Reflections from one year of being my own boss
And the fancy things I deserve as a treat for it
Just over a year ago, I found myself both uninspired and disillusioned with my work in beauty public relations. For years, I’d dabbled with the idea of launching my own consultancy, but the very understandable fear of being on my own without a stable paycheck held me back.
With the encouragement of my husband, my friends, and my parents, I finally took the leap and walked away from my job to launch Henke PR, giving myself exactly four months to make it work. My cousin Rebecca (Tori’s sister) pushed me over the edge when she casually said, “So what? If it doesn’t work, a corporate job will always be waiting for you.”
Fast-forward to now, and I can’t believe how much can happen in a year. I’ve worked with some of the best names in skincare, dermatology, fragrance, and haircare—opportunities I really could have never imagined. After watching probably too many TikToks about manifesting the world around you, I’m officially a believer in the power of positive thinking.
One thing I didn’t completely anticipate was the exhaustion of running your own business: months where it felt like there was simply too much work to finish, too many projects with tight deadlines, and an overflowing inbox. My mom, my absolute #1 cheerleader in business, always reminds me of the importance of treating yourself well when you’re working your a** off. And sometimes, that’s buying yourself something beautiful. Thanks, Mom!
With that, here are a few special things I have my eye on as a very well-deserved treat after the craziest year. I’m so grateful to my friends, clients, family, kids, and more who have given me love and support!
I recently visited Violet Grey on Melrose Place in LA a few weeks ago, and for the first time in a long time, I found myself totally enamored with makeup and skincare. It was just a gorgeous, intimate, curated experience.
My #1 desert island serum from Vintner’s Daughter ($215), this perfect non-glittery clear highlighter from Westman Atelier ($48), and this dreamy lip color from Fara Homidi ($88) are all on my mind.
I recently saw this verdure tapestry pillow ($78) in person and think it would make the most beautiful holiday addition to my living room. As an Astier de Villatte collector, this vase would be so gorgeous on display ($575). These lapis earrings from Lizzie Fortunato would be an easy pop of color but not too in-your-face ($250). I received Carlo Moretti Bora tumblers as a wedding gift and treasure them. They’re nearly indestructible and very Positano-esque ($185). And finally, there’s no shoe more beautiful or comfortable than a Manolo Blahnik, and these Callasli sandals would be a welcome treat in my collection ($885).
Toodles,
Andi