Moving to the Big Apple is kind of a big deal. Starting not one, but two businesses while you’re there? That’s a feat managed by a special kind of babe. One of those is Amy Woodside.
After moving from New Zealand to New York 6 years ago as an artist, she has since put her name alongside the team at Happy Bones cafe as well as founding OKREAL: a site that talks to women how women want to be spoken to. If you’re in New York you should get both a coffee from Happy Bones and check out one of her many events – you might even see me there.
Just like I how I like to call a spade a spade and a babe, a babe, Amy tells it like it is. And here’s what she had to say to me:
What’s the first thing you think of when you wake up?
My brain is dreamy-mush and incapable of forming real thoughts until I’ve been awake for at least 10 minutes. By then I’m already waist-deep in the AM-scroll (see next answer)
Then, what’s the first thing you do?
Grab my phone and check email. But my new thing to counteract that terrible habit is to meditate for 10 minutes afterwards. We’ll see how long that lasts.
Describe yourself in one sentence.
Are we there yet?
You’re an artist and a writer, but what do you prefer: pictures or words?
Words.
Bath or shower?
One day I will be one of those fancy ladies who take baths every day instead of showering. But for now, baths are a rare luxury that involve scalding hot water, epsom salts and books which I succeed in getting soaking wet every time.
Coffee order?
Long black.
Do you still have time for your art? Does it make you as happy as it used to?
Not as much time as I would like, but it’s OK, because that time has been replaced with other amazing opportunities. Producing art makes me happy, but building OKREAL gives me a deeper sense of fulfillment. They’re different kinds of happiness.
Do you work well under pressure/prefer a deadline or do you like as much time as you can?
Both. I like to plan ahead of time and am super organized, but can make things happen at the last minute. I find deadlines motivating and enjoy a challenge (most of the time).
What would you say to girls contemplating moving to NYC?
Read OKREAL to find out how other women figure their shit out here! Also: bring a sweater.
When are you at your best? What’s involved in your day? E.g. exercise, friends, quiet time, meetings etc.
Eating breakfast, working out, New Zealand summertime with my family, being productive, making an impact with my work.
What’s on the first page of your 2016 Journal? (Goals/Resolutions)
“I am always so precious about writing in the first page because it means I’m about to mess everything up.”
#letsbefrank what should every girl know?
Don’t be a hard rock when you really are a gem / Baby girl, respect is just a minimum (-Lauryn Hill, obviously)
Your top 3 beauty tips/products?
Nothing beats good food and exercise, but for extra help:
- Frank body balm for my bod and rosehip oil for my face (especially for NYC winter)
- MAC lip liner in Cultured (apply lightly to the whole lip for the win)
- Glossier skin tint for chill days, Tarte BB Cream if I want a little more coverage
Who should frank scrub/interview next?
Can you please call Jennifer Lawrence?
Sure thing, babe. Right after I speak to Tay Tay.
Follow Amy:
@ameohmy
@heyOKREAL
Go to her next event:
http://www.okreal.co/articles/the-real-reset/