WHY DO YOU LIKE AND COLLECT MATCHES?
As a freelancer currently, I feel really lucky to operate in an intersection of creating, fashion, and business. It's a beautiful balance that keeps me inspired. From an early age, I've loved words, visuals, and sentimental trinkets. I've always kept either a book for reading or a pencil & paper for sketching in my pockets. Since living in NYC, I've realized I have also filled up those pockets with many matchbooks.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE ONES AND WHY?
Here are a few of my faves—I’ve had this @primosnyc matchbook since attending Reformation's NYE party in 2020—when we were filled with so much optimism. It's really inspiring to reflect and have gratitude for how far I've come in both my personal life and professional life since then. This Skinny Dennis matchbook is one of a few I have as I frequent this spot with my fellow honky-tonk appreciating friends. I cherish these unadorned moments which hold the grit of youth and hometown roots. Two of my best friends Anna & Garrett have these personalized matchbooks which they dole out to visitors of their “Park Slope Treehouse.” So many candle-lit and beautifully-plated memories there with a vintage record crooning in the background of creatively inspired conversation. I love these two gifted hosts. @pillowcatbooks reminds me of a day spent gallivanting in East Village with a bestie. Those days where you get in 21,000 steps somehow as you vintage shop, sample exotic foods, and peek into galleries. @natsonbank is a neighborhood favorite and is becoming a spot that my roomies and I press pause on life. Joyful mid-century decor and truly tasty rotating food options sponsor lively conversation and the West Village romance of a summer’s eve.
WHEN AND HOW DO YOU LIKE TO ENJOY YOUR MATCHES?
I pick up matchbooks on a whim and without sentiment—thinking of them as a practical and free way to light candles. However, my artist heart quickly forms sentiment, and I end up keeping them and using the enclosed matches sparingly so that I can keep these trinkets for a long time. I realize when I pick up a matchbook to spark a flame that my fondest NYC memories are also sparked.
