Weekend Interview: Amy from CoffeeTalk

I am trying to get into a bed time routine, in order to get some order back into my life, post-graduation. I was wondering.. what is your night time routine?
At night, I usually have a nice hot mug of organic peppermint tea. It’s caffeine free and very relaxing before bed. I wash my face, tweeze my eyebrows–I can never get out of my magnified mirror!–and apply Badger Balm’s organic sleep-time balm to my temples (http://www.badgerbalm.com/pc-393-2-sleep-balm.aspx). It smells great and usually soothes me right to sleep.

If you could travel anyplace right now, no matter the cost, where would it be and why?
I would probably choose somewhere in Europe, since I’ve never been! I’m lucky enough to be very close to NYC, and I’ve been to my favorite state, California, three times. So to shake things up, I’d love to jet set to Paris, London, or Rome (anywhere in Italy, really)! Hopefully in the future this will become a reality. As for now, I’ll just dream about it … 🙂

Coffee or cappacinos?
I brew espresso every morning, within minutes of waking up. I’ve drank black coffee for about four years now, and really don’t prefer any kind of milk added. On special occasion, a good soy cappuccino can be quite lovely! But I rarely get them. I just love strong espresso or good quality coffee instead.

What does your go-to outfit look like?
My go-to outfit is probably very simple & basic, stylized with some bold accessories. I’d say, black skinny jeans, a dark heather gray v-neck tshirt, vintage sandals, my Longchamp black bag, big black sunglasses, vintage Hermes cuff bracelet, and that’s about it! Maybe some thin gold bracelets, as well.

You have such pretty designs on your blog. Did you teach yourself how to do webdesign and photoshop? Or did you take a class?
Wow, thank you! I’ve always been into web & graphic design, since I was very young. I learned to use Photoshop on my own, when I was around 13 (I downloaded a free trial version). After teaching myself the basics, I never had a chance to use it until I was back in college. I knew a lot on my own, but many of my classmates taught me “tips and tricks” that have really made me more proficient. I’m by no means a Photoshop pro, but I’m always learning! There are some great online tutorials as well.

I read on your blog that you love handwriting! What are some of your favorite writing supplies?
Yes, I love writing in my signature script. I habitually use Bic’s crystal black line of pens; they’re amazing. A good solid pencil always works well to–I’m pretty basic! When I was in 5th, 6th, 7th grade…gel-pens were all the rage. Remember Gelly Roll? Oh man! They were my absolute favorite.

What are some of your favorite websites to visit?
I love www.cupcakesandcashmere.com. I could literally read through every post Emily has ever typed, over and over! She seems like the most down to earth, yet fashionable and fabulous girl, ever. I also like www.Lookbook.nu, for fashion inspiration. www.Ffffound.com is another great site where graphic designers submit their work. Also, I could (and do) spend hours on Flickr.

Do you think that transitioning from school to home will be a struggle for you?
Not really, because I have a great family and a nice, warm, comfortable house! I lived alone at school, and although I loved my apartment and independence, I was often very lonely and had pretty debilitating anxiety whenever I was alone. So I think the transition will be smooth. It has been, so far, at least.

What are your plans post-graduation?
I actually just firmed up an exciting opportunity for the summer, which I’m literally thrilled about. I don’t want to go into any details just yet, but I will be working full time in Midtown Manhattan. It’s a dream come true, really 🙂