The Best On-The-Go Lunch Ideas for Busy Professionals

As a busy professional, you're always on the move, whether it's for client meetings, shopping for materials, or on a project site. With so much to do, it can be challenging to find time for a proper lunch break. That's why it's essential to have quick, convenient, and healthy lunch options that you can take with you.

First of all, to be well-equipped to make great on-the-go lunches, we recommend getting yourself a variety of nice leak-proof lunch boxes with compartments, such as bento boxes, reusable silverware, and an insulated lunch bag that’s easy to carry. You may also look into reusable food wraps as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap. And, of course, you need a collection of simple and delicious meal plans that you can always turn to, so I bring you 9 ideas to get you started! 

Protein Wrap

A wrap is a quick and easy lunch option that you can customize with your favorite ingredients. Start with a whole wheat wrap, add some protein such as grilled shrimp or chickpeas, and your favorite fillings like lettuce, red onion, cucumber, tomato, avocado, cheese, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce. Roll it up, wrap it up, and you're good to go!

Pasta Salad

Cook some whole grain pasta, add your favorite veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers, chicken or a diced cheese like feta, and a tangy dressing. This is a filling lunch that can be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for a few days.

Quinoa Bowl

Cook some quinoa, add some veggies like roasted sweet potato, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes, and a tasty dressing. This is a high-protein, gluten-free option that will keep you full all afternoon.

Turkey and Avocado Sandwich

Spread some mayo or pesto on whole grain bread, add sliced turkey, avocado, lettuce, and tomato. This sandwich provides healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

Falafel Pita Pocket

Spread some hummus on a whole grain pita, add falafel, sliced veggies like carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper, and you have a delicious and easy lunch.

Tuna Salad

Mix canned tuna with some mayo, diced celery, and pickles. Serve it on whole grain bread or crackers, or in a lettuce wrap.

Tofu and Veggie Stir-Fry

Sauté veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers with some tofu in a sauce of your choice. Serve over brown rice for a complete meal.

Fruit Salad

Cut up a variety of fresh fruit, such as apples, bananas, grapes, and berries, into bite-sized pieces and mix together in a container. This provides a healthy and refreshing dessert option.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Squares

Mix 1 cup of creamy peanut butter with 1/2 cup of honey and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then stir in 1 1/2 cups of quick-cooking oats. Press the mixture into a lined 8x8-inch square dish, pour melted semi-sweet chocolate chips on top, and refrigerate for 1 hour before cutting into squares. 

With these delicious and nutritious meal ideas, you'll never have to sacrifice taste for convenience. Whether you're in a rush, at a client meeting, or just need a quick bite, these lunch options will keep you fueled and satisfied, no matter where you are. Enjoy!

xx, Danae

8 Pros to Hiring an Interior Design Stylist

Among the many different hats that participate in an interior design project, there is someone, like a behind-the-scenes magician, who has the powerful ability to spin a cohesive and visually compelling narrative with an apparent wave of their wand. I’m talking about an interior stylist, a role that goes under-appreciated all too often. But you might wonder, given your own keen sense of style, what value does an interior stylist add?

What’s the difference between an interior designer and an interior stylist?

Interior designers, often backed by formal education and certifications, tend to focus on the structural and functional design of spaces, tackling complex renovation projects with an eye for building codes and architectural nuances. Interior stylists, on the other hand, have mastered the more visual and decorative aspects, bringing spaces to life for photoshoots, events, and daily enjoyment. They skillfully curate decor, textiles, and accessories to create aesthetically pleasing settings without the need for formal certification. Their flexibility in project scope, rates, and timelines offers a distinct approach compared to the structured, regulated projects managed by interior designers.

What are the benefits of hiring an interior stylist?

1. Efficiency: Whether you’re racing against a looming project deadline with last-minute accessory needs or seeking an adept hand for photoshoot day, enlisting an interior stylist can really streamline your process and save you precious time.

2. Broaden Your Horizons: Interior stylists bring fresh eyes and innovative ideas into your project, broadening the scope of possibilities for enhancing your space's visual allure.

3. Art of Styling Mastery: While it might seem obvious, the nuanced art of styling—think arranging shelves, tables, and spaces—is a specialized skill that not all interior designers have the luxury of time to perfect. Interior stylists excel in this arena.

4. Trend Savvy: Always ahead of the curve, stylists have a unique understanding of current and emerging design trends, seamlessly integrating them into your space to ensure it feels both modern and timeless.

5. Resourcefulness: Their toolkit includes extensive networks of suppliers and artisans, stylists are often able to unearth distinctive pieces that introduce character and uniqueness to your design, including items not accessible to the general public.

6. Ready for Spotlight: Seasoned interior stylists are used to working closely with photographers, brands, and editorial teams. When aiming for publication or to make a splash in marketing materials, stylists ensure your space is photogenic and polished, enhancing its appeal and the likelihood of being featured.

7. Attention to Detail: With an eye for the minutiae, stylists can transform a room through the meticulous selection and placement of accessories, lighting, and art, elements that might be overlooked but can significantly impact the overall feel of a space.

8. Collaborative Networking: Working with an interior stylist is a chance for mutual promotion. By sharing and crediting each other's work on social media, both parties can extend their reach and open new networking opportunities, enhancing project visibility and fostering industry connections efficiently.

So, how can you find the right interior stylist?

Start by diving into social media platforms and design websites, where many stylists showcase their portfolios. Instagram, Pinterest, and Houzz are great places to see their work in action and get a sense of their style and creativity. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues who have embarked on similar projects; word-of-mouth can lead you to talented professionals whose work aligns with your vision. When you connect with potential stylists, discuss your project goals and preferences openly—this conversation can give you a clear insight into their approach and whether it meshes well with your expectations. Remember, a good fit goes beyond aesthetics; it's about finding someone whose communication style and project management skills align with yours, ensuring a smooth and collaborative experience.

Things to keep in mind…

• Make sure you're on the same page with your stylist about how much or how little you want the space styled, as well as the aesthetic direction, so the decor fits just right without overshadowing your design.

• Stylists' pricing can vary widely based on their experience, the project's scope, and even the location. This means that hiring a stylist is an investment that requires careful consideration. It's important to weigh the stylist's rates against the value they bring to your project.

Deciding to bring an interior stylist on board for your project's photoshoots often hinges on a few key factors: the interior designer's own confidence in their styling prowess, the allocated budget, and what you're aiming to achieve with the shoot. If the goal is to produce top-tier, publication-ready images that could draw in more clientele or spotlight your work, then investing in a stylist could pay off. On the flip side, if you're confident in your own styling skills and have a solid plan for the shoot, more power to you!

xx, Danae

Peach Fuzz: The Most Stylish Items in 2024's Color of the Year

The peach conjures images of freshness, juiciness, and radiance–exactly what I'm embracing for 2024, and Pantone clearly agrees, having named "Peach Fuzz" (13-1023) as the color of the year. As we journey through these early months, it's the ideal moment to invigorate our style with a splash of this warm, lively hue. That's why I'm excited to share with you a handpicked collection of items that capture the essence of this year's chosen Pantone Color: a mix of everyday staples and standout items, all dressed in a warm, vibrant hue that's as comforting as it is chic. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or just looking to add a splash of novelty to your daily routine, these selections are bound to catch your eye. So, take a closer look at these 12 peachy picks and find something to brighten your day!

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1. Minimalist Mug Set

I love the handles on these and the slightly asymmetrical rim. These mugs are adorable, perfect for your daily coffee or tea ritual.

2. Retro Sneakers

Timeless, neutral yet with a lively punch. These Ecco sneakers strike the perfect balance, don’t you think?

3. Classy Ballpoint Pen

Elevate your everyday tasks with this very cool pen from the German brand Pelikan, expressing your style even while you work.

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4. Waterproof Hiking Shoe

In the realm of hiking gear, these Columbia shoes are as stylish as they get, providing solid support for your outdoor adventures.

5. Heavyweight Beanie

Complete your hiking ensemble with this trendy beanie, another gem from Columbia.

6. Kate Spade Sunglasses

These shades are definitely a bold fashion statement that instantly elevates and brightens any outfit.

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7. Roller Skates

Embrace the fun with these eye-catching retro-style skates. And let's bring back those roller rink Fridays!

8. Woven Throw Blanket

Indulge in luxury with this classic-patterned throw by Sferra, renowned for their exquisite Italian linens.

9. Tom Ford Body Spray

Experience "Bitter Peach" by the celebrated designer, available as a body spray, eau de parfum, or candle.

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10. Tea Towel

Add a burst of color to your kitchen with this charming tea towel featuring peach prints, courtesy of Urban Outfitters.

11. Twisted Candle

Infuse some quirkiness into your decor with this candle that dared to be different!

12. Everyday Backpack

I find this peach-toned Fjallraven backpack stunning in its simplicity. There’s a reason these Swedish designs are so popular!

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Can’t get enough of peach? Check out Pantone’s official website, where you can discover their collaborations with brands like Ruggable and Spoonflower, among others, featuring an array of rugs, fabrics, wallpapers, and home decor items–all in shades of peach, of course!

xx, Danae

Exploring Alcove: The Procurement Solution for Interior Designers

Did you know that interior designers may be grappling with a staggering 1,500 emails solely pertaining to procurement for a single project? This statistic, calculated by Greensighter, the UX Design agency behind Alcove, underscores the pressing need for a more efficient and user-friendly solution. Alcove was born from the desire to simplify and optimize the procurement process not only for interior designers but also for builders and purchasing agents. And let’s face it, we’re always keen to find out more about potential solutions to pain points in the workflow. So, here are the main points to know about Alcove:

1. All-in-One Product Information Hub: Alcove centralizes crucial product information, bringing together details, orders, status updates, and communications in one accessible platform, streamlining your design process​​.

2. Financial Management Made Simple: Navigating the financial aspects of design projects is simplified with Alcove. Easily set purchase costs, markup calculations, and resale pricing, alongside accurate tax and shipping estimates, ensuring your projects remain both beautiful and budget-friendly​​.

3. Efficient Order Tracking: Integrated with top shipping companies, Alcove simplifies order management, offering clear insights into payments and balances, and ensuring timely product delivery for seamless client experiences​​.

4. Streamlined Communication: Alcove's Gmail integration declutters your email communication, keeping all project-related discussions neatly organized and easily accessible​​.

5. Web Clipper and Customizable PDFs: Import product details and create bespoke PDFs for sharing with clients and collaborators, enhancing the ease of information exchange​​.

6. Pinterest Integration for Inspiration: Seamlessly sync your Pinterest inspirations directly into Alcove, integrating your creative ideas into the project workflow with ease​​.

As you can see, Alcove actually goes beyond just managing procurement; it's designed to help designers channel more of their creativity and less of their energy into the mundane admin tasks that often occupy far too much space.

While Alcove offers extensive benefits, adapting to its system may require some adjustment. It's a good idea to evaluate its compatibility with your existing practices and consider any necessary team training to harness its full potential.

Curious to try it out? Exploring Alcove's capabilities and seeing how it can transform your interior design business is easy and risk-free. You can schedule a personalized demo to check it out firsthand. Additionally, there's an option to try Alcove for free with a 14-day trial–no credit card details required–allowing you to experience its features without any commitment.

The pricing for Alcove starts at an accessible $39.00 per month, with the cost varying based on the plan's comprehensiveness and the number of user seats needed. This flexible pricing ensures that you can tailor the service to your specific business needs, ensuring value and efficiency.

xx, Danae

Webinar Today! Join Us Live at 1 PM EST / 12 PM CST!

Today is the day! Join us at 1 PM EST / 12 PM CST for an exciting webinar on How to Streamline Your Business and Boost Profits with Studio Designer! Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn valuable tips and tricks from industry experts, including our very own Danae Branson, sharing her expertise on utilizing Elite's virtual design assistants for work in Studio Designer. Click the button below to register to attend - there's still time! Join us live at 1 PM EST / 12 PM CST TODAY, Wednesday, January 10, 2024! Can't wait to see you there!

Don't Miss Tomorrow's Webinar: How to Streamline Your Business and Boost Profits with Studio Designer

Don’t miss tomorrow’s webinar on How to Streamline Your Business and Boost Profits with Studio Designer! Our very own Danae Branson will share invaluable insights on further streamlining and boosting profits by utilizing the professional virtual assistants at Elite Design Assistants in conjunction with Studio Designer, helping to take your business to even greater heights! Join us tomorrow (January 10) at 1 PM EST / 12 PM CST to learn how to streamline your operations and maximize your profits! Register below to secure your spot! See you there!

Registration is OPEN for Upcoming Webinar: How to Streamline Your Business and Boost Profits with Studio Designer!

The wait is finally over! Registration is open for the upcoming webinar “How to Streamline Your Business and Boost Profits!” hosted by Studio Designer! As you know, Elite Design Assistants will be featured, so secure your spot today and get ready to take your business to new heights!

How to Streamline Your Business & Boost Profits with Studio Designer

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! You'll want to save the date for an exciting webinar hosted by @_studiodesigner on January 10, 2024 at 1PM EST: How to Streamline Your Business & Boost Profits with Studio Designer!

This webinar will go over several topics, including:

• Studio Designer: A General Overview

• Benefits of Using an Integrated Project Management System

• NEW Studio Designer Features

• A High-Level Demo of Key Features

• How to Utilize Elite Design Assistants to Work in Studio Designer

And, if you weren't excited before, Elite Design Assistants will be featured! So, remember to mark your calendars and join us for an incredible learning experience. Stay tuned for more details coming your way soon!

Webinar Alert! Elite Design Assistants to be Featured in Upcoming Webinar Hosted by Studio Designer

WE HAVE EXCITING NEWS! @_studiodesigner is hosting an upcoming webinar on: How to Streamline Your Business & Boost Profits with Studio Designer, and Elite Design Assistants will be featured! This webinar is on January 10, 2024, at 1PM EST, so stay tuned for more details and a way to register!

And, here are some of the many topics that will be covered:

• Studio Designer: A General Overview

• Benefits of Using an Integrated Project Management System

• NEW Studio Designer Features

• A High-Level Demo of Key Features

• How to Utilize Elite Design Assistants to Work in Studio Designer

Have Fun With Your Marketing: Interior Design Edition

There is so much noise today – so many brands, social media, and entrepreneurs trying to figure out ways to STAND OUT from the crowd.

I say have FUN with your marketing. Be yourself, attract your ideal client and think outside the box. Live’s short, so here are a few ways to have fun with your marketing.

This post was created using Chat GPT.

In the ever-evolving landscape of marketing, standing out from the crowd is essential. Traditional methods may get the job done, but injecting a dose of creativity and fun into your marketing strategy can elevate your brand and captivate your audience in ways you never thought possible. In this blog post, we'll explore some unique and entertaining ways to make your marketing efforts not only effective but enjoyable for both you and your target audience.

1. Interactive Content:

Break away from static content and engage your audience with interactive experiences. Create quizzes, polls, and surveys that not only provide valuable insights but also entertain and educate. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer interactive features that allow users to participate directly, making your brand a memorable part of their online experience.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peeks:

People love to see what happens behind closed doors. Offer your audience a sneak peek into your office culture, creative processes, or product development. This humanizes your brand, fostering a sense of connection and trust. Use social media stories or live streams to give your audience an exclusive look behind the curtain.

3. User-Generated Content Campaigns:

Turn your customers into your brand ambassadors by encouraging them to create and share content related to your products or services. Host contests or challenges that inspire users to showcase their creativity. This not only provides you with a wealth of authentic content but also builds a community around your brand.

4. Themed Campaigns and Holidays:

Take advantage of special occasions and holidays by incorporating them into your marketing strategy. Create themed campaigns that resonate with your audience's emotions during these times. Whether it's a clever April Fools' prank, a heartwarming Valentine's Day message, or a spooky Halloween promotion, aligning your brand with relevant events can make your marketing more memorable. 

5. Gamification:

Transform mundane tasks into engaging experiences through gamification. Create games or challenges that relate to your products or services. This not only adds an element of fun but also encourages customer interaction. Consider loyalty programs, where customers can earn rewards or discounts by completing challenges or reaching milestones.

6. Interactive Installations:

Break away from the digital realm and create interactive installations in physical spaces. Whether it's a pop-up shop, an art installation, or an experiential event, providing a tangible and immersive experience can leave a lasting impression on your audience.

7. Humorous and Relatable Content:

Everyone loves a good laugh. Inject humor into your content to make it more relatable and shareable. Memes, funny videos, and witty captions can go a long way in capturing your audience's attention and making your brand more approachable.

Marketing doesn't have to be a serious affair. By infusing creativity, interactivity, and a sense of fun into your strategy, you not only capture your audience's attention but also create memorable experiences that set your brand apart. Embrace the unconventional, experiment with new ideas, and watch as your marketing efforts become not just effective but genuinely enjoyable for both your team and your customers.

xx, Danae

Blurred Lines: The Intersection of Interior Design and Fashion

Have you ever found yourself guiding an interior design client unsure of their style by suggesting a peek into their closet? If so, you're well acquainted with the undeniable intersection of fashion and interior design.

Consider design luminaries like Kelly Wearstler, renowned not only for groundbreaking interior design but also for a daring and eclectic fashion sense. The power duo of Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent effortlessly showcase their sleek eye for home decor alongside an equally refined taste in personal fashion.

At this juncture where fashion and interior design converge, it's not merely about blurred lines; the boundaries are practically non-existent. Both these expressive outlets are deeply rooted in an individual's journey, reflecting their life, culture, and unique preferences.

Now, let's explore the ways these two realms overlap:

Shared Principles

Patterns as a Universal Language: Whether adorning a garment or a throw pillow, patterns play a central role in both fashion and interior design.

Color Palettes as Expressive Tools: Both disciplines use color to convey mood, style, and personality, making color a universal language that bridges the gap between fashion and interiors.

Texture and Fabric Selection: Luxurious fabrics in fashion find common ground with upholstery choices in interiors, as the tactile experience is a shared consideration.

Balance and Proportion: Achieving visual harmony through thoughtful placement and proportion is a fundamental principle shared by both fashion and interior design.

Common Influences

Evolving Trends: Trends in color, pattern, and style often emerge simultaneously in both fashion and interior design, creating a dynamic and interconnected creative landscape.

Cultural Influences: Drawing inspiration from cultural motifs, trends, and traditions, fashion and interior design contribute to a global design language that transcends borders.

Adaptation of Historical Styles: Incorporating historical design elements, whether in fashion or interiors, pays homage to timeless aesthetics, creating a bridge between the past and the present.

Influence of Art Movements: Art movements inspire both fashion and interior design, fostering a creative cross-pollination of ideas that brings a unique depth to both disciplines.

Design Houses Navigating Both Realms

It's not just interior designers embracing fashion or vice versa; renowned fashion houses are making their mark in the world of interiors. Iconic names like Gucci, Versace, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Calvin Klein, Hermes, Hugo Boss, Missoni, and more seamlessly navigate both realms, showcasing a synergy between the world of fashion and the domain of interiors.

On the other hand, jewelry brand Bulgari extends its image through a collection of luxury hotels designed by legendary Italian architect and designer Antonio Citterio. Similarly, Armani boasts a design line and sleek hotels in major cities worldwide, while Ralph Lauren extends beyond fashion into a design line and luxury restaurants, such as The Polo Bar in New York City.

Whether we're styling ourselves or our living spaces, the language of design is the best guide, telling a story that's as diverse as we are.

xx, Danae