NEW BEGINNINGS: MEET TREVOR STONE, PHOTOGRAPHER
This Northern California photographer decided to leave small town life for a new adventure in the bustle of Los Angeles. We’re sharing his work and his story with you all today.
A SPOTLIGHT ON PHOTOGRAPHER, TREVOR STONE
This Northern California photographer decided to leave small town life for a new adventure in the bustling big city of Los Angeles. We’re sharing his work and his story with you all today.
What’s a typical day look like for you?
Are usually take every day as a new day, so no routines really. I do however start it with a cup of coffee no sugar no milk. The plan is always to try to make myself as happy as I can as much as I can every day.
What keeps you inspired?
The thing that keeps me inspired is knowing that every single person that I or you look up to started somewhere and most likely similar to where you and i started even the people with millions of followers and all the money in the world.
When was the last time you did something for the first time?
About two weeks ago when I moved away from my hometown for the first time and saw Los Angeles for the first time.
What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?
Something most people don’t know about me is that I am a very shy person, I will act like I’m not shy and force myself to not be shy and be more outgoing, but it really used to affect me in a major way, then one day I kind of realized that everyone is a little shy and that helped me a lot.
“Everything has an end, all the good things and all the bad things.”
What would you name this chapter of your life?
Trevor Stone 2.0
Favorite thing about California?
My favorite thing about California is that you have a little bit of everything here. There’s dessert, forest, beaches, city, suburbs, and everything in between.
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling?
Honestly i think in the near future I’m going to have way better memorable traveling moments than this, but the most memorable moment i think I’ve experienced is after moving to LA, i definitely saw it and thought “Wow this place is big!” However what i was referring to was the tall buildings and a small portion of the surrounding area. It wasn’t until i went to visit the Hollywood sign and saw the entirety of Los Angeles and it literally blew my mind at how MASSIVE this place is. I had never seen an area of land that big in that perspective in my life.
What’s one thing you found challenging but eventually overcame?
Honestly, the move to Los Angeles. The plan was to move here with two roommates, they both backed out due to different reasons, i had to interview 3 times for a job transfer, and once i got the job transfer i had a deadline to find a living situation (which i didn’t find till a week that i had to be in LA) through this process i realized that i have a path, everyone has a path, and that we all have this thing in us. Some people call it Instinct, some people call it your gut, some call it your heart. I describe it as my arrow, and as long as I didn’t think about the big picture and just thought about that arrow and where it showed me to go and listened to it, everything ended up working out.
What’s next for you?
So I’ve always been known for photography, which is amazing, but I’ve always been much more fascinated and more passionate about filmmaking and video production, so i feel that my next chapter or step in my life journey is really targeting video production and seeing what i can do in that space.
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Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
NAKED CONVERSATIONS: MEET JESSIE MCCALL, ARTIST & PHOTOGRAPHER
Meet Jessie McCall, a photographer and artist I met while we both were living in Australia. We became fast friends, as we both were creative types originally from California and found ourselves living on the other side of the globe. We spent many days exchanging ideas about love and life, and enjoyed many spontaneous adventures together. Her work, both above and below the water, is truly breathtaking and we knew we had to share with the estCA community.
A SPOTLIGHT ON PHOTOGRAPHER & ARTIST, JESSIE MCCALL.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
I met Jessie while we both were living in Australia. We became fast friends, as we both were creative types originally from California and we found ourselves living on the other side of the world, away from our families and friends, during a time when international borders were closed and many people were struggling. We spent many days exchanging ideas about love and life, and enjoyed many spontaneous adventures together where we got to play with our cameras, both above and below the water. I was instantly drawn to Jessie’s work and how passionate she was about giving people a space to feel empowered in their bodies. I knew I wanted to share her work with the Established California community
“When you’re a photographer interjecting yourself into someone’s orbit you have two options: be a fly on the wall or integrate. I choose to integrate. ”
What’s a typical day look like for you?
Not sure I really know what a typical day looks like. For me typical is anything that lasts longer than a month for me. A piece of my morning routine I can’t live without is my matcha. I have a little routine with collagen powder and matcha and oat milk. No matter where I am or what I’m doing I do my best to have slow mornings to get my bearings.
What keeps you inspired?
Working with new people and constantly trying to change at least one variable in my shoot routine. Sometimes if my go-to variable change isn’t working then I like to travel to somewhere new and shake up my surroundings.
What advice would you give your 16 year old self?
Stop worrying so much about guys - they will notice you in a few years and the thrill of it will never be as great as finding acceptance and love for yourself and all your messy tendencies.
What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?
I’m pretty transparent on my socials, I feel like 95% of my life is available to be public knowledge. I’m tiny, 5’1 - that doesn’t always come through in my photos. Driving in unfamiliar places makes me nervous. I still get anxiety on flights. I was single for 8 years in my 20’s.
Favorite thing about California?
The landscape. The weather. The dry heat in the foothills in the summer. The crystal clear river where I grew up near Tahoe. California is my childhood memory, the environment that raised me. No matter how volatile the fire season gets, I keep coming back for more. Deep down CA will always be my first love. Also my parents still live there so that’s a big part of why I keep coming back for more.
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling?
Dancing to “Love is All” by Tallest Man on Earth on the top of Machu Picchu Mountain with my sister. It was my first time traveling abroad and I was terrified heading into that trip and it ended up being an incredibly formative adventure that would shape my 20’s
A close second is being on tour with Gregory Alan Isakov in Europe in 2018. I’m a big fan of his music so to be in these incredible venues day in and day out listening to the band soundcheck, roaming the streets of Paris or Edinburgh with the guys. Not much tops the intoxicating experience of rolling off a bus in a new city every day with a group of strangers that then become your friends.
What’s one thing you found challenging but eventually overcame?
Moving to Australia was pretty challenging at first. I really didn’t want to leave the US, my community, my family, my cats, my house - but decided to move over to Oz for the summer and to nurture my relationship. Then the pandemic happened and my 5 month plan has turned into a 15+ month plan. But there’s been a lot of trial and adjustment both in finding a happy medium in my relationship and in where we’ve chosen to live in this fine country. First, I started to build a community here, then an online business, then we moved to a climate that I love (versuss the big city hustle). Everything is starting to come together now. People told me it’d take a year but I’ve always been impatient.
Beyond that, the self discovery journey can be pretty challenging at times. I definitely haven’t overcome my demons but I am learning how to live with them and provide them space when they rear up and need attention. I’m moving from denial and shame to a place of comfort and acceptance. The more I lean in to who I am and the more I am okay with my edges, the more they naturally begin to soften.
What’s next for you?
Focusing on developing more question cards for my Naked Conversation card deck. I’m super passionate about this product I created during our last lockdown in Melbourne. I drew all the card front images (78) from photos I have taken with a few additions from some friends. My partner and I were definitely struggling to connect during our saturated time together so I selfishly went to work creating this deck of cards. Once it was complete I realized how much these cards could serve the community around me so I pulled the trigger and went for it. Building a commerce business has been SO much fun, I’m hooked now. It definitely takes a lot of work and I’m learning a lot but ultimately it’s been a really fun .
FOLLOW JESSIE: INSTAGRAM / WEBSITE / EMAIL
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Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
#VANLIFE: MEET CHIARA & MARCO, TWO ITALIANS TRAVELING AUSTRALIA IN THEIR CONVERTED TROOPY
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure.
A note from Editor, Lindsay Vacek:
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. I had rented a 4x4 SUV and converted it into something I could easily camp in while on the road. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure. I became obsessed with spending nights by the campfire, hearing about their journeys and I knew I needed to bring heir stories to all of you.
van•life: a rapidly growing lifestyle where people all over the world are converting vans into rolling homes to explore more, connect with nature and the people who live in small towns, and spend more time on their creative passions while lowering the cost of accommodations on longer road trips.
What’s your name? Chiara (Chiaresse on IG)
Where are you from? Tell us a little about yourself! I’m Italian (My city is Milan 😊) but I’m living and working in Australia since 2018!
I’m 29, I love travel and to do many difference experiences!
What’s a typical day look like for you? Vegetarian breakfast, stretching, sport, lunch in the nature or on the beach, travel and discover new places, read a book or play an instrument, vegetarian dinner and watch a movie or the sky!
When did you first get your home on wheels? In 2019 here in Australia when me and my boyfriend Marco started our first conversion of our previous econovan!
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? All conversion of our troopy was a bit hard and we learned everything on YouTube channel!
My favourite part is the shower! We can take a relax hot shower everywhere! 😊
What’s your favorite part of your home? Our rooftop tent 😍 definitely it’s magic and we can see a lot of amazing sunset, sunrise and lookout!
Where to next? Currently we are travelling all around Australia until August 2021 and then we will decide what’s going on! My dream is to ship our troopy in New Zealand, but if there’s the possibility to stay in Australia we definitely decide to stay here permanently!
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife? Start to think and live in minimalist way! Travel with less is the key to enjoy better the vanlife!
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced living in your van or on the road? Weather condition something aren’t good, so living in van could be very uncomfortable!
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist? The lazy song - Bruno Mars
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling? When we had an amazing 4WD track in the jungle, we were just me and my boyfriend and we had a shower naked in front of the ocean!
How do people find you/connect? (list your social media/website/etc) Chiaresse (Instagram) or Letmetravelmore (Instagram and YouTube)
FOLLOW CHIARA & MARCO: INSTAGRAM / INSTAGRAM / YOUTUBE
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Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
#VANLIFE: MEET KENDALL AND HER CONVERTED VW, VANCE
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure. Today, we are sharing Kendall & her converted van, Vance.
A SPOTLIGHT ON #VANLIFE WITH KENDALL BAGGERLY
A note from the Editor, Lindsay Vacek:
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. I had rented a 4x4 SUV and converted it into something I could easily camp in while on the road. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure. I became obsessed with spending nights by the campfire, hearing about their journeys and I knew I needed to bring their stories to all of you.
van•life: a rapidly growing lifestyle where people all over the world are converting vans into rolling homes to explore more, connect with nature and the people who live in small towns, and spend more time on their creative passions while lowering the cost of accommodations on longer road trips.
What’s your name? Kendall Baggerly
Where are you from? Tell us a little about yourself! I'm originally from San Diego, California. I studied abroad in Sydney in 2015 which is when I met my now boyfriend, Glenn. We did a lot of long distance at the start of our relationship until I officially moved to Australia in 2017, and we've been here ever since! We've spent the last year living in our van Vance travelling the country – hands down the best decision we've ever made.
What’s a typical day look like for you? No two days are the same on the road, but we do like to keep our morning routine the same every day. We wake up with the sun, make a yummy coffee and then plan our day out. Sometimes it's spent exploring new places – hiking, swimming, surfing, rock pool hunting. But other times it's a lot less fun – doing laundry, running errands, going to the mechanics. It's all a big balance but we love it!
When did you first get your home on wheels? We bought our Vance about two years ago initially just as a weekend van to take on trips out of the city. Safe to say we fell in love with the lifestyle and quickly made plans to turn him into a full-time home on wheels.
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? We did our build at a community workshop that had all the tools and space necessary to get the job done. We paid for a month's use of the space, so we worked every single day until it was done in about a month's time! We didn't have any major challenges, but a lot of the time our days were spent problem solving. Working with such a tiny area like a van means every little space matters, so every decision (e.g. how far out to make the bench top, how to maximize underbed storage, etc.) had to be really thought out. It can be really overwhelming but it's also so empowering!
What’s your favorite part of your home? Hands down our favorite part is our pull-out kitchenette that allows us to cook out the side of Vance. It doubles as our pantry storage as well, and we love it! Other than that I'd say our next favorite is our pop-top. Being able to stand up inside the van is a luxury I'll never take for granted.
Where to next? We're planning on heading to Western Australia next and will most likely spend about a year there. After our entire trip is done, we want to also do a trip in Vance to NZ once the borders open. I'd also love to do vanlife over in the states in a few years time. So many places to explore!
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife? Be prepared for things to not go to plan. Between breakdowns, bad weather and good ol' covid, we've had to change our plans a lot more than we thought. But that's okay! The more you're able to go with the flow, the better. This lifestyle is full of ups and downs, and that's all part of the adventure.
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced living in your van or on the road? We had a really bad breakdown at the beginning of our trip, which was a massive headache (and bill!). And right after we got it fixed, we were hit with travel restrictions due to covid and got stuck in a small town for three months. It was a really hard time, but in retrospect it taught us to slow down and never take our time on the road for granted. There's always a silver lining!
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist? You can never go wrong with a little Bohemian Rhapsody! We always add that song to our road trip playlists for a little mood booster. Aside from that, we're big fans of Rufus, Ziggy Alberts and Crooked Colours :)
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling? We recently travelled to Streaky Bay on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia with some friends. One afternoon we went exploring to a hidden beach to escape the crowds, and as soon as we got onto the beach we were greeted with around 30 dolphins that came near the shore. We all went running in to swim with them and instead of swimming away, the dolphins stayed around and hung out with us for a bit. It was one of the most magical experiences getting to see so many of them in their natural habitat, playing in the waters with us. We were all completely speechless. Definitely a moment that we'll forever cherish!
How do people find you/connect? (list your social media/website/etc) My Instagram is @kendallbaggerly and we're also on YouTube under Kendall and Glenn, which is where we share a little more in-depth content of our travels around Aus, including that memorable dolphin swim! :)
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Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
SUN-KISSED & SALTY: MEET SARAH OF SALTY LUXE
Meet Sarah. the salty soul behind Salty Luxe, a tropical, luxury travel blog and brand. You may have seen her insanely stunning photos on social media and if you’ve been lucky, you also have watched some of her stories and videos which showcase how truly genuine and kind she is. This hard-working and good vibe creative radiates warmth and support in the creative world - and through documenting her journey, she also shares the many milestones, dedication and perseverance it took to build her own dream life.
A SPOTLIGHT ON THE WANDERLUST BEAUTY BEHIND SALTY LUXE.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
Meet Sarah. the salty soul behind Salty Luxe, a tropical, luxury travel blog and brand. You may have seen her insanely stunning photos on social media and if you’ve been lucky, you also have watched some of her stories and videos which showcase how truly genuine and kind she is. This hard-working and good vibe creative radiates warmth and support in the creative world - and through documenting her journey, she also shares the many milestones, dedication and perseverance it took to build her own dream life.
I was lucky enough to be able to chat with Sarah and talk about life, travel and what keeps her inspired. And to make it even more exciting, she just launched her sustainable swimwear line (available at the Salty Luxe store). All pieces are handmade from sustainable materials, with adjustable straps for the perfect fit & luxe fabrics to make sure that you feel like the queen you are. Also, with every bikini purchase, they donate to worldwide ocean conservation.
FOLLOW SARAH / SALTY LUXE: INSTAGRAM / WEBSITE
“The more time I spend in the sun & salt, the more my tank is filled & the more creative I feel I can be. For me the ocean is symbolic of pure freedom ~ you just can't be stressed floating in the sea!” - Sarah
What’s a typical day look like for you?
It depends if we are working at home or away. When we are at home we’re working on our blogs, editing, designing & working on our sustainable label and store, etc.
A typical day on location is all systems go and we are very much in a content creation headspace. We’d be up for sunrise to shoot still and video content, followed by breakfast and a post to the ‘gram. We then try to get back to as many DM’s as possible and answer emails. Then we shoot underwater during highlight and overhead drone content. In the afternoon, we relax a little and prep the post for the following day. We’ll finish with an early evening shoot and then do it all again!
What keeps you inspired?
Definitely the ocean. The more time I spend in the sun & salt, the more my tank is filled and the more creative I feel I can be. For me, the ocean is symbolic of pure freedom ~ you just can’t be stressed floating in the sea!
What advice would you give your 16 year old self?
Be yourself, my beautiful friends. The world needs what you’ve got. YOU are ENOUGH. Nourish yourself with good food. Family is everything. Travel makes the world small and makes you realize we’re all human. Love your booty! Being young is the most incredible thing in the world, don’t take it for granted. One day you’ll find someone that makes you realize why all the others didn’t work out. Anything you want is possible, you just have to work for it. Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. Be fierce and full of fire. We have one life, live it your way.
What song(s) is a “must” for a road trip playlist?
Anything by Ziggy Alberts (a Byron Bay local), Maggie Rogers, Donovan Woods + anything 70’s!
What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?
I hate flying. I’m pretty sure I have a phobia and every time I fly, I suffer from anxiety. I thought it would go away with huge hours in the sky, but it hasn’t.
Favorite thing about California?
It’s got a lot of collective similarities to our hometown of Byron Bay. Everything from the relaxed surf culture, artistic energy, natural beauty & chilled out vibe, it’s perfectly aligned to what enlivens us most. I love it!
Best thing you ever ate and where?
50c tacos from a hole-in-the-wall taqueria while lost somewhere in Mexico.
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling?
So many honestly. One of my most joyful travel memories is definitely living with a hill tribe in Burma, working as a volunteer on an elephant conservation project. I did this solo when I was in my early 20’s and it was life changing. Besides that, sleeping in shacks on remote islands in French Polynesia, diving and interacting with whales, swimming with sharks for the first time, those incredible conversations you get into with strangers that become life-long friends instantly, traveling in a van through California, backpacking Central America for 6 months, and exploring remote areas of Australia (just to name a few!!)
This or That? with @SaltyLuxe
What’s next for you?
We have just launching sustainable fine art prints (all made to order to minimize wastage) of our most precious captures of the last few years of travel. We also just launched our SUSTAINABLE SWIMWEAR!
CLICK THE IMAGE BELOW TO SHOP THE SALTY LUXE STORE
“The Mills” White Bandeau Top and Bottoms
“The Winnie” Pink Top and Bottom
“The Dani” Leopard One-Piece
“The Byron” Retro Top and Bottom
COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS! WANT TO SHOW US SOMETHING OR SOMEONE? TAG US ON INSTAGRAM OR USE #ESTCALIFORNIA TO SHARE.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
MEET BECCA KUFRIN: Host, Entrepreneur and LA's Newest City Girl
Former “Bachelorette” Becca Kufrin is hanging with us all month long as she shares what life has been like for her since COVID hit and why she decided to move West to become an official Angeleno. You can say she’s on a new journey for love.. the California kind.
MEET BECCA, OUR GUEST EDITOR THIS MONTH!
Former “Bachelorette” Becca Kufrin is hanging with us all month long as she shares what life has been like for her since COVID hit and why she decided to move West to become an official Angeleno. You can say she’s on a new journey for love.. the California kind.
LETTER TO THE READERS:
Hey, all you Est. California Readers!
I’m Becca, but you probably know me best as the Bachelorette (very very former, washed-up Bachelorette, I might add). I’m sure you’re wondering why I’m writing on this site in the first place, considering I’m a mid-west native who spent 28 years in good old, and cold, Minnesota. Well, after wrapping the show 2+ years ago, I decided to make the big move West and call California “my home”.
During that time I fell in love, moved in with my partner near San Diego, got a dog, started a loungewear line, co-hosted a touring theater show across the country, also co-hosted a Bachelor-related podcast, traveled the world, and was constantly on the go, go, go until BAM! COVID hit and shut down the world… thus also shutting down much of the way I was making an income. It forced me to take some time to chill and really reflect on all of my life changes over the past couple years and how truly upside down my life had become.
Since my time in quarantine (Q-time as I like to call it), I ended the above said relationship, stopped touring in the theaters, was forced to podcast from home, and do everything else, basically from the confines of my small apartment. Just when my life started to feel like it was on the verge of falling apart, I went back to Minnesota to take some “me” time, but couldn’t figure out what that really looked like. I dabbled in the idea of settling back down there, maybe buy a home with some land and really put down roots in the midwest, but that didn’t feel right. I’ve always loved California and if you ask me I’ll swear on the Bible that I was originally born in the wrong state, so I knew in my bones that I had to get back out to the west coast.
When I started filming on The Bachelor back in 2017, LA always called to me. Maybe chalk it up to the vibrancy that the city has to offer, the fact that you can drive within an hour or two and be near the ocean, mountains, or vineyards, or that something unique is always happening in any one of the diverse neighborhoods. LA just felt like “me.” So, during a very last-minute FaceTime session with my producer-turned-friend, we threw around the idea of me moving out there alone without any furniture, and within 24 hours I had signed a lease and became an official Angeleno. Only three weeks in and it’s the best sporadic decision I think I’ve ever made.
So here I am, pouring out my heart to you all and truly experiencing all that this city has to offer through virgin eyes. So who’s along for the ride with me?
LET’S GET TO KNOW BECCA..
What song(s) is a “must” for a road trip playlist? Gypsy by Fleetwood Mac and Atlantic City by The Band
If I had a superpower, it would be… to teleport to places
Favorite thing about California? The warmth and sunshine - basically the fact that you can be outdoors at almost anytime of the year and find any sort of activity imaginable
Best thing you ever ate and where? Lomo Saltado in Peru or homemade soups (every kind!) in Paris
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling? Oh man, this is hard to narrow down, but one of the most fun and meaningful memories made was when I was filming in the Maldives for the Bachelorette. It was the final week of my season and I was down to my two, remaining men that I was falling in love with. The anxiety and pressure that I felt during that time was astronomical because I knew some major, life-altering decisions were about to be made, but we had one semi-chill day before the last dates began. I was with my team of producers and the camera & audio crew (who I formed some really special friendships with) and we were filming some b-roll shots throughout the afternoon. We wrapped early, and instead of parting ways to go to our individual cabanas, we all decided to pop some champagne, play some good music, order room service and jump into the pool in our clothes (the same pool that apparently the Duke & Duchess of Cambridge had shared - NBD!) As we all watched one of the most breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean, it was a moment that I knew I had to savor and would never forget. Moments like that with the crew isn’t typically “allowed” as we don’t get to spend much time outside of working hours together, but after a long season of filming, many tears shed over breakups, and emotions constantly being shared in a dark, confined room, it was a time that we all recognized how much we cared and valued one another on this crazy, shared experience. Shout out to Sam, Caitlin, Ally, Martin, Christina and Dave-O for making it one helluva ride!
What’s next for you? Besides dabbling in a random array of business endeavors like co-hosting the Bachelor Happy Hour Podcast and Bachelor Live on Stage, and working on a loungewear line called B the Label, I’m also in the initial stages of launching something real special soon! More to come on that so follow me on social (see below ;)
CONNECT + FOLLOW.
Instagram: @bkoof
Twitter: @thebkoof
Facebook: beccakufrin1
TikTok (though I’m still trying to figure out the hype of it all): @thebkoof
HAVE SOMETHING TO ASK OUR GUEST EDITOR? COMMENT BELOW!
MEET JASON GRANT: STYLIST, DESIGNER AND AUTHOR
I met Jason (and his adorable Boston Terrier, Sophia) on a beautiful Saturday morning in Byron Bay, Australia. After being a fan, and following his work for many months, I was excited for the opportunity to meet IRL for coffee and talk all things design and career. After chatting for an hour and joking about making our own podcast one day, I knew Jason was someone that you all needed to meet too.
Jason Grant and pup, Sophia, in vintage van in Byron Bay, Australia
I met Jason (and his adorable Boston Terrier, Sophia) on a beautiful Saturday morning in Byron Bay, Australia. After being a fan, and following his work for many months, I was excited for the opportunity to meet IRL for coffee and talk all things design and career. After chatting for an hour and joking about making our own podcast one day, I knew Jason was someone that you all needed to meet too.
One of the many things I love about Jason is how multi-faceted he is. He’s not afraid of a challenge. to have his hands in a little bit of everything. In a world that is constantly telling you to focus on one or two things, Jason is breaking barriers and becoming a master of them all. Not only that, his laid back and good vibes make it easy for him to become one of those instant friends - right from the moment you meet.
FOLLOW JASON: INSTAGRAM / WEBSITE / PINTEREST
“Style comes from within and with confidence. The best way to learn is by doing, comparison is never a good headspace and try to not limit yourself.” - Jason Grant
Photo from Jason Grant @mrjasongrant
What’s a typical day look like for you? No one day is ever really the same but lucky I love variety.
What keeps you inspired? I’m always inspired by nature. The bush, the beach and the ocean. We are spoiled here in Australia.. the light here is magic. I love to learn and I’m always researching something. I’m also always inspired by creators and artists, often friends, who make things with their hands.
What is your style philosophy? Style comes from within and with confidence. The best way to learn is by doing. Comparison is never a good headspace. Try to not limit yourself.
What song is a “must” for a road trip playlist? “70s Roadtrip” on Spotify is the best! Generally, fun upbeat music is my vibe but I often don’t like being the DJ (in charge of the music) because I love listening to other people’s music.
What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you? I was born in Launceston (Tasmania) and grew up in Melbourne, but my career “blew up” when I lived in Bondi Beach in Sydney.
Favorite thing to do when you visit California? I love LA (and Palm Springs too!)
I have always felt at home in LA; the people, the vibe, the energy.. and I really love an America accent. It’s one of my most favourite places to visit and I have thought long and hard about living there one day (hoping my future husband-to-be will be from there maybe)
When in town I love to visit friends (I have a heap of local friends and also ex pat Aussies living in LA), go for a hike - I love the view from Griffith observatory. Of course, a little shopping (mostly vintage)
I also love the many different types of architecture in Los Angeles. I love walking the streets in certain neighbourhoods and looking at the buildings (I do this where ever I go).
This or That? with @MrJasonGrant
What’s next for you? I have a few things happening this year 10 new paint colours to my signature paint collection with Murobond Paints, some new additions to my encaustic tile collection with Dilorenzo Tiles plus 2 exciting projects that I can’t say just yet.
FOLLOW JASON: INSTAGRAM / WEBSITE / PINTEREST
Some of Jason’s favorite things - Photo from @mrjasongrant
Tablescape by Jason Grant - Photo by @MrJasonGrant
COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS! WANT TO SHOW US SOMETHING OR SOMEONE? TAG US ON INSTAGRAM OR USE #ESTCALIFORNIA TO SHARE.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
#VANLIFE: THE MOST ADORABLE FAMILY & LLOYD, A CONVERTED BUS TURNED HOME-ON-WHEELS
We have a treat for you today! This #vanlife share is sure to make you smile and fill you will vanlife #goals. Marte and her husband, Jed, purchased their bus (Lloyd) two and a half years ago and took 18 months to renovate it into their dream home-on-wheels. They sold everything and hit the road with their two children, Ellida and Embla, and now spend their days making memories that will last forever.
A SPOTLIGHT ON #VANLIFE WITH MARTE + JED
We have a treat for you today! This #vanlife share is sure to make you smile and fill you will vanlife #goals. Marte and her husband, Jed, purchased their bus (Lloyd) two and a half years ago and took 18 months to renovate it into their dream home-on-wheels. They sold everything and hit the road with their two children, Ellida and Embla, and now spend their days making memories that will last forever.
“Don’t wait for a life changing event to change your life”. - Jed
What’s your name? My name is Marte and my husband is Jed, we have Ellida 4 years old and Embla 2 years old.
Where are you from? Tell us a little about yourself! I am originally from Norway but I moved to Australia 11 years ago. I met Jed back home in Norway and when his visa ran out I decided to come to Australia with him for a year and here we are a decade later. We are now married with kids and living a life we dreamt up, travelling the country and spending everyday together.
What’s a typical day look like for you? A typical day for us would be a hard thing to describe as we are always somewhere new and our flow adapts to each new place. Generally we like to park up near beaches and stay places that are warm. In Australia we are pretty lucky to have places that are warm all year around. So a most typical day would involve some time for Jed to surf in the morning, followed by some time for me to do my Yoga Practice and then we would go to the beach or if I am doing some work Jed will take the girls for a play somewhere.
The bus is really affected by the outside temp so it still gets cold in the evenings. That’s when you’ll find us snuggled up at home, cooking dinner and lighting the fireplace.
When did you first get your home on wheels? We bought Lloyd the bus 2.5 years ago when we just had Embla our second daughter, but it took us 18 months to convert it into a house on wheels so we are nearly up to a year living on the road now.
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? It was the hardest thing we have ever done. We just had our second baby and Jed was working full time as well as fitting out the bus. We didn’t expect it to take so long but we learnt a few life lessons along the way. Having said that it was the best thing we have ever done for our family! We have to pinch ourselves sometimes that we are actually living this life now after all that hard work.
What’s your favorite part of your home? That it moves! And that it feels different and fresh at every new location. We also definitely love the little bath we put in for the girls. They use it every night and its always nice to have some solid routines and comforts for the girls when we travel so much. But my absolute favourite part must be our windows and the ever changing views they provide.
Where to next? Right now we are just hanging in Byron Bay for a couple of months and from there we have no plans. We never really do. It seems life takes us to where we are meant to be at the moment and we feel comfortable trusting that. Once the boarders open to Queensland I can see us moving closer to the tropics for a little while but we are open to anything.
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife? My husband always says “Don’t wait for a life changing event to change your life”.
We sold everything we owned, cars, house, stuff and built our home from scratch. Jed left a well paying full time job. We took the risks and made the commitment. It might feel scary to begin with but it will be well worth it. Don’t wait for something awful to happen to push you into that decision. You deserve to live your dream life no matter what your current life is like. Make the leap.
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced living in your van or on the road? When the lock down happened we were travelling Tasmania and because we were no longer allowed to travel in our motor home we isolated ourselves with 3 other bus families on an amazing property at the far south of Tasmania. It was an experience for life and beautiful friendships and memories were formed but it was also incredibly hard. It was very remote and we didn’t have access to water. The weather turned when we were there also so it got very cold and our solar didn’t charge well. The uncertainty of what was happening with restrictions and no contingencies being made for people who live full time on the road was straining for a while. But then life guided us up to a sunny property in NSW and we were lucky enough to spend the rest of lock down there.
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist? A song that means a lot to us and resonates with our life philosophy is ‘Society’ by Eddie Vedder and if you haven’t seen the movie in which this soundtrack is from I highly recommend it. Into the Wild.
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling? There are so many but one of my favourites are from the beginning of our journey and it is so simple yet one of my favourite memories. We had just pulled over to a free camp right by the ocean after spending a few weeks in a warm beachy place on the West coast of Australia. The weather turned and it got really cold all of a sudden while I was cooking dinner outside. It was super late so we really just wanted to get dinner done and put the kids to bed but nothing was working out. Then we decided to just embrace the chaos so we lit the fire for the first time in weeks and set up a pretend Italian restaurant inside. We played Italian music, ate spaghetti by the fire and watched the storm roll in over the ocean. Sometimes life is really just what you make it.
How do people find you/connect? I share a lot about our life and travels on my instagram @runningwld_mama and my husband does to @wander_jah_buslife
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Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
#VANLIFE: MEET CHARLOTTE, of @headoverhealing
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure.
A note from staff contributor, Lindsay Vacek:
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. I had rented a 4x4 SUV and converted it into something I could easily camp in while on the road. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure. I became obsessed with spending nights by the campfire, hearing about their journeys and I knew I needed to bring heir stories to all of you.
van•life: a rapidly growing lifestyle where people all over the world are converting vans into rolling homes to explore more, connect with nature and the people who live in small towns, and spend more time on their creative passions while lowering the cost of accommodations on longer road trips.
What’s your name? Hi I’m Charlotte
How old are you? 29
What’s your occupation? I work in Financial Crime. My job has always been pretty niche but one that’s attracting a lot of attention at the moment in large financial institutions. I spent the last 6 years working in large corporations within various anti-money laundering teams to help protect clients and businesses from fraud, bribery, corruption, money laundering and terrorism financing.
I also do a little bit of blogging / collaborations with brands as a little side hustle.
Where are you from? I’m from England. I grew up in a little surf town in Cornwall. I then moved to a city called Bristol to study a Law. Once I finished University, I moved to London for five years.
I then moved over to Australia about 1.5yrs ago and loving every minute of it!
When did you first get your home on wheels? We bought our van a little over a year ago. How we came about buying the van is a story that I’ll never forget! I’d been talking about buying one to use at weekend for surf trips to my partner Harry for a very long time. I'd given up talking about it, then one day - out the blue, I came home to find our little van sitting in our driveway! He’d completely surprised me by finding one and bringing it home. It was the sweetest surprise - I cried happy tears for hours haha.
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? We actually bought our van fully renovated. It came with everything so we could literally take it on a road trip the next day, however we’ve had to update a few things along the way and it’s had a little mechanical makeover during the time we've had it. We’re actually contemplating upgrading to a slightly bigger one soon that we can build one out ourselves. My partner Harry is 6ft3 and he's just a tad too long for ours when lying in bed haha (although he never complained having to put his feet in a cupboard every night when we lived on the road for 3 months).
What’s your favorite part of your home? I love the bamboo ceiling which runs through the whole van and I love, love our little cooker that pulls out from the boot. Cooking out the back whilst watching the sunset over the ocean is the best feeling in the world.
Where to next?I We’re back in Sydney for the time being, working and being around friends which feels nice. We are planning to do another big trip along the West Coast at some point in the van. Perhaps for a 6 months - 1 year next time.
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife? Van life is my absolute favourite way of living however it isn't always (if at all) the most glamorous way to live. Sometimes there's limited access to amenities (showers, toilets etc.) and it can get very hot or cold inside the van depending on the seasons. So I'd recommend hiring a van first and doing a trip for a week or so to see if you enjoy the lifestyle before fully committing.
I'd also recommend:
Downloading camping apps such a Camperman and Wikicamps to find free camp spots.
Chatting to locals to find out the best, hidden places to explore.
Investing in a bug / fly net for the doors and windows - those mozzies are little buggers!
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced living in your van or on the road? You’re obviously living in such a tiny space for a long period of time with another person, therefore it's super important to be mindful of whoever you are travelling with. Van life can really intensify feelings and it can take some time to adjust but once you get into the flow of the slow life - it's truly the best feeling ever!
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist? Oh we have so many (we’ve done some very, very long drives and created very, very long playlists) but my favs at the moment are:
How do people find you/connect? (social media/website/etc) Either through social media or in person! We’ve connected with so many others living the vanlife on our journey and made some very lovely friends, whether it’s via social media or camping next to them!
FOLLOW CHARLOTTE: INSTAGRAM / WEBSITE / FACEBOOK
WOULD YOU EVER WANT TO LIVE IN A VAN OR TINY HOME? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS AND BE SURE TO SHARE THIS WITH ALL YOUR ADVENTURE-SEEKING FRIENDS.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
MEET KATHLEEN BARNES, Creator & Fashion Blogger at CARRIE BRADSHAW LIED
Everything about Kathleen Barnes at Carrie Bradshaw Lied is on trend which is what makes her perfect for On Trend Tuesday!! Prepare to girl crush, hard.....
Photography by: Christian Barnes
I know, I know On Trend Tuesdays is suppose to be where we discuss a great item for your closet that is super trendy. But what do you want from me?! How am I suppose to choose when everything from Kathleen Barnes at Carrie Bradshaw Lied is on trend!! I can't pick one thing... There's too much to choose from. Listen, I love me a good fashion & lifestyle blog, but when it focuses on timeless, trendy and affordable fashion pieces, done! You've got me, hook line and sinker. I've been a fan of CBL for awhile now and I thought I needed to profess my love for all to hear. And of course, learn a thing or two in the process from the fashion guru herself. Prepare to girl crush, hard.....
A transplant from Mississippi, Kathleen lives in Southern California with her husband, Christian, adorable pooch Bailey and kitty Lula LaShonda (yes you read that right). Carrie Bradshaw Lied started five years ago after Kathleen graduated college (a proud Ole Miss alum) and realized post-grad life was not all what Carrie Bradshaw promised it to be. It inspired her to create a place where she could share a peak into her own life, never thinking more than 20 people would read it. And here she is, five years later, dishing out all kinds of fashion goodness and lifestyle tips to the everyday gal. Now, on her site you can find all kinds of great content; but what got me first hooked on Kathleen's blog, was her fashion. Effortless, timeless, trendy, fashionable and more importantly, affordable.
Of course I took the opportunity to fire off a couple questions at Kathleen as I was curious to know a bit more about the gal behind the blog. And what I discovered was exactly what I expected. She's an everyday kinda chick; funny, charismatic, driven with a soft side. You can commonly find her gushing about her husband on her site (I can't say I blame her) or her animal babies, but she was quick to point out the other people in her life who help shape her. For instance, her three year old niece Edie who has a genetic disease that has left her severely handicapped. She beams that her niece has "changed the way I love and the way I view parenthood. I love that baby girl so much it hurts!"
Kathleen's blog is so much more than fashion. Despite working her regular "day job" she makes time for CBL because she is passionate about it and as a result, her blog comes from a place of loving what she does. She encourages anyone looking to start a blog to be sure they too are doing it from a place of love, inspiration and a desire to share with others.
She has learned lots about herself in her twenties, in becoming a wife and starting Carrie Bradshaw Lied. Advice she could easily give her 16 year old self, "Everything doesn't always work out perfectly according to your plan...and that ok. Dream big and don't let the bump along the way cloud your vision." She inspires her readers to reach a place of self acceptance and she does so by leading by example. She isn't afraid to put herself out there, in fact she credits this as her favorite quality about herself. In her words, "In order to achieve great things you have to be willing to fail, and failing is Ok." She references her favorite quote:
“A winner is just a loser who tried one more time.”
But see CBL keeps on winning for me. Maybe its her witty humor or relatability, I can't put the nail on the head. Let's be honest, its probably those impeccable fashion choices. Which once again brings me back to the fashion. I mean, it's more than fashion, it's self expression! Lets talk about it, shall we?!
Favorite look you have created?
Oh goodness – I don’t know if I can name just one! I would say my favorite looks are the ones where I felt most confident because I look comfortable and happy. That being said, I’m always confident in a midi skirt and sky-high stilettos. I’ve had several midi skirts on the blog in the past year – I’m addicted.
What does fashion mean to you?
It’s such an enormous way to express who you are. I think I show my personality in the way that I dress – loud, playful, (usually) put together with an occasional touch of sparkle.
What keeps you inspired?
Playing in my own closet and trying to create new outfits using pieces I already own. I’ve always felt maximizing your closet is key.
What should readers know about you?
That I don’t take myself too seriously… and Carrie Bradshaw Lied is all about having some fun and taking affordable fashion risks while curating your closet with timeless staples. Join the party, guys!
FOR MORE KATHLEEN VISIT
CARRIE BRADSHAW LIED
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Contributed by estCA staff, Megan Araujo
EST. SPOTLIGHT: DESIGNER, RYAN WHITE
On the rise tastemaker, Ryan White has swiftly made a lasting statement in the world of interiors. With just a couple of interior design years under his belt, Ryan continues to wow us with his sophisticated interiors and career success.
On the rise tastemaker, Ryan White has swiftly made a lasting statement in the world of interiors. With just a couple of interior design years under his belt, Ryan continues to wow with his sophisticated interiors and career success. An already noteworthy designer amongst publication giants such as Elle Décor, House Beautiful, and Traditional Home, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to meet such a talent in person. Coffee at Alfred in West Hollywood posed to be the perfect place to get an intimate account of how it feels to be designer, Ryan White.
What started as a departure from New York and a successful career in fashion as a Ford Model, Ryan relocated to Los Angeles to move in with his partner and pursue a career in acting. After a few months of living in LA and temporarily landing in a West Hollywood zip code, Ryan did not anticipate that in designing their “in-between” residence, he would not only unveil his natural talent, but true passion for interiors and design. “I knew midway through my home project, this was something I was meant to do,” Ryan says. The good thing was that, “I have close designer friends back in New York, so this world did not feel foreign.”
After completing the residence, confirmation soon came that he was on the right path. While entertaining friends at home, a couple fell in love with his design work. Work Ryan describes as “cultivated.” An aesthetic that is not existent of a specific time or place. Rather, “a well traveled space” that marries texture to new, vintage and one of a kind elements resulting in a clean, luxe and comfortable space. With this couple’s recently purchased exclusive beach home in Malibu, and desire for their space to have similar reflection, Ryan landed his first major design project and what he considers his first career break. “I was given full creative control and it was my first big project…I completely immersed myself in it,” he explains.
Continuing this past year with the same mentality of “total immersion” in his work, Ryan has become a highly sought designer. Recognized for his “keen sense of style and fashion sensibility,” he attributes this to his years spent in fashion, travels around the world and style icons James Dean and Cary Grant.
Now, not only a successful designer, but owner of his own firm, Ryan is feeling “Grateful. But overwhelmed,” in the most recent mentions of his name said amongst the likes of Nate Berkus and Kelly Wearstler as the next young emerging talent of this industry. At only 30 years old, he is prepared to keep working hard at evolving his brand. With a recent reality design pilot shot for TV, he is feeling confident this will be a phase where he can share all of his creative talents. The only difference is he says, “my thirties are for finding balance.”
Photography by: Stephen Busken
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Megan Araujo is an entertainment professional with over 10 years of experience on stage, in front of the camera and behind the scenes. A graduate of San Jose State University, Megan earned her degree in Creative Arts before moving to Los Angeles.
This Northern California native is daughter to a professional crafter and party planner, so design and event production has always been second nature to her. It's no surprise that she wants to be wherever the good times roll (with gold glitter on hand, of course!)
EST. SPOTLIGHT: Madi Diaz
One of our favorite artists this winter is Madi Diaz. This indie pop singer has had quite the fall. She released her new album, Phantom, in late September (it also premiered on KCRW the week of release), toured the country with X Ambassadors, Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. and Echosmith.
Photography by Lindsay Vacek
One of our favorite artists this winter is Madi Diaz. This indie pop singer has had quite the fall. She released her new album, Phantom, in late September (it also premiered on KCRW the week of release), toured the country with X Ambassadors, Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. and Echosmith.
“One of my favorite feelings is the sense I get from pouring over parts of my past before lighting them up and leaving it all behind me to start over again.” Madi Diaz
Madi Diaz packed up her Nashville home and drove across the country to L.A. “It took five days to drive to Los Angeles by myself. I listened to Abbey Road for six hours at a time, and watched the desert open up before me again and again. I saw the sun set and rise at the Grand Canyon, and I sang out over the cliffs, picked up tumble weeds along the way and threw them in the back of my car. When I got the Pacific, I just ran straight into ocean.”
After much time on the endless road, three tiny apartments, and one big heartbreak, she buckled down in LA, pushing for something true to herself and who she wanted to be. The result is Phantom, an open-faced and undeniably honest chronicle of falling down, getting back up, and heading to the horizon.
While headlining a show at the iconic and historic, Troubadour, we were able to catch up with this awesome gal and chat more about her life in LA.
How did you end up in California?
I was born in Connecticut. I lived in Pennsylvania. I went to school in Boston. I lived in Nashville and then I moved to California. Never New York though. New York is a "one day" -- far in the distance.
How long have you been here now?
I've been here for a couple years now. It'll be my 3 year anniversary is coming up. Not sure how we'll celebrate though! Maybe go on a nice long walk.
What's your version of a "Golden State of Mind"?
The thing i love about living here most is the open air.. which I know is kind of funny because for the pollution and such. I feel really fortunate coming back from a lot of travel and a lot of road and wear-and-tear and being able to outside and in the elements. LA is the most amazing city to be in because it allows you such a great quick escape option. I mean it's 30-45 minutes to the mountains or the ocean or the desert. That keeps me in my state of mind.
Do you have a favorite place to write?
Not really. I like going up on my roof a lot. I bring a blanket and my guitar up there. I write a lot in my apartment. My apartment gets a lot of really great light and it faces west, so I can see the sunset from there which is amazing thing - those LA sunsets. There's also something so amazing about the sunset evening light out there than other cities.
What keeps you inspired?
A little bit of everything! It changes. It's never the same and it never stops surprising me.
Favorite Brunch spot?
I've been really into Sqirl recently. That's a great place.
If you could have a perfect Saturday, what would it include?
Well, I can't usually sleep past 8-9 o'clock. I love going for nice long runs so that would probably be the first thing I would do. I like to try and get lost a bit, which is getting harder since I've been here for a little bit, but it still happens. I would want to surrender expectations and ideas and plans and be whisked away. Maybe camping? That'd be a pretty perfect Saturday. I still haven't done a bonfire on the beach - that's definitely on the checklist.
What was it like to have a song on ABC's hit show, "Nashville"?
I don't have a TV (haha) ! I found out in kind of a round-about way. My friend Sarah Siskin, who I wrote the song with, told me that it was on the show and I kind-of had to YouTube it to watch it. The thing I loved the most was that the characters do a "Writers in the Round" type thing - and Connie Britton, who is my famous TV Mom crush, and Charles Esten, sang the song - I loved seeing them on the stage and introducing the song.
You have a new album out - and you just got back from touring for it - do you have a favorite song on it?
No. haha. You have to love the whole thing.
Do you have a preference playing festival type shows or smaller, more intimate settings?
I really love playing old theaters the most. They are just beautiful and haunted and all just sound super different. Those are my favorites.
Did you have a venue while you were on this last tour that stood out to you most?
Actually, the Tower Theatre downtown is a beautiful and old LA venue. I think we were sound-checking and a piece of the theatre fell down. Hahah - aside from that, there were a lot of beautiful rooms. I loved the Fillmore in San Francisco. And I love Schubas Tavern in Chicago and Mercy Lounge in Nashville is just like a family room.
Are you excited to play here at the Troubadour??
I love the Troubadour. My Dad used to play here!
If there was someone you could collaborate with, dead or alive? Who would it be?
That's so hard because I'm so afraid of meeting my heros haha! I wish I could be a fly on the wall when Bjork is writing something and doesn't know anyone else is there. I'd love to sing with Maynard of Tool. And I would love to drink a bottle of wine with Paula Abdul. We would giggle, I can tell.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
Catching Up with Australian Indie Rock Band, Boy & Bear, at the Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles, CA (Video)
Are you in a music rut? You know.. when you have played out every band you've been vibin' the last couple weeks, the radio seems to be constantly on repeat and you wish that you could discover something new to stimulate your musical eardrums? Well, you're in luck because I have just the band for you: Boy & Bear.
Are you in a music rut? You know.. when you have played out every band you've been vibin' the last couple weeks, the radio seems to be constantly on repeat and you wish that you could discover something new to stimulate your musical eardrums? Well, you're in luck because I have just the band for you: Boy & Bear.
I've been following these Aussie native's for quite some time and they do not disappoint. Their classic indie-rock-meets-Americana sound is ever-evolving.. paired with heartfelt vocals and a genuinely solid group of guys, you can't go wrong.
Formed in 2009, the band consists of David Hosking (vocals and guitar), Killian Gavin (vocals and guitar), Timothy Hart (drums and vocals), Jonathan Hart (vocals, banjo, mandolin and keyboards) and David Symes (bass). The band has released two albums, Moonfire (August 2011) and Harlequin Dream, (August 2013) both reaching the top ten of the Australian album charts.
Currently, the band is on their third lap (this year!) around the globe and kicked off their most recent tour in Los Angeles at the Fonda Theatre (Don't worry - If you missed it, they are playing in San Francisco November 1st!).
We were able to catch up with Killian Gavin and Dave Symes before the show (after the guys took a quick walk around the bustling Hollywood streets, grabbing snacks at a nearby Trader Joe's). Take a peek at our video & interview below.
Want More? YOU CAN READ THE WHOLE INTERVIEW BELOW:
Welcome to California!
D & K: Thanks! We’re happy to be here.
So it’s been a year since you released Harlequin Dreams. How has this last year been for you?
K: It’s been pretty far out – We left, literally, about a year ago to start touring and this is our third lap of the globe right now. It’s been long, it’s been fun and it’s been great. It’s been so awesome to travel through here and Americas and all over Europe to play shows. We've been busy! It’s sorta like a blink and then you blink again and it’s a year later.
Are you guys looking forward to going home after this tour wraps up?
D: Ya, sorta – but it’s exciting to be here. We just arrived again [to the States] yesterday - and before that we were just touring all around Australia for a whole month, so we were able to go home. It’s great to have a change of scenery and actually be back to America.
This is your third time back to the States, right?
D&K: This year. Yea. [laughing]
That sounds exhausting [laughs]. Well, I know when you are playing for crowds, the energy is different from place to place. Is there a place that sticks out to you more than another?
K: I hate to give some credit to your North American friends up in Canada but they are a great audience. They’ve been really supportive – not that America is not by any means – but they are a particularly, different kind of crowd. They are in their own little category of "Happiness". I don’t know what it is.
Do you prefer playing festivals or more intimate settings?
D: I think the difference is good for us, as a band. I think we have a show that actually suits theatres and more intimate gigs but it's also really great at festivals. We really enjoy the variety and I think it’s important for us to play both of them.
Well, seeing this is your third lap around the world - what are some of your favorite venues that you’ve played?
K: Well, I’m biased being a Sydney boy and because I grew up in Sydney. There’s a particular room called the Enmore Theater – which is the kind of a venue that I went and saw all my favorite bands growing up. We’ve played it four or five times now and it was always my goal in life to play there so I’m stoked to have been able to tick that box off the bucket list. Other than that, what was really cool, although a smaller venue here, the Troubadour. It’s a really cool room with the sorta of U-shaped crowd and there is so much history there. [Dave agreeing]. Another one we love is the Paradiso in Amsterdam. It’s pretty famous and really old and cool. I think it’s an old church actually.
Do you have a favorite song off the new album?
D: I think it changes for me. I think in terms of playing live – we allow our songs to keep growing so I have different favorites all the time but I really like the song called “Stranger.”
K: "Old Time Blues." Although, all year I’ve been saying “Real Estate” and I think it’s just finally switched.
How about on the first album, Moonfire?
D: I like "Big Man", personally.
K: "Part-time Believer."
Do you have a favorite place you like to write?
K: It’s sort of an odd process. The writing, we don’t really do on the road. I know Dave (the other Dave) he’s always coming up with some ideas and little melodies but hardly a complete idea. When we finish touring, we’ll get together as a band and hire a house for a couple days and try to start the process. Try to get into a different headspace. Also, on tour, you don’t really get your instruments with you often. It’s always with the crew and the venue and traveling around to it’s definitely a different process, different world – so when we finish touring, we’ll start that again.
D: The last time we did that, we hired a house about an hour an a half north of Sydney, near the beach up there, and just played all day. We'd go for a swim in the morning, cooked a big dinner at night. I think for us, just being all together, food, a bit of exercise – it’s always really helps our writing.
K: Ya, getting out of your own space – getting out into the sticks or the beach – is really helpful for our productivity. It just goes through the roof and we have so many more ideas. Opposed to being in a rehearsal studio somewhere – that usually has a boring, bad vibe – it’s not very inspiring, by any means. I feel like if we put in the time to go somewhere and set up a nice place – it’s good for us. That’s how we did the first and second record.
I think I could find some inspiration off a beach in Australia!
K: Absolutely
D: It’s not a bad place to end up. We’re very lucky.
I always hear about the surfing there.
K: Love Surfing.
D: Oh yeah. Big surfing culture there. Me – very basically – but I always love to get into the water.
Have you guys tried surfing here yet? In California?
D: We got a swim in yesterday! We didn’t surf, but we went down to Santa Monica and jumped in. It was really refreshing.
K: Yea, it was beautiful. I haven’t surfed ever in America though. I tend to go over to Bali a lot (in Indonesia) – there’s some really great surfing there.
Do you guys ever get sick of each other?
K: Never. [laughs] Sort of.
D: We’re pretty good actually, considering we spend so much time together. I think everyone really understands each other’s space and what they need – but we do a lot together. We all hang out eating, going around and seeing space. We’re a pretty good group of guys.
K: It’ll be about a year and a half on the road by the time we finish, you gotta be able to get along to make that happen.
Have any advise on how you stay balanced while you are touring?
D: I’m not sure if there is one piece of advice. I think it changes all the time and it’s different for everybody but I think as long as you are enjoying what you do and you keep yourself inspired to make your life better and better – then you’ll be happy in your career which makes dealing with your personal life that much easier.
K: It’s definitely difficult. But we put a lot of effort into exercising, even if we don’t quite look like it, we try. Going for a run, or anything like that, definitely does help to keep your head sane. It helps you manage everything else when you are feeling good about life. There is definitely a learning curve and you are always learning how to do it better. And sometimes, what works one day, might not work another. But we’ve had about six years now of practicing and trying and we’re in a pretty good place.
Where do you find your inspiration?
D: Musically, there are lots of things out there. Lots of music and stuff from many decades ago – there are so many things to check out on the internet. I, personally, really love seeing other bands play around the world. It gives me an amazing amount of inspiration. Apart from that, I think trying to get out and see some of the cities we are at. I always feel better when I get out and can walk around and take in the culture.
I know you guys just came back from Trader Joe’s (before we met up) – what’d you buy?
D: We bought some Vanilla Essence actually – extract is what you call it here. We’re going to clean the fridge because it’s our first day on the bus and it doesn’t smell that amazing. So we are gong to clean the fridge with a little vanilla extract. It’s the Aussie way of cleaning things.
We, at Established California, are all about the pursuit of a "Golden State of Mind". What does that mean to you?
D: It sounds like a great name for an album! [laughs] I think it’s about lifestyle – which is similar to the Australia lifestyle with health and swimming and good food.
K: I feel like “Kale” sums it up for me. Not to tease anyone about their city [laughs]
D: Kale and Quinoa.
K: and Goji Berries. I think that’s a big thing for LA – or at least that’s the stereotype.
Is that what the world thinks of us? [laughs]
K: Mediation, Tattoos, Yoga… Kale – that, for me, sums it up. To be honest though, Sydney’s pretty similar.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
The Gospel-Inspired, Blues-Infused Music of Irish Musician, Hozier
The 24-year-old Irish singer-songwriter Hozier (born Andrew Hozier-Bryne) has definitely caught my attention. His gospel-inspired music, paired with his unique and raspy vocals, instantly made me want more. And with his self-titled album "Hozier", I was able to get just that! What I didn't expect to discover was how deep and passionate his message for equality and love truely lies.
The 24-year-old Irish singer-songwriter Hozier (born Andrew Hozier-Bryne) definitely caught my attention recently. His gospel-inspired, blues-infused music, paired with his unique and raspy vocals, instantly made me want more. And with his self-titled album "Hozier", I was able to get just that! (Listen here on Spotify) What I didn't expect to discover was how deep and passionate his message for equality and love truely lies.
Last year, he released his video for, "Take Me to Church" and although the song (and album) have been released for quite some time now, his popularity is just now starting to steamroll it's way onto music-lovers' radars all over the States. Whether listeners realize it or not, the song sends a strong message about human rights as the video shows two men embracing, followed by brutal gay-bashing by masked vigilantes - all while the lyrics of "I was born sick, but I love it / command me to be well / Amen. Amen. Amen." played over the video.
In a recent interview with NY Mag's The Cut, Hozier explains a bit more about the meaning behind his "Take Me to Church" video:
"Well, it's about sex and it's about humanity, and obviously sex and humanity are incredibly tied. Sexuality, and sexual orientation — regardless of orientation — is just natural. An act of sex is one of the most human things. But an organization like the church, say, through its doctrine, would undermine humanity by successfully teaching shame about sexual orientation — that it is sinful, or that it offends God. The song is about asserting yourself and reclaiming your humanity through an act of love. Turning your back on the theoretical thing, something that's not tangible, and choosing to worship or love something that is tangible and real — something that can be experienced.
But it's not an attack on faith. Coming from Ireland, obviously, there's a bit of a cultural hangover from the influence of the church. You've got a lot of people walking around with a heavy weight in their hearts and a disappointment, and that shit carries from generation to generation. So the song is just about that — it's an assertion of self, reclaiming humanity back for something that is the most natural and worthwhile. Electing, in this case a female, to choose a love who is worth loving."
Images by Dara Munnis.
Hozier is currently on tour and I just happen to have tickets to his show, TONIGHT (October 16, 2014) at The Cathedral Sanctuary at Immanuel Presbyterian in Los Angeles, CA. I, for one, can't wait to hear this controversial song in a real church (and maybe swoon a bit over his sexy, untamed hair.)
What do you think about this song? Let us know in the comments below
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
Singer & Songwriter, Cameron Ernst | Established Sessions (Video)
When we first met Cameron, he recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending six months traveling all over Australia - Established California sat down with this singer-songwriter to give you an exclusive performance of "Underneath This Sky".
Video shot and edited by Adam Johnson.
Sometimes people stumble into your life and you can't really understand why. When I first met Cameron, he recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending six months traveling all over Australia - hired by Virgin Australia, for a campaign called "The Best Jobs in the World" (read more about his experience here)
We got to chatting and Cameron mentioned he was off to play a show in Hollywood that evening and extended an invitation. I had other plans, so I politely declined - but we exchanged information and I promised to listen to his music. And listen i did. I loved his singer-songwriter sound and I knew I wanted to share him with you all. I was able to sit down with Cameron to discuss more about his music, what brought him to California and an exclusive performance of "Underneath this Sky" for Established California.
Tell Us A Little About Yourself! Where are you from? What brought you to California?
I'm a small town boy from Kansas. I left my roots upon graduating high school and went to college at USC to study theater and communication. After graduating as a Trojan, I moved to Dallas to live at home for a bit and pursue my music (my parents had moved while I was away at school). Now I'm back in good ol' sunny California!
Do you have any musicians or bands that have been a big influence for you as an artist?
In high school, I was really influenced by Aussie singer-songwriter Missy Higgins, and to this day, her music still inspires me. I've always loved The Fray as well. I'm really a fan of any singer-songwriter who writes and sings honestly from the heart. It's my goal right now to dig back and listen to some older singer-songwriters and see how that influences my music.
Where’s your ideal place to write music?
Well, I grew up writing on my piano at my parents house, and pretty much all of my songs until recently have been written there. That piano room definitely feels like home to me. Although, now that I'm living out here, I'm curious to explore some other good places to write. If I could take a piano to the beach, that might be the perfect spot.
If you could tour with any musician (dead or alive) who would you want to tour with?
Coldplay puts on some pretty epic shows, and I can only imagine what it would be like to be on that tour. Although I'd love to jump on with some more indie acts like Missy or The Lumineers.
How was it having the “Best Job in the World?”
Landing The Best Job in the World with Virgin Australia still feels like a dream. My life was unbelievable insanity for six months straight in the land down under. I flew on around 55 flights to over 40 different cities and saw many parts of the country that even Australians haven't seen. I went skydiving, swam with sea lions, camped in the outback, rode camels along the beach...it was all pretty magical, and I'm so thankful to have gotten the once in a lifetime opportunity to experience it. Definitely something I'll be sharing with my grandkids someday.
If you could do it again, where would you want to travel to?
It's pretty difficult to top Australia, but I think if I could do another crazy trip, I would travel to the top 50 beaches in the world (including the resorts on them -- ha, why not?). Sounds like a pretty tough job to me.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
Keep Your Head Up with Singer/Songwriter and Surfer, Ben Howard
I still remember the first time I ever heard Ben Howard. One of my best friends [and fellow music and food junkie - Hi Adam!] frequently trades with me new music over Spotify. Anytime we stumble upon something new, we always hit the "Share" button
I still remember the first time I ever heard Ben Howard. One of my best friends [and fellow music and food junkie - Hi Adam!] frequently trades new music with me over Spotify. Anytime we stumble upon something new, we always hit the "Share" button - because that's what you are suppose to do, right? Sharing is caring. Ha!
It was the beginning of 2012, Ben Howard had just completed his first album, Every Kingdom - and Adam sends me a song titled, "Keep Your Head Up". Instantly, I was hooked.
“Keep your head up, keep your heart strong.
Keep your mind set, keep you hair long.
Keep your mind set in your ways,
Keep your heart strong.
’Cause I’ll always remember you the same.
Oh eyes like wild flowers within demons of change””
This song struck a chord with me. It instantly reminded me to stay strong, keep moving, embrace change but stick to your guns. I still play it in moments that I'm feeling down and it always helps me to put things into perspective. That's the great thing about music too - we can all take away what we need from it.
I've talked previously about musicians who play percussion with their guitars (We featured the Los Angeles singer-songwriter, Lisa Haagen, this month who caught my ear with her guitar percussion while I was walking down Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica). Percussion Guitar is when you hit and slap different areas of your guitar and strings to make fun and unique sounds. I absolutely adore it and Ben Howard is the reason why.
Video via Amoeba Music
The 27 year old from South Devon, England developed a passion for acoustic folk songs from his mother's records collection (which included folk musicians Joni Mitchell, Richie Havens and Donovan). When he wasn't playing music, Howard developed a love for surfing and spent most of his time at the beach. When going to school for Journalism, in Newquay (the surf capital in the UK), he ended up dropping out of school six months shy of graduation to pursue music. The surf community pushed him and believed in him to follow his passion for music and he has since really flourished init. He released his first full-length album in August 2011 and he is scheduled to release his second album on October 20, 2014, titled "I Forget Where We Were."
The first single off the album is scheduled to be released tomorrow, September 9th.
Ben Howard is listed on our September playlist this month. Be sure to check it out here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
EST. SESSIONS: Singer & Songwriter, Lisa Haagen
It was a beautiful Sunday night in May when I had just walked out of a movie theater located on the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica- Enter musician Lisa Haagan. Click through for a special performance by Lisa! You can thank us later!
It was a beautiful Sunday night in May when I had just walked out of a movie theater located on the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. Third Street is home to many different shops and restaurants but more frequently, I’ve been seeing musicians gather there to busk and play their preferred instruments. Growing up in Los Angeles, I’ve been to Third Street many times and usually walked by and laughed at the strange performance artists that perform on the busy street – anything from K-Pop Break Dancers to 60-year-old Opera singers. It was never a place in my mind to discover musicians. Well, until this night.
As i continued to walk to my car, I heard a young female vocalist with a full sounding acoustic guitar. She had just finished her song and I paused in the street because I wanted to hear her next song. She began to sing and I thought to myself, “Wow, she has a great sound.” but then continued to walk to my car. Until I heard her begin the chorus.
Few people practice and play percussion with their guitars. It’s a fun way of using the body and strings of the guitar as a percussion instrument as you tap and hit the guitar in different places creating fun and new sounds. Whenever I hear it, I get really excited and this young female musician was killing it on the streets of Santa Monica.
I turned around and listened to her finish her song and took down her information. I had to talk with her and share her music with you all. Enjoy!
Video Shot and Edited by Adam Johnson
I had a chance to sit down with Lisa Haagen and talk a little more with her and her story. Here’s what she had to say:
Why California? What about this state drew you to it?
The draw was all very much interlaced with my decision to pursue music as a career. There was a couple of layers to the decision to move to California, but the core of it was that I have always been a really content person- I loved my home town and never felt any need to leave. Santa Monica however worked it’s way into my mind and the persistence of it stuck with me and I thought I should listen to that. I had been to California a number of times in my youth, but I had never spent a significant amount of time here.
Do you have any musicians or bands that have been a big influence for you as an artist?
I grew up listening to a really broad range of music, and I think that the spectrum had more of an effect than any specific artist on my style. I always was drawn to lyrics, and really love artists that can be silly and serious at the same time- like Regina Spektor and Ingrid Michaelson. The thing that got me started writing however was definitely the people I was around…the everyday life of those close to me. Even now they are who I look to for inspiration.
What was the first instrument you learned to play? How old were you? Do you have a favorite?
This answer gets complicated. I started piano lessons when I was 3, drum lessons at 4, and guitar lessons at 5. At the time, I was much more interested in sports so I definitely didn’t take full advantage of the cool opportunity that it was. My siblings were much better at capitalizing on it at the time. Even though the technical aspects didn’t stick I do think it helped me develop a good ear for music. When band started in school I transitioned to the bass guitar and continued to play the drumset for jazz band through the end of high school. When I was 17 I brought an electric guitar with me to college with the intent to learn it, and found myself being completely sucked in by songwriting. One of my buddies had an acoustic guitar that they lent me for a while and that marked the point where I got really into it. I was messing around on the piano a bit during that time frame as well, and have recently started writing a little more evenly across the two. I can’t say I prefer one- guitar has definitely had the biggest effect on my songwriting, especially as I’m getting more into the percussive styling. I’ve really enjoyed getting a chance to continue with all of them in arranging my songs, but playing live with a band I tend to stick with the acoustic guitar and have other musicians play the additional parts with me. Because of that, I really love playing with other musicians as well because I get a chance to jump on the other instruments live. For instance, I am about to do a west coast tour with another singer-songwriter and we are providing backing support for each-others sets- in this case I get to play percussion and I’m really looking forward to it.
If you could tour with any musician (dead or alive) who would you want to tour with?
Oy. Ben Howard, Andrew McMahon, Mat Kearney, Sara Barielles, Brandi Carlile…… there are so many!
What kind of advice would you give to other musicians that want to come to California to pursue their dreams?
I don’t know that my advice is specific to California – but I think I’d just say wherever you are at, try to play in front of people as often as possible. It helps you hone your craft – live audiences help you figure out what works and what doesn’t. Failure is a huge part of artist growth. You can’t be afraid of it – now is the time to get that all out before anyone knows who you are. Playing live often also lets you form a lot of good connections. One of the best things you can do is be around other musicians because those are people that you can learn from and also the people you will be building shows with.
FOLLOW HER ON: WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | FACEBOOK
You can also check out her new album, With Honey available on iTunes.
Do you know or are you a musician or band we should know about? Contact us! We would love to hear from you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music, and arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places to go and sights to see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / PINTEREST
