TL;DR
Trade Offs Table of Contents
AUGUST 2025
Julia's Weekly Whims, Vol. 27 - August 1, 2025 - Julia
Home objects worth bookmarking, pre-fall favorites, and easy pieces for a two-week trip out West.
Packing for Idaho, California, and Hawaii meant comfy staples, clever under-$40 finds, and the travel steamer we never leave behind. I’m also bookmarking dreamy home pieces and building a fall wardrobe around texture, color, and wearable joy
JULY 2025
VIDEO - July Ask Us Anything - July 31, 2025 - Julia
Our 100th Post on Substack
Our 100th Substack post! We shared Charleston home updates, how we travel with kids without losing our rhythm, and what energizes us day to day—from investing to early workouts to stress-reducing swaps that keep everything moving.
Maximizing Productivity: Busy Parents Should Use Both ChatGPT and Duckbill AI - July 29, 2025 - Thomas
How I Navigate Both Tools To Get Things Done
I broke down how we use ChatGPT for thinking and Duckbill for doing—from trip planning to contractor bookings. With tools that actually reduce mental load, we’ve made room for more family time (and fewer undone to-dos). Bonus: JULIA50 = 50% off Duckbill.
Heatwave Hibernation: My Pre‑Fall Wishlist - July 27, 2025 - Julia
Ditching sundresses for suede, fringe, and all the early‑autumn finds, if only a breeze would join the party.
I’m skipping sundresses and dreaming of suede, fringe, and chocolate leather. From LaDoubleJ to Etro and Thank You Have A Good Day, this pre-fall wishlist is all about rich tones, cozy textures, and future favorites I can’t wait to wear.
Julia's Weekly Whims, Vol. 26 - July 25, 2025 - Julia
From outdoor furniture to unexpected beauty wins — what I’m eyeing, saving, and unpacking this week.
Fresh off Harbour Island, I’m in full nesting mode—hunting for outdoor pieces, bookmarking fall fashion, and falling for beauty favorites like Chanel mascara and Crown Affair’s conditioner. It’s a mix of cozy, chic, and forward-looking finds.
Worth The Effort - July 22, 2025 - Thomas
The things we choose to invest extra effort into say a lot about us
I reflected on where I’m choosing to put extra energy—whether it’s pour-over coffee, handwritten notes, macro tracking, or manual-focus photography. These small, intentional rituals are shaping how I live and what I value most.
Thomas's Weekly Whims, Vol. 25 - July 18, 2025 - Thomas
My new favorite shirt brand, travel reflections and travel tips that can save you money
This week’s whims include money-saving travel hacks (open-jaw flights, eSIMs), new summer staples (Buck Mason tees, Mr P shorts), and small joys like beach days, Greek food, and Roka goggles for easy dips in the sea.
How I Make Movement Part of My Vacation - July 17, 2025 - Julia
A Realistic Approach That Actually Feels Good
I kept movement low-pressure but intentional in Greece—short sessions, daily walks, and apps like ACE and Fit with Coco. A quick 15-minute poolside workout from Thomas proved that even simple routines can reset your mood and energy mid-trip.
We've Taken 45,000 Photos on Our iPhones This Year — Our Top Tips - July 14, 2025 - Thomas
From light and angles to editing tricks and gear recs, I shared everything we’ve learned about capturing great iPhone photos—especially with kids. Whether you’re shooting vacation candids or everyday life, these simple habits make a big impact.
Julia's Weekly Whims, Vol 24. - July 11, 2025 - Julia
Design discoveries, pre-fall favorites, and a vintage Bottega bag I can’t stop thinking about.
This week’s whims are a dreamy mix of sculptural fashion, vintage finds, and styled shell trays that reframe the everyday. Plus, the best app for effortless Reels and a fall-ready wishlist full of texture, drama, and timeless details.
Our Mykonos, Greece Travel Guide - July 9, 2025 - Thomas
Our favorites from a week on this popular island
We shared our go-to Mykonos spots—from iconic beach clubs to unforgettable meals and late-night dancing. With villa life that worked for both kids and adults, plus practical tips for navigating crowds, costs, and wind, this guide is equal parts glam and grounded.
JUNE 2025
VIDEO - Ask Us Anything: June 2025 - June 30, 2025 - Jula & Thomas
We answered your questions on travel prep, parenting styles, and how we balance business and creativity. From our Paros favorites to the future of Parterre, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at what’s working, what we’re rethinking, and how we’re finding joy in the in-between.
Our Paros, Greece Itinerary - June 29, 2025 - Thomas
Every detail from our first week in Greece
We shared every detail from our first week in Paros—from scenic lunches and private boat days to town strolls and beach clubs. Villa life at Paros SKA North gave us space to slow down while a concierge helped us explore the island with ease.
Julia's Weekly Whims, Vol 23. - June 27, 2025 - Julia
New site features, woven bags, and a wishlist shaped by Mykonos.
The new JuliaBerolzheimer.com is live! I walked through its best features while sharing Mykonos-inspired finds—woven flats, breezy dresses, and summer home accents. Plus, the season’s best designer wicker bags, all in one place.
The Long Game: Styling Necklaces with Personality - June 26, 2025 - Julia
20 favorites to mix, layer, and experiment with– no matter your style.
I broke down my favorite ways to style long necklaces—layered over everything from swimwear to shirting—and shared 20 standout pieces to shop now, from fine lockets to colorful cords and sculptural Zara steals.
Sharing Our 5 Favorite Dreamy European Hotels - June 22, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Plus the next 5 on our list
We revealed our top five hotel stays—where timeless design, cinematic moments, and unforgettable hospitality left their mark. We’re also sharing the next five dreamy destinations on our wish list, from Airelles Courchevel to the Ritz Paris.
Julia's Weekly Whims, Vol 22. - June 20, 2025 - Julia
Beach shoes, packing systems, and a pair of shorts I actually like.
Jelly sandals, packing cubes, and a rare pair of shorts I actually like—these travel-tested picks are making Greece easier and more fun. Add in UNO at dinner and soft mornings in Lake pajamas, and this trip’s rhythm feels just right.
Same Time Next Year? - June 18, 2025 - Thomas
Add Paros to your list
Paros has us dreaming about coming back already. From slow meals to sea views, this week reminded us that not every trip has to chase novelty—sometimes the magic is in how a place makes you feel.
Dad Of The Year - June 15, 2025 - Thomas
And The Award Goes To…
In a playful ode to imperfect parenting, I reflected on what matters most: showing up, staying humble, and creating space for our kids to be fully themselves—even when the best moments are the messy, unscripted ones.
Thomas's Weekly Whims: Vol. 21 - June 13, 2025 - Thomas
A Few Thoughts of travel nerves, an investment we are thrilled about and results from our survey.
I shared our investment in Duckbill AI, survey takeaways (more travel, more video!), and opened up about pre-trip nerves, travel rituals, and finding joy in small upgrades—like better mics, smarter irrigation, and post-run pickleball wins.
VIDEO - Pack For Greece With Me - June 11, 2025 - Julia
A behind-the-scenes look at what I’m bringing for our Mediterranean family adventure.
I packed color-rich linens, standout swimsuits, and statement accessories for our 3.5-week Greek getaway—blending luxury staples with playful high-low pieces. This suitcase is all about versatility, texture, and effortless Mediterranean style.
VIDEO - Are Expensive Suitcases Worth It? - June 9, 2025 - Thomas
Which ones are, which aren't and the one that's just as good—for half the price.
We shared what’s worth investing in (hello, hybrid Rimowa) and what’s not (metal dents, anyone?), plus the $50 duffel that’s quietly saved every trip. If you’re shopping for luggage, this roundup will steer you in the right direction.
Fourteen Years on the Internet - June 8, 2025 - Julia
What I’ve Learned, What I’ve Built, and Why I’m Still Sharing.
I reflected on 14 years of building and evolving—from Gal Meets Glam to now. Through fashion, family, and entrepreneurship, I’ve learned to stay true to my creative voice. This post is part memoir, part thank-you note, and a promise that I’m just getting started.
Julia’s Weekly Whims, Vol. 20 - June 6, 2025 - Julia
Closet edits, sunglasses I’m finally sold on, and thoughtful details for summer and beyond.
From timeless jewelry and statement sunglasses to easy summer wardrobe upgrades, this week’s picks blend thoughtful luxury with practical refreshes. I’m also loving colorful tabletop details and curated gifts as we prep for summer and Father’s Day.
The Recipes So Many Of You Asked For - June 4, 2025 - Thomas
Gluten free dough, the best salad ever and birthday reflections
I finally shared my perfected gluten-free pizza dough recipe (crispy, chewy, and 100% worth it), plus the salad that’s become a weekend staple. Cooking slow and celebrating simply made this birthday one of my favorites yet.
From Thomas: Help Me Shape “Trade Offs” - June 2, 2025 - Thomas
Take a Quick Reader Survey
I’m inviting readers to help shape what comes next for Trade Offs via a quick survey. Travel guides and frameworks are your favorites, and I’m using that insight to craft more focused, value-packed posts moving forward.
MAY 2025
VIDEO - May 2025 Ask Us Anything - May 31, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Your Questions, Our Quick Takes
We shared our take on personal style, skincare routines, fitness rhythms, and parenting hacks. Plus, our favorite work-life tips (think early saving and next-step thinking) and thoughts on sustainable style in a post-GMG world.
Julia’s Weekly Whims: Vol. 19 - May 30, 2025 - Julia
Jewelry to bookmark, sale finds to move on, and a dream hotel in Tangier.
This week’s whims include sculptural sunglass chains, designer sale finds, and new staples from J.Crew and Salt & Stone. I’m also daydreaming of Villa Mabrouka—YSL’s former Tangier hideaway turned boutique hotel.
VIDEO - 2 Room Design Plans With Summer Thornton - May 28, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Summer and Julia review design plans for our Entry and Living Room
Summer and Julia dive into design plans for our entry and living room—balancing splurges with saves, debating fabrics, and translating paper plans into spaces that already feel like home.
Thomas's Weekly Whims: Vol. 18 - May 24, 2025 - Thomas
Happy Memorial Day Weekend. A collection of what's caught my attention lately.
I’m embracing the “flâneur” mindset for travel, exploring creativity through AI and Clementine’s wild ideas, and rounding up new favorites—from gel-texture SPF to San Miguel eats and Father’s Day gifts with heart.
Cloud Thinker or Weed Worker? Why You're Missing Half the Picture. - May 21, 2025 - Thomas
Breakthrough the bottlenecks
I shared how toggling between big-picture “cloud thinking” and detail-driven execution helps me build better momentum. By recognizing my own bottlenecks and creating rituals for both modes—including cross-pollination sessions with Julia—I’m finding a more productive and sustainable rhythm.
VIDEO - Pack For San Miguel With Me - May 19, 2025 - Julia
For our San Miguel trip, I packed a warm-toned, texture-rich wardrobe full of day-to-night staples—mixing favorites from Mango and Johanna Ortiz with new discoveries. From rainbow mesh dresses to feathered showstoppers, I styled it all with my go-to sandals and pinpointed the one accessory I’m still hunting: a perfect small dark summer bag.
Julia’s Weekly Whims: Vol. 17 - May 16, 2025 - Julia
Stackable rings, summer shapes, and the sourcing service I love.
Summer style updates, small but impactful beauty and fitness favorites, and a few sourcing wins (like Sezane’s $98 tortoise necklace). This week’s finds prove you don’t have to splurge to refresh your style or daily routine.
VIDEO - Step Inside: Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Our Entry + Living Room - May 14, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
We’re bringing bold personality to our historic Charleston entry and reimagining our sitting room to feel more livable and layered. Follow along as we share every step of the design process with our Substack community.
Ditch The Disposable - Travel Film Cameras for Happy Snaps - May 12, 2025 - Thomas
Three great film cameras at different price points.
I rounded up three film cameras that beat drugstore disposables at every price point—plus shared my favorite film stocks, development tips, and why embracing imperfect “happy snaps” is the real magic of shooting film on vacation.
Julia's Weekly Whims: Vol. 16 - May 9, 2025 - Julia
Fringe obsessions, carved handbags, and what’s giving my hair a summer wave
Fringe, carved wood handbags, and Mango’s summer-ready finds are topping my style list. I’m loving YSE’s eye cream, Crown Affair’s mousse, and a new signature scent from Henry Rose. Plus, I’m finding design inspiration everywhere—from floral art to Cabana’s charming new capsule.
Failure, Reframed - May 7, 2025 - Julia
What My Brand’s Closing Taught Me About Building Better.
I shared what closing Gal Meets Glam Collection taught me about building better. By focusing on purpose, pace, and spark, I’m creating slower, more meaningful work. I also reflected on five lessons about growth, creativity, and the power of endings to unlock new beginnings.
Mapping Out Travel Memories - May 5, 2025 - Thomas
My method for planning unforgettable trips.
I use a detailed spreadsheet to map out every trip while leaving space for spontaneous discoveries. I gather recommendations from trusted sources, including blogs, Instagram, and AI tools. Planning is part of the adventure—turning research into memories before we even leave home.
51 Real-World Ways to Put AI to Work in Your Life - May 4, 2025 - Thomas
Helping you grow confidence with this incredible technology
Start small with everyday prompts like bedtime stories or chore charts to build AI confidence. Learn to write better prompts using clear roles and specific outputs. Includes 50+ easy-to-use, copy-paste prompts for everything from travel and parenting to beauty and finances.
Thomas's Weekly Whims: Vol. 15 - May 2, 2025 - Thomas
Covering photography, playlists, coffee, gardening and travel
New camera gear, jazz playlists, and dreamy photography inspiration are fueling creativity this week. At home, I’m all about functional upgrades—from a nitro cold brew maker to same-day delivery wins. Bonus: what’s in our travel health kit (because I forgot afterbite cream in Barbados).
APRIL 2025
VIDEO - Ask Us Anything - April Edition - April 30, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Thoughts on Substack so far, Shopping insights, delegation, travel plans
We’re answering your top questions—how we shop (and edit our carts), delegate blog and household tasks, and use shared calendars and virtual assistants to stay organized. Plus, a peek at our evolving routines, Substack workflow, and favorite low-key date night ritual.
My Pre- & Post-Trip Routine - April 28, 2025 - Julia
Small Rituals That Keep Travel Running Smoothly
From pedicures and packed snacks to unpacking and restocking the fridge within 24 hours, I rely on small rituals to make travel smoother and reentry less chaotic. Thoughtful prep and reset routines keep everything running calmly before and after a trip.
The Support Equation - April 27, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Adding up time, energy, and the help that keeps life running
We’re naming the behind-the-scenes help that makes daily life work—from childcare and cleaning to family stepping in. Asking for support isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom—and we’re building a flexible system that evolves with each season of parenting and work.
Julia's Weekly Whims: Vol. 14 - April 25, 2025 - Julia
Flats, florals, and a white tee that finally got it right.
Raffia flats, floral dresses, and the Pucci x MyTheresa collection are topping my wishlist, alongside new beauty tools and supplements. Plus, vintage-inspired home finds—and finally, a white tee that survives the wash perfectly.
Our Full Puglia, Italy Travel Guide - April 23, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Where We Stayed and our Highlights from North and South
We split our Puglia trip between northern olive groves and southern beach towns for a richer experience, with highlights like beach clubs, pottery shopping, and cliff-jumping lunches—perfect for a family trip full of relaxed adventure and understated luxury.
The Psychology Behind Memorable Trips - April 21, 2025 - Thomas
Memorable trips hinge on peak moments and strong endings. Thoughtful planning, flexibility for challenges, and finishing with a dreamy hotel stay can turn travel into lasting, joy-filled memories.
Julia’s Weekly Whims: Vol. 13 - April 18, 2025 - Julia
Playful textures, sculptural shapes, and pieces that made me pause
Playful textures, sculptural accessories, and fresh style finds inspired by my time in Barbados. Plus, new home art inspiration from Georgia Beaumont, a kids' brand discovery, and a Sakara detox reset to recharge from the inside out.
VIDEO - Pack For Barbados With Me - April 16. 2025 - Julia
An inside look at my travel wardrobe for a Caribbean getaway
Easy resortwear meets effortless styling: I packed bold swimsuits, breezy dresses, and multipurpose accessories that carry from beach to dinner. With smart packing tips and mix-and-match looks, vacation dressing becomes fun, flexible, and unmistakably personal.
Putting An End To $8 Lattes - April 14, 2025 - Thomas
3 Easy Options For Better Than Cafe Quality
Tired of spending $8 a day for a latte? I break down three foolproof at-home options that deliver café-level quality, save serious money, and bring joy back to your morning ritual.
Julia’s Weekly Whims: Vol. 12 - April 11, 2025 - Julia
Inspiring women, playhouse plans, and spring pieces with personality
A creative recharge in Baker’s Bay, dreamy playhouse brainstorming, and spring style updates with sculptural accessories and jelly sandals. Plus, I’m testing a red light mask and saving art picks for our new home that make daily life feel just a little more inspired.
You Can Be Two Things At Once - April 9, 2025 - Julia
Embracing My Inner Extroverted Introvert
I’m learning to honor both sides of my personality—balancing social energy with the need to recharge. By setting intentional boundaries and letting go of labels, I’ve created space for more joy, presence, and self-understanding in this ever-evolving season of life.
How We Achieve Our Signature Backlit Look - April 7, 2025 - Thomas
Why we love backlight so much and how we pull it off.
That dreamy glow you see in our photos? It’s all about strategic sun placement, thoughtful shooting techniques, and light-touch editing. I’m breaking down the behind-the-scenes process—from lens flare fixes to subtle Lightroom tweaks—for capturing luminous, backlit beauty.
Thomas's Weekly Whims: Vol. 11 - April 4, 2025 - Thomas
Settling In, Picking Up Pace, and Letting Curiosity Lead
Getting into a groove in the new house with Sunday runs, product deep-dives via ChatGPT, and parenting through play and exploration. From scouting Charleston playgrounds to researching mop-vacs and fruit trees, this week is all about rhythm, curiosity, and small wins.
The Strongest Piece in a Colorful Wardrobe - April 2, 2025 - Julia
10 white tops I rely on to keep everything balanced.
White tops are my secret weapon for grounding bold prints and colors. I rotate between crisp poplin shirts, romantic blouses, and soft tees that bring structure and clarity to any outfit. Plus, I’m sharing five new favorites—from a puff-sleeve silhouette to a delicate pointelle tank—that keep this wardrobe essential feeling fresh and versatile.
MARCH 2025
How to Create Stunning Container Gardens - March 31, 2025 - Thomas
The Thriller, Filler, Spiller Framework for Container Gardening Ensures Success
Learn the go-to formula for beautifully layered planters, plus smart tips on spacing, care, and seasonal combos. From Mediterranean herbs to elegant window boxes, this guide is packed with favorite plant pairings and practical tools—including a bonus resource for paid subscribers.
VIDEO - Our Charleston Home Q&A - March 30, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Moving to, Designing and Living in Our New Home
We’re teaming up with a new designer to bring layered, colorful style to our historic downtown Charleston home—starting in the kitchen. From a cozy library to a walkable lifestyle, we’re sharing what we love so far, plus the real talk on moving with kids and settling in fast.
Julia’s Weekly Whims: Vol. 10 - March 28, 2025 - Julia
Color Crushes, Cart Favorites & What We’re Cooking Next
Turquoise interiors, sculptural lamps, and spring silhouettes are catching my eye this week. From playful wishlist picks to clever home upgrades (like a genius picture-hanging tool), these little luxuries are bringing fun and freshness to our daily routines.
Two Move-Inspired Thoughts - March 24, 2025 - Thomas
Seeing with fresh eyes and how chores are rarely as hard as they seem
A new neighborhood brought a fresh perspective—and a reminder that most tasks aren’t as daunting as they appear. I’m embracing small shifts like batching chores and setting deadlines, proving momentum often matters more than motivation.
What I Look for When Evaluating New Supplements - March 22, 2025 - Julia
Why I'm Giving Sakara’s New Supplements A Chance
Only the essentials make the cut. I’m sharing why Sakara’s new line fits seamlessly into my wellness routine—from energizing elixirs to metabolism-boosting bites—and how these targeted formulas help me stay focused, balanced, and well-rested.
Julia's Weekly Whims: Vol. 9 - March 21, 2025 - Julia
Antiques, Easter Treats & The Pieces Catching My Eye
Easter prep, charming antiques, and playful pastel finds mix with fashion favorites (like a sleek new swimsuit and Loeffler Randall sandals). As we move, I’m cherishing small family traditions and dreaming of bold design ideas ahead.
VIDEO - A Farewell Tour of our Home - March 19, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Our Final Tour of a Beloved Home
A sentimental walk-through of the spaces that shaped our family life—from custom tile and wallpaper to the heart-of-the-home kitchen. As we prepare to move, we’re carrying forward the pieces that made this place truly ours.
5 Podcast Episodes I Wish Julia Would Listen To - March 17, 2025 - Thomas
Plus one she’s already listened to and liked
Curated episodes that spark deeper conversations—from communication tips and entrepreneurship insights to relationship wisdom and mindset shifts. Whether for business, growth, or connection, these picks offer takeaways worth tuning into.
Collected Curiosities: Pottery Finds from Our Favorite Destinations - March 16, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Pieces we've discovered, loved, and brought home.
From Amalfi honeymoon bowls to Grottaglie ceramics, our pottery collection captures stories from our travels. We share hidden gems like local workshops and antique stashes, plus how each piece blends timeless craftsmanship with our personal style.
Julia's Weekly Whims: Vol. 8 - March 14, 2025 - Julia
Little Luxuries, Big Wishlist & A DIY Moment
A quick getaway to Georgetown, afternoon dates at Babas, and a new Charleston restaurant on my radar. Clementine and I are crafting keychains as our new go-to gifts, while I’m eyeing dream décor, a silk jacket, and a timeless Jamb London bed for our future home.
The Jewelry I Never Take Off - March 12, 2025 - Julia
My go-to pieces and where to find them.
A mix of fine jewelry staples—diamond studs, delicate bracelet stacks, and sentimental lockets—alongside layer-friendly necklaces and high-low brand favorites. Jewelry is about both style and storytelling, and these are the pieces that stay with me.
The Things I Got Right—and Wrong—in My First Home Garden - March 10, 2025 - Thomas
Sharing 8.5 Years Of Gardening Wisdom
Starting small kept things manageable, while raised beds proved game-changing. An automated irrigation system was a lifesaver, but a too-hot greenhouse? Not so much. Gardening is all about learning from both triumphs and trials.
VIDEO - A Chat with Thomas and Julia - March 9, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Moving, Spring in Charleston, and Life with Kids
We discuss moving to better fit our evolving family needs, plus share a favorite budgeting tool for building net worth. Charleston in spring? The best time to enjoy the outdoors. We also dive into balancing work with school schedules, why we skip unnecessary meetings, and our approach to home organization—especially managing digital photos. Plus, a peek at our go-to Easter brunch menu, blending homemade favorites with family-friendly hosting.
Weekly Whims Vol. 7 - March 7. 2025 - March 7, 2025 - Thomas
Gardening Essentials, Spring Men's Fashion under $250, and more
Diving into container gardening with must-have tools, refining spring style with Mr. Porter finds, and testing beef tallow skincare (yes, even deodorant). Plus, insights on parenting praise, Mr. Beast’s creative genius, and why Atlanta’s airport is a logistics masterpiece.
My Skin Story: The Treatments, Tweaks, and Takeaways - March 5, 2025 - Julia
Honest Thoughts on the Treatments I’ve Tried and What I’ve Learned
A no-gatekeeping guide to my skincare journey—monthly facials, microcurrent and LED tools, and why I finally embraced Botox and microneedling (with game-changing results). Aging gracefully is personal, and the best approach is the one that makes you feel your best.
How to Post Online If You’re Not an Oversharer - March 3, 2025 - Thomas
Overcome hesitation, start sharing, have an impact.
Consistency builds confidence, thoughtful sharing creates trust, and AI tools can help streamline the process—without replacing your authentic voice. Start small, stay true to yourself, and let time work in your favor.
TL;DR February 2025 Edition - March 2, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Summarizing Everything We Published Last Month
A one-stop hub for catching up on February’s posts—from ingredient-household experiments and celiac discoveries to weekly whims filled with style, skincare, and travel picks. Streamlined summaries make it easy to find the stories and insights that spark your curiosity.
Ask Us Anything – February Edition - March 1, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
From Family Life to Photography – Answering This Month's Questions
Cleaning must-haves, Julia’s fitness routine, and the latest family update (including Clementine’s bunny plans!). Plus, behind-the-scenes insights on business, creative workflow, and how we approach photography, editing, and travel planning.
FEBRUARY 2025
Julia's Weekly Whims: Vol. 6 - February 28, 2025 - Julia
Fresh Details, Preloved Treasures, and the Glowiest Skin
A gluten-free pancake mix making mornings easier, a dreamy floral dress for spring, and the latest skincare obsession for effortless radiance. Plus, a vintage rainbow Delvaux bag find and a last-minute Vern’s reservation win—alert notifications do work!
10 Favorite Items In My Closet - February 26, 2025 - Julia
That Stand The Test of Time
Pieces with a story—my 11-year-old Max Mara coat, a reversible locket with my daughters’ portraits, and a Hermès Kelly I patiently waited for. Classic, meaningful, and built to last.
We Tried Being an Ingredient Household for a Week - February 24, 2025 - Thomas
and everyone survived
We ditched ultra-processed foods, focused on batch-cooked basics, and saw easier meals, fewer snack cravings, and surprisingly adaptable kids. While not a forever change, we’re keeping many of these habits.
Deep Dive: Getting Started With Weightlifting - February 23, 2025 - Thomas
Sharing What I've Learned So Far
Master the basics, train with intention, and focus on sustainable progress—not just sweat. Strength training is simpler (and more effective) than you think.
Julia’s Weekly Whims: Vol 5 - February 21, 2025 - Julia
Fresh Finds, Current Obsessions & Little Luxuries
A chic black La Ligne dress, dreamy mary jane sneakers, and last-chance Lake Pajamas steals. Luxe self-care splurges (hello, glowing skin & the chicest hairbrush ever) plus travel dreams of Amanzoe and a cozy at-home sauna concept I can’t stop thinking about.
What Actually Made a Difference in My Health & Fitness - February 19, 2025 - Julia
From a Celiac Diagnosis to Finding Movement That Feels Good
A long-overdue diagnosis, discovering workouts I love, and shifting my focus from numbers to how I actually feel—these changes transformed my health journey.
Our Absolute Travel Essentials - February 17, 2025 - Thomas
Through trial and error this list has been curated over years of travel
The travel must-haves we swear by after years on the go—wrinkle-free hacks, smart luggage swaps, kid-friendly lifesavers, and the little extras that make every trip smoother.
VIDEO - Travel Q&A Video - February 15, 2025- Julia & Thomas
Answering Your Travel Questions From Our Chat
Our favorite family-friendly destinations, how we pack, and how we score first-class upgrades—plus travel photography tips for confidence in front of the camera.
Weekly Whims with Thomas - Vol. 4 - February 14, 2025 - Thomas
Thomas takes over for this week. Plus Bonus Whims For Paid Subscribers
Resort wear finds for him, coffee upgrades, mindset shifts, and the surprisingly freeing power of “good enough.”
The Best Family Trips We’ve Ever Taken - February 12, 2025 - Julia
The destinations that worked, not just for us, but for our kids too.
Paris for playgrounds and croissants, Portugal for relaxed beach days, Ireland for family ties, and Mexico for endless charm—our most-loved spots for traveling with kids.
I Swear By These Chrome Extensions - February 10, 2025 - Thomas
And You Will Too!
From productivity boosters to creative tools, these extensions streamline workflows, solve niche problems, and might just make your digital life a whole lot easier.
The Husband's Guide to Style - February 8, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Julia Interviews Thomas
Polished basics, timeless investments, and subtle upgrades—Thomas shares his approach to effortless style, proving that great dressing doesn’t have to be complicated.
Julia’s Weekly Whims: Vol 3 - February 7, 2025 - Julia
What I’m Ordering, Organizing, and Bookmarking Right Now
Vacation-ready finds, a dreamy African cuisine dinner, and a home edit that’s reshaping my approach to shopping—plus my go-to Charleston rooftop for unwinding.
Why I Get Dressed Every Single Day - February 5, 2025 - Julia
How Clothes Shape My Mood, Mindset, and Motivation
Dressing with intention sets the tone for the day. Wearing the “good” stuff now (instead of saving it) transforms everyday moments into something special.
Track It to Change It - February 3, 2025 - Thomas
What Gets Measured, Gets Improved—Here’s How to Do It Right
Tracking the right metrics—not just vanity numbers—drives real progress. Whether it’s fitness, business, or habits, refining what (and how) you measure leads to actual change.
28 Things You Can Do with Others in February - February 1, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Happy February, let's make this a great month with some creative ideas
From AI-generated date nights to family “Yes” Days and blind wine tastings, these fresh takes on together-time bring people closer—whether it’s with a partner, friends, or the whole crew.
JANUARY 2025
Julia’s Weekly Whims: Volume 2 - January 31, 2025 - Julia
What’s On My Vanity, In My Kitchen, and On My Mind This Week
A viral lip stain, a buttery yellow cardigan, a game-changing CSA subscription, and an indulgent Schiaparelli moment—plus my latest food, beauty, and inspiration finds.
Ask Us Anything: January 2025 - January 31, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
Answering this month's questions you all sent in.
Why we stay in Charleston (and sometimes dream of NYC), how we manage travel with kids, our closet curation philosophy, and how we balance personal passions with parenting—plus a few fun surprises.
VIDEO - My Closet Tour + Q&A - January 30, 2025 - Julia
Answering the questions you all have been asking.
A peek inside my wardrobe—including how I organize, what I treasure most, and why I keep everything accessible year-round. Thoughtful edits and a “one in, one out” approach keep it effortless and inspiring.
What’s in My Closet? (And What’s Not Anymore) - January 29, 2025 - Julia
Letting go of what no longer fits (in more ways than one)
A “one in, one out” rule keeps my wardrobe fresh. If it won’t last a decade or isn’t something I’d pass down, it goes. Thoughtful organization + mindful edits = a closet that truly inspires.
Was I the First Person to Invent This Task Productivity Method? - January 27, 2025 - Thomas
This system is surprisingly simple and helps me with my Work-Life Balance
Color-coded Post-Its + a single board = clarity. Estimating task times prevents underestimating, while end-of-day refinement keeps priorities sharp. A method so simple, it might just change the way you work.
Julia’s Weekly Whims: Volume 1 - January 24, 2025 - Julia
What's been on my mind & in my carts this week
Chic yet unexpected finds—from a color-blocked toothbrush to raffia mary janes—plus effortless Valentine’s ideas, a postpartum haircare experiment, and an ethereal Merlette top that’s pure wardrobe magic.
What We Learned from Seven Weeks Traveling in Italy - January 21, 2025 - Thomas
With Practical Tips for Your Own Adventures
Slowing down led to richer experiences—savoring local culture, balancing work with exploration, and making family travel more intentional. From flexible itineraries to shared meals and small, meaningful moments, these takeaways shaped our journey (and will help you plan yours).
Four Luxe Jewelry Pieces I’m Eyeing - January 20th, 2025 - Julia
The Heirloom-Worthy Finds I Can’t Stop Thinking About
A nebula pendant, diamond studs with detachable tassels, a dreamy turquoise stacker, and a nostalgic ring with lasting craftsmanship—each piece blends timeless elegance with meaningful design, making them worthy of investment (and obsession).
Welcome to Trade Offs - January 18, 2025 - Julia & Thomas
The Story Behind Our Substack Together + A Bonus Q&A To Get To Know Us Better
We created Trade Offs to merge our creative and analytical strengths—offering a behind-the-scenes look at how we navigate work, life, and big decisions together. In our first post, we share our approach to balancing intuition with practicality, plus a Q&A revealing quirks, compromises, and what keeps us aligned.