Tell us a little about your background! Where are you from, and where are you based now?
I am from the east coast, from South Jersey. I moved to New York City when I was 18. I started my career there, and then moved to California when I was almost 30 and stayed there until I lost my home in the wildfires last year. Right now, I’m rerouted to Miami but I hope to be back in Malibu soon.
How did the idea for Air Milkshake come about—it's such a fun and creative way to approach brand partnerships and creative strategy—and how would you explain what really sets you apart?
Thank you! The name is inspired by La Colombe’s draft lattes that they sell in their cafes on tap. I came up with the name in 2016, and later claimed it as my agency in 2021. As for what sets it apart, I think my whole life I have done things differently. We don’t treat gifting or partnerships as transactions, we treat them as emotional experiences. Air Milkshake is built on my real relationships, not databases, and I really believe in curation over scale. We have never changed our business model in over 5 years and it still works.
Do you have a favorite type of brand or product or category? Just generally, in your own life.
Right now, I am rebuilding my wardrobe (and rebuilding my life) so it’s interesting to have a blank slate and start from nothing. Right now, I am trying to find joy in dressing again, and then hopefully by the summer, I will be rebuilding a home base where I will enjoy buying furniture and home products again. This is a bit of a niche, but I have always loved products that take me off of my phone, like adult craft kits and games.
Do you work from home? How do you keep your work life and personal life separate and/or balanced?
I work from home! When I am not working on a suite, my schedule is pretty flexible. Since so much of what I do is relationship-based and collaborative, I do spend a lot of time with others but in super casual settings. I have never felt fulfilled in a traditional workplace… and luckily I have really learned to balance, especially since the fire.
How are you spending your holidays? Do you travel? Any tips or things you can't get through the holidays without?
My partner and I have gone to Maui for Christmas for the past few years, but I think this year I will have my first Floridian holiday. I can’t get through the holidays without the beach!! I also love the forced reset and relaxation while most people are out of office. As for a tip, I think the holidays are hard for so many people. I think it’s really important to do anything you can to bring yourself little comforts.
Do you have goals or special projects in mind for the new year that you can share with us?
I am so happy to share that we are launching our pet vertical, Air Pupshake!!! We will be hosting our first Air Pupshake gifting experience by early Spring. We have some fun hotel partnerships in the works for Air Milkshake, too :)
