Coming Soon!

Between these two women, I learned everything that shapes The Sweet Elm today: 

The value of hard work and hospitality, the beauty of simplicity, the importance of ease, the joy of gathering and the confidence to do things your own way. 

I carried these lessons into my own life – raising three children, building a demanding career as an insurance executive, and being married for over thirty years.  Like so many women, I spent years balancing work, family, business travel, and the constant desire to “get it right” at home.  Some seasons were beautifully homemade; others relied heavily on takeout, shortcuts, and grace.  What I learned is this:  balance isn’t about doing everything – it’s about knowing when to simplify, when to ask for help, and when “good enough” is exactly right. 

After retiring from corporate life, I stepped into this next chapter with curiosity and a deep desire to keep learning.  I’ve always been drawn to new ideas, new skills, and new places – whether that’s trying a new recipe, learning a craft, or planning a travel adventure for my family.  Travel has long fueled my sense of wonder and reinforces my belief that the world – like the kitchen – is best experienced slowly, thoughtfully, and together.