Kid Rock - Our Crystal Workshop with The Cristalline

Written & Photographed By A Wild Dove  

In our latest signature learning experience, we hosted a crystal workshop for kids in collaboration with our favorite crystal design firm,  The Cristalline. Amidst a spread filled with snacks by Moon Juice, vegan and gluten-free donuts from Erin McKenna’s Bakery and rosé for the mamas, The Cristalline’s co-founder Rashia Bell took our little ones through an understanding of crystals followed by a mini-meditation using the crystal of their choice. Suffice to say, the kids loved it. Get Rashia’s take on this mindful, mind-blowing experiential event.

“I wanted to create a workshop for kids to discover the meaning of crystals and their various uses. We started by discussing how crystals and stones are created, since most kids are into chemistry and how to create things by combining elements. Next I wanted them to experience crystals without any preconceived input as to the meaning of the different stones. Each child assembled a set of crystals by choosing the ones they were most drawn to. This aspect of the workshop was important because kids are very receptive to crystal energy, since they haven’t been through the energetic disruptions that adults have. This is why many kids have rock or shell collections, because they are drawn to nature’s energy.

Once they had made their own set, I then revealed the energetic properties of the different stones, which provided them a fun analysis of the stones they chose.

Stones & Their Meanings -

 

Amethyst - Purification

Green Aventurine - Confidence

Red Aventurine - Determination

Rose Quartz - Love

Kyanite - Connect to Nature

Obsidian - Grounding

Carnelian - Courage

Yellow Jasper - Removes Worry

Black Tourmaline - Protection

Citrine - Creativity

Blue Lace Agate -Communication

Clear Quartz - Clearing

Hematite Manifestation

We then talked about how to care for crystals by cleaning and clearing them.  One of my favorite moments was when I mentioned that you could use moonlight to charge your crystals when it was a full or new moon.  One boy asked, “How do I know when it is going to be one?” I said that you can look on a calendar to see where the moon is. He said, “I know, I can look on my dad’s apple watch!”  This generation has the ability to be extremely mindful and combine the holistic with the technical world. I love that A Wild Dove is strengthening that combination by providing something that mamas and kids can share together.  I think introducing your own personal practice to your children and then letting them find their own is a gift and will only help them to grow into more well-rounded adults.

"It was really lovely to see how open they were and the tenacity with which they approached the meditation."

The last part of the workshop was spent showing the kids how they can use their crystals. We did a mini meditation with a stone of their choice, which blew me away. It was really lovely to see how open they were and the tenacity with which they approached the meditation. They fully embraced the process and the power of crystals without questioning it.  I am so excited to continue this exploration in the fall and doing more events that empower kids with both the knowledge and tools to be mindful of the energy in their bodies.

To learn more about our upcoming
A Wild Dove x The Cristalline workshops
please sign up below!

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learn more

Go to thecristalline.com

An Experience of Artistic Proportion

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

We partnered with kids learning organization, Shine to bring our latest unique learning experience to the Hamptons. Our mini flock explored the works of Jackson Pollock at the very studio he shared with artist and wife Lee Krasner. The kids channeled the artists’ practices and mediums to create their own diverse works. The result? Nothing short of genius. Read on for a first person account of our exciting collaboration straight from Aaron Goldschmidt, director of Shine and proud member of our Flock...

"We have always loved discussing Jackson Pollock in our art classes, but when asked to create a workshop at the Pollock-Krasner house in East Hampton, we jumped at the opportunity."

We couldn’t wait to craft one of our signature workshops introducing children to art and its concepts in a fun and age-appropriate way.

As always, we began our morning with a discussion, but it was no ordinary talk. We were in Jackson Pollock’s studio! After reading Action Jackson, we discussed Pollock and his work.  It’s important to help children understand that Pollock originated an idea about art. His canvases were on the floor and he didn’t use traditional techniques of brush to paper. Instead, his paintings were as alive as he was and made with using his whole body, thus creating “action painting” by throwing, dripping, splattering his paint on the canvas. Pollock wanted people to feel the energy he felt while painting.  

We then discussed Pollock’s wife, Lee Krasner, also an important artist although overshadowed by Jackson and her role as caretaker to his troubled life. We noted the progression of her art from small, organic forms inspired by still lifes to the big bold shapes, lines, and colors that was fueled by her emotional state once Pollock died.

Then on to the art. We devised two projects, one representing Pollock and one for Krasner.  

A common through line for us was that each artist used movement and action in their work.  While Pollock’s were fueled by expression, movement, and rhythm, Krasner’s were more gestural, representing her emotions.

For Pollock, we put out individual canvasses and let the campers choose colors. Pollock loved to listen to jazz as he painted so we listened to some improvisational jazz so the kids could get into their bodies.  We mentioned that if Pollock dropped a penny, or if a bug landed in the paint, he would leave it there as part of the art.  We actually had a camper leave a piece of rope on her canvas that was used to drip paint.

To encourage action painting, we told everyone to move their whole body, not just an arm or hand, to reach the entire canvas. We told them to experiment with different kinds of lines, varying the height, speed, and angle of actions. The kids were having fun making a mess and getting into their action painting.

For Krasner, we used black ink to create our gestural lines.  We asked campers to think about how they were feeling and then move their arms and hands in broad strokes to create bold, expressive lines. Once dried, we returned to add bright colors to our paintings, both individual and group. For the kids, the juxtaposition of using paint for the Pollock and ink and oil pastel for the Krasner gave them a variety of mediums with which to create.

Sign up for our next
experience below!

As we continue to expose kids to a variety of art and artists, it’s important to let them know that not all art is created by standing in front of a canvas and painting landscapes. After spending the day in such an iconic location and bearing witness to the inspiration that fuelled both Pollock and Krasner, it was clear that our art comes from a combination of so many things in our life. Translating concepts of art into everyday activities doesn’t have to be challenging, but rather a way to allow children to see the world a little bit differently.  And if we continue to let the world change us, we can change the world, one canvas at a time. Keep Shining…

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learn more

Go to ShineNYC.net

As modern mamas living in the over information age, (where everyone is an expert and parenting opinions are shared as freely and easily as an Instagram post) it can be tough to filter through the white noise to find the facts. Naturally, we’d love to consider ourselves wise in all sorts of ways, but the truth is sometimes we’re scrawling SOS in the sand. Good thing we’ve got the guidance and expertise of our own personal rockstars - the people who inspire us on the daily. Our rockstars (our flock) are enthusiasts, professionals and influencers in the fields of wellness, travel, education, style—the list goes on. Each one brings a profoundly different perspective to the table, one informed by their own experiences and outlooks. And that perspective is priceless.

They say it takes a village…we say it takes a flock.

Lynn Loves

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Welcome back to Dove Loves, Lynn’s definitive guide to the products and pieces she’s loving - her favorites du jour, the holy grail of what she’s coveting, researching, talking about, and obsessing over.

I mean the name alone is so good. Mermaid Mask. It instantly makes me happy and is so fitting, especially given that Leahlani, the organic beauty line, was born on the shores of Kauai and features lush Hawaiian nectars and all natural ingredients. The mask is the most incredible blend of Spirulina, Chlorella clay and honey. A gorgeous emerald green color, this is is truly superfood for your skin. It cleanses, nourishes and leaves you glowing. I use it a few times weekly in the morning. My skin feels and looks so healthy that maybe I’ll change my name to Ariel.

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shop the story

leahlani mermaid mask

My Top Summer Sunscreen Picks

Written by Erika Bloom & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Now that you’ve grabbed those first rays of summer, it’s time to get serious about sun protection. There’s nothing better in the summer than playing in the outdoors, but we should protect our little ones’ skin while doing so. Organic, all natural sunscreens ensure we are nourishing them with effective coverage without adding harmful toxins. I choose products that are not only organic, but free of chemicals (phthalates, petro-chemicals, synthetic preservatives and parabens), and full of the right kind of effective physical sunscreen. Zinc oxide is great, but we must also consider particle size. Larger zinc particles are better for us and our kids, as non-nano particles can enter human cells, interact with our biology, and confuse our immune systems.

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After these important considerations, I won’t compromise on luxury, feel, and experience. I look for something with a lovely scent, that rubs in without a white shadow, won’t cause breakouts, and stays put for continual coverage.

Here are my faves, selected from a lifetime of trying organic sunscreens and wandering the world in the sun, and from the clear and opinionated feedback of my two little adventurers, Alexander and Anabella.

Loving Naturals Adorable Baby Sunscreen SPF 30

Loving Naturals Adorable BabySunscreen SPF 30 is my favorite all around bottled sunscreen. Yes, it says it’s for babies, but my big kids don’t mind, and I love this one for me as well. It exceeds my non toxic standards and has a physical sunscreen but truly goes on clear. It is the least white of any liquid zinc sunscreen I’ve ever used.

TruKid Sunny Days sport Daily sunscreen SPF 30

My daughter loves the citrus scent (which comes from natural, perfume free oils) of TruKid Sunny Days Sport Daily Sunscreen SPF 30. I love that it goes on white so I can see she’s fully covered but then can be rubbed in to barely there for lasting coverage. It’s packed with organic ingredients and lasts through a 60-minute swim.

Purple Prairie Botanicals Sunstick

I’m obsessed with Purple Prairie Botanicals SunStick. The ingredient list is so pure and organic you could almost eat it. The cocoa butter gives it a subtle, chocolaty smell that’s delicious. It moisturizes skin with coconut oil, olive oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and sunflower oil leaving skin soft and glowing but not shiny. The diameter of the stick is larger than most so it’s easy to apply on the whole body. Because it’s 2oz and a solid, I can take it in my carry-on when we travel so I don’t have to check luggage but can ensure I have healthy sun protection for my family no matter where we are.

Badger Sport SPF 35 Face Stick

At SPF 35 and 80 minutes of water resistance, Badger Sport SPF 35 Face Stick is the strongest of the bunch. Still it is 98% organic, doesn’t feel thick, and can be rubbed in for no white cast. It says it’s for face but it’s also good for adding on to more likely to burn spots on the body, like the tops of the shoulders. For the scent averse, this one has virtually no smell at all. The small and slim package means I can keep it in my purse or even in my pocket for on-the-go application.

BeautyCounter Protect Lip Balm SPF 15

SPF for your lips is equally as important as the rest of your body. Sun damage and sunburn can affect this sensitive area. Beautycounter Lip Balm features aloe, shea butter and a plethora of rich natural oils that hydrate beautifully. The sun protection is zinc non-nano particles, which are super effective and healthy. You and your kids will love reapplying it throughout the day.

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for more info

visit erikabloompilates.com

@erikabloompilates

Basket Bag by Vanessa Seward

As modern mamas living in the over information age, (where everyone is an expert and parenting opinions are shared as freely and easily as an Instagram post) it can be tough to filter through the white noise to find the facts. Naturally, we’d love to consider ourselves wise in all sorts of ways, but the truth is sometimes we’re scrawling SOS in the sand. Good thing we’ve got the guidance and expertise of our own personal rockstars: the people who inspire us on the daily. Our rockstars (our flock) are enthusiasts, professionals and influencers in the fields of wellness, travel, education, style—the list goes on. Each one brings a profoundly different perspective to the table, one informed by their own experiences and outlooks. And that perspective is priceless.

They say it takes a village…we say it takes a flock.

Lynn Loves

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Welcome back to Dove Loves, Lynn’s definitive guide to the products and pieces she’s loving - her favorites du jour, the holy grail of what she’s coveting, researching, talking about, and obsessing over.

I’ve always been a fan of Tata Harper. I love her philosophy of non-toxic and 100% natural ingredients. There are no fillers. Every single one of her active ingredients (sometimes ranging from 9 to 29) serve a purpose. She produces her beauty products locally on a farm in Vermont, in small batches that are as green as possible. If that weren’t enough, her products are effective and feel so luxurious. I recently heard Tata speak at Space NK Apothecary, where she shared her story, her mission and her favorite ways to use the products. It was skincare 101 for the mind, body and spirit, to the say the least. And of course I wanted it all, but here are a few products I walked away with that I’m loving...

Purifying Cleanser

This cleanser does exactly that - purifies. It removes dead cells and the build-up that comes from living in New York City and leaves your skin feeling moisturized and hydrated. And I LOVE the smell, it’s like a sense of calm.  With a blend of sugars, broccoli extracts and essential oils, it’s the perfect way to start and end the day.

Boosted Contouring Serum

This IS “your daily facelift.” It lifts, tones, firms and sculpts. I use it morning and evening on my face and neck. I feel the difference instantly. When I’m in a rush, I just mix it in with my other serums and it blends super easy. And of course, the smell is heavenly.

Resurfacing Mask

Truly glow in a jar. This mask makes your skin super radiant. It plumps, reduces pores and gives you an “instant glow.” I use it 2-3 times a week for 20 minutes in the morning while I’m doing my morning routine. Like all of her products, the smell is amazing. Think of it as a shot of espresso for your skin. We’re talking instant boost.

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tata harper purifying cleanser

tata harper boosted contouring serum

tata harper resurfacing mask

Coffee Mate

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Wellness coach Jamie Graber takes us through her morning coffee recipe (with a side of supplements) to get her body and mind aligned for the day. Perfect for your Monday AM caffeine kick, or any time you need a perk.

2 oz espresso
 

10 oz hot water
 

1 teaspoon maca
 

1/2 teaspoon cordyceps
 

1/2 teaspoon rhodiola
 

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
 

1 teaspoon ghee (Ancient Organic's is my favorite)

Blend the above ingredients
(You can also substitute espresso for 6 oz of coffee and 4 oz water)

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for more info

visit organicallyjamie.com

Lynn Loves

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Welcome back to Dove Loves, Lynn’s definitive guide to the products and pieces she’s loving - her favorites du jour, the holy grail of what she’s coveting, researching, talking about, and obsessing over.

Dr. Barbara Sturm super anti-aging serum and spf drops

Super Anti Aging Serum

This is, hands down, the hero product. Magic in a bottle. I’ve noticed a huge difference in my skin since I started using the Super Anti-Aging Serum from Dr. Barbara Strum. It’s packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients that make your skin smoother and prevents new wrinkles from forming. It plumps, firms, add moisture and since it’s full of peptides, it boosts collagen like nothing else.

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SPF Drops

Why didn’t I think of this ? It’s genius. You simply add the 50 SPF drops to your favorite moisturizer and you’re out the door. Or you can use it on it’s own. It contains active ingredients of Cassia Extract, Vitamin E and Beta-Glucan, so it also slows down the onset of wrinkles and improves discolored skin tones. Now we really have no excuses not to wear SPF everyday because It’s. That. Easy!

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dr. barbara sturm super anti-aging serum

dr. barbara sturm sun drops

C Class

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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When we found out Joanna Vargas was launching a Vitamin C serum, we knew we needed to get in. On. That. We usually pop the vitamin in pill form as soon as we start sneezing, but we had no clue how great it is for the skin too. According to Joanna, Vitamin C is the prime building block for a great complexion and that it can aid any skin condition. Read on for more intel on this magical serum.

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A Wild Dove

OK so we need the Vitamin C breakdown. What exactly does Vitamin C do to the skin upon application?

Joanna Vargas

Vitamin C brightens the skin, evens out pigment, and reinforces your elasticity at the molecular level. It guards the skin against cell mutation, caused by exposure to sun and pollution in your everyday life.

A Wild Dove

Wow, ok. Major benefits it sounds like!

Joanna Vargas

It will also extend the life of your skin cells, so you will just look younger the more you use it!

A Wild Dove

Whoah. That sounds like magic! What about the classic Vitamin C pill? How does topical application compare to oral ingestion?

Joanna Vargas

They're similar in concept. Both provide the body with an extra layer of protection against cell mutations while reinforcing cellular function.

A Wild Dove

Are there any risks to Vitaminc C in topical application?

Joanna Vargas

Vitamin C is very unstable so you have to go with a trustworthy skincare line. It’s hard to maintain potency in the bottle. Also some formulas can be very drying. I tried to be very aware of those when creating my Rescue Serum.

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Joanna Vargas Rescue Serum

Lynn Loves

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Welcome back to Dove Loves, Lynn’s definitive guide to the products and pieces she’s loving - her favorites du jour, the holy grail of what she’s coveting, researching, talking about, and obsessing over.

Christophe Robin regenerating mask

Prickly Pear Seed Oil came on my radar about a year ago and found it's one of those rare, magic elixirs. So when I saw this product by Christophe Robin, I had to try it. It’s super thick and you don’t need to use it more than once a week at the most. Prickly Pear is an antioxidant, so it repairs and nourishes. I only use it on my ends, otherwise it really can weigh down your hair.  But it really leaves your hair oh-so shiny. Let’s hear it for some pear in the hair!

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Christophe Robin Prickly pear seed oil

A Beginner's Guide To Crystals

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Are you intrigued by crystals but feeling intimidated? Like you want to try them but don’t know where to start? We got you. We spoke to Rashia Bell from The Cristalline who breaks down the power of crystals and their benefits in this quick hit guide. Her tips, below.

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My favorite crystal is...

“It depends on the day, but one of my must haves at all times is Selenite which is amazing at clearing the energetic body.”

When I'm feeling stressed, I use crystals to...

“Immediately create a shift in my energy. I use different stones for different things. Selenite to clear, Pyrite to protect, Black Tourmaline to ground, Citrine to focus and inspire."

It all depends on what I am trying to achieve in that moment. Crystals are so multifaceted in their ability to change how you feel.”

My favorite moment with crystals is...

“When I am about to go to bed at night. There is an immediate sense of calm that comes over me. I use my crystals to truly leave the day behind, invite new beginnings, access my subconscious energetic layers and create a greater sense of understanding oneself even while I sleep.”

My advice to someone discovering crystals is...

“Don’t be intimidated to try out different stones and explore different ways to work with them. And remember it isn’t about searching for the right crystals based on their meaning or trying to achieve a certain goal. If you seek them out, they will find you.  Just open yourself up, allow the stones to resonate and they may surprise you!”

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for more info

visit thecristalline.com

Lynn Loves

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Welcome back to Dove Loves, Lynn’s definitive guide to the products and pieces she’s loving - her favorites du jour, the holy grail of what she’s coveting, researching, talking about, and obsessing over.

David's premium natural toothpaste and cocofloss

As I try to work the all-natural vibe into my medicine cabinet, I have been loving Cocofloss, a super-cleansing, high performance dental floss. Totally hard to get excited over floss, but this one rocks. It’s so good. And natural. And non-toxic. It’s thick and glides really well. You’ll definitely see a difference after the first try and you’ll be hooked. And the hint of coconut and mint, well, it makes even that much better.

Follow it up with David’s Premium Natural Toothpaste. I love that it’s all natural and made from the highest natural quality ingredients. There are no sulfates, no fluoride AND it really whitens. The list goes on - it’s vegan, cruelty-free, energy-renewable, family-owned. The exact kind of product I want to be using after everyday.

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David's premium natural toothpaste | cocofloss

Too Kule For School

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Nikki Kule was born into fashion. Here’s the gist - her father Gene Kule was the “King of Pants” having created the 1970’s clothing brand Happy Legs with her mother Arlene. Knowing she wanted to continue the biz’, Nikki attended Parsons The New School for Design in Paris and New York and honed her aesthetic around the world. She took a role with her family, but after having her first child, saw an opportunity to create luxe children’s wear by launching KULE in 2001. Soon after, chicsters from Amy Astley and Stella McCartney to Madonna came calling. Based on her initial success, Nikki then launched a full boy’s and girls line for Brooks Brothers. But as her children grew older, she decided to design women’s clothes to better serve her own passion.  She naturally gravitated towards stripes, and thus KULE was born. It’s become the de-facto must-have line for a cool Parisian-meets-New York take on the stripe. We spoke with Nikki about everything from horizontal lines to the little ones, and how she manages it all -

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A Wild Dove

What was the "trigger moment" for launching an exclusively striped collection?

Nikki Kule

Stripes have consistently been included in all of my collections, starting from my first season for the KULE children’s line. When I decided to transition my business from children’s to women’s, I wanted to focus on something I truly loved.  Stripes make me happy. I had been searching for the perfect striped shirt my whole life.  Since I have never found it, I figured it was time to stop searching and create it myself.

A Wild Dove

We couldn’t agree more! What’s a typical day like for you? Can you describe the different "hats" you wear?

Nikki Kule

Every day is a little different. I work closely with a great team in our Soho-based studio. One day I might be working with my team on a look-book shoot, and on other days I might have the phone plastered to my ear on conference calls with my factory.  My favorite days are when I am wearing headphones and designing the upcoming collection or creating content for our social platforms. One thing is consistent.  It’s very busy every day, but all of the hard work is worth it.

A Wild Dove

Being an entrepreneur, you must be learning a great deal along the way. What is one mistake you learned from?

Nikki Kule

The one mistake I have learned along the way is that I can’t be afraid. There was a time when I really wanted to design women’s clothes, but one of my close friends was a designer. As I didn’t want to compete, I started a children’s wear collection.  More recently, when I wanted to launch a women’s stripe focused collection, someone I knew had started one six months before me. Both times I changed my course since I didn’t want it to seem like I was copying them. I eventually went ahead and did it anyway since it was all I ever wanted to do.  I decided to chase my dream and not worry about what other people think.

A Wild Dove

What's the best advice you've been given?

Nikki Kule

A piece of advice I follow and often share, is to stay focused, trust your instincts and make decisions quickly. It’s easy to get caught up in trends and other people’s work. The only thing that will set me apart is me.  

A Wild Dove

We’re writing that one down. How do you stay balanced?

Nikki Kule

I always make sure to spend quality time with my family. We are really close and they help me stay grounded. I also love to run. I release so much stress and can rebalance simply by running and exercising.  I also love to stay in on the weekends, catch up on reading or watch old movies.

A Wild Dove

What are the next steps for Kule?

Nikki Kule

While stripes will always remain the focus of the collection, I am slowly expanding our accessories and outerwear categories. We are also introducing a Resort and Summer collection for the first time in 2018. And I have a secret project in the works right now with a long time friend that I am so excited to share later this summer.

A Wild Dove

Who are your style icons?

Nikki Kule

To name a few of the obvious - Lauren Hutton, Jane Birkin, Lauren Bacall, Sofia Coppola and Alexa Chung. To name a few of the not so obvious, my mother Arlene Kule, who taught me about quality and taste and Ruth Shuman, who founded the charity Publicolor. Both are inspirations inside and out.

A Wild Dove

What makes you fly?

Nikki Kule

Stripes!! They make me happy. Not to be literal, but my airport uniform always includes a striped top because who doesn’t want to be happy when they travel?

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for more info

visit kule.com

Lynn Loves

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Welcome back to Dove Loves, Lynn's definitive guide to the products and pieces she's loving right now - her favorites du jour, the holy grail of what she's coveting, researching, talking about, and obsessing over.

Kahina Giving Beauty Moroccan Rose Water

I adore the Moroccan Rose Water from Kahina Giving Beauty. The smell is heavenly and I love the after glow. I use it first thing in the morning, especially around my eyes, then again later in the day if I need an extra moisture boost.

Unlike other rose sprays, this is 100% distilled from the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, so you already know it’s rich in minerals and anti- inflammatory properties. And perfect to refresh throughout those scorching hot summer days!

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Kahina moroccan rose water

Hanging On A Rope

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Think jump rope is solely for grade school games during recess? Think again. Amanda Kloots is bringing our favorite childhood activity to adults through her intense workout, The Rope. Amanda founded the class after working as a private trainer and saw how awesome jumping rope can be for cardio, strength training and agility work. She started experimenting on her clients and suddenly realize she had discovered something unique. We can tell you, firsthand, it works! We sat down with Amanda to talk through this amazing workout and its benefits, and how she manages to stay balanced while building The Rope’s future (hint, it involves launching her own jump rope!) Our conversation, below.

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A Wild Dove

The Rope is such a kick ass workout. Can you detail the benefits of jumping rope?

A Wild Dove

Jumping rope is literally one of the best exercises one can do!  It tones your entire body while torching calories and shrinking body fat! In my class I focus on four themes while jumping - warmup, coordination, endurance, and speed.  Warmup works on perfecting your basic jump and getting your heart rate up.  In coordination, I add in fancy footwork to connect your brain to your body, which strengthens your brain and helps with agility.  Endurance is the third interval.  In this sequence I encourage everyone to jump at a certain tempo for a longer period of time to build their endurance. Lastly, we work on speed and stamina by doing sprints. Whether you are a beginner or advanced jumper, you can work on on four themes and you see yourself get better with each class.

A Wild Dove

Your workout seems great for traveling, all you need is the rope! Can you walk us through some exercises we can do when we can't make it to your class?

Amanda Kloots

Absolutely!  If you are traveling, a great way to work in The Rope is to focus on intervals: 

• Begin jumping for two to three minutes and work in some planks to get your core fired up. Grab the rope in both hands and start toning your abs with standing abs leaning left and right, keeping your arms above your head.

• Start jumping again for another two to three minutes. Grab your rope above your head and work on some standing lunges pulling the rope down toward your body to get an upper body workout as well! After completing lunges on both right and left sides, begin jumping again for another three minutes.

• Throw your rope down on the floor in one line and hold a plank over your rope. Tap your right leg over to your left and then switch to the other side for three counts of eight. Do the same with your hands.

• Grab your rope and finish off this mini workout with another few minutes of jumping!

A Wild Dove

What are some tips for keeping good form while jumping rope?

Amanda Kloots

• Stay low! You don't need to jump higher than the rope thickness.

• Always keep your shoulders over your hips, your hips over your knees, and your knees over your ankles!

• Keep your elbows at your waist and your arms in a 90 degree angle.

• Make sure your abs are engaged, your glutes are tight, and your knees and feet are together

• BREATHE!

A Wild Dove

The Summer Series at the One and Only Ocean Club in the Bahamas sounds heavenly. Can you give us the inside scoop?

Amanda Kloots

This is the ultimate weekend getaway! I cannot say enough about the resort, it is gorgeous and the staff are fabulous. You get three workouts with me, one each morning! You also get a paddleboard lesson, lunches, dinners, and cocktails. The best part is you can get there in two-and-a-half hours and then it's absolute heaven!

A Wild Dove

Sounds it! You must have a crazy schedule, how do you stay balanced? Any rituals you can share?

Amanda Kloots

I have a hard time staying balanced but I do my best. I always take one day off a week where I let my body completely relax. I get medical massages each week and acupuncture when needed. I also am religious about icing my muscles and rolling out with a foam roller!

A Wild Dove

What are the next steps for The Rope?

Amanda Kloots

The next steps are super exciting. I am in the midst of creating my own jump rope!! Stay tuned!

A Wild Dove

Lastly, what makes you fly?

Amanda Kloots

I absolutely love teaching! I get so energized walking into a class and seeing everyone excited to work out. The endorphins after teaching a class that lasts for hours, I can't get enough!

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for more info

visit amandakloots.com or

check out the class schedule here

Lynn Loves

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

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Welcome back to Dove Loves, Lynn's definitive guide to the products and pieces she's loving - her favorites du jour, the holy grail of what she's coveting, researching, talking about, and obsessing over.

The Nue Co Plant Protein and Gut Food

I’m already a huge fan of The Nue Co. Debloat Food & Prebiotic so I knew I’d love the Plant Protein & Gut Food immediately. The prebiotic and probiotic aids digestion and metabolism with it's unique blend of hemp and pea protein making it the perfect addition to my morning smoothie with all my favorite adaptogens. It’s not super high-calorie, unlike so many proteins, but light and totally satisfying. One tablespoon is the equivalent of two eggs for that morning charge, while nine amino acids helps nails, hair, skin and immune system. Best of all worlds.

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The Nue Co. Plant protein & gut food