Hi there! My name is Emma Kozlowski, and I am the owner of Emma Lyn Designs, a line of handmade accessories. I taught myself how to sew in college 4 years ago and have been designing and creating ever sense. When I am not at my full time job as a teacher, you will find me with a cup of coffee in my sewing room. I design products that are both functional and fashionable. I believe as busy women, we all need practicality and simplicity, and I try to provide that in the form of fun, colorful accessories.
How do you take care of yourself so that you’re physically and mentally prepared to be your best self for others?
While balancing many different roles both personally and professionally, I have learned that sometimes it is best to stop and take a break. It is so easy to say “Yes” to everything, but knowing when to say “No” has been important. It isn’t always easy to say no, but it’s necessary.
What’s your favorite beauty secret?
Less is more. I like to keep it simple with a quick coat of foundation and some mascara. I love sleeping so I make my routine as quick as possible in the morning.
What’s your favorite go-to outfit for a quick polished look?
I am currently really into jeggings with a cotton t-shirt and a long sweater over it, paired with some cute flats.
What’s your favorite quick-prep dinner for your family?
My husband and I love making grilled pizza. All of the cooking is done outside on the grill by my husband, all I have to do is cut up some mozzarella and veggies and throw them on top of the pizza. It is very little prep and very easy clean up. The grill makes the pizza extra crispy and it is fun to try all different kinds of toppings.
Tell us your favorite Instagram account to follow and why?
There are so many! My favorite kind of people to follow are people who share their story and inspire me to continue following my dreams. It is nice to be reminded that that I am not alone in this crazy journey. Mica May from May Designs is one of those people that keep it real and reflect on her journey of building her business while balancing family life.
What tradition or routine is important to you?
I always try to take some time in the afternoon to relax before a busy afternoon/evening of working. I like to have my afternoon cup of coffee while checking up on social media. Spending 15 minutes relaxing is something I look forward to every afternoon. This routine of guilt free “me time” is an important part of my busy day.
What’s in your purse?
I use my Emma Lyn Everyday wristlet to hold my essentials. I really don’t keep too much in it, just my cash, cards, Burt’s Bees grapefruit chapstick, sunglasses, business cards and my iphone. When it comes to my everyday clutch that goes everywhere with me, I like to keep it simple and uncluttered.
Where do you find your inspiration?
This may sound like a very millennial thing to say, but I love looking on Instagram to find inspiration. I live in a small town in Connecticut, so it is always fun to get a glimpse into other people’s lives. I am especially inspired by following the stories of successful women who built strong businesses and brands from the bottom up. I also find inspiration in the fabric store. I could spend hours looking at fabrics, admiring the patterns and texture, and dreaming up things to make with it.
We know you’re a busy lady! How do you balance all of your work responsibilities with your home life? Any tips for our readers?
I once heard Jessica Herrin, the founder and CEO of Stella and Dot, talk about balance and what she said really stuck with me. She talked about how we are all juggling so many things in our lives and trying to keep so many balls up in the air. We need to identify which ones are rubber and which ones are glass. It is ok to not keep all the balls in the air, as long as they are rubber, they will bounce.
What’s your favorite app (or other tool) for helping you do life?
I use Google Docs because I can use it on my computer and on my phone. Although I am a notebook girl and love writing things down, having everything on my phone is great for the times when I don’t have my notebook handy. I also love using Paprika to store all of my recipes and make my grocery lists.
Follow along with Emma:
Website: www.emmalyndesigns.com
Instagram: @emmalyndesigns
Facebook: www.facebook.com/emmalyndesigns
