Bonjour, and welcome to the next installment of our new series, The LC Conversation!
Creative collaboration, meaningful conversation, explorative travel, and driving curiosity with a thirst for learning have long been hallmarks of Laurence’s lifestyle and now extend into the LC team values as a whole. The LC Conversation gives us an opportunity to connect with people in a new way, and share these connections with our audience.
This series features a diverse array of tastemakers, visionaries, and thought-leaders from an assortment of creative fields, as they answer the same set of questions to give us insight into their philosophy, experience, style, and artistic view.
Without further ado… let’s welcome this week’s guest, Amy Flurry!
Amy Flurry is a nationally recognized speaker and frequent podcast guest on the subject of DIY PR. She’s authored two books, and the popularity of Recipe for Press has created a platform that gives interior designers all the tools they need to take advantage of press opportunities.
Her communications firm, based in Athens, Georgia, expands marketing strategies of companies in the home furnishings industry and builds designer programs to deepen their relationship with the interior design trade.
What is your present state of mind in 2021?
Well-rested. Observant. Grateful.
How do you think recent events are affecting consumer trends with respect to design, architecture, and interiors?
There is a focus on wellness and integrity of ingredients especially food, a heightened awareness of our dependence on the natural world and on living things for comfort.
How do you incorporate sustainable practices in your business?
I have my own communications firm and the office is located only a half-mile from my home, so I walk back and forth and this luxury adds to a quality of life and health that I enjoy. I am also flexible with office hours and believe in common spaces that I can share with other entrepreneurs, who may not have an office yet but need a space from time to time.
I am also a partner in a soft goods company named, Aloka. We are committed to seeking potential in existing resources and materials and creating well-designed products for the interiors trade. We revitalize and reimagine vintage floor clothes from India. This year has forced us to travel less to India, but also to think about how we can use technology in our procuring, which means fewer flights, etc.
How do you interpret the meaning of “Circular Economy” with regard to sustainability?
Resources are not infinite.
What practices do you regularly engage in to support your health and wellness?
I walk a lot. I make a point to know my farmers and to start with them when I buy groceries and then get the rest from the store (instead of the reverse order). I live in a town in an active little Southern city (Athens, Georgia) where creativity is highly valued as is community. I’ve come to value that strong sense of place and the people in it.
What is your design motto or favorite quote?
“If you love it, it will work. That’s the only real rule.” – Bunny Williams
Who is your artistic muse or icon (from past or present)?
Ane Diaz: She is a Venezuelan singer who lives in California. When you hear her voice and see her perform, you’ll understand why.
Where do you feel most inspired and alive?
When I am immersed in a creative project with time and space and plenty of natural light to sit with it, plus coffee and wine to bookend the day!
What is one item you cannot live without?
Increasingly, my glasses.
What is your favorite fabric?
Currently, Aloka quilts which are made of layers and layers of retired saris!
What color consistently draws you in?
Blue and shades of it.
Which collection will you never forget?
I’m not sure exactly of the question but my mind immediately goes to Alexander McQueen, Autumn/Winter 2010-2011. It was romantic and melancholy. Sheer genius.
What book have you read recently that made a tremendous impression on you?
Meditations for the Soul, by Neale Lundgren Ph.D., and this cookbook, Ottolenghi SIMPLE, which I would grab if the house was on fire.
What music brings you to life?
I love Ray Charles and REM and both sounds make me feel at home even when I’m thousands of miles away. Same for the music and voice of my friend, folk singer Jim Kweskin and musical partner, Samoa Wilson. I especially love their takes on pre-war, rural Americana tunes.
What would be your daily uniform if you had to choose just one?
A simple dress/tunic from Kara-line over a pair of cropped jeans.
If you could tell your younger self (when you were just starting out) one thing, what would it be?
Take your time.
Follow Amy on social at @amyflurry and @recipeforpress.
