CHECKING IN

how are you? we know that everyone is feeling the shift and that things are a little rocky right now. hang in there. i’m trying to focus on what we can control and surrendering the rest. there are a lot of shining moments to notice too, all the videos i’ve seen coming out of italy with people singing and playing music together on their porches, restaurants that are open for takeout and all the patrons that are stepping up to support their local small businesses, places like sweet green giving free food to medical works, the friendly smiles we share with people we walk past at a distance which reminds us we’re all in this together. there is nothing to do in this moment but to be present, exactly where we are, with who we are with and whatever emotions this time of uncertainty brings up. feelings and anxieties shift from moment to moment and that’s okay. i know many of you are suffering greatly during this time and i’m thinking of you. if you’re in los angeles, and can’t get to the store or need help in some way, feel free to reach out to me at joanie@designlovefest.com and i’m happy to help in any way i can. – joanie

p.s. the art featured above and below is by finish illustrator lotta maija, you can follow her on instagram here and buy her prints here. 

many of the small clothing designers that i love have sent out notes about how they are struggling during this time of unknown. a few to highlight, LACAUSA which we have loved for a long time. they are boosting sales by offering 25% off site wide with code LOVE. you can’t go wrong with one of their jumpsuits and their t-shirts are amazing.  ace&jig which we also adore is doing a sale on sale with 15% off additional with code 15FORYA. bri has this dress in rhumba which is beautiful on. i also love this jumpsuit.

ali golden is an oakland based female designer who makes very chic gingham pieces and is offering 15% off site wide. i love this raw silk set.

and now a few local LA things: 

the left bank which is my favorite LA second hand store is doing shopping via instagramstories. it’s owned by an amazing woman who has an all female staff that she is committed to paying and keeping her business flowing. if you’re able to support by shopping, please do.

sister wife is high end consignment and the owner jessica has gorgeous taste. her shop is also closed and she is selling on instagramstories. again, if you’re able to support through purchases i know they’d really appreciate it!

if you’re in LA, heiroom la is offering incredible options for pick up and delivery. they work to support tons of local farms and their quality is top notch.

Dune which has incredible middle easter food is offering zero delivery charge on Caviar.

Palette food + juice has healthy delicious food to go as well.

there are too many spots to name but the point is that many of these small businesses will suffer greatly during this time and if we are able to support them we should try, even ordering gift cards (like from proof bakery which is a favorite of mine!) if you aren’t wanting to leave your home is a great option. you can tuck it away and spend it later after this passes because this too small pass.

honey hi is another local favorite of ours, owned by two cool ladies, they make delicious healthy food and bomb smoothies. and they also have free delivery through postmates or cavier (details here).

i’ll continue to do round ups of places to support so if you have one you want me to highlight leave it in the comments! XO