I was tasked to write a few blog posts as a writing sample. This local business marketed itself towards women.

Here at (Name Removed) we value women. We are continually amazed at what women can do for each other and our community. (Name Removed) is built upon the values of feminism, inclusion, community, and color. We strive daily to build up the women in our lives and community, and what better day to do that than International Women’s Day? To celebrate International Women's day, we designed a t-shirt that we feel embodies all our values but most of all; kindness. We are strong believers that kindness is one of the most important qualities a woman can have. We know that when women support women, great change can come about.

We are excited to partner with the YWCA for our annual International Women’s day T-shirt celebration. All profit from these shirts (sold online and in store from March 8-31) will be donated to the YWCA. Salt Lake’s YWCA is so lucky to be lead by the one and only Liz Owens. Liz works fearlessly within the realms of human rights and social justice. Liz has worked with, and continues to work with, many of the underrepresented people and communities in the Salt Lake area. When interviewed recently at aShePlaceevent, Liz said: “I am feeling passionate about continuing to show up with kindness and grace in the midst of unprecedented challenges and extraordinary times. I am feeling passionate about nurturing and tending to relationships and holding space for me and for you and all the very big things we are all going through right now.” Talk about an incredible leader, CEO, and incredible example of women supporting women!

Both (Name Removed) and the YWCA know that everyone has the right to be safe and that when women feel they are safe they can thrive. (Name Removed) strives daily to create a safe place in our store and to build women up through kindness. The YWCA mirrors this effort in their programs, specifically in their Race Equity programs- which is where all our donated funds from the T-shirts will go to. These Race Equity programs help those in our community who experience racial and other inequities find and get the help they need, as well as helping educate other members of the community through advocacy and highlighting organizations and people through their “Learn more. Do more” program.

February is usually associated with valentine’s day and lovers… but what about the platonic loves in our lives? The friends that have been a part of our lives since a young age, or maybe we met them in college, or a co-worker that we spend as much time together outside of work as at work? We have so many incredible relationships that sometimes we forget just how special they are. Here are some of the friends we are grateful for:

The bestie- this friend has been around through thick and thin, ups and downs, and all the places in between.

The Challenger- We think everyone needs one of these people in their life. This person sees the potential in us. They also have the incredible knack for pushing us to do things outside our comfort zone. They make the impossible possible. These friends can also be incredibly competitive, but that’s what makes game night fun-right?

The “Bear”- This friend is fiercely protective of their friends and will be there no matter what. Sometimes they venture off to hibernate and recoup but always come back full of love and strength.

The Community Builder- This friend has a talent for bringing more friends into your circle. They are outgoing, social, and have a personality that you just can’t get enough of.

So this Valentine’s Day, let's remember to show some love to our friends as well. What kinds of friends are you thankful for? Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments!

ahh February, With its (slightly) warmer temperatures and sunnier skies hinting at beautiful days ahead. One of those days: Valentine’s Day. A day filled with love, gifts, and a whole lot of red and pink; you know we love a bright color palette. With that in mind, here is our “un-official official guide to Valentines day”. Complete with decor, outfits, gifts for Valentines (and Galentines), and ideas for making this year’s celebration of love unforgettable.

First off, for those who love to go all out and decorate, ourGanz “hello lovely”would be the perfect addition to display on your porch all month long. We love the bright colors that will stand out even if it snows.

For those hosting a “Galentines” brunch, lunch, or dinner- we’ve got you covered too. We love thePaint and Petals Butterfly bowl, and ourTwo’s Company Footed Serving Boardwould make the cutest charcuterie. If you’re attending a “Galentines” celebration and don’t want to show up empty handed, we’d suggest maybe arranging some flowers in ourGreen Box Art & Culture WildflowerVase. If you’re looking for a “No assembly required” option, might we suggest ourKarma Gifts Dishtoweland aBeekman 1802 Lavender Hand Cream.

If your Valentine’s day is more of a “self love” day, treat yourself to a mini spa day with ourPJ Salvage Plush Luxe Robe, Musee Therapy “You are the Best Thing” Bath Bomb,and ourHip & Humble “She’s Pretty Inside Face Masks”. After enjoying the pampering, maybe settle down with a good book (we likethe little book of self care), write in your journal (may we suggest ourlove is love journal? it's perfect for valentines). Finally, settle into bed in the fabulousPJ Salvage Love in Color hoodie, joggers, and fuzzy socks.