We are excited to introduce you to our five new brand BFF’s. We know what you might be thinking, what IS a brand BFF? Well, we define Lilly Brand BFF’s as women who embody confidence, sunshine, and most of all, the spontaneous bohemian spirit of our founder Lilly Pulitzer. We already know and love these women, but it’s time to share them with you! Check out some fast facts from our interviews with them, and you’ll see exactly why we are O-B-S-E-S-S-I-N-G big time and why they are a must follow.
Meet Venita Aspen of Charleston, SC! This go-getter entrepreneur wears multiples hats: she is the founder of The Aspen Agency, as well as a freelance stylist, and model. You may even recognize her from the Target 20th Anniversary campaign that just launched!
What is the most rewarding thing about being an entrepreneur (in regard to the Aspen Agency)?
The most rewarding thing about being a business owner is being able to give other small business owners what they normally couldn’t have which is beautifully made marketing collateral at a price they can afford!
If you could tell your 16 year-old-self one thing, what would it be?
Don’t stop being you! Which I am very thankful I never did!
What do you do in the name of self-care?
I love grocery shopping! Stepping into a store and being able to discover new items to cook with or new recipes is very therapeutic for me + cooking of course! I guess that’s why I decided to get my first degree in Culinary Arts!
What does Lilly Pulitzer represent to you?
Lilly Pulitzer represents happiness for me! There is never a DULL moment when you are seen out in Lilly!
Next up is our confidence queen, Raeann Langas. A graphic designer and fashion blogger from L.A., Raeann is everything we love: confident, fun, and optimistic.
What does your ideal self-care day look like?
My ideal self-care day starts with a spin class followed by brunch with friends and a little shopping. I would end the day with a facial and dinner with my family!
What is a fun fact not many people know about you?
A fun fact that many people don’t know about me is that at 5’11” I am actually the shortest of my three sisters!
What’s your favorite summer recipe?
My favorite summer recipe is watermelon salad with feta and balsamic. I know it sounds strange, but it is so yummy!
What does Lilly Pulitzer represent to you?
Lilly Pulitzer represents marching to the beat of your own drum. I truly admire how Lilly did things her own way and how she inspired women to embrace that same confidence.
Our third Brand BFF is the self-proclaimed “hopeful romantic,” Caila Quinn! When she isn’t jet-setting around the world, Caila is spreading sunshine in New York City.
What are some places that are on your vacation bucket list?
Currently dreaming of checking off Greece and Morocco off the bucket list. The white stone villas carved into the Grecian coast seems so bright and picturesque for our next adventure.
What are your best recommendations for planning a big trip?
When planning a big trip always book flights first so you’re committed to taking the time off – everything else will fall into place. Then I like to make a drafted itinerary in my notes, so I can collect recommendations leading up to the trip. The anticipation of travel is sometimes the best part.
What does it mean to be a “hopeful romantic”?
Awww!! I love this question! I am a hopeful romantic through and through. Being a hopeful romantic means being a passionately optimistic person that always follows their heart.
What does Lilly Pulitzer represent to you?
Lilly Pulitzer represents a playful spirit that brings me back childhood summers in Vero Beach, Florida. The bright prints always make me smile and that is why I will always be a Lilly girl.
Kristy Wicks is a home décor connoisseur, world-traveler and mother to her daughter, Emma! Follow along with her as she provides tips and tricks for all things home, lifestyle, travel and more.
What flowers do you have to have around your house at all times?
I’m a simple girl… I love adding pops of color with my home accessories and keep it soft with my florals. White and blush roses and hydrangeas are my absolute favorite.
Have you always had a passion for interior decorating?
Ever since I was a little girl I was always rearranging my bedroom & helping my mom with the house. Visiting model homes on the weekends has always been a tradition in our family…and one that I still continue sharing with my daughter.
What is your favorite meal that your husband, Jeff cooks for you or that you cook together?
Cook together? I’m sure he’d love that! 😉 Jeff makes everything delicious.. from his Summer Greek Salad to his Homemade Banana Ice Cream. I love all!
What does Lilly Pulitzer represent to you?
Lilly Pulitzer represents a happy, festive, carefree vibe that you can carry through from vacation to everyday. I’ve grown up watching my mom wear Lilly so for me it’s also about family and special moments.
Our fifth and final Brand BFF for you to meet is social services litigation attorney, Cynthia Andrew. Cynthia is all about female empowerment, following your passion and traveling the world.
What is one thing that brings you happiness and why?
Family and Friends- everything feels, tastes, better, it’s all magnified when you’re with the people you love.
Where are you traveling to this summer?
Just got back from Bermuda, Montreal (a summer staple for me), Newport, Lisbon, Madrid, San Fran, fingers crossed Greece.
How do you find balance with work life and your personal life?
It’s all about putting together a clear plan of action daily, weekly, monthly; setting clear goals and creating an agenda. I then work my way through my to do list, completely focusing on the task at hand. I believe in doing many things and that we can manage multiple tasks, but I believe the best way to succeed with each one is to devote dedicated time to each. This isn’t always possible, but I keep working at it.
What does Lilly Pulitzer represent to you?
It represents smart, intelligent, women, who cherish beauty in the everyday. Who know how to work hard and have fun too. Women who find the silver lining in unexpected places and experiences.
