Each month seems to leave behind its own trail of obsessions, so I’m writing about mine in a new monthly Founder Fixations series. Between long conversations with friends that turned into brainstorming sessions, shows I binged a little too quickly, and ideas that kept looping in my head at 2 a.m., this month felt especially full of inspiration. I’ve always believed that what we consume shapes our lifestyle, and lately, I’ve been paying closer attention to the small things I can’t stop returning to. So here’s a look at what I ate, watched, bookmarked, and carried with me throughout May.
What I Ate: Ham El-Waylly's Tahini & Silken Tofu Dip
When I say this dip disappeared almost immediately after I made it, I’m not exaggerating. I couldn’t stop eating it — with crackers, veggies, pita, you name it. I even once caught myself eating it straight off the spoon. It’s everything I needed in a summer dip: light, cold, and deeply satisfying without feeling heavy. The tahini brings freshness while the silken tofu adds a subtle nuttiness. It’s simply addictive, and somehow delicious with absolutely everything.
What I Did: Reformer Pilates
Though this isn’t solely a May fixation (I take a class four times a week), this list wouldn’t be complete without it. Staying consistent with reformer pilates has made me feel stronger and more flexible than ever. I love that it’s both a dynamic and low-impact exercise, so I feel challenged yet grounded. I always leave feeling renewed and energized!
What I Listened To: Radio Cherry Bombe
Getting straight to the point: I’m obsessed. I’ve always been a foodie and longtime follower of all things Cherry Bombe, so after staying caught up on the weekly podcast episodes, I started going back and bingeing any past ones I missed. It’s my favorite thing to listen to in the car, and it lit a fire in me — almost to a fault, because I’ve had “cook, bake, clean” on repeat in my kitchen all month long. One of my latest bakes was the Berry Yogurt Cake from “Dorie's Anytime Cakes” by Dorie Greenspan.
What I Read: “CBK: Carolyn Bessette Kennedy A Life in Fashion” by Sunita Kumar Nair
Carolyn Bessette Kennedy has always been one of my greatest fashion inspirations, so the second this book came out in 2023, I ran to buy it for my coffee table. After watching “Love Story,” though, I just had to crack it open to learn more. I read it front to back, learning all about the nonfiction version of CBK’s world and style. It’s such a visually rich look at her influence on fashion — understated, polished, and timeless.
Where I Shopped: Hollywood Farmer’s Market
The Hollywood Farmers’ Market never fails to bring me to life. It wraps you in the most deliciously pure, refreshing energy the second you arrive. From blankets laid out for children to play tambourine and other instruments together to my favorite egg vendor, the freshest produce, and artisan soaps. For me, my farmers’ market days are self-care. It’s that magical!
What I Watched: “The Gospel According to André” Documentary
After seeing “The Devil Wears Prada 2” in theaters with my sister-in-law, I couldn’t resist going down a fashion journalism rabbit hole. Naturally, the late (and iconic) André Leon Talley came up in my search, inspiring me to watch “The Gospel According to André.” I was blown away. It perfectly captured how groundbreaking his career was — he broke endless barriers at Women’s Wear Daily, W, and Vogue (where he ultimately became a legend). He was truly one-of-a-kind.
What I Wore: Levi’s Wedgie Bootcut Women’s Jeans
As part of my spring cleaning, I tackled one of my twice-annual closet refreshes and pulled out my beloved pair of Levi’s Wedgie Bootcut Jeans. I’ve had them forever, but decided it was time to renew them with a small tweak to make them feel even chicer. I took them to Levi’s (pro tip) to have them shortened a bit — while keeping the original hem — so they’d hit just below the ankle bone. Now they’re perfect with a low heel or a bootie for fall. I love finding ways to breathe new life into pieces I already own and love.
Come back to The Smish on the last Sunday of every month for the latest in our new Founder Fixations series.
