Wildflower & Friends
In late September I curated my first pop-up shop, held at Found Company's Slow Fashion & Vintage Shopping Event. When Brittany & Jessica, the owners of Upstyle Co. approached my booth I was absolutely thrilled. I had discovered their salon boutique several years back and since then, been following their journey's through and through.
Contrary to other beauticians in the business, Brittany and Jessica have ditched the cakey/unrecognizable makeup practices many of us have grown weary to. Their mission: alternative beauty with a modern approach. The work of the Upstyle team is a combination of earthy and elegant- enhancing the natural beauty of their clients...Funny enough, it was only one week prior to meeting them in person that I had reached out in hopes of booking Upstyle Co. for my 2022 elopement.
Following the event, I was in borderline shock when they contacted me about featuring my pressed flower illustrations in Upstlye's boutique. Displaying and selling Wildflower ArtSpace pieces in such a gorgeous space has simply been an honor.
Located in Manchester, CT, their in-house shop carries a thoughtful selection of handmade accessories, home goods, artwork, and holistic beauty products. The space is absolutely dreamy and full of the prettiest little details! In addition to their usual beauty bar and event hair+makeup styling, the ladies just added private lessons to their site. So if you’re looking to get pampered and give yourself a well-deserved make over, this is THE place to do (P.S I highly recommend stopping by the neighborhood cafe, Silk City Coffee and grabbing an oat milk latte before stopping in (its only a few doors down) !
Since the birth of our new friendship, I've loved my sweet little hangouts with Brittany & Jessica and always find our conversations to be both inspirational and fun. I asked the two of them to share a bit about their experiences and here's what they had to say...
Q: On days when you feel like you’re in a creative rut, what are your go-to outlets for inspiration?
Brittany & Jessica: As creatives, it can be hard to always stay inspired. We certainly go through waves of ruts, especially this last year with the pandemic and not being able to work as much as we'd like. It's important to honor what you're feeling, take breaks when needed to fill your cup. Playing around with different mediums - painting, drawing, design, all help get the juices flowing. Being in nature, taking pictures of flowers, trees, the ocean and surrounding ourselves with inspiring friends are our ultimate go-tos.
Q:If you could give one piece of advice to other creatives/entrepreneurs what would it be?
BRITTANY: Be authentic. I know this word can be overused, but it's one of the most important things we've learned in this business. Follow what lights you up and stay true to YOUR style. In turn, you will attract clients + opportunities that value your time and craft, and a community of friends + creatives that share your vision and help you grow.
Q: What has been your favorite part of being an entrepreneur & starting Upstyle Co?
JESSICA: The best part of being an entrepreneur in this industry is connection - with our team, with our clients and our art. It's been incredible to work alongside our favorite stylists and artists and meet each client, listen to their story and accompany them on one of the most important days of their life.
