment to move into our new home. Throw in traveling out west for another wedding in the Grand Tetons, and getting stuck at the ATL airport, and you’ve got a recipe for a hectic summer. But oh, the joy from our big day is still so present. Every time I see a post from my wedding photographer, I get giddy all over again. Life is starting to settle, and the sweetness of this new chapter is sinking in. It’s a feeling I’ll carry with me for a long time.
Studio Happenings
August has brought some exciting projects to the studio. I’m kicking off projects with a professional makeup artist and a wedding photographer, both of whom feel incredibly aligned with my studio’s vision and aesthetic. There’s something so special about collaborating with clients who feel like friends. Beyond the projects, I’m also challenging myself to embrace the mantra that my own clients express to me over and over again, “Less but better.” I’m shutting down the computer around 4 PM, and when possible, taking Fridays off. As someone who’s burnt herself out more than a few times before, my new intention is focused around finding balance and making space for the things that truly matter, both in life and in work.
Inspired By…
This month, I’m feeling so inspired by two dear friends of mine: Kaitlin from Aurora Designed and Maggie from Nuance Collective. If romanticizing your life was an Olympic sport, these two would take home the gold. They each have this beautiful way of documenting the mundane with the magic of film, creating time for their artistry, and bravely sharing it online. They are constantly reminding me of the beauty in the everyday, and that’s something I’m embracing as we transition into fall.
The end of summer has always been a sweet time for me. I love the “back to school” energy—the return to routine, the order of knowing what’s on the horizon. For me, this end of summer is all about settling into this new life. New home, new husband, new chapter… new brand identity, new website, new strategies, new purpose. It’s a time of new beginnings, and I’m soaking in every moment.
Reading & Listening
While sometimes I’m embarrassed to admit it, I’m a simple gal at heart. I could scroll Pinterest for hours, and I have a soft spot for cozy, witchy audiobooks — sue me! Here’s what I’ve been loving lately:
- Cackle by Rachel Harrison – A 5-star read in my book.
- In the Company of Witches – 4 stars, and its sequel When the Crows Away – 4 stars.
- The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic – 3.5 stars.
- Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman – 4 stars, and one of my favorite movies.
- This Summer Will Be Different – 4.5 stars, not witchy but the perfect honeymoon read!
I’ve also curated the perfect late summer, early fall playlist, named “Practical Magic Summer.” It’s full of moody summer vibes, inspired by this TikTok by one of my favorite creators that captures the essence of late summer. It’s been my go-to soundtrack as I transition into this new season.
Making…
This August, I’ve been all about making—a house a home and some deliciously fun summer recipes. Since moving into our townhouse last month, every weekend we’re not traveling has been spent turning it into a cozy haven. We’ve been weeding flower beds, hanging curtains, and scouring Facebook Marketplace for those perfect pieces to make it ours. The latest addition? A gorgeous new hutch for our dining room that I’m absolutely in love with.
And on the culinary side, I’ve been experimenting with some summer sips. My current obsession? Honey cinnamon iced lattes. They’ve been my go-to treat during those long, hot days of unpacking and settling in. It’s these little joys that make the process so much sweeter.
Design Inspiration
Currently swooning over formal typography, scribbly art, and paper textures. And yes, it’s all playing a part in my own rebrand for Studio Gail. I’ve been collaborating with the incredibly talented Maggie from Somos Studio, and let me tell you—this rebrand is a love letter to everything I adore about design.
The moodboard we’ve created together feels like a perfect reflection of where Studio Gail is headed. I can’t wait to share the final look with you soon, but for now, I’m soaking in the creative process and enjoying every little detail. And if you missed the announcement reel, check it out on Instagram!
August has been a month of new beginnings, sweet moments, and a whole lot of inspiration. As I settle into this new chapter, I’m feeling incredibly grateful for the journey and excited for what’s to come. If you’re also riding the wave of change, remember to find beauty in the little things and embrace every new moment.
I’ll be back soon with more updates, including a deeper dive into our wedding and more on the Studio Gail rebrand. Until then, I hope you’re finding your own moments of joy and inspiration as we head into the fall.
Let’s keep making magic together.