Meet Allison House: Designer, Artist, Coder and Die-Hard Buffy Fangirl ;)

Are you ready to add a new creative chick to your imaginary bestie list? Allison House is one of the most dynamic women I’ve ever spent an afternoon with — she’s brilliant, creative *and* has some serious chops in the engineering department. Add to that an amazingly bubbly personality and you’ve got yourself a brand new #makercrush. She’s also the expert teacher of our brand new online class, Coding 101: Intro to HTML + CSS.

As a designer, visual artist, and educator, Allison is known for her tenacity and upbeat, make-it-happen attitude. She was an early product designer at Dropbox, before which she directed design at Codecademy, an interactive platform for learning to code. Her interdisciplinary work in design, technology and education has appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, TIME Magazine and many more. She currently works from her studio in Austin, TX, but, as she puts it, “can occasionally be seen from the corner of your eye, blowing in the wind.”

Now, let’s learn all about our new techie BFF, Allison House.

What is the story of how you got to where you are today?

I fell in love with the immediacy of interactive design as a pre-teen. When I built my first website, an ode to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to code a few lines and get a result.

By the time I was in high school, I’d worked my way up to real clients and was running my first business. I researched local competitors and submitted phony projects to tease out their rates, then undercut them. I wanted to look legitimate, so I got a toll-free number and put it on my website. These real serious outfits would call me up and inquire about my services, never knowing they were talking to a 15-year-old girl in her bedroom!

What inspires you? Why do you love to design, create and make?

That sense of wonder and infinite possibility when we create something from scratch or learn a new skill. I’m chasing down that feeling every day!

What’s one piece of advice you’d share with other makers?

If we’re always looking at other people’s work, we’ll end up with a blank piece of paper. It’s easy to tumble down that inspiration-seeking rabbit hole — I speak from experience! — but our best ideas will often show up when we’re in the zone and making.

What’s on your studio playlist?

I’m inexplicably attached to two albums by a mysterious, little-known electronic artist called MisfitChris, The Howling and Internet Girlfriends. It’s heavy-hitting house with a dramatic, chip-influenced undercurrent that’s recognizable to anyone who grew up playing video games. My work wouldn’t be the same without it!

How do you get into the creative flow? How does it feel?

I’ve never had much luck with scheduling or micromanaging myself, so I’ve developed a practice that doesn’t require a whole lot of self-discipline. I call it my “second shift” technique. Rather than summoning the willpower to start a work session, I make it automatic by chaining it on another activity I already do every day. Routine tasks like walking the dog, taking the train, or getting home from work are easy to piggyback on — and eventually trigger the urge to create!

The other part of my strategy is giving myself totally achievable, bite-sized assignments that I won’t dread or procrastinate. My work is all tied up in my love for learning, so I feel most successful when I’m producing a ton and pushing my craft into new territory. For example, I used this technique to learn enough 3D animation in three weeks to direct a music video (more on that later)!

What other makers inspire you?

Obsessed with geometric patterns and bright colors as much as we are? Then this week’s featured maker should need no introduction. Meet Joy Cho, the brilliant gal behind the Oh Joy Blog, a treasure trove of creative inspiration.

Not only is this impressive woman a creative force, but she’s a blogger, designer, author and mother. Well as of today, we’re happy to add curator to that list — we’ve got a brand new collection in the Brit + Co shop curated by Joy Cho herself. And guess what? Her latest book, Oh Joy!, is also in stock. How awesome is that? You can shop the collection right here.

I spent a morning in Los Angeles with Joy at her favorite breakfast spot, Republique. We chatted about how she got her start, what her typical day looks like and what inspires her. Read on to learn more about Joy’s story — we’re sure it’s one that will inspire you to find more creative moments on the daily.

Have you always been drawn to creative pursuits?

As a kid, I always leaned towards creative things. I was never into playing with dolls or dressing up like a princess — I was more interested in things that let me create something from start to finish. I didn’t realize back then that it had to do with creativity.

Did you know that this love of making things would turn into a business?

In a way, yes. When I was a kid I had about a dozen different businesses before I even graduated high school, including a calligraphy business and a banana bread business! My parents moved here in the mid ‘70s from Thailand and started a Thai restaurant, so I’ve always been surrounded by self-starters and entrepreneurs. (photo credit: Casey Brodley)

Okay so let’s fast forward a bit — what did you study in college? And what were your first couple of jobs after graduating?

I didn’t know that I wanted to be an “artist” but I did know that I didn’t want to go down a doctor or lawyer path. I went to Syracuse and studied graphic design, because in my mind it had a practical side but was still artistic. After graduating, I went to New York for graduate school and ended up getting a job at an ad agency for a couple years. The agency gig was a great start for me, but I quickly became tired of designing for businesses. I wanted to design things that help normal people add delight to their daily lives. That’s when I started to get super interested in patterns, though I hadn’t officially studied them in school. This led me to getting a job with Cynthia Rowley as a designer for her small line at Target. I designed two years worth of collections for her line.

Wow, so that’s really come full circle with Target!

Creating an Oh Joy line at Target was definitely a dream project, especially after working on Cynthia’s line. Getting to see my products in store has been incredible. Unlike a blog post, actual products don’t disappear. They’re in people’s homes and part of their lives, and that feels really good.

What inspires you? Why do you love to design, create and make?

I’m inspired by people and the desire to make people happier with something I can ideate, design, create, and put out into the world for others to enjoy.

What’s one piece of advice you’d share with other makers?

Just do your thing. It can be so easy to get caught up in what others are doing or compare yourself to who’s doing things bigger or better. But I find when I focus on challenging myself and trying new things, then I feel satisfied with my work and I don’t worry about comparisons as much.

How do you get into the creative flow? How does it feel?

I surround myself with stuff. Whether it’s materials, colors, fabrics, food, objects. When I see a lot, my brain starts churning, my heart starts racing, and ideas begin to surface. Those initial ideas aren’t always the final idea, but they usually snowball into something magical.

Looking for more Joy in your life? Be sure to follow Joy on Instagram (Warning: Heart-melting videos of the cutest kids ever await you), buy her book (photo credit: Casey Brodley), and check out her curated collection in the Brit + Co shop!

Welcome to November 2024! It’s official, everyone. We are cleared of the eclipse season and approaching the holiday season and Election Day. The collective is stirring with anticipation, awaiting the next course in our journey. Breathe. Tensions are especially high due to the major polarity brought on by the collective planet Pluto's re-entry into Capricorn just months ago. The tides are expected to change as the regeneration planet regresses into Aquarius for good.

You may be thinking, “What’s in it for me?” Aligning with the cosmic flow will bring more peace, understanding, and balance in your everyday life. Scorpio season is in full swing, and it beckons you to begin analyzing your internal landscape, desires, and control. You'll improve the world by grasping the importance of revitalizing your inner self. Believe it or not, you're the main character of your story, and your light contributes more than you know. This November highlights this part of your narrative. Are you ready to learn what is in store for you this month? Read on for your sun, moon, and rising November horoscope below.

Themes For Your November Horoscope In 2024

Brian Yurasits

This month kicks off with the New Moon in Scorpio on November 1st, helping you see how you're being of service to yourself and others. Due to Scorpio's vibe of death and regeneration, this lunation will also materialize the importance of “clearing out” from the old. Remember last month’s solar eclipse?

This New Moon in Scorpio extends the path for you to turn over a new leaf and actualize your desired changes. Make a move.

The communication signals will power up as Mercury enters Sagittarius on November 2nd, manifesting a feeling of warmth and hope in our messages. The dialogue exchanged will be inspiring and educational.

Share information that will benefit others. You'll experience serendipitous moments as you give back.

Our drive and bravado will turn up as the motivator planet Mars enters Leo on November 3rd. Our self-worth will drive passion and desire. Step forward and claim your desire.

Patricia Luquet

Create your masterpiece and watch it come to life. Believe.

Love will shift to rationality and structure as Venus shifts into Capricorn on November 11. These next several weeks will help you gauge more accordingly with long-term plans and practical concerns. It will also invoke a more grounded approach to romance and dating.

Slow and steady builds stronger foundations in love.

On November 15th, the Full Moon in Taurus illuminates the sky, highlighting the importance of taking the reigns through a measured approach. With the rebel planet, Uranus, in alignment with this full moon, it will stir up massive changes involving our narrative and how we are playing our part in our storyline. It can lead to impulsive moves, so remember to be intentional. The great news is that Saturn, the structure planet, is direct today, bringing more clarity regarding our direction.

Ahmed ツ

Brilliance awaits as you hold steady.

Buckle up! On November 19th, Pluto ingresses into Aquarius, settling into this future-oriented sign. Anticipate significant technological advancements, including refined artificial intelligence, quantum computing breakthroughs, renewable energy innovations, and immersive virtual reality experiences. Side note: VR Games like Supernatural(I'm a BIG fan!) are revolutionizing workouts, allowing people to exercise in other worlds while engaging with a supportive community for weight loss, endorphins, and positive accountability. As you visualize your ideal paradigm, Pluto will guide you toward the tools or necessary changes to attract your desired results. Embrace this transformation and let go of outdated constructs, paving the way for a brighter, more interconnected future.

Vlada Karpovich

Happiness and fulfillment await those willing to adapt and grow.

This month ends with the Sun in Sagittarius on November 21 and Mercury Retrograde on November 25. Sagittarius season invokes wanderlust, adventure, and growth. Remember that you'll reign this season as you remain open-minded to new concepts and ideas.

Close-mindedness and dismissiveness of others' input lead to dead ends.

As we conclude working with Mercury’s backspin this month, steer clear of making traveling plans (like booking a ticket/itinerary), launching a business, or signing contracts. Plus, it will help you streamline your messages, think through your personal beliefs, and change your attitudes towards life. Going through reflection will help you gravitate toward your desired outcomes.

Which signs will be most affected in November?

Juliane Monari

As we journey through November 2024, Scorpio, Taurus, Aquarius, and Sagittariuswill each feel the cosmic waves uniquely. Scorpios will harness the transformative energy of the New Moon to reflect on their desires and initiate powerful changes. Taurus will be called to acknowledge new narratives during the Full Moon, prompting them to take control of their path and make intentional decisions. Aquarians will experience a significant shift as Pluto settles into their sign, inviting them to envision a brighter future and release old patterns that no longer serve them. Meanwhile, Sagittarians will be inspired by the Sun’s entry into their sign, igniting a sense of adventure and growth. However, they should navigate Mercury's retrograde carefully to avoid miscommunications and hasty decisions. Allow these energies to guide you toward a more fulfilled and intentional existence this month!

​Key Dates & Transits This Week

Griffin Wooldridge

  • 11/1 New Moon in Scorpio
  • 11/2 Mercury enters Sagittarius
  • 11/3 Mars enters Leo
  • 11/11 Venus enters Capricorn
  • 11/15 Full Moon in Taurus, Saturn Direct
  • 11/19 Pluto re-enters Aquarius
  • 11/21 Sun enters Sagittarius
  • 11/25 Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius

​Read Your November Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Signs

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Themes: Investments and Ambition

This month brings transformative opportunities for personal growth and ambition. The New Moon in Scorpio encourages you to dive deep into your desires and set intentions for long-term investments. As Mercury enters Sagittarius, your voice shines, sparking optimism and inspiring connections. Let love lead the way as Mars in Leo ignites your creative passion and pushes you to take bold steps in your relationships. Make a move while factoring in your happiness. The Full Moon in Taurus prompts you to let go of unwanted habits while tying loose ends with finances. The great news is that your adventurous spirit flourishes with the Sun entering Sagittarius later this month. Be mindful of impulsive trips or conversations, as Mercury retrograde calls for thoughtful reflection on your plans and communication style.

Brit + Co

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Themes: Connection and Identity

Expect a month filled with deeper connections and self-reflection as you reassess your values and domestic life. The New Moon in Scorpio encourages the exploration of your love life and partnerships, manifesting progress. With Mercury shifting into Sagittarius, discussions around shared resources become enriching and insightful. Consolidate your research or your internal landscape of beliefs and get to the bottom of what keeps you from attracting more abundance. Mars in Leo energizes your home life, inspiring you to create a nurturing environment. Rearrange furniture or begin visualizing your ideal home life — this new pattern will attract movement in your domestic life. The Full Moon in your sign focuses on your identity, offering a moment of self-realization and understanding about how you need to reshape your narrative. Mercury retrograde will help you retrace your steps regarding merged resources and enable you to work out your financial priorities or unresolved debts — research methods.

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Themes: Wellness and Subconscious Needs

Prepare for a month rich in exploration and relationship review, inviting you to evaluate your connections and daily routines. The New Moon in Scorpio prompts you to reflect on health and work, paving the way for beneficial changes. Begin a new protocol and establish a sacred practice involving wellness that will reorient you with your goals. With Mercury entering Sagittarius, your focus shifts toward partnerships, enhancing the depth of your conversations. Work on listening intently to your partner or connections to find practical solutions. Mars in Leo ignites your curiosity, encouraging the pursuit of fresh ideas. Get involved in the local realms and initiate conversations — this will inspire you. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Taurus sheds light on your subconscious, urging you to confront hidden fears and clear out. The Sun in Sagittarius with Mercury retrograde will help you backtrack and analyze your relationships and their direction.

Brit + Co

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Themes: Happiness and Friendship Circles

This month invites you to balance your daily routines with self-care for emotional fulfillment. The New Moon in Scorpio inspires you to understand the core of your joy and what fulfills you. Mercury’s entry into Sagittarius shifts your focus to daily routines, enhancing discussions around wellness. Health is wealth. As you focus on your overall well-being, abundance will follow. The great news is that Mars in Leo energizes your financial goals, motivating proactive steps forward, so taking care of yourself this month will ensure the results. Later this month, the Full Moon in Taurus highlights your social circles, prompting a reassessment of friendships. As Pluto in Aquarius encourages transformative growth, the Sun’s ingress into Sagittarius and Mercury retrograde emphasizes health, inviting you to take self-care practices and review how you typically extend your energy to others.

Brit + Co

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Themes: Fulfillment and Reassess Life Purpose

Get ready for a vibrant month of self-discovery and creative expression. The New Moon in Scorpio prompts you to reflect on your domestic life and family, inspiring you to cultivate a supportive environment while establishing your terms. With Mercury entering Sagittarius, your focus turns to love and creativity, allowing you to step out of your comfort zone and explore these realms of joy. Mars in your sign boosts your confidence, empowering decisive actions in your pursuits. Be yourself and ignite your fire to get things done. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Taurus highlights your professional aspirations, prompting you to reassess your career goals. Factor in what makes you happy and optimizes your energy. The Sun's entry in Sagittarius alongside Mercury retrograde will help you backtrack and align with your priorities in love and your creative potential.

Brit + Co

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Themes: Ideas and Past Aspirations

This month brings clarity and enriched communication, inviting you to refine your thoughts and deepen your familial connections. The New Moon in Scorpio encourages engagement with new ideas and community interactions, promoting open dialogue. Being openhearted and receptive to people's feedback will lead to breakthroughs in your development. Mercury’s transition into Sagittarius shifts your focus to home and family, enhancing emotional discussions regarding your direction. Be curious in your approach; it will heal your unresolved matters. Mars in Leo energizes your subconscious, motivating you to confront hidden fears while helping you understand your habitual patterns. Rest and reflect. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Taurus prompts reflection on your philosophical outlook and long-term goals. Look back at your old journals or past aspirations to fill the gaps in your story. Mercury's backspin entails reviewing your next steps involving your emotional security — look within yourself and align with your feelings instead of seeking external validation.

Brit + Co

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Themes: Self-Worth and Vulnerability

You're in for a month filled with financial themes and meaningful interactions, guiding you to reassess your values and friendships. The New Moon in Scorpio inspires you to reflect on personal resources, setting intentions for more stability. This is an opportunity to revamp your approach to money and security — research new methods that will attract more abundance. As Mercury enters Sagittarius, your focus shifts to engaging conversations and learning opportunities. It is also an excellent opportunity to network locally and gain traction and confidence with the side hustles you may be working on. Mars in Leo energizes your social life, motivating you to cultivate new friendships and connections that will get you one step closer to achieving your long-term aspirations. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Taurus highlights shared resources, prompting a reassessment of intimate relationships and closing the chapter on any outmoded approaches. By the end of this month, Mercury retrograde will enable you to reflect on old ideas that may have rested on the back burner. This is your chance to let your past endeavors rest or revive once Mercury goes direct.

Brit + Co

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Themes: Self-Empowerment and Commitment

Embrace a month of self-confidence and financial insight! The New Moon in your sign empowers you to set intentions for your goals and new beginnings. You're worthy, as this is your chance to establish a new seed based on what's aligned with your heart. As Mercury moves into Sagittarius, your focus shifts to finances, enhancing your ability to express your needs clearly. It can lead to frivolous spending, so be mindful of ongoing patterns that can result in retail therapy. Your hard work will pay off as Mars in Leo energizes your career ambitions, motivating you to make bold moves. You'll shine as you begin to dream bigger and aim higher. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Taurus illuminates your partnerships, prompting a reassessment of commitments and closing the chapter on past disagreements. Hold space for your heart and your past to find a solution. As this month closes, Mercury retrograde will enable you to feel more in your power as you analyze your self-worth and become intentional with your next steps in financial planning or business endeavors. Clarity will be set next month.

Brit + Co

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Themes: Revelation and Health

Get ready for a month of revelations and enriching opportunities. The month begins with the New Moon in Scorpio inviting you to assess your emotional patterns, reorienting you toward powering up your inner belief and renewal. Begin an affirmation practice because this lunation will level up your manifestation abilities. Mercury gracing in your sign will invoke clarity and enhance your ability to articulate your ideas. Traveling or seeking out new experiences will be your go-to course, as Mars in Leo fuels your adventurous spirit, motivating you to seek a new perspective. Taking a class or engaging in higher study will fulfill you. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Taurus shifts attention to your work life and health, helping you to assess your well-being. Release whatever is weighing down at work or mental patterns — focus on one thing at a time to ensure productivity. Later this month, your season begins while Mercury retrograde occurs. It will be beneficial to slow down and observe your personal goals and how you're showing yourself up for others.

Brit + Co

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Themes: Community and Desires

Prepare for a month focused on community engagement and clarifying your core desires. The New Moon in Scorpio invites you to energize your social circles, sparking intentions for collaboration and shared goals. Be sure that your connections contribute to your vision — enthusiasm is vital for success. With Mercury moving into Sagittarius, you’ll gain insights into your emotional patterns, helping you navigate feelings more effectively. This is your chance to change what no longer meets your standards as Mars in Leo brings energy to transformative experiences in intimacy and with your vulnerability. Get to the root and realize what needs revamping. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Taurus shines a light on your creative and romantic pursuits, urging you to reassess what brings you joy and fulfillment. As Mercury retrograde approaches, take a moment to reflect on past experiences that shaped your emotional landscape; you might find clarity in revisiting old dreams and wishes.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Themes: Professionalism and Family Roots

Get ready for a month rich in professional focus and social opportunities. The New Moon in Scorpio prompts you to define your career goals, inspiring strategic intentions for success. With Mercury entering Sagittarius, your attention shifts to building social networks and enhancing collaboration and networking potential. Love and partnerships will fire up as Mars in Leo energizes your connections, motivating you to seek mutual growth and shared ambitions. It's time to set the terms with your relationship — this will help you get answers involving its direction. The Full Moon in Taurus highlights your dynamics, prompting a reassessment of your foundational support systems. Revisit the old structures regarding your family roots and decide whether you want to implement this as your course moving forward. As Mercury retrograde sets in, consider reaching out to old friends or colleagues; reconnecting could spark fresh ideas and rejuvenate your professional aspirations and inner needs.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Themes: Exploration and Purpose

You're in for a month of exploring and understanding your life purpose. The New Moon in Scorpio inspires a quest for new knowledge, guiding your intentions toward education, beliefs, or travel opportunities. It is time to fall in love with life by broadening your reach. As Mercury enters Sagittarius, your focus sharpens on your life purpose and public image, enhancing your ability to articulate your ambitions. Dig deeper and understand what stirs in your zest for life. Expect vitality and endurance as Mars in Leo energizes your daily tasks, fueling your enthusiasm for tackling responsibilities. Consider a health kick or a new regimen to help you keep up with your new endeavors. Your body is a temple, and this month is the starting point in getting things done with your motivation. The Full Moon in Taurus lights up your communication skills, enabling you to reassess your old ideas and how they can be cultivated. It's time to launch your idea or make room for something better. With Mercury retrograde approaching, reflect on past career choices; revisiting old projects or connections might unveil new growth opportunities.

With 2025 just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to explore how you can power up your year ahead. Lumi Pelinku invites you to dive deeper into your journey through an extended reading that can provide tailored insights and inspiration. Click here to book your reading today!

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Can’t decide whether or not to post that [insert creative project here] you just finished working on? Maybe you’re working on a drawing, a weaving, a music video? You want to post it to share with your peeps but have that classic creative-person insecurity — will my friends/family like it? Will anyone else like it? Okay, maybe I won’t post it. Well, as you’ve probably guessed from the title, we’ve got an artist’s story that just might give you the confidence to post all your creative work. Because you never know — it just might lead to a total career change!

Meet Jenna Rainey, the completely lovely gal behind our Intro to Watercolor Online Class and our featured maker this week! A few weeks ago I spent an afternoon with Jenna, wandering the streets of the Mission in search of coffee, pastries and cocktails. Along the way, I learned a heck of a lot about this brilliant artist.

Before I let her tell her own story, let’s get to this Insta-fame. A couple years ago, Jenna was minding her own business (and technically, the business of others), working as a financial planner. Though she’d grown up surrounded by artists and creating her own work for her whole life, she hadn’t really considered a career as a professional maker. Then she decided to start posting some of her creative explorations, specifically watercolor and calligraphy, on Instagram. Lo and behold: an Insta-star was born. Her friends started liking, commenting and sharing — and then commissioning. All sorts of folks found her on Instagram and inquired about custom work, rates and more. She described the whole thing as so surreal, it almost felt silly. Is this really happening? The answer was obviously yes, and pretty soon she was able to quit her nine-to-five and turn her passion into a career.

Now, let’s hear more about Jenna in her own words.

What inspires you? Why do you love to design, create and make?

I’m most inspired by people. I think the way we interact, our stories and personalities are so fascinating. I’m also very inspired by the arts in general. A particular song can send me into a wave of creativity that I won’t be able to stop for a few hours. I might not produce the best work during that time, but that feeling alone is all worth it. I love being able to feel free to create for myself as well as interacting with a client’s particular taste and vision on a project.

What inspired your company, Mon Voir?

Mon Voir began out of a passion for painting that began when I was a little girl. Growing up in a family of artists greatly influenced my own story and technique as a self-taught painter, calligrapher and designer and has helped to develop a truly unique approach and style. We specialize in fine art and calligraphy for beautiful, bespoke wedding and event stationery. Along with stationery and print materials, we also offer fine art and calligraphy expertise for branding, logo design, tattoos and any other pieces you can dream up!

What’s one piece of advice you’d share with other makers?

Don’t waste your time feeling incompetent. Art is more about the experience and journey than it is impressing others. Once it becomes more about impressing other people, you completely loose who you are as an individual and a creative.

Tell us how technology has changed and supported what you do.

Instagram and social media in general have given me so many jobs and opportunities. While I was working at the financial planning office, I began exploring creating for more than just myself, eventually getting bold enough and posting work on social media. Things kinda snowballed after that, and I was able to quit that job and do Mon Voir full time because of all the jobs I was getting directly from posts!

What’s on your studio playlist?

Ha! No music, or Claire de Lune on repeat. It sounds depressing, but actually music is a huge part of my life (I sing and play piano), but I just get so distracted by it if I’m working.

How do you get into the creative flow? How does it feel?

In order to get into the creative flow, I either need complete silence or a particular song on repeat… usually without words. I’m so easily sidetracked that if I’m listening to music that’s just one notch too loud, or the lyrics stand out to me too much, I won’t be able to create. I also need great natural light to feel comfortable. Once I’m there, it feels like I’m dancing in a ballet. It’s soothing, therapeutic and my mind is able to turn off.

What do you love about teaching people to make? And inspiring people who don’t think they are traditionally creative?

The most rewarding part is when people realize that being creative IS for everyone. People get really hung up on talent and if they don’t have any of it within the artistic creative realm then, well, they’re not creative. But that just isn’t true. Talent is produced from hard work and dedication, whereas I believe creativity is something we are all born with and just need to tap into at the right time. So, each class presents a challenge to help someone see that with the right materials and training they can tap into that, and I enjoy that challenge the most I think.

What is the story of how you got to where you are today?

My mom and both of my grandmothers are all painters. I’ve grown up observing them and their technique for art along with having the freedom to create with no hinderance. I went to school for psychology, where I learned the importance of listening, learning and bringing out what’s best in a person. This has translated in so many ways to how I run my business as well as teaching workshops. I feel art is something that everyone should enjoy and not be afraid to try.

Before I became a full-time artist, I worked in restaurants for seven years, and my most recent job prior to Mon Voir was working for a financial planner for about four months. Both of these jobs taught me how to work hard and manage stressful environments. I feel that my experience as a waitress has far outweighed any experience I would’ve had at an art school. You learn how to put people’s needs first, deal with unruly/angry customers and work long hours under pressure.

What other makers inspire you?

Well, Luli Sanchez is my favorite watercolor artist, ever. I could never be so bold to paint with such dark, moody colors. I’m also inspired by The 2 Bandits (jewelry designer) and Ariele Alasko (wood worker). Van Gogh has always been my favorite painter.

What is the weirdest, most unusual or worst job you’ve ever had?

I would have to say working at a tiny sports bar in downtown Chicago, IL, where I’m pretty positive the owner was affiliated with something shady. Let’s just say, I had to call the police on a regular basis, my manager got in fist fights with a customer (regularly) and not many people who worked there showed up sober.

What other things do you love to make?

music and food :)

Scroll on to see a few more snaps from our wander around the Mission. Warning: Things got weird… in the best way ever ;)

Intro to Watercolor Online Class

Everyday Watercolor: Learn to Paint Watercolor in 30 Days, to really put your new creative skills to good use!

Happy making!

Things are heating up betweenSelena Gomez and Benny Blanco since late last year to the surprise of some, but it seems like the couple's romance is just getting started. They're not shy about PDA and posting each other on social media and pretty much telling anyone who doesn't like it to get lost. We love how fiercely supportive they are of each other, giving us so many good green flags! Here's everything we know about the lovely new couple so far.

Selena Gomez And Benny Blanco's Relationship Timeline:

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

March 2019

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco first collaborated on the song "I Can't Get Enough" along with Tainy and J. Balvin in 2019. Though they were featured in a cute scene together, there weren't any rumors about them being romantically linked then.

August 2023

They didn't work together again until late summer 2023 when he produced Selena's single "Single Soon" with Cashmere Cat.

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

December 2023

Before 2023 ended, Selena started leaving comments on Instagram that suggested she and Benny Blanco were in fact together. One of the comments she left appear on this Instagram fan page and it reads, "He is my absolute everything in my heart."

Some fans weren't so thrilled to see the two together though and they weren't afraid to express their opinions. But, this only prompted Selena to leave more comments that defended her relationship with Benny.

People grabbed a screenshot of one of the comments Selena responded that revealed the couple had been together for a while. "Not mad. It’s been 6 months bb. I will always defend my friends, family and fans till the day I die," she wrote. They even shared another screenshot from Selena's Instagram Story that showed her wearing a "B" ring on one of her fingers.

Craig Barritt/Getty Images for TIME

December 15, 2023

Soon after that, Selena shared a photo carousel on Instagram that included some of her favorite moments in New York and Benny Blanco can be seen in BTS moments. The last picture of the carousel features them sharing a kiss in a black and white photo that basically confirms the responses the singer had for fans.

December 28, 2023

Before the new year began, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco spent some time at a cute art exhibit during a date. From the looks of things, it seemed like they discovered their love language of physical touch early on.

Presley Ann/Getty Images for GQ

January 2, 2024

Feeling the love of being with Selena, Benny Blanco took to Instagram Stories to officially signal that the two are dating. People grabbed a few more screenshots that Benny shared and all we can see is the happy glint that was in Selena's eyes.

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January 3, 2024

The next day the couple were seen court side at one of the Los Angeles Lakers' game. Once again, their love language was on full display in the most intimate way. A source revealed to People that they understood why people had so many opinions about Selena's relationship with Benny. "Everyone was a fan of hers before Only Murders [in the Building], and now everyone is protective of her."

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January 15, 2024

Later that month, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco showed up to the Emmy Awards together. They were sitting side-by-side and weren't afraid to show affection with each other.

Jesse Grant/Getty Images for AFI

March 2024

When Benny Blanco's birthday rolled around, Selena Gomez shared a sweet message to him on Instagram. She wrote, "Happy birthday baby! Your emotional endurance, positive disposition, unbelievable talent (that blows me away), undeniable humor and loving, kind heart absolutely kill me. I love you @itsbennyblanco 🎂🥹."

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April 2024

Although we're only four months into the new year, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's relationship is still going strong! The Only Murders in the Building star has been seen smiling in every pic she posts which indicates she's genuinely happy in her relationship. A source hinted to People that the two are doing well. "It’s a very serious relationship, and they’re making long distance work while she’s in New York for work commitments," they said.

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Spotify

April 25, 2024

In an interview with WSJ, Benny Blanco gave his POV of how his relationship with Selena Gomez began and it was the cutest revelation. "It’s crazy how your partner could just be sitting there the whole time, right in front of your eyes...And then you have a Clueless moment where you're like, Wait, I'm in love," he says.

A man who compares his relationship to that moment in Clueless where Cher and Josh admit their feelings for each other gets brownie points from us!

May 15, 2024

It looks like Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's relationship may be ready for the next step — that's if you ask Mr. Blanco. He appeared on The Howard Stern Show yesterday to chat about everything, including his relationship with Selena. When Howard Stern asked, "You want to have kids with Selena? Have you told her you want to have kids yet," Benny replied, "That’s my next goal, to check the box. I have a ton of godkids. I've got a ton of nephews. I love being around kids."

However, he's not in a rush and wants everything to happen naturally. All that matters is that the two of them are in each other's life. He said, "I just know that when I look at her, I just say, ‘I don’t know a world where it could be better than this.’ That’s what I always say to her.”

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

May 29, 2024

Selena Gomez tells TIME just how much Benny Blanco means to her — no matter what anyone else says. "My own fans, who I adore and feel like have shaped who I am, will say the most hurtful things to me about how I live my life," she says. "But he has the strength in him that none of that noise fazes him. It’s really impressive, and I just cherish every moment with him. I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know that he’s not going anywhere any time soon.”

Selena Gomez/Instagram

October 27, 2024

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco looked amazing in their Alice in Wonderland couple's Halloween costume. "Curiouser and curiouser," Selena wrote on the post, which is totally reminding us of Taylor Swift's 1989 (hello "Wonderland"!!!).

Selena wore a corset dress in what looks like slate blue with cap puffed sleeves and a tulle skirt, along with a blonde wig, black bow, and slingback shoes. Benny went all out as the Mad Hatter with face paint, a wig, a top hat, and a waistcoat. We'd follow them down the rabbit hole!

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This post has been updated.

Gretchen Weiners' hair might be full of secrets in Mean Girls, but in Amanda Seyfried's new movie, her life is full of secrets. The Housemaid, based on the novel by Freida McFadden, follows Millie (played by Sydney Sweeney), who's down on her luck and in desperate need of a fresh start. When she snags a job as a housemaid in Nina's (Amanda Seyfried) beautiful home, it looks like things are finally moving in her favor. But all is not as it seems — and it doesn't take long for Millie to realize Nina's secrets are the most dangerous thing about her.

The book, which has sold over 3.6 million copies, has been on the New York Times Bestseller list for over a year and Amazon's Bestsellers list for 98 weeks (talk about popular). It was also the second-most-read title on Kindle for their 10th anniversary, so it's no surprise that the story is getting its own adaptation. Here's everything you need to know about The Housemaid starring Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, and Brandon Sklenar.

  • The Housemaid by Freida McFadden is getting the movie treatment.
  • Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney will star as Nina and Millie, respectively, while Brandon Sklenar will star as Andrew.
  • Seyfried promises fans "I'm gonna do you well."

Who's in The Housemaid movie?

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The Housemaid Cast

The cast of The Housemaid will be led by Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria, Anyone But You) as Millie, Amanda Seyfried (Mamma Mia!, The Drop Out) as Nina, and Brandon Sklenar (It Ends With Us,Drop) as Andrew. Uma Thurman, Phoebe Dynevor, and Anthony Hopkins will also star. Check back here for the rest of the official cast list!

"I hope [die-hard fans of the book] accept this casting," Seyfried jokes in an interview with Bustle. "I know Sydney's amazing...I can't wait to work with her. I think we're going to have a lot of fun. But also, like, I don't know how people see Nina, my character...I hope they like the casting because the fans are the reason it's being made. So I'm here to tell all the fans that I'm gonna do you well."

"I can’t even express how excited I am to announce that #TheHousemaidMovie is coming soon!!!" McFadden said in an Instagram post. "@Lionsgate has come up with the absolute perfect cast and director, and I am just so grateful! I mean, Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, and Paul Feig…mind blown!!!! I’m so honored and thankful to all my readers who helped make this dream come true!!!!!"

Is The Housemaid going to be made into a movie?

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Yes, Deadline announced on October 8 that The Housemaid would become a film, thanks to Hidden Pictures and Lionsgate. Paul Feig will direct, Rebecca Sonnenshine will write the script, and Todd Lieberman, Laura Fischer, and Feig will produce while Alex Young, author Freida McFadden, Sydney Sweeney, and Amanda Seyfried will executive produce.

“I’m thrilled to have The Housemaid join our upcoming slate,” said Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. “A great filmmaker and a great cast with a great script from a great book is a terrific place to start.”

“Part of the fun of the book was imagining the cast while we read it, and Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried are perfect for Millie and Nina – they’re both mysterious, nuanced, and incredibly skilled at becoming characters who don’t reveal everything right away,” said Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group.

What is the plot of The Housemaid?

Amazon

The Housemaid Plot

Millie has one more chance at starting over, and taking a job as a housemaid for wealthy couple Nina and Andrew is the perfect place to start. But as she cleans, cooks, and takes care of their daughter, Millie quickly realizes her employers are far from perfect — even if they'll do anything to keep up appearances.

When is The Housemaid coming out?

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The Housemaid Release Date

We don't have an official release date for The Housemaid yet, but there's a good chance we could see it in 2025. Stay tuned for more news!

How many books are in the series The Housemaid?

Amazon

Freida McFadden has three books in The Housemaid series: The Housemaid, The Housemaid's Secret, and The Housemaid is Watching.

Is The Housemaid spicy?

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There is some sex and violence in The Housemaid, but it's not as overwhelming as some other popular books on the market. One Goodreads user compares the content to what you'd watch in Law & Order: SVU or Criminal Minds. If you're concerned about one of your preteens reading this book, you could always read it first, or start a bookclub and read it together!

Read The 17 Best Mystery And Thriller Books For All Readers while it's still spooky season!

This post has been updated.