The “detour” might actually be the main road.

I don’t think I’ve ever fully shared this story, but it’s one of those moments that completely changed the trajectory of my life.

After working at an agency, my goal was always to go in-house. I finally landed a role at LendingTree and was so excited — new job, solid salary, back in the Bay, everything felt like it was falling into place.

But if I’m being honest… it felt off from the start. I wasn’t getting much work, I felt underutilized, and I couldn’t really figure out where I fit.

Then about two months in, we got a new CMO… and shortly after that, I got the calendar invite. You know the one.

CMO + HR = never good.

I remember being so nervous, sitting there with my boyfriend (now husband 🥲) visiting from SoCal, just thinking… please don’t let this be what I think it is.

And then it happened. I got laid off.

I was honestly crushed. It felt like I had finally made it out of agency life, and just like that… gone. And to make it worse — it was October. Aka the worst possible time to be job hunting.

But something in me just flipped.

I got LinkedIn Premium by the end of the day LOL and treated finding a job like it was my job. Every day applying, networking, interviewing.

I interviewed at Adobe in two rounds… and didn’t hear back. I had also made it to the final round at Smartly…and got denied. And I had really thought I’d nailed that one.

At that point I was like, okay cool… love this for me 🙃

And then, right before Thanksgiving, I randomly got a call. Adobe. One-year contract role.

Not what I expected… but I took the leap. Well it wasn’t really a leap but you just never know with contract jobs.

And it changed everything.

That one contract turned into a full-time role, a team I love, a career I’m genuinely proud of…and honestly, the life I have now.

I remember thinking “why me?” when I got laid off. But looking back, it redirected me exactly where I was supposed to go.

It’s cheesy, but it’s true — everything really does happen for a reason.

Quick takeaways if you’re in it right now:

I wish I was kidding… I’ve literally been cutting my own hair this entire time 😭

Finally went to Kitty and I’m never going back. We did long layers and it feels SO much lighter, healthier, and just… put together.

Also using the Oribe strengthening + detangling line right now and it’s actually insane.

And I went back to model for extensions sooo stay tuned for those fire pics next week 👀

Light, easy, breezy everything. Less heavy styling, more natural movement — hair that feels soft, touchable, and just falls right.

Healthy, glossy, a little undone in the best way.

Also obsessed with the texturizing spray and hair spray (the black bottles 🙂 !)

I mentioned this last week as a getaway spot, but we actually went for dinner and it was SO good. One of those places that feels like an experience, not just a meal.

Jou Jou’s
This new cozy, intimate spot feels like a hidden gem. Perfect for a slower dinner where you actually want to sit, chat, and enjoy the food.

Tsunami Panhandle
Casual but consistently good. One of those easy go-to spots when you want something reliable but still hits every time. Feels like you’re back in Japan at a local spot.

Goldenette
Super cute, aesthetic, and feels very “day date turned into dinner.” All the funky pink is perfect for a girls brunch! But the boys can enjoy too!

👉 Live list here

The Commerce Inn
Classic, cozy, and feels like stepping into something timeless. Perfect for a slower, more intimate dinner but what I really go here for are the PANCAKES!

Bar Pisellino
One of my favorite NYC stops. Espresso martinis, aperitivo energy, and just the best people-watching.

Schmuck.
A little edgier, very downtown energy. Feels cool without trying too hard — ideal for drinks that turn into a whole night.

👉 Live list here

Seco
Clean, modern, and very LA in the best way. Feels like a spot you go to feel put together and have a really good meal.

Force of Nature
More low-key but cool and has the best views in the summer. Great for when you want something quality-driven without the full scene.

Berenjak
Always a hit. Warm, lively, and perfect for sharing a bunch of plates with friends — one of those meals that turns into a whole night. And the candlelit vibes are very me coded lol.

👉 Live list here

I didn’t think I’d still be this invested but here we are.

Ciara is having a moment and I’m fully here for it - her publisist is clearly working overtime.

Meanwhile, Amanda and West are trying and failing to normalize their relationship.

I’m a Gordon Ramsay girl through and through. All his shows just hit.

Here’s where to watch. 🙂

Specifically mango, strawberry, and pistachio.

They’re greek yogurt bars but taste like actual dessert and I’ve been having one every night.

Here’s where to buy! 🍦