Every Friday I share a quick hit list of 5 things I’m into. They may be wildly outdated or impossibly current. They may be overexposed and well known, or a hidden gem. If there is a product included, it is never sponsored or paid - this is just stuff I like.
1. Epperson Mountaineering
I’m heading out next weekend for my brother’s bachelor party, which kicks off with a 7 mile hike into the Great Smoky Mountains and a two night stay at Mount Leconte Lodge. It’s only accessible via hiking trails - one way in and one way out, on foot.
In preparation for the trip I went on an exhaustive search for the best day pack. Like many things, I want to buy a good one, and I want it to last me the rest of my life. Epperson Mountaineering came recommended by the great Michael Williams. They are beautiful, durable bags, made in the USA.
2. Ghost Blazer
I’m just returning from a trip to Sicily, where a dear friend was getting married. Sicily in August isn’t the ideal temperature, but coming from Charleston, I was up for the challenge to dress well and stay cool.
I took along my Ghost Blazer from Sid Mashburn which served me incredibly well. I love clothes, but I don’t have a lot of them. I only own one suit, and a few jackets that I love, a few of which are inching closer to threadbare. This jacket was an incredible purchase; it’s completely unstructured, so it fits to the body like a great sweatshirt. It’s 2-ply wool is naturally wrinkle resistant, so it makes a great travel blazer. And it’s so light you can see through it when you hold it up to the light, which made it a great companion for warm weather dressing.
3. Piano Bars
Piano bars are having a moment but I’ve loved the form since my first visit to Chateau Marmont many years ago. The hotel lobby was for years under the command of a piano whiz, Jason Pelsey. You haven’t lived until you’ve heard him ramble from Weezer’s “Sweater” into Neil Young’s “Old Man,” capped by the Last of the Mohicans score. He no longer plays at the hotel, but during COVID he added this excellent video reminiscent of his best days:
I’ve enjoyed visiting Bemelman’s over the years, but my recent favorite is the clubby, luxe room of The Nines in downtown NYC. If you’re in the city, it makes for a great date night.
4. Trying new things
Isn’t there something exceptional about trying to learn new things as an adult? I love the frustration that comes with taking up a new hobby and having to deal with the occasional ego-smashing. Being bad at something and not giving up is a really refreshing feeling, and for me it’s a way to reconnect with the wonder and possibility of my childhood.
A few months ago I took up tennis. I had never picked up a racquet in my life, but I had some good friends who were playing and it looked like fun. I love fun that is also potentially good for your health. I’ve enjoyed the feeling of incremental improvements, and the pride that comes with smashing a ball right in the sweet spot. It’s a temporary ego boost, often punctuated by a mistake that reminds you: you're just a beginner.
5. Lampshades
My mom LOVES lamps. Her appreciation for flattering light is perhaps what taught me about coziness, giving me an undercover education in lighting design. I inherited that same love for lamps.
I keep an eye out for lamps at antique stores, flea markets, and online. (1st Dibs, Chairish, and Etsy are great resources.) I like to update my finds with custom lampshades, which is an easy way to create a cohesive vibe around the house.
My favorite vendor is Fenchel Shades, where you can find a variety of “off the rack” shades, or spec your own shape, size and material.
Can't wait to hear how the Lodge is! Thinking of snagging a cancellation this fall in prep for another camino walk
Thanks for taking time to reply and remember! Now to find a cancelation!!