Wendi Would… Reveal 10 Things She Can’t Live Without

As hard as I try not to be materialistic, I have to admit there are a few things in life that help make it even better… The confidence they give me to up my energy, help me relax, keep me organized, and stay on top of it all keeps Wendistry blowing and going.

Here’s my list of 10 things I can’t live without:

10. Puma ballet flats: I wear them running errands, commuting to spin class, and while painting my purses. Comfortable, stylish, works with whatever I’m wearing. Check, check, and hell yeah.

9. Morning cappuccino:  Since returning from Italy this past summer, it’s required before speaking.

8. Venice:  Speaking of Italy… ‘Nuff said #TakeMeThere.

7. Spotify:  I always play classical music when I’m working. It’s a perfect retreat for when I need to concentrate on coming up with design ideas and sketching.

6. Brussels sprouts:  Yes, I said THOSE things! When we went to New England this past fall, I tried them for the first time in a restaurant who served them lightly sautéed in a buffalo wing sauce with a side of ranch. OH. MY. Ever-lovin’ WOW. I’m addicted and have since not stopped with the brussels sprouts recipes.

5. Tiffany stud earrings:  A birthday gift three years ago from the best husband ever. My daily ear attire.

4. Poppin memo pads:  This company is one of my BIGGEST addictions. Nothing says “OMG I WANT to GET S#!+ DONE” like an inviting and pretty workspace in your signature color. So, in case you’re not familiar with a brand that celebrates each individual’s work-style, allow me introduce you to Poppin… Work Happy.

3. Veuve Clicquot Champagne:  So THIS happened at Christmas… And, while I LOVE Veuve, the story of Madame Clicquot is the real reason it’s my favorite. In The Widow Clicquot, Tilar J. Mazzeo brings to life the fascinating woman behind the iconic yellow label: Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin. After her husband’s death, she defied convention by assuming the reins of the fledgling wine business they had nurtured together. Steering the company through dizzying political and financial reversals, she became one of the world’s first great businesswomen and one of the richest women of her time. Raising a toast to Madame Clicquot!

2. Library card:  I strive to constantly be reading at least one book, and the Frisco Public Library is practically my best friend.

Photo: Frisco Public Library

1. Paints:  What can I say… they’re my life-blood. My method is my muse. My work is best described as an experiment with the fundamental process of painting. I pour, scrape, layer and otherwise manipulate paint on the canvas to create handbags that are rich in both color and texture. In this way, my designs and handbags are inspired by the very act of painting… composing layers of color and texture until they become a painting in your hand.