I honestly don’t remember how I found Shana from The Heirloomist. But I’m so glad I did! Her magic ability to take something that is emotionally special but perhaps not pretty or easy to display and make it into art is truly a zone of genius.

I nicely stalked her Instagram for a bit. And anytime I showed a friend her feed they also became obsessed. Brainstorming what they had that could be memorialized by Shana.

Here’s the back story of my Heirloomist piece…

My husband Greg is possibly the hardest person to get a gift for. For realz. He is a gem of a human and a big old pain in the butt when it comes to finding a gift.

Anyway, a few months ago I found an old notebook of his that contained all the tickets from the Grateful Dead shows he saw in the late 80s. He loves the Grateful Dead. And these mementos were just sitting in a drawer. And my lightbulb went off! This was the perfect gift for him and Shana could help me make it happen.

I’m thrilled to say it was maybe the easiest process, especially creatively, that I’ve ever been through. And the end result is fabulous. I’m so glad to introduce you to a very worthy girl crush, Shana Novak from The Heirloomist!

The Heirloomist is Shana Novak, a commercial still life photographer who turns heirlooms and keepsakes into modern art. Born in Omaha, NE, and having spent over 10 years working in the New York City photography industry, her work is equal parts professional and full of heart. The Heirloomist has appeared in Country Living, Oprah magazine, Rolling Stone, Domino and on CBS This Morning. To date, she has worked with over 1000 families across the country to celebrate their stories through their treasured belongings.

Read on for 5 of Shana’s favorite things!

Peet’s Coffee

Every good Heirloomist image begins with a cup of Peet’s Coffee.

My go-to to get going in the studio every morning. The company is rooted in the American dream. And I love an underdog--they aren't as big as Starbucks...but it is my humble opinion that the coffee is better.

Patagonia

If you know me, you know that I spend 70% of the year in a Patagonia down vest. My favorite time of year = warm enough for flip flops, cold enough for VEST! It's my security blanket. And you can return the old ones to be recycled when you update to a new one. Their environmental activism and commitment to preserving our planet is an inspiration.

Dress For Success

Dress For Success is an organization that arms young women with not only accessible professional clothing, but career counseling and mentorship. I learned about this organization from a group of women I work with. I could not believe anymore in the force that is women supporting other women to achieve greatness.

C.O. Bigelow

C.O. Bigelow a family owned apothecary located in the middle of Greenwich Village founded in 1838. They stock all the latest beauty products but even buying toothpaste there makes me feel glamorous. Mark Twain shopped there. The company is now run by a great grandson of the founder, an amazing visionary for a brand with such heritage-- they now ship products anywhere.

Nili Lotan

Nili Lotan is a fashion designer that does tailoring and military inspired style like nothing I have ever seen. I am never not wearing cargo pants and she's my go-to. And I love supporting a woman who keeps it real and sticks to her roots.