What is the most sentimental piece in your home?
The most sentimental item in my home is a 1907 copy of Pride and Prejudice I bought when I visited Bath, England a few years ago. It hops from coffee table to bookshelf and back again. My mom and sister came to visit me during my study abroad, and naturally, we took a day to visit the home of our most beloved author. Seeing that book in my home reminds me not only of that special trip, but the wonderful relationship I have with my mom and sister, and the inspiration I get from talented female writers.
Alaina takes breaks from the computer by enjoying the company of her coworkers: Tucker and Fiona, her two cockapoos. Alaina’s own artwork – sketches of the Eiffel Tower and Big Ben – hangs above the couch, a daily reminder of the time she spent in her two favorite cities. Alaina wears a J.Crew sequined shirt and jeans with Sergio Rossi heels.
Have you ever found any gems in unlikely places (furniture, wall decor, etc)?
My favorite items were all found at junk stores. The vintage dresser and tin-framed mirror in my bedroom were both steals at a local Goodwill store here in Chicago called The Brown Elephant. I think I paid $45 and $25 for the two items, respectively. I also found a beautiful cityscape oil painting on the floor a thrift store in Richmond, Virginia. I think I paid $35 for it. I don’t think it’s of any particular city; there are elements of both old European architecture and modern American skyscrapers. But it hangs on the gallery wall above my desk and reminds me of why I love traveling and exploring new cities.
