June always feels like a reset button between the longer days, lighter routines, and fresh inspiration around every corner. As a founder, I'm constantly collecting little things that spark creativity, from the meals I can't stop cooking to the music, books, and shows that become part of my daily rituals. This month's Founder Fixations is a snapshot of what I've been loving during the first stretch of summer. Consider it a peek behind the scenes at what fueled me this month.
What I Ate: Summer Dinner Party Meal
One thing I love almost as much as cooking and baking is gathering people around my table. Finding the time to host isn't always easy, but when I do, I don’t cut corners. This month's dinner party was one of those magical summer nights where everything came together beautifully. For light apps, we started with roasted prosciutto-wrapped figs, gourmet olives, and Marcona almonds. The main course was perfectly cooked filet mignon served over a bed of crisp greens sprinkled with toasted pine nuts. I served it with Susan Spungen's twice-baked cheese soufflé and warm Gjusta boule bread for dipping, plus plenty of wine! The showstopper? A homemade Chocolate Cola Cake that brought the evening to a sweet and memorable close.
What I Did: Long Walks With a Close Friend
One of my local besties and I recently swapped our regular long phone calls for long walks together. As much as we love our mobile catch-ups, there’s nothing quite like laughing and yapping face-to-face. It’s a mid-week ritual I always look forward to — a much-needed reset that helps me disconnect, clear my head, and get an extra workout in. Bonus: I get quality time with a friend and the chance to soak in the beauty of the California coastline. That’s a win-win in my book.
What I Listened To: Myles Smith
I’ve been absolutely hooked on Myles Smith’s music lately. He’s a UK artist, and while folk isn’t usually my go-to genre, he blends it seamlessly with indie-pop in a way that really clicks for me. Both the lyrics and melodies are irresistibly catchy, upbeat, and soulful, so they’re perfect for belting out while cruising down the PCH with the windows open. If you haven’t checked him out yet, definitely give him a listen. His sound reminds me a bit of Mumford & Sons, but with a fresh, modern twist.
What I Read: Zariz Cookbook by Adeena Sussman
Yes, before you even ask, I read cookbooks — from front to back. Because like Adeena Sussman, the kitchen is my safe haven, my happy place, it’s where I go to escape and create. So as someone who doesn’t have a whole lot of extra time, these “easy, breezy, Tel Aviv-y” recipes screamed my name. Not just for my heritage’s sake, but because they were made to be delicious and efficient (“Zariz” is a Hebrew word meaning “quick”). Recipes I can enjoy without the time commitment? Sign me up! First up on my must-make list from this book is the Spice-Drawer Schnitzel with Pickle Mayo Sauce.
Where I Shopped: Krigler
I visited the renowned luxury perfume house, Krigler — it’s a cozy little gem at the entrance of the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills. Steeped in glamorous Hollywood history, the space feels both iconic and undeniably seductive, with fragrances created for the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and John F. Kennedy. I ended up spending well over an hour sniffing my way through the collection with the loveliest and most knowledgeable store manager, Mikano. It’s a luxuriously special experience I can’t recommend enough.
What I Watched: “The Four Seasons” on Netflix
As one of Tina Fey’s biggest fans, I was so excited for the latest season of “The Four Seasons.” I wasn’t sure if we’d get another season, which made diving back into the characters and their messy, hilarious, and relatable lives all the more exciting. Each episode gave me something to look forward to after my long days of work. It’s easy to watch, filled with Tina Fey’s signature wit, and all-too-easy to binge. I’m already dying for season 3!
What I Wore: Vintage Belt
Though I’m not much of a vintage connoisseur, I live for my vintage belts. My go-to black leather belt is currently hanging on by a few strands — almost literally, it’s so loved and worn in. I actually have “find a new vintage belt” on my to-do list because I’m ready to discover another one I can wear to near-death. I love how a vintage belt adds a little character to an outfit. It’s an easy way to make anything you wear cooler.
Come back to The Smish on the last Sunday of every month for the latest in our new Founder Fixations series.
