Howdy from Austin, Texas, often celebrated as the Live Music Capital of the World! The energy here is truly palpable, especially with the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in full swing. My SXSW journey kicked off last night with an inspiring speaking engagement at The Refinery, where I had the pleasure of sharing insights alongside the incredible team from Packed Party and some of my absolute favorite fellow blogger ladies. This gathering felt particularly meaningful, as it perfectly coincided with International Women’s Day – a powerful reminder of the strength, creativity, and influence of women across the globe.

Our panel, aptly titled Digital Dose, delved into a topic that resonates deeply with many in today’s interconnected world: the art of cultivating a vibrant and engaged online community. We explored various strategies, from fostering genuine connections to delivering consistent value, all aimed at building spaces where followers feel seen, heard, and truly part of something bigger. But beyond the exciting growth potential, we also tackled an equally crucial, often overlooked subject: how to navigate this dynamic digital landscape without succumbing to burnout. It’s a candid conversation I’ve personally found myself grappling with, a journey of learning and adaptation that I’ve shared openly before. Perhaps that’s precisely why I was invited to join the panel – to bring a dose of raw, honest reality to the discussion, haha!

If you’re looking for an extensive guide on mastering public speaking from me, you might be out of luck! Truth be told, speaking in front of a crowd always brings a touch of nervous excitement. My approach is often spontaneous – I simply wing it, relying on authenticity and passion to carry me through. My top, albeit unconventional, advice for calming those pre-speech jitters? A perfectly timed glass of wine usually does the trick! It’s all about finding what helps you relax and connect genuinely with your audience, imperfections and all.

This isn’t my first rodeo at SXSW in Austin, but each visit brings new experiences and challenges. My last memorable trip here for the festival involved quite the logistical feat: we meticulously transported a whopping 200 macarons! This time around, my sweet little Gwen is in tow, exploring the world on her own two feet (let’s not get too ahead of ourselves, just walking for now!). The jury is still out on which road trip companion proved easier. I must admit, the macarons were significantly quieter, requiring less entertainment and fewer pit stops, but Gwen certainly brings an unparalleled level of joy and a fresh perspective to every adventure.

Returning to Austin is always a delight. Beyond the vibrant cultural scene and the buzz of innovation, it holds a special place in my heart because Jared’s brother calls this city home. It’s incredible to witness how much Austin has transformed and blossomed, even since I first moved to Texas nine years ago. The city continuously evolves, blending its unique Texan charm with a progressive, creative spirit, making every visit a discovery.

Okay, I’ll rein in my personal anecdotes for a moment! In heartfelt honor of International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, I want to pivot our focus to some truly extraordinary talent. This day is not just about reflection, but also about supporting and uplifting women who are making waves in their respective fields. I’m thrilled to shine a spotlight on some truly cool, innovative products from even cooler female makers and entrepreneurs. These women exemplify creativity, dedication, and a commitment to crafting unique, high-quality items that inspire and delight. Let’s dive into this week’s special edit, celebrating their remarkable contributions!

THE WEEKLY EDIT: CELEBRATING FEMALE MAKERS

This curated selection is a tribute to the ingenuity and passion of women who are designing, creating, and leading with vision. From fashion to beauty to home goods, each item tells a story of craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit.

Rachel Comey Jo Earrings: Dive into the world of Rachel Comey, a New York-based designer whose distinctive aesthetic has garnered a fervent cult following among celebrities and discerning fashion enthusiasts alike. From literary icon Zadie Smith to acclaimed director Greta Gerwig and even former First Lady Michelle Obama, her designs resonate with women who appreciate sophisticated yet unconventional style. These Jo Earrings embody her signature blend of modern artistry and wearability, offering a subtle statement that elevates any ensemble. Beyond her celebrated collections, Rachel Comey’s brand presence is cemented by her beautiful flagship store in SOHO, a testament to her enduring influence and commitment to crafting unique pieces that defy fleeting trends. Her work consistently pushes boundaries, making her an essential voice in contemporary fashion design.
Kosas Rosewater Lipstick: Founded by the visionary Sheena Yaitanes in Los Angeles, Kosas is a beacon in the clean beauty movement. Sheena’s unique background as both a painter and an organic chemist provides a rich foundation for her all-natural beauty line, allowing her to formulate products that are not only aesthetically beautiful but also scientifically sound and ethically produced. This Rosewater Lipstick is a prime example of her philosophy, offering luscious color with nourishing ingredients. What truly sets Kosas apart, however, is Sheena’s deeply personal commitment to inclusivity and safety. Driven by her daughter’s severe nut allergy, all Kosas products are meticulously formulated to be almond oil-free, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to beauty that prioritizes the well-being of all consumers. It’s a brand built on integrity, innovation, and genuine care.
Lena Rena Goren Skaters Print: If the whimsical and distinctive style of artist Leah Goren’s illustrations feels familiar, it’s likely because her captivating work has graced numerous high-profile collaborations. Her unique artistic voice, characterized by playful motifs and a vibrant color palette, has caught the eye of leading brands across various industries. Leah has brought her creative touch to esteemed companies such as Anthropologie, Ban.do, Chronicle Books, Loeffler Randall, Kate Spade, Penguin Random House, Revlon, and Vogue. This “Skaters Print” is a delightful example of her ability to infuse everyday scenes with charm and personality, making it a perfect piece to add a touch of artistic flair and contemporary whimsy to any living space or office. Her widespread commissions are a testament to her talent and broad appeal.
Keds x Dusen Dusen Color Stripe Shoes: Step into a world of bold patterns and joyful colors with the Keds x Dusen Dusen collaboration, spearheaded by Brooklyn-based designer Ellen Van Dusen. Ellen is widely celebrated as the queen of graphic prints and vibrant patterns, a reputation built on her distinctive aesthetic that instantly brightens any wardrobe. What makes her approach even more fascinating is her academic background: she uniquely created her own major, “Psychology of Design,” at Tufts University. This interdisciplinary study of how design impacts human perception and emotion profoundly informs her work, allowing her to craft pieces that are not just visually striking but also evoke a sense of playfulness and positivity. These Color Stripe Shoes are a perfect marriage of Keds’ classic comfort with Dusen Dusen’s iconic, mood-boosting designs.
Calpak x Oh Joy Carry-On Suitcase: In the often-solitary world of content creation, having a supportive friend who truly understands the unique highs and lows of the blogging journey is invaluable. Joy Cho, the creative force behind Oh Joy!, is precisely that kind of inspiring peer and a powerhouse in her own right. Her brand is synonymous with vibrant design, joyful living, and successful collaborations. This Calpak x Oh Joy! Carry-On Suitcase is a testament to her knack for infusing everyday essentials with her signature bright and optimistic aesthetic. It’s one of many beautiful partnerships Joy has cultivated, demonstrating her ability to blend practical design with eye-catching style. This carry-on isn’t just luggage; it’s a stylish statement piece that makes every journey feel a little more cheerful and chic.
Paloma Wool Saludos Sweatshirt: Hailing from the vibrant city of Barcelona, Paloma Wool launched her namesake brand in 2014, quickly establishing a reputation for its unique, art-inspired aesthetic. Fashion isn’t just a career for Paloma; it runs deep in her blood. She continues to uphold a rich family legacy, actively assisting her parents in the operations of their two long-standing Spanish fashion labels. This “Saludos Sweatshirt” perfectly encapsulates the Paloma Wool ethos: a blend of effortless cool, artistic sensibility, and quality craftsmanship. Her designs often draw inspiration from vintage styles, photography, and art, creating pieces that feel both timeless and contemporary. Wearing a Paloma Wool garment is not just about fashion; it’s about embracing a piece of Barcelona’s creative spirit and a family’s dedication to textile artistry.
BAGGU Sailor Stripe Duck Bag: It’s no secret around here – we are absolutely obsessed with BAGGU, and for good reason! This brand has revolutionized the way we think about everyday carry with its commitment to both style and sustainability. Their eco-friendly reusable bags are not just practical; they’ve become our indispensable go-to for everything from grocery runs to beach trips, proving that conscious choices can also be incredibly chic. The Sailor Stripe Duck Bag is a fantastic example of their versatile design, offering ample space and a classic aesthetic. Beyond their iconic reusable totes, BAGGU’s leather bags also deserve high praise; their durable and beautifully crafted leather tote, for instance, has become a constant companion, never leaving my side. BAGGU truly embodies functional, fashionable, and responsible design.
Kathleen Whitaker Gold Staple Earrings: Kathleen Whitaker is a master of minimalist elegance, and her geometric earpieces are a true testament to her refined design philosophy. Seeing her exquisite, understated gold staple earrings immediately sparks the desire for multiple piercings, purely to create captivating, personalized arrangements. What makes her jewelry truly unique and allows for such creative expression is her approach to selling: all of her pieces are sold individually. This thoughtful decision empowers wearers to mix and match, layering different shapes and sizes to curate a look that is entirely their own. It’s about building a unique narrative on your ear, piece by delicate piece, allowing for subtle yet impactful self-expression through beautifully crafted, timeless gold designs.
And lastly, to round off this special International Women’s Day edit, here’s a tee that perfectly captures the spirit and sentiment of this empowering day!

As we reflect on the vibrant energy of SXSW and the inspiring stories of these incredible female makers, it’s clear that community, creativity, and conscious support are more important than ever. International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder to champion the women around us, whether they are innovating in tech, crafting beautiful goods, or simply navigating the complexities of life with grace and resilience. Let’s continue to uplift, empower, and celebrate the diverse talents that enrich our world, fostering environments where every voice is heard and every dream is nurtured. Here’s to building strong communities, both online and off, and to the unwavering spirit of women everywhere!