JOURNAL

Santa Barbara Citrus with Samantha and Elin

Santa Barbara citrus with Samantha and Elin, photographed by Arna Bee

So much of our creative expression can be traced back to where we grew up - our Santa Barbara upbringing served from an early age as a visual basis for creativity and remains a through line in our work. Our first photo shoot for DÔEN took place at MK and my dad’s ranch 45 minutes up the coast from Santa Barbara, as did mine and Colin’s wedding, the latter of which was covered for Santa Barbara Magazine by Samantha Wennerstrom. Since that feature I have followed along as Samantha has built a beautiful website that wholly represents the Santa Barbara aesthetic, with relaxed, effortless fashion completely influenced by the coastal lifestyle.

Samantha brings a serious fashion presence that both stands out against and feels just right in the midst of the blue skies, citrus trees, and Mission architecture that defines this seaside town. She has established herself as a respected journalist, blogger, and voice of the city’s fashion scene. Following along as she raises her little girl Elin there brings back my fondest memories of growing up in Santa Barbara. See below for more photos and some thoughts from Samantha on balancing work and family life.

– KK

"The one thing I've learned about balancing a career and family is that there really isn't a perfect balance. So the first step for me was letting go of that pressure and learning to take each week as it comes. One thing I make sure to do from time to time is fill my own cup up. Whether it's one-on-one time with my husband or daughter, getting a massage, shutting off my phone for 24 hours, a drink with a girlfriend or 15 minutes of silence. Whatever I'm needing I try to remember I'm at my best (in every department) when I'm not overstressed, which can quickly creep up on you."

– Samantha