An Afternoon in Malibu

Sherpa Cropped Jacket (Zara, wearing S) / 90’s Fit Jeans (Agolde, via Revolve, sized down to 24) / Pink Tuff Boots (Roots, TTS)

I always think about how easily anything can change in just a matter of time. A few weeks, a couple months, a year— you never know what is next and when it’s going to hit. I’m trying to be extra mindful of this during my time in California…

Due to some unforeseen events, my sister (and roommate) Kate is no longer at her job, and the two of us our back to our daily shenanigans, which typically include making really elaborate charcuterie spreads, watching reality television, and seeking out some good, old fashion adventures. I’m in grad school full time, which translates to two three hour classes each week and a lot of Southern California cultural moments and experiences in between.

I was smart about saving when I worked at Accenture and am currently freelancing as a content creator for brands, so I’m able to do the things I like to do, but I won’t lie and say I don’t feel stressed about not having a job! It’s just a strange feeling after working for so many years. But, I am trying to embrace and enjoy this season of life, knowing it won’t last forever and that the inevitable will inevitably return to my life (ie. back on my career trajectory once I knock out this master’s degree).

Earlier this week, Kate and I spontaneously decided to spend the day in Malibu; the fact that “driving up to Malibu for the day” is a possibility in my life is still somewhat baffling to me. We packed up the car and made it in under 40 min, also a baffling fact (LA traffic is real!). As we drove alongside the ocean, the mountains in the background, the sun shining down, I couldn’t help but think how lucky I am to be living here, to have this experience. Like I said, time changes everything, and I don’t know how long I will be here for. I want to always look back on this special time and know that I made the most of it and appreciated it as much as I possibly could.

I had been to the ‘Bu once before when I visited Malibu Wine Safaris, but this was my first time going to the coast. Oh my goodness, is it beyond gorgeous!. Going on a Tuesday afternoon, it was very quiet and peaceful; there was hardly anyone there. Our plan was to grab lunch on the water at the restaurant at the Malibu Beach Inn, take some pictures on the beach for a brand campaign I had, and then walk along the pier and just see where the day took us. Lunch was fantastic, easily one of the best dining views I have ever experienced, and the food was incredible. We were seated just feet from the water, glass lining the eating area, giving the most insane, uninterrupted ocean views. We split a caesar salad, clam linguine pasta, and almond butter cake with pumpkin gelato for dessert.

Snake print boots (Nordstrom, under $100 and TTS! I’m obsessed with these)

I’d also like to mention how freaking unbelievable the weather is in LA this time of year; it was in the low 70’s, we had a slight breeze being by the coast, the sun was beating down on us, and it was just the most perfect combination. I like winter here!!!!!!!!!

The sun started to set around 5 pm, so we didn’t end up having a ton of beach time. We did shoot some of my favorite brand work I’ve ever done so far!! I was shooting the relaunch of Root’s Tuff boot, which you can see me wearing below in the pink color. After it started to get dark and a little chilly, we headed to Malibu Farm for some nachos and cappuccinos (a normal combination right?), and just sat outside and relaxed and people watched. Then, we drove back to the LA and listened and sang to Taylor Swift’s album Lover in its entirety— which is officially a tradition for when we drive back from Malibu.