November
2
2020
Written by
the LULU—LAND Team & Lauren Bagley
Lauren Bagley
Read more
Lauren Bagley, founder of Beluna Coworking, Ubud, Bali

I first met Lauren in Ubud, Bali, in 2019. I had just arrived at Hubud — a co-working space in the middle of the Balinese Jungle, with cheeky monkeys everywhere. One week earlier, I had a well-paid and secure job as a consultant, which I'd manage to throw overboard to follow my dream; start my own business while traveling the world at the same time. Things had gone pretty fast since I made the decision. I hadn't really had time to think before that morning, where reality hit. There I was, almost 12,000 kilometers away from everything I knew, and pretty far out of my comfort zone.

When I walked into Hubud, the first person I saw was Lauren. She was friendly, she smiled, and waved me over… from that second, I knew everything was going to be alright. The following weeks we shared—and both overcame—the fear of getting on a motorbike for the first time and navigating the at times insane, Balinese traffic chaos.

I see a lot of myself in Lauren. For better and for worse. She is openminded, spontaneous, and has a knack for doing the unexpected. And on top, she is hilarious to be around. I truly admire her courage to follow her own path and live out her dreams—even the ones everyone else thinks of as crazy.

Lauren is a jack of many trades, a hard-working businesswoman, and a spiritual yogi at the same time. She mixes the best of both worlds in a way that I personally find incredibly inspiring. I look forward to visiting her latest project, Beluna, a co-working space for dreamers and doers, she has built from scratch in Ubud, following Balinese traditions and customs for bamboo craftsmanship. During Corona, Lauren has, unlike many foreigners, stayed in Bali. She helps struggling locals in the best ways she can, while the opening of her little gem has been postponed a bit for now.

I have no doubt that we'll be working together somehow in the future; only time will tell how. I could go on ... However, for now, I hope you'll get as inspired by Lauren as we are at LULU—LAND. 

/ LOUISE BØGESKOV HOU

OK, LET'S START WITH THE EASY ONES

Name:
Lauren Bagley

Birth month/year:
12 January 1988

Nationality:
British

Currently located in:
Bali

What do you do for a living?
Freelance Project Manager, Owner of Events company and Virtual Assistant Company, Owner and founder of Beluna Coworking, Bali

Balinese Waterfall

MOST OF US HAVE CERTAIN ROUTINES, LET'S GET TO KNOW YOURS

What is the first thing you do in the morning?
Stretch! Then have a hot lemon water

What is a typical day like for you?
Wake up, hot lemon water, put contact lenses in, throw on some tight yoga lycra items, head to a yoga class in Ubud (try not to think about the ten thousand things in my head and say ohm a few times), head home to shower, listen to a podcast, get dressed, journal, gratitude list then ‘To Do’ List –always a never ending list, usually transferred from the day before…! Jump on my scooter, head to a meeting with either a builder or a potential partnership, work from a café on my Beluna project, which is due to open soon. Drink loads of coffee, eat my first meal of the day around 1pm (I intermittent fast) usually a smoothie bowl and a matcha latte, then I head home, and continue with the Beluna task list, including many zoom meetings and lots of organising and administration. I usually work until 9pm in the evening, then try to switch off phone and laptop. Shower, put some chilled music on, and go to bed around 11pm.

And now that we're at it – what are the last things you do before bedtime?
Switch all digital devices off, light some incense, read a book, do somemore stretching, have a hot shower and usually drown myself in coconut oil

How do you spend your weekends?
Yoga, walks, lunches with friends, beach time, massage, dancing and most importantly lots of eating. The cafes in Ubud are a delight to say the least! I try to switch off from work things as much as possible as my weeks are so full on.

When was the last time you celebrated?
Today, most days. I like to celebrate all things, especially the small wins.

Signing contacts—let the fun begin—Beluna Coworking

WE ALL HAVE MORE OR LESS FLATTERING TRAITS

 

What is your guilty pleasure?
Chocolate. Always. Anything chocolate.

What is your superpower?
I have a white streak in my hair like storm from X Men. I can dislocate my hip on demand. I can smile when I’m angry (super power or slightly creepy?Who knows).

The Beluna construction site

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT PASSION, NOT THE FRUIT

 

What could you spend all day talking about?
Health and nutrition and magic potions that come from nature that can heal the human body. That – or the fact that loads of the Black Mirror episodes have come true. Can we talk about that?

What inspires you?
Nature, dreams, art, colours, poetry, travel, culture, humans, kindess of strangers

First time upstairs—Beluna!

LET'S DIG A LITTLE DEEPER INTO WHAT INSPIRES YOU

 

Repeat or shuffle? What have you been listening to lately, and what are you humming in the shower?

Music: Vivii, Band of Horses, The National, Ben Howard, Future Islands

Podcasts: Abraham Hicks, Joe Dispenza, Louise Haye

 

Poster or collectors’ items? If we gave you a million, what would be decorating your walls?
Collectors items.

"I don’t actually follow the news... I stopped watching/reading it a long time ago."

Newspapers, journals, magazines, online platforms, digital media, podcasts… you name it – how do you keep yourself updated, and what are your news sources?
I don’t actually follow the news (brainwashing). I stopped watching/reading it a long time ago. I prefer to choose the content I listen to so I follow certain people of interest or inspiration on Instagram, listen to podcasts of inspirational people I would like to learn from, a mixture of business, leadership, spirituality and health.

If you could have lunch with one person, alive or dead, who would that be?
My grandad, my dad’s dad that I never met. I would love to meet him and hear all his stories and memories.

Books, movies, and/or series – what can you recommend?

Books: The Alchemist - Paulo Coelho, 5am Club – Robin Sharma, DaringGreatly – Brené Brown

Movies: The Notebook (of course.), Avatar, Up, Shawshank Redemption,Shutter Island, Bridesmaids

Series: Sense 8, OA, Normal People, Utopia, Black Mirror (an insight into my mind)

Which three Instagram accounts should everyone follow?

Mark Groves – to learn about all the love things

Deepak Chopra – to learn about life and keeping calm for all the life things

Eva Angelina – for lols.

... and more bamboo!

YOUR LIFE SO FAR: SMOOTH SAILING OR OBSTACLE COURSE – A COUPLE OF QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PAST

 

Who was your first big love?
Farran Wooler, at School. First love, first heartbreak, first boyfriend that had to carry me home because I was too drunk to walk.

What's the single best realization you have ever had?
That we are completely and utterly responsible for our lives and that we create our reality, whether we choose to perceive things as good or bad, is up to us. Mind blowing. (and a lot of responsibility)

"Everyone thought I had lost my mind and would be back in a month or so (Lauren’s gone cray cray again)."

What's the best bad or crazy decision you have ever made? That moment that seemed so wrong but turned out so right. If you don't make bad or crazy decisions, have you then ever made a decision that changed your entire life?
If you asked my parents, they probably wouldn’t know which one to pick with me…

However, I would have to say cancelling my wedding, quitting my well paid secure London job in the music industry, packing my bags and moving to Ibiza, without a plan, a place to live or a job. Everyone thought I had lost my mind and would be back in a month or so (Lauren’s gone cray cray again).

(I lived there nearly five years.)

IMB approval of the building—Beluna

AND A LOT MORE ABOUT THE PRESENT

How are you, really? It's nice to check in every once in a while. 
I am good, really good. Thanks for asking.

However the past few months have been challenging, confronting and eyeopening. Haven’t they? Who would have thought a virus named after a beer would affect us all so deeply and strangely and bring up all those vulnerable thoughts and moments that we all have that we didn’t know we have, and then make it a reason for your ex’s to message you and see how you are, and your friends to start sending you weird memes because they don’t have a job anymore, and then you just cry for no reason.

But yes, I’m fine. I’m fine.

When are you the happiest? 
When I’m eating. Preferably surrounded by loved ones and funny ones.  

What scares you the most?
Losing my loved ones

What keeps you up at night these days?
My to do list usually, missing people, lucid dreams, the need to wee.

 

Tell us one thing people would never know about you by just looking at you?
That I have an obsession with extremely spicy food and put chillis on everything, and can probably out eat the biggest man at the table.

Mindfulness & ice bath therapy!

What habit would improve your life?
Daily meditation, to keep me more present. I do it, but still think of 10,000 things at the same time.  

We all have qualities that don't really have any rhyme or reason. What is one thing you don't understand about yourself? 

Why I am so bad at time keeping. I am terrible at it, always have been. My teacher used to make me write lines on the board at school, like Bart Simpson. But even she gave up.

What works for you at the moment, and what doesn’t?

Works: Morning routine, yoga, being in nature, dancing

Doesn’t: Too much time on the computer, not enough free time, feeling stressed and trying not to

 

When do you feel the most comfortable in your own skin?
When I’m with my family or with my best friend Sophie, because she knows all my things.

What makes you feel insecure?
Being in a large group of people and having to speak in front of them

Traditional Balinese ceremony for the land Beluna is built on

AND OF COURSE, A SNEAK PEEK INTO THE FUTURE
"I am currently creating a dream and a vision I have had for a long time, something that will support many people to live the life of their dreams, whilst developing their personal skills, mindsets and growth and opportunities."

What's the best thing about the next thing you are during?
I am currently creating a dream and a vision I have had for a long time, something that will support many people to live the life of their dreams, whilst developing their personal skills, mindsets and growth and opportunities.

"Plans are worthless– but planning is everything" – Dwight D. Eisenhower. What does the future look like for you – what are your dreams and goals?

Living in Bali, traveling more, more free time to spend with my family, continuing to build my business and expanding to other locations, learning new skills

Beluna almost ready to open, then Corona happened

ADVICE – EASY TO GIVE, HADER TO FOLLOW

"I’m quite hard on myself which can be a good thing and a bad thing, but I don’t allow myself to sit around and mope for long. I usually give myself a kick up the ass to put things into action and find a solution."

What (or who) motivates you in difficult times? 
Myself mostly. I’m quite hard on myself which can be a good thing and a bad thing, but I don’t allow myself to sit around and mope for long. I usually give myself a kick up the ass to put things into action and find a solution. Failing that, my mum usually tells me how it is when I need to hear it.

Good advice is priceless. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten?
Remembering that nothing lasts forever. When I first heard this as a little girl it made me feel sad, but now I’m older, I understand it. And I like it. It makes me embrace every single moment and love it for what it is, whether it feels good or it feels uncomfortable. It won’t last forever, so just be in it.

What is the kindest thing anyone ever said to you or the best compliment anyone ever gave you? 
That I am like an onion (I know it doesn’t sound very flattering). But the person was saying that they enjoy getting to know me because there are many layers of me and that they can tell that the more I trust someone the more I allow them in, and that it makes them feel special to be in my world. I liked it that someone could get that about me and see me authentically.

How do you heal a broken heart?
You don’t. You just mend it with gold and make it even more big and beautiful than before. Like the Japanese do with pottery – ‘Kintzsugi’

 

Ground floor sunrise—Beluna

THE FORECAST – TRENDS AND TENDENCIES

 

What is going to be the next big thing? (concepts, businesses, ideas, mega trends, etc.)
Online businesses and remote teams, Artificial Intelligence, Robots.

We would love to find out about cool new places and things to do in your area. What are your favorite places? Where do you like to go to have fun? 

Radiantly Alive for yoga classes,

Sayuri for delectable smoothie bowls,

La Brisa, Canggu for sunset cocktails and music,

Akasha, Ubud for good DJ’s, dancing and cacao ceremonies,

Sage Restaurant for amazing plant based food,

Alchemy, Ubud for the most delicious vegan desserts,

Tjampuhan Spa for rest and relax

Ubud Yoga House, for yoga overlooking the rice terraces

The Traveler, for romantic dinner

Silêncio, for out of this world party experiences

Beluna mural painting by Monicci

THE ONES THAT DIDN'T FIT INTO THE OTHER CATEGORIES

What is the most favorite, most useful, and most useless object you own, respectively?

Favorite: My scooter – I love the freedom of jumping on it and riding through the rice fields, it’s the best way to see the beauty of Bali

Useful: My computer, it keeps me in touch with my family, my clients, do my shopping, book my flights, take online programs and learn new things – endless possibilities from the box with the apple on it.

Useless: A pair of heeled shoes that I brought back from the UK with me at Christmas. No need for heels in Bali. Ever. But they look lovely on my shelf, collecting all the dust.

What was the last thing you searched for on your phone? Be careful: you might be required to show proof. 
‘Isometric exercises’ – because someone told me to do them and I didn’t know what they were.

A girl needs to eat—preferably healthy vegetarian food

"Now, that I am on different time zones to my closest friends, we usually leave each other voice notes, then respond when the other is awake. It’s nice to hear their voices, and they are usually hilarious."

Call or text? Which is better, and why?

At the moment – text, because time is a bit limited. It’s nice to be able to respond at a time when I have space rather than rush a phone call. In fact, I prefer voice notes. Now, that I am on different time zones to my closest friends, we usually leave each other voice notes, then respond when the other is awake. It’s nice to hear their voices, and they are usually hilarious.

If I have more time – Calls.

Am I allowed to give 3 answers?

Another Balinese ceremony showing respect for local customs and traditions

 

"It costs nothing to be polite, compassionate and kind."

What is your pet peeve?
Oh god. There’s many – rude people, loud people, slow walkers, loud eaters, invasion of personal space, the list goes on!

But my number one would be rude people. I dated someone recently who was very rude to a waiter. I don’t like that, I think it says a lot about someone, and you know one day they will also speak to you like that. It costs nothing to be polite, compassionate and kind.

What is the most interesting thing in your trash can?
An empty spirulina packet?... Awkward.

You’ve been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it. What would you do with it?
Oh I would not want to give it away or sell it. Elephants are my favourite animals because they are strong, mischievious, loyal and the baby ones throw tantrums. I would make my best efforts to get to know the elephant and learn all it’s tricks.

Safely relocating a tiny palm on the building site

THE BIG ONES

 

What is the meaning of life?
To find the things that make your heart sing, and do that.

Whilst experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions, heart breaks, wins and losses, confusion, pain, joy, intense love, intense loss, laughs, tears, cuddles and experiences, all along the way.

Look, mom, I made it! – How do you define success? 
Living a life of freedom, that fills me with joy and allows me to live an abundant life, in all ways, a life that I can share with my loved ones and share and give to others.

Beluna surrounded by beautiful rice fields

THE FINAL TWO

 

Name three people you would like to answer these questions?

Daria Kalista, Founder of AF Company

Vasoulla Demetriou, Founder of Soulshine Retreats

Matt & Laura, Founder of Ekommunity

Følg

How would you describe LULU—LAND?
The land in which the ones that know, know. A community hub of all the ones who are crazy enough to believe they can, and they do.

THE END

“Keep some room
in your heart
for the
unimaginable”

Corona life—safety first—Bali

WE LOVE TO CONNECT PEOPLE

NAME Lauren Bagley

EMAIL iam@belunabali.com

WEBSITE belunabali.com

INSTAGRAM @misslcb & @belunabali

CREDITS

PUBLISHED BY LULU—LAND

PHOTOS KINDLY LENT FROM LAUREN'S PRIVATE ALBUM

August
18
2020
Written by
the LULU—LAND Team
Ieva Vi
Read more

Say hi to Ieva Vi. She's an incredibly talented designer, digital content creator, and visual communicator. In the coming months, she'll help us develop our email marketing strategy and step up our motion graphics and GIF game big time.

Everyone knows that you are supposed to receive a welcome email immediately after you have signed up for a newsletter—It's been on our to-do list forever—Ieva is totally going to make this happen. If you're already signed up, she's also the one who will make sure that you'll receive that occasional update that won't make you forget about us.

Ieva is originally from Lithuania but lives a digital nomad; working with what she loves the most, while traveling. She is curious and always ask interesting and well-informed questions that make us think and reflect.

In her spare time, you might find her with a camera at hand; she loves connecting with people and documenting memorable occasions.

Ieva is inspired by everything from scents like perfumes and the smell of Spring to calm and positive people, long walks in nature, and well … social media. However, like most of us she is painfully aware that it's a super powerful tool that can overwhelm you if you don't use your time wisely!

We hope that you'll notice the quirky motions on our platforms and smile next time you receive our newsletter, thanks to Ieva.

WE LOVE TO CONNECT PEOPLE

NAME Ieva Vi

INSTAGRAM @iamnotieva, @vilcinskaitee & @ievaviphoto

WEBSITE ievavi.com

PORTFOLIO ievaviphoto.com

July
17
2020
Written by
the LULU—LAND Team & Roxana Niculescu
Roxana Niculescu
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Say hi to Roxana Niculescu, aka Roxy, the latest addition to our team. In the coming months, she will be creating content for the LULU—LAND Journal and Instagram.

Roxy is an incredible writer, with her characteristic personal style; she makes people reflect and laugh. Don't be surprised if you suddenly find a Harry Potter reference in her writing on just about anything.

Roxy is one of the most diehard Beyoncé fans we've ever met, and she loves everything that involves performing, acting, and dancing. Her dream is to make it her full-time living, and we truly admire her persistent work towards her goal.

We love Roxy's childlike curiosity and her innate fight for equality and justice, whether it comes to issues on race, gender, or sexuality. We hope that you'll be as inspired as we are by her thoughtful, positive, and charming, yet unapologetic nature.

OK, LET'S START WITH THE EASY ONES

Name:
Roxana Niculescu (Roxy is the regular drill)

Birth month/year:
May 30, 1991

Nationality:
Romanian/Swedish

Currently located in:
Malmö, Sweden

What do you do for a living?
Isn’t it funny, how strongly we associate living with working?

But to actually answer, I work as a housing coordinator at a rental management company – basically, I find long-term (and pretty) homes for ex-pats who moved to Sweden and work at IKEA, TetraPak etc. I coordinate the entire process, from their initial preferences to supporting them during their stay.

The rest of the time, I do all kinds of things to live. Hanging out in the bathroomwith candles is definitely one thing.

MOST OF US HAVE CERTAIN ROUTINES, LET'S GET TO KNOW YOURS

What is the first thing you do in the morning?
Lately, I’ve created the habit that the first thing I do is taking a few conscious breaths and speaking out what I’m grateful for. I’d lie if I said that I see the effects very obviously, but I fully believe that it’s much more about long-term joy than the usual instant gratification stuff we do. But the first more active thing I do is wash my face with cold water. Several splashes. I just wouldn’t be a person without doing that.

"I do my best to roll out of bed and onto my yoga mat or into a meditation. But then there’s those other days when I end up browsing through clothes instead and being late."

What is a typical day like for you?
I do my best to roll out of bed and onto my yoga mat or into a meditation. But then there’s those other days when I end up browsing through clothes instead and being late. Breakfast is a MUST, I’m usually (almost) starving. A book usually keeps me company. After breaking into a dance or two, I go to work, though not the last three months when I’ve been working from home and I LOVE it (more yoga and me time, yes please!). I dedicate evenings to friends, cooking, working on acting pieces, writing, watching shows, thrift shopping, buying ice cream - you know, life essentials.

And now that we're at it – what are the last things you do before bedtime?
Tea, though not as much during summer. Maybe yoga, shower, and more writing - recently started a gratitude journal where I’m writing every single thing from the day that I feel grateful for - or something that I appreciate about myself. And watching my current show/reading my current book.

How do you spend your weekends?
Sleeping in is just my favourite. Not too crazy late, but late for most others I’ve heard. Breakfast in bed. Lazying around. Quality time with friends. More thrift shopping. Reading. Nature trips or city trips or trips to my candy shop. 

"I fully believe that life’s a party."

When was the last time you celebrated?
I fully believe that life’s a party. I love celebrating being alive in any small “random” moment, so it’s pretty tricky answering this question. But it was my bday recently and that was a 2in1 celebration because I saw some friends for the first time in a few months.

WE ALL HAVE MORE OR LESS FLATTERING TRAITS

 

What is your guilty pleasure?
Whenever I get suddenly and temporarily obsessed with pop celebrities and I end up watching their interviews/videos late into the night. Shoutout to Ariana Grande, my latest binge.

What is your superpower?
Seeing through people. I don’t need to know things about others to see them for who they really are.

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT PASSION, NOT THE FRUIT

 

What could you spend all day talking about?
Beyoncé, self-development practices, healthy habits, food, movies, actors, books.

 

What inspires you?
Virtually any form of art, but specifically music, films/theatre, books, paintings and ancient sculptures. I also find infinite inspiration in things that appear to be common, but aren’t, like the movement of leaves or the look in a baby’s eyes.

LET'S DIG A LITTLE DEEPER INTO WHAT INSPIRES YOU

 

Repeat or shuffle? What have you been listening to lately, and what are you humming in the shower?
Repeat AND shuffle. Lately I’ve been digging more into grime, it’s really helped me process some powerful emotions that have been surfacing - Skepta is such a king and the genre is mad good. Neo-soul always - Erykah Badu is a daily mantra. Also some badass female rappers - Nicki, though mainly Leikeli47 right now. A song that I can’t stop playing is the remix Megan Thee Stallion did with Beyoncé - “Savage”. In the mornings/evenings I mix it up with ancient Japanese meditation music or Indian classical, sometimes Ludovico Einaudi who is a master of my heart and my favorite classical musician.

Poster or collectors’ items? If we gave you a million, what would be decorating your walls?
I’d definitely buy a few authentic Greek/Roman sculptures, or maybe I wouldn’t afford more than two with that money. I’d love to get original artwork by Ivan Alifan, Mikael Owunna, Anne Barlinckhoff just to name a few.

Newspapers, journals, magazines, online platforms, digital media, podcasts… you name it – how do you keep yourself updated, and what are your news sources?
Al-Jazeera is a newssource I admire and trust most, The Guardian is also great. A magazine I’ve started collecting is 32C, everything they do is just *goals*.

If you could have lunch with one person, alive or dead, who would that be?
Beyoncé - both a hard and easy question. 

Books, movies, and/or series – what can you recommend?
The books of my young womanhood are The Neapolitan Quartet by Elena Ferrante, she is unbelievable and so are these novels, though they’re brutally real at the same time. There are four books spread over a few decades, about an epic friendship between two women against the heavy backdrop of a very poor neighborhood in Naples, Italy. Recently I read “Girl, Woman, Other” by Bernadine Evaristo, just the most unique style and extremely powerful voice for both black culture, women and the LGBTQ community.

Some of my favourite movies that everyone just needs to watch are Call me by your name, Parasite, Joker and Mommy.

These days I’m obsessed with the TV-show “Insecure”, a hilarious and very insightful comedy/drama sitcom about black women (and occasionally men), by black women, and for anyone to enjoy to the max. Other all-time favorites are Better Call Saul (a masterpiece) and The Office (US) is by far the most epic comedy material ever.  

Which three Instagram accounts should everyone follow?

@annebarlinckhoff - my new love in photography

@youvegotnomale - super mega witty and pro-all-freedom meme genius Sebastian Tribbie

@indyamoore - my favourite actress from the show POSE and such a fierce representative of the trans community.

YOUR LIFE SO FAR: SMOOTH SAILING OR OBSTACLE COURSE – A COUPLE OF QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PAST

 

Who was your first big love?
Can I answer Beyoncé here as well? Kidding (not entirely). It was my first proper boyfriend when I was living in Romania. I was 15 and crazy in love. 

What's the single best realization you have ever had?
That everything significant we feel can be traced back to our childhoods, and healed the same way.

What's the best bad or crazy decision you have ever made? That moment that seemed so wrong but turned out so right. If you don't make bad or crazy decisions, have you then ever made a decision that changed your entire life?
One (most) glorious summer back in university, when my best friend and I decided we needed to live in Greece. We found jobs online, we’d be working at the same bar, and even though it seemed alright, there was next to no security about it. I had to travel alone for the first time, sleeping in the airport waiting for the ferry, and moving to an island all by myself. My best friend joined only later. It was the single most defining experience, not only in terms of freedom and pure joy, but more significantly in terms of the unknown and the kindness of strangers.

AND A LOT MORE ABOUT THE PRESENT

"I am truly enjoying and appreciating all the heavy emotional processes I’ve had come at me lately. True change, healthy change, necessary change."

How are you, really? It's nice to check in every once in a while. 
I love this question, and love asking myself this in meditation too - so important. It’s been a very intense time but I am truly enjoying and appreciating all the heavy emotional processes I’ve had come at me lately. True change, healthy change, necessary change.

When are you the happiest? 
WhenI'm performing on stage/in front of the camera. When I take the first swim of summer. When I kiss my boyfriend. When I eat delicious foods. When I’m inItaly. When I eat gelato. Pay me and I still wouldn't be able to choose only one.

What scares you the most?
The thought of serious illness ... 

What keeps you up at night these days?
The show I’m watching (Insecure) cuz it’s perfect and addictive. And the long summer nights of bliss.

 

Tell us one thing people would never know about you by just looking at you?
That I can be as introverted as I am extroverted.

What habit would improve your life?
More exercise (duh). Gotta say that I am at least trying, honestly.

We all have qualities that don't really have any rhyme or reason. What is one thing you don't understand about yourself? 
It’s a long time ago now that I gave up understanding the self. It’s such a paradox, because life is synonymous with experience and so are we. So I experience it all, instead of understanding. But a thing that frustrates me sometimes, is the laziness/procrastination I notice I fall into even though I know my passions and what I need to do for them. 

What works for you at the moment, and what doesn’t?
I have a lot more time to myself and my career paths, and that’s so necessary right now when I’m juggling different things. My late sleeping schedule isn’t the best though so I’m working on improving that. 

When do you feel the most comfortable in your own skin?
When I dance my booty off and whenever I put my outfits together.

What makes you feel insecure?
Both the acting and the creative industry, when thinking about them as big monsters that I can’t conquer. And the eternal problem of comparing myself to others, which is still a work in progress.

AND OF COURSE, A SNEAK PEEK INTO THE FUTURE
 

What's the best thing about the next thing you are during?
That I’m finally taking some real action towards my next career move, and LULU—LAND itself is the catalyst for it. And my next career move means to design my own life in the creative industry. The same goes for my acting career, that I feel real badass determination for my next steps.

"When it comes to writing, I’m slowly paving my way for what I imagine being a fabulous freelance career."

"Plans are worthless– but planning is everything" – Dwight D. Eisenhower. What does the future look like for you – what are your dreams and goals?
I was born to be a mother in every sense of the word, and more so than many girlfriends I have, so a family is something that I am dying for. When it comes to acting, I’ve decided that I will get an agent by the end of the year. When it comes to writing, I’m slowly paving my way for what I imagine being a fabulous freelance career. 

ADVICE – EASY TO GIVE, HADER TO FOLLOW

What (or who) motivates you in difficult times? 
My boyfriend and my closest girlfriends are the best supporters. And I mean it when I say this, Beyoncé too. She has helped me in some of the toughest times. Her godly power and monster work ethic can drive me forward.

Good advice is priceless. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten?
Just anything that ever came out of Eckhart Tolle’s mouth. He is my forever greatest spiritual teacher. To paraphrase maybe the biggest thing, and the core of his teachings, is that our true joy and peace depends on always distinguishing between what is/what the mind says about it. It’s also the root of all suffering, and of living a life lost in thought. It’s the foundation of perspective and of true acceptance of even the “worst” thing.

What is the kindest thing anyone ever said to you or the best compliment anyone ever gave you? 
That I spread light to everyone around me.

"I don’t believe in heartbreak - there is pain, and grief, and they are natural."

How do you heal a broken heart?
I don’t believe in heartbreak - there is pain, and grief, and they are natural. The only way is through.

THE FORECAST – TRENDS AND TENDENCIES

 

What is going to be the next big thing? (concepts, businesses, ideas, mega trends, etc.)
Can’t help thinking of fashion, and you know this new trend of wearing sport shorts over pants when working out? I predict that the next step will be wearing that outfit to go out, to restaurants or other regular walks of life. And it will develop to all kinds of combinations of shorts/long pants. I’d literally die laughing if that ever happened.

But on a more serious note, I actually fear a future when the much-explored concept of self-love as we see it now, will develop so much that it will turn into a whole industry and my fear is that it will be so monetized that it will cease to serve its real purpose.

We would love to find out about cool new places and things to do in your area. What are your favorite places? Where do you like to go to have fun? 
I live in the real heart of Malmö, a neighborhood called Möllan. I live next to a park (Folketspark) where I’m sure any kid would want to permanently move into, but this park also has perks for adults too - my absolute favourite summer bar is right in the middle of the park, and it’s called Far i Hatten. It’s THE must-do here during summer, I’m so in love with it forever and ever. I also adore what is by now the best falafel spot in town, and it’s right around the corner from me - Mr. Falafel (SO LUCKY).. The beach is also so much fun, especially for magical sunsets.

THE ONES THAT DIDN'T FIT INTO THE OTHER CATEGORIES

"My favorite object is my projector. Straight-up my most valuable possession in every sense of the word."

What is the most favorite, most useful, and most useless object you own, respectively?

My favorite object is my projector. Straight-up my most valuable possession in every sense of the word. I really do have a mini-cinema in my living room andI’d never go back to a TV.

Most useful - my electric toothbrush because hello, brushing teeth, but also because it completely changed the whole game. It’s not the typical round one that you see everywhere (those suck), but a normal shape (from Philips). We’re close friends by now.

Most useless - Hair rollers that I bought a million years ago and still haven’t touched.


What was the last thing you searched for on your phone? Be careful: you might be required to show proof. 
Hair rollers. Had to make sure it was the correct word (even though I knew it was hehehe).

Call or text? Which is better, and why?
I honestly can’t choose, because it so depends on the situation. But in true writer fashion, if I had to choose, I’d go with texting. 

What is your pet peeve?
Self-entitled pretentious God-complex people. 

What is the most interesting thing in your trash can?
Pieces of paper we used last night for Pictionary - I tried drawing X-Men and it turned out VERY interesting.

 

You’ve been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it. What would you do with it?
Love it forever. Provide it with the best life I could, in my Möllan backyard.

THE BIG ONES

 

What is the meaning of life?
There isn’t, we are here to experience everything and that’s what life is to me.

Look, mom, I made it! – How do you define success? 
Arriving at the place where you have the courage to be who you really are, at any given moment.

THE FINAL TWO

 

Name three people you would like to answer these questions?

Beyoncé (SURPRISE), Obama and one of my close friends (any).


How would you describe LULU—LAND?
Is this a trick question?

It’s an ambitious start-up for creating a wonderful, inclusive and inspirational online/offline community, where creators can thrive and grow, where more of the world can get to know and learn from their awesomeness. It’s an inspiring little world.

THE END

WE LOVE TO CONNECT PEOPLE

NAME Roxana Niculescu  

INSTAGRAM @roxifixation

LINKEDIN Roxana Niculescu

CREDITS

PUBLISHED BY LULU—LAND

VIDEO BY ROXANA NICULESCU

June
8
2020
Written by
the LULU—LAND Team & Stephanie Geddes
Stephanie Geddes!
Read more
Self-portrait by Stephanie Geddes

Say hi to Stephanie Geddes. She is the newest addition to our team and an amazing photographer. When we first saw Stephanie's portfolio, we fell in love with the authentic and dreamy nature of her photography.

Stephanie is Australian, has lived in NY for eight years, and recently moved to Copenhagen with her husband, Chris, and is trying to find her way into the creative scene.

We can spend hours brainstorming ideas with her and look forward to work together on a series of photo portraits, showcasing the inspiring paths of some of our community members. Don't hesitate to reach out to her if you would like to hear more about her work.

OK, LET'S START WITH THE EASY ONES

Name:
Stephanie Geddes

Birth month/year:
4 April, 1984

Nationality:
Australian

Currently located in:
Copenhagen

What do you do for a living?
I’m a freelance photographer and general all-round creative in the fields of production, producing, and problem-solving!

MOST OF US HAVE CERTAIN ROUTINES, LET'S GET TO KNOW YOURS

What is the first thing you do in the morning?
Since moving to Denmark, I open the blinds and pray for sunshine. Then I check my phone - definitely a habit I’m trying to break, but I can’t help it. Then it’s onto breakfast and a caffeinated beverage!

"As a relatively new to Copenhagen creative I’ve still very much hustling hard to get my foot in the door and meet as many new people as possible."

What is a typical day like for you?
There really isn’t a typical day, which is a blessing and a curse. As a relatively new to Copenhagen creative, I’ve still very much hustling hard to get my foot in the door and meet as many new people as possible. My day can consist of meetings, research, a photoshoot, location scouting, or emails (and more emails).

And now that we're at it – what are the last things you do before bedtime?
Put my phone on silent, arrange my pillows into a weirdly specific pile and shape ideal for sleep, and then read a book until I fall asleep. I’m not a great sleeper, so I go through a lot of books! 

How do you spend your weekends?
My husband works Monday - Friday so despite being freelance myself I like to try to stick to a similar schedule, then we have our weekends together which usually start with eggs of some sort - we’re currently perfecting our homemade breakfast burritos, then bike rides, walks through Assistens Kirkegard, dinner at our local Greek restaurant, Taverna Kreta and if I’m honest the occasional Netflix marathon.

 

When was the last time you celebrated?
I’m actually not sure (which I admit doesn’t sound great). I do try to celebrate little things, but they’re never really about myself! The last mini-celebration dinner we had was the first time restaurants opened after COVID - it was lovely to visit our favorite local place and support it after such a long time.

WE ALL HAVE MORE OR LESS FLATTERING TRAITS

 

What is your guilty pleasure?
Caffeine and wine, and since moving to Copenhagen - pick and mix candy shops. Being able to pick out a whole bag of only red and purple gummies is a dream.

What is your superpower?
Empathizing with other people - and remaining calm in a crisis (I'll freak out and replay it over and over again afterward though).

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT PASSION, NOT THE FRUIT

 

What could you spend all day talking about?
Photography, art, and the current state of the world - pondering how it’s possible to course correct the path we’ve found ourselves on. And if we’re being our truest selves, you can get me talking for hours about true crime (I’m not proud, but it’s a strong side interest - I’m not a weirdo I swear).

 

What inspires you?
Beautiful art in all forms, but of course, photography. Dance always inspires me, watching dance and also dancing myself. I’m not good, but it brings me so much joy. I also love chatting with people who have drastically changed career/life paths - tell me your stories!

LET'S DIG A LITTLE DEEPER INTO WHAT INSPIRES YOU

 

Repeat or shuffle? What have you been listening to lately, and what are you humming in the shower?
Repeat repeat repeat. I will listen to a song or playlist over and over depending on what mood I’m in, and I have multiple playlists that suit different chores or times of day (my cleaning playlist is on point). Current repeated songs include “A Pale” by Rosalia, “Ride It” by Regard, and all songs by the angel Chet Baker.

Poster or collectors’ items? If we gave you a million, what would be decorating your walls?
A mix of prints, paintings, and photographs - my sister Kelly Geddes is a very talented photographer and makes beautiful handprints. There is an amazing initiative in Copenhagen called KunstSalonen that curates an art show every couple of months (in normal times), and the work is always so diverse and a great mix of affordable and aspirational pieces - I would probably stop by and take my pick! I would also buy vintage prints from the late Francesca Woodman - the most beautiful photographer and the woman who inspired me in my work from a young age.

 

Newspapers, journals, magazines, online platforms, digital media, podcasts… you name it – how do you keep yourself updated, and what are your news sources?
My New York Times subscription keeps me in the loop, as well as their “The Daily” podcast - for my local news in English, I read the aptly titled “The Local.” A lot of my personal inspiration and finding of new artwork and people comes through Instagram, I love to see what my fellow local photographers are sharing and creating - Mia Jorgensen, Josephine Al Humaidan and Petra Kleis are all amazing and talented women. Podcasts are almost always playing in my ears when I leave the house - a few favorites; This American Life, Coping in Copenhagen, Real Crime Profile, Crime Junkie, and Someone Knows Something (a theme is emerging with those last few).

 

"I’m very lucky to have such a wonderful family, and despite nobody being able to frustrate me in the same way, nobody can make me laugh as hard."

If you could have lunch with one person, alive or dead, who would that be?
Can I combine 3 people into 1? My parents and my sister, we all live in different countries, and so we don’t see each other as often as we’d like, and may not for a while in the future depending on how travel pans out. I’m very lucky to have such a wonderful family, and despite nobody being able to frustrate me in the same way, nobody can make me laugh as hard. Give us some wine and access to Spotify, and by the end of the night, a sing-a-long of Queen, Elton John, and George Michael will 100% be happening.

 

Books, movies, and/or series – what can you recommend?

Books: “The Lovely Bones” by Alice Sebold, “House of Leaves” by Mark Z. Danielewski, “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy and “Bird Box” by Josh Malerman are all favorites of mine (don’t let the shitty Netflix movie turn you off Bird Box - the book is great). I love anything that lets my mind take a break - despite being recommended a million ‘help’ books I just can’t get past the first chapters. My brain does enough ‘inward reflection aka anxiety spirals’ on it’s own.

Series: “Killing Eve” and “FleaBag” - if you haven’t watched them I’m not sure we can be friends. I could also literally watch “Law and Order SVU” any time, all the time.

 

Which three Instagram accounts should everyone follow?

For ultimate visual inspiration, I’m loving @celine and @jilsander - and as a left field third option @madmax_fluffyroad (I’m not proud but it’s cute).

YOUR LIFE SO FAR: SMOOTH SAILING OR OBSTACLE COURSE – A COUPLE OF QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PAST

 

Who was your first big love?
In order to not overshare, I’m going with Pacey from Dawsons Creek.

 

What's the single best realization you have ever had?
That I’m the only person who can make things happen for myself - it’s something that took me a shockingly long time to fully realize and something that I can slack on, but it’s the truth. Family, friends, mentors, colleagues, etc. can all help, but you are the one that has to put in the work, ask for what you need and put yourself out there. It can be frustrating and defeating, especially in a creative field like photography, but I’m determined!

"When we got the opportunity to transfer to Denmark with my husband for his job my initial reaction was “hell no”."

What's the best bad or crazy decision you have ever made? That moment that seemed so wrong but turned out so right. If you don't make bad or crazy decisions, have you then ever made a decision that changed your entire life?
Moving to Denmark! Not a ‘crazy or bad’ decision per se, just something that was hard and exciting and completely new. When we got the opportunity to transfer to Denmark with my husband for his job, my initial reaction was “hell no.” We had just spent over a year getting my green card paperwork sorted for me to finally be able to work as a freelancer in America and it seemed like all that work was now for nothing, but after the initial reaction and shock wore off, it became an exciting new adventure and something that Chris and I would get to take on together. We would be insane not to take the chance to live together in Scandinavia! Making the move last year was a really tough few months, and coming to a new country with a new language and no network expanded my brain in new ways - it was ... an experience, but we did it! Despite it still being a little challenging to make friends, I genuinely love it here!

AND A LOT MORE ABOUT THE PRESENT

How are you, really? It's nice to check in every once in a while. 
Overall, I’m good! Made it through the past couple of months, which (as they were for everyone) super tough and really uncertain. I spent a lot of time questioning my career and what it might look like moving forward. But as things begin to open up again, and the days are longer, I’m meeting new people and starting to get my creative brain back into gear.

When are you the happiest? 
When I’m on set shooting and collaborating with a team - it’s the time I feel most like myself and capable, productive, and creative all at the same time. I am also my happiest walking through the park and pointing at all the flowers I like, and always when sipping on a glass of wine - wait, also when I’m dancing!

 

"I try not to let fear control me but sometimes it’s hard not to!"

What scares you the most?
Not fulfilling my personal career goals - I try not to let fear control me, but sometimes it’s hard not to! On the non-rational and less serious front, I’m terrified of frogs.

 

What keeps you up at night these days?
Thinking of new photography projects and how to get my work out there and meet more people - I think about this too often, my brain is always buzzing. Should I have just chosen a more stable profession, have I failed, have I made a mistake? Should I go to nursing school (the profession I see as truly noble and a genuine way to help others), but then practically, I am very squeamish about blood so it wouldn’t work. The joys of taking a chance on a creative career!

 

Tell us one thing people would never know about you by just looking at you?
That I’m a pretty serious introvert - I love being social and can chat with almost anyone, but I need a lot of alone time to recharge.

What habit would improve your life?
So many habits I logically know would improve my life, but doing them is another thing! I think the simplest one that I’m doing a lot more of now is making sure I get outside whenever the sun is shining - it vastly improves my mood and outlook and helps my brain open up to new ideas.

We all have qualities that don't really have any rhyme or reason. What is one thing you don't understand about yourself? 
The fact that I can still be fearful and reluctant to do things I know will be good for me, or that I’ll enjoy.

 

What works for you at the moment, and what doesn’t?
Actively reaching out to people works, making mood boards, writing lists, getting outside, and taking a dance class! What doesn’t work for me is staying inside all day and going down an Instagram spiral. I currently do a ‘healthy’ mix of both things that work for me and those that don’t!

 

"I also feel my best after showering off a long day, and doing an extended skin care routine with a glass of pink wine and an ice cube (because I’m classy like that)."

When do you feel the most comfortable in your own skin?
When I’ve got on some of my favorites music, and I’m dancing - or when I’m in a dance class (back when we had those!). I also feel my best after showering off a long day and doing an extended skincare routine with a glass of pink wine and an ice cube (because I’m classy like that). Any time I’m wearing a robe is a good time.

What makes you feel insecure?
Comparing myself to other people - especially other people doing the jobs or having the career that I would like for myself. This isn’t an attractive quality, but I know I’m not alone in feeling this way. It’s something I’m actively working on, and I’m trying to use these people’s work as inspiration rather than a reason to feel ‘less than.’

AND OF COURSE, A SNEAK PEEK INTO THE FUTURE
 

What's the best thing about the next thing you are during?
The best thing is being able to take photos with other humans! I have a couple of shoots lined up, and some creative ideas in the works. Putting those into practice will feel amazing.

"Plans are worthless– but planning is everything" – Dwight D. Eisenhower. What does the future look like for you – what are your dreams and goals?
Being a full-time photographer here in Copenhagen - I dream of having a diverse and supportive network of friends and colleagues, as well as a team of creatives that inspire me and that I get to create work with. I dream of traveling more with my husband and exploring more of our new home. I also have a goal to learn Danish - my official lessons begin at the end of June! Being able to converse just a little bit more with my new Danish neighbors will make me feel so much more at home.

 

ADVICE – EASY TO GIVE, HADER TO FOLLOW

"Stepping back and taking a moment to remember the ‘big picture’ and what I want for myself and my family motivates me and helps me get back on track when I feel overwhelmed with self-doubt or rejection."

What (or who) motivates you in difficult times? 
Stepping back and taking a moment to remember the ‘big picture’ and what I want for myself and my family motivates me and helps me get back on track when I feel overwhelmed with self-doubt or rejection. I also know that I respond well to a deadline - I will get shit done if you give me one!

Good advice is priceless. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten?

So much good advice and so much of it is not new, but it works. A few personal favorites:

1) Make a list - when things get overwhelming, write down your thoughts to get them out of your head. I'm not a great writer, so a list of bullet points and things to do helps me a lot.

2) Take the first step - even if its a super small one

3) The classic "this shall pass" - this is really helpful to always remember, nothing is 'forever.'

4) Ask for help - one of the lessons of growing up has been learning that nobody can read your mind. If you don't ask for help or for what you want, you will rarely get it.

What is the kindest thing anyone ever said to you or the best compliment anyone ever gave you? 
That I’m a good listener - as an anxious person, I’ve learned that sometimes people just need an ear, someone to listen to them and not offer solutions or try to solve the issue. I’ll also always die of happiness to get a compliment on my work!

How do you heal a broken heart?
I do not have the answer to this - I don’t think you can ever really heal from it. But you can move onwards and upwards, and things will get a little less painful each day, month, year.

 

THE FORECAST – TRENDS AND TENDENCIES

 

What is going to be the next big thing? (concepts, businesses, ideas, mega trends, etc.)
Sustainability in all its forms and across all levels of business and development. I also think micro-businesses and utilizing your local networks, teams, and resources, etc. will become more and more important - especially now as we can’t travel but hopefully also after these pandemic times have passed. Brands, especially in fashion and marketing, often forget to hunt for talent in their own networks and cities.

We would love to find out about cool new places and things to do in your area. What are your favorite places? Where do you like to go to have fun? 
Since we’re all staycationing right now, some places I love in Copenhagen are Assistens Kirkegård for quiet walks, Dürüm Symfoni for the best kebabs ever, Louisiana for inspiration and Colpo Grosso for amazing pizza.

THE ONES THAT DIDN'T FIT INTO THE OTHER CATEGORIES

What is the most favorite, most useful, and most useless object you own, respectively?

Most favorite: There are a few items that I cherish and have traveled the world with me … my wedding ring, my passport, my mother's necklace, notes from family and friends that I will always keep.

Most useful: It's not cool, but my computer and phone. There is no escaping the amount of screen time I require to function in the world.

Most useless: There were definitely more than a few items we shipped from NYC to Copenhagen that ended up being recycled or sold as soon as we unpacked them. Moving countries does make you realize how much useless crap you accumulate - never again!  


What was the last thing you searched for on your phone? Be careful: you might be required to show proof. 
I googled the perfect fit for Birkenstock's - not a sexy search but a practical one. I like to research things that are super obvious or very personal (like the fit of a shoe ... you know - stuff that you should be able to figure out yourself).

Call or text? Which is better, and why?
90% of the time, I’m all about the text - it’s quick and to the point, and it eases my social anxiety to not have to talk on the phone. But there is a time and place for a phone call, and sometimes it’s just easier to talk it out.

 

What is your pet peeve?
Being late to me is the height of rudeness.

 

What is the most interesting thing in your trash can?
I’ve literally never been asked this - looking into my trash can I guess I would have to say a watermelon rind? It was delicious and makes me feel like summer is here already.

 

You’ve been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it. What would you do with it?
Do I also have lots of money? I would buy it acres of land to roam free in and possibly some more elephants to keep it from being lonely.

THE BIG ONES

 

What is the meaning of life?
I don’t think there is a meaning to life - which is liberating! You have to find joy and fulfillment in your own way. This is easier said than done and something I’m striving for and working towards myself.

 

Look, mom, I made it! – How do you define success? 
I don’t think I’m there yet. I do have some particular goals I’m working on getting to, and in my mind, they ‘define success,’ but the goal post is always shifting. If I can be regularly working as a photographer, taking time to spend with family, and with a lovely network of friends, then I’ll consider myself successful!

THE FINAL TWO

 

Name three people you would like to answer these questions?

Petra Kleis, Photographer (Copenhagen, DK)

Laura Richards, Criminal Behavioral Analyst (UK)

Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Actor/Writer/Producer (UK)


How would you describe LULU—LAND?
A collective of people, thoughts, ideas, and art all rolled into one - it is whatever you want to make of it, as long as you have passion, desire for change, and a love of creating.

"I Might be a photographer, but I can't take a selfie, if my life depend upon it"

THE END

WE LOVE TO CONNECT PEOPLE

NAME Stephanie Geddes

EMAIL hello@stephaniegeddes.com

WEBSITE stephaniegeddes.com

INSTAGRAM @stephgeddes

LINKEDIN Stephanie Geddes

CREDITS

PUBLISHED BY LULU—LAND

PHOTOS BY Stephanie Geddes

December
2
2019
Written by
Louise Bøgeskov Hou
LULU!
Read more

My name is Louise. And well, I am the founder and creator of LULU—LAND. Before starting LULU—LAND, I worked with management and business development in architecture and as a consultant in strategy, business development, and innovation at a Scandinavian consultancy.

I have always wanted to start a business that would allow me to work with a lot of different creative projects and travel at the same time. Eight months ago, I took the first step towards realizing my dream; I bought a one-way ticket to Bali and started working on what I, after countless hours of frustration, overthinking, and horrible alternatives, named LULU—LAND.

Traveling and working in various co-working spaces, in different countries, side by side with creators and entrepreneurs from around the world, made me feel more inspired than ever. So, I spent a lot of time contemplating how I would be able to share this inspiration. Inspiration is a weird and fluffy concept – it can be anything and everything at the same time. In the end, I decided to ask my friends what questions they would ask, someone who truly inspires them. I turned their answers into 50 interview questions, which, when answered, will create a series of LULU—LAND portraits.

As the founder, I am naturally LULU—LAND’s strongest supporter and worst critic. Therefore, it only seems fitting that I'll be the very first person to answer the questions, sharing a part of me with all of you, however intimidating that feels.

OK, LET'S START WITH THE EASY ONES

Name:
Louise Bøgeskov Hou (Nicknames: Lulu, Lou, Loui, people usually only call me Louise when they are mad at me.)

Birth month/year:
December 1986

Nationality:
Danish

Currently located in:
Copenhagen, but traveling and working remotely.

What do you do for a living?
I would probably call myself a creative entrepreneur. I’ve founded LULU—LAND, co-founded APR (A Permanent Reminder), and I’m toying with the idea of writing a book called Popcorn Brain, and a couple of other projects.

MOST OF US HAVE CERTAIN ROUTINES, LET'S GET TO KNOW YOURS

What is the first thing you do in the morning?
I make coffee, pour a glass of orange juice, and take my supplements. I shower and eat breakfast – it's my favorite meal of the day. Sometimes, the order gets mixed up, but this is essentially what I do every morning, no matter where I am. As I have grown older, I have realized how much my morning affects the rest of my day. A stressful morning equals a stressful day. But a slow and calm morning often results in a more focused and productive day. I try to give myself two hours every morning (sometimes it's hard – I really like to sleep as well), preferably from 6.30-8.30 am, for my morning routine, including time for a bit of reading or writing. I started doing this while traveling. I read The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. I don’t write three pages every day, as she recommends, but maybe one or two pages – it helps me keep track of my thoughts, and a lot of new creative ideas come to life and evolve from these pages.

What is a typical day like for you?
Usually, I am out of the door between 8-9 am. If I am in Copenhagen, I’ll go to my office space near the meatpacking district, unless I have meetings or feel like working from a café. When I am traveling, I work from co-working spaces, cafés, or hotels with great Wi-Fi. I try to divide my day into work slots – I’ll have a break around lunchtime and again in the afternoon. I’ll go home around 5-6 pm, meet up with friends, attend a yoga class, workout or go for a run. I love running shorter distances like 5k – it's like meditation for me. I did run two marathons though, without the necessary preparation – not recommendable! If I do some of these things during the day, I often work from home in the evening. At some point I eat dinner when I have figured what to cook - not my force. God, my day sounds really boring, when being put into writing!

And now that we're at it – what are the last things you do before bedtime?
I turn my phone on flight mode. Undisturbed sleep is important. When I have a lot on my mind and feel restless, I tend to have trouble falling asleep, and I wake up like 4-5 times during the night. There was a time when I looked at my phone every time I woke up. Not a healthy habit. Turning my phone on flight mode helps me. I don't wake up because the phone lights up every time I receive a text or a call or other notifications pop up. I would like to get the phone and other electronic devices out of my bedroom. I have been thinking for a while that I should get an old-fashioned alarm clock – I keep putting it on my to-do lists, but never seem to get to it.

How do you spend your weekends?
I try not to work during the weekends and recharge. Depending on where I am, I do different things. When I travel, I try to explore the place I am at, go on short trips, be with friends or meet new people. When I’m back home in Copenhagen, I like to hang out with old friends and their kids or visit my family from time to time. When I don’t have any plans, and the weather is nice, I love to go for walks or just stroll around the city. On rainy days (and we do have a few of those in Copenhagen) I like to stay in bed, reading books, and watching documentaries, attend a hot yoga class or go to a museum (I love Louisiana).

I took my dad to Iceland for a weekend before I went traveling. I want to do things like that more often with the people I care about when I am home. The scenery was truly amazing, and it's a memory we have together for life.

 

"I PROBABLY SHOULD BE BETTER AT CELEBRATING MY ACHIEVEMENTS; I TEND TO MOVE ON QUICKLY WITHOUT ACKNOWLEDGING HOW FAR I'VE COME"

When was the last time you celebrated?
I actually don’t remember. Awkward. I should do something about that. In general, I probably should be better at celebrating my achievements; I tend to move on quickly without acknowledging how far I’ve come.

WE ALL HAVE MORE OR LESS FLATTERING TRAITS

 

What is your guilty pleasure?
At the moment, it’s burgers, fries, pineapple soda, and chocolate croissants! 

What is your superpower?
Being able to find ways that have not already been paved. My creativity, restlessness, and stubbornness. The latter two are, unfortunately, also my greatest weaknesses.

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT PASSION, NOT THE FRUIT

 

What could you spend all day talking about?
I could talk forever about how the way we are working is changing and about inspiration, what inspires me, other people, where to find it. And about traveling and working remotely.

 

What inspires you?
People who dare to do things differently, bravery, energy, great entrepreneurial stories, kindness, traveling and being in New York.

LET'S DIG A LITTLE DEEPER INTO WHAT INSPIRES YOU

 

Repeat or shuffle? What have you been listening to lately, and what are you humming in the shower?
Definitely repeat – that’s my thing. I listen to a track over and over again until I can’t stand it anymore. It’s awful. Lately, I have been listening to Drake and Jhené Aiko, From time, Birdy and Sam Feldt, Wild Horsesand Freja Kirk, All for you. Actually, Freja’s new album Pussyfied is the first in a long time where I have played the entire album on repeat.

I don’t sing or hum in the shower. I bring my phone with me into the shower instead. One or two phones may have suffered an untimely death on that account – I live in a traditional Nørrebro apartment with one of those tiny bathrooms, where you shower on top of the sink and toilet at the same time.

Poster or collectors’ items? If we gave you a million, what would be decorating your walls?
I love weird art or artists with an edge, like David Shrigley. I also like Jeppe Hein’s work, but I would probably buy a piece or two from my dear friend, and amazing artist, Rune Bosse who’s work often evolves around nature. With sensitivity and presence, he allows himself to explore and connect nature and assemble the world in new ways. If I could, I would buy one of his old pieces, which is a series of photographs of a block of ice lifted from a freezer only to be melted into the freezer again.

 

Newspapers, journals, magazines, online platforms, digital media, podcasts… you name it – how do you keep yourself updated, and what are your news sources?
I skim the online version of the Danish newspaper, Politiken, Office Magazine, Monocle, and The New York Times almost daily.

I love to visit kiosks, magazine shops and newsstands to check out printed magazines wherever I travel, the layout, the content, the editorials, etc. ­– an occupational habit – I'm educated in advertising, graphic design, visual, and creative communication. I recently stumbled upon Quoted Magazine – a magazine that was founded as a way of showcasing the beautiful diversity of New York City. It's not just a celebration of diversity in terms of race, gender, or sexual orientation, but also of thought, experience, ideology, and desire. Each issue features ten New Yorkers from all walks of life who invite everyone into their homes to experience the real New York. I love it.

I listen to the Danish podcast Her går det godt with Peter Falktoft and Esben Bjerre, every Friday, they make me laugh. They don’t take themselves too seriously, and they actually say out loud what a lot of people only dare to think. In general, I would like to listen to more podcasts.

A good friend recently told me to check out Derek Sivers and this video: “The meaning of life” – It really resonates with me. He argues that each of us are free to create our own meaning.

 

Left: Quoted Magazine Right: Sunset LES, NY

If you could have lunch with one person, alive or dead, who would that be?
That would be both of my granddads, Kai Hou and Børge Bøgeskov Pedersen. I think that I’m a combination of the two in a lot of ways, and I would love to be able to ask them questions about their lives that I didn’t get the chance to when I was a kid.

 

Books, movies, and/or series – what can you recommend?
Books: The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. It is an amazing book written as a twelve-week course on how to unleash your own creativity. I plan on making another post about this book, so I’ll stop myself from going into details.

Also, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by Mark Manson, it’s an easy read, but I actually really liked some of his points. Especially the “Do something Principle.” He explains how motivation really works, that action isn’t just the effect of motivation, but also the cause of it. Taking advantage of this knowledge, we can actually re-orient our mindset. The conclusion is that if you lack the motivation to make an important change in your life, then do something, anything really, and then harness the reaction to that action as a way to begin motivating yourself.

I don’t really watch TV alone, as it tends to make me restless. But I like to watch documentaries, movies and occasionally series together with someone. Especially, with my brothers. I recently saw the miniseries “Unbelievable” with a friend. It’s a horrible story about a serial rapist in Washington and Colorado, but very captivating, and it portrays some badass women in an unpolished kind of way – highly recommendable.

I never watch flow tv or series where I have to wait for the next episode. I hate that. But I binge-watch, when I find a show that I like. I didn’t see Game of Thrones until season 7, but then I watched all 72 episodes in only three weeks – waiting for the final season was really aggravating.

 

Which three Instagram accounts should everyone follow?

Right now I like:

@the_yoni_empire

@quoted_magazine

@letstalkaboutrealsex

However, I find new inspiring accounts weekly.

YOUR LIFE SO FAR: SMOOTH SAILING OR OBSTACLE COURSE – A COUPLE OF QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PAST

 

Who was your first big love?
Leon. I was young and naive.

 

What's the single best realization you have ever had?
Work can be fun, it's okay to be different, and money doesn't make you happy. Money gives you security, opportunities, and makes some things easier. However, I have been the happiest when I have been broke as a duck. When happiness lives inside of you, you don't need money to chase it. You create your own story. You are free to change it. Decide that you are happy, and you'll get more of that and probably more out of life. If you decide to be unsatisfied with everything, then you'll never be able to discover all the wonderful things life can bring. It's basic law of attraction. It's simple, you become good at what you practice, whether that is being miserable or happy.

"Somehow, I managed to get accepted to the creative communication program, a program that only accepts 20 students a year, by drawing a huge dog shit on a piece of paper"

What's the best bad or crazy decision you have ever made? That moment that seemed so wrong but turned out so right. If you don't make bad or crazy decisions, have you then ever made a decision that changed your entire life?
My friends would say that I'm the champion of bad and crazy decisions. But in reality, they are not bad or crazy, just a bit unconventional. I live my life based on my intuition and my feelings – which tend to get me in the weirdest places and situations.

When I was 21, I lived in Jutland, and decided to apply to the Danish School of Media & Journalism. Somehow, I managed to get accepted to the creative communication program, a program that only takes 20 students a year, by drawing a huge dog shit on a piece of paper (We had to do an ad for dog food, and I panicked because I knew I couldn’t draw a dog - I wrote "Get more out of your dog!" next to the shit). With only a day’s notice, I had to uproot my life and find a place to live in Copenhagen, which is almost equivalent to finding a place to live in NYC. One and a half years later, I decided that studying advertising didn’t feel right, and I fought to be allowed to switch program and actually finished my degree in visual communication and graphic design instead.

During my studies, I met a lot of wonderfully creative and talented people, who unfortunately sucked at profiting from their talents. I figured that if I could balance both creativity and business, then I would be in a really good position. I applied to a master’s program at Copenhagen Business School in Management of creative business processes. CBS wasn’t initially fond of the idea of accepting someone with my creative background, but after FIVE months and EIGHT supplemental courses, they ran out of excuses and finally accepted me.

The last time I decided to go with my gut was when I asked my employer to be allowed to work remotely and for the commercial rights to my book. This request ended with me signing my own resignation as a consultant and saying goodbye to a steady paycheck. However, I have never been happier. Traveling and working remotely for the past eight months, developing my own concepts, and meeting the most fantastic people with similar mindsets around the world has been the greatest experience I’ve ever had, and I am sure l'll never regret this decision.

AND A LOT MORE ABOUT THE PRESENT

How are you, really? It's nice to check in every once in a while. 
I'm ok – I think. I have to admit starting two businesses while trying to write a book at the same time is kind of nerve-racking, but I'm happy, and I love what I do. And that is the most important thing for me right now.

When are you the happiest? 
When I travel, have the freedom to do what I love, and when I spend time with people I care about and who understands me. People that I don’t have to explain myself to all the time, where I can relax and be me. Also, when I dance and laugh. And there is something about sunrises and sunsets - they are calming and make you think that everything is going to be alright.

 

What scares you the most?
When I was a kid, I was terrified of dripping tabs, especially when I had to sleep. I was afraid that my family and I would drown. Fortunately, I have grown out of that. But I’m still scared of losing someone close to me.

 

What keeps you up at night these days?
Thinking about businesses and coding and how to do a freaking cookie banner that doesn’t look ugly as f*** and annoys people more than it protects them. And my financial situation. I have no idea if this will ever make me able to pay my rent. Right now, it certainly doesn’t.

 

Tell us one thing people would never know about you by just looking at you?
I don’t own a lot of things. I don’t have my own home. I don’t have any furniture. The things I have, have been stored for the past three years. Everything I have, basically fit into two bags, more or less. The freedom to travel and do whatever I want comes with a price. 

What habit would improve your life?
A lot of habits would change my life for the better lol. But I think doing one thing at the time might be the most effective one. I tend to do multiple things at the same time – switching back and forth between tasks. I think it would help me become more focused and productive if I were able to actually finish one thing before starting another – but again, then I wouldn’t be me.

We all have qualities that don't really have any rhyme or reason. What is one thing you don't understand about yourself? 
Oh, there are a lot of things I don't understand about myself. There is a famous saying by Aristotle "The more you know, the more you realize you don't know," and I think that's where I'm at, and that's okay – anything else would be boring.

 

What works for you at the moment, and what doesn’t?
The way I’m working right now works for me – I love that I’m in charge of my own time and can spend it all on my own projects. I feel more creative and energized than ever before and happy with what I do. On the other hand, my love life doesn’t work for me at all. It’s difficult to find someone, who understands, appreciates, and can keep up with, my popcorn brain, and whom I like in return.

 

When do you feel the most comfortable in your own skin?
When I travel. When I have a tan. When I prioritize to do good things for myself and the people I care about. When I’m able to take the time to meditate, do yoga, workout, check in on friends and family, and when I’m not surrounded by people focused on superficial and materialistic things. 

What makes you feel insecure?
Being around people that I can’t read or understand and who seems to have an agenda that I can’t quite figure out. People with a bad vibe! When I feel insecure, I become quiet and not quite like myself.

AND OF COURSE, A SNEAK PEEK INTO THE FUTURE
 
"I feel at home in New York. It's hard to explain. Somehow the chaos makes me feel calm and I always end up in New York when there is something important in my life I need to figure. I'd say that I'm in an open relationship with New York; it's getting more and more serious every time I visit. Eventually, I might have to move there"

What's the best thing about the next thing you are during?
I'm going to New York to work and meet friends for a couple of weeks. I really look forward to experience the city during Christmas time. I feel at home in New York. It's hard to explain. Somehow the chaos makes me feel calm and I always end up in New York when there is something important in my life I need to figure. I'd say that I'm in an open relationship with New York; it's getting more and more serious every time I visit. Eventually, I might have to move there.

"Plans are worthless– but planning is everything" – Dwight D. Eisenhower. What does the future look like for you – what are your dreams and goals?
Right now, I try to take one day at a time. I hope that I will be able to travel again soon and that I will find love – when I am ready for it. I would like a small family at some point and become a mom. Not right now, that would be a mess, but in the future, when I have become a bit better at the whole self-care-thing. I hope that I'll manage to finish Popcorn Brain and find an agent and a publisher who believes in me as an author, that LULU—LAND will become a success and that I'll get the chance to work together with a lot of inspiring people on different creative projects.

 

ADVICE – EASY TO GIVE, HADER TO FOLLOW

What (or who) motivates you in difficult times? 
My friends and family are a great support. But when the going gets tough, I get motivated by not knowing. Not knowing what will happen the next day, month, or year. Life in itself is ultimately too exciting to just give up and not find out what’s around the corner.

Good advice is priceless. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten?
Instead of chasing happiness as a destination, decide to be happy now and look at happiness as a journey. If you decide that you’re happy, then that will make you attract more happiness. Once again, it’s that law of attraction.

"I often get compliments for my hair, my eyes, or my butt. But I really like it when people actually compliment my way of thinking or my loyalty to people I care about"

What is the kindest thing anyone ever said to you or the best compliment anyone ever gave you? 
Oh, maybe that I’m a Popcorn Brain, meant positively. I often get compliments for my hair, my eyes, or my butt. But I really like it when people actually compliment my way of thinking or my loyalty to people I care about.

How do you heal a broken heart?
I have no idea. Like literally. You think you are going to die each time, and then all of a sudden, things are okay again, and you can breathe. Time is a strange thing. Allow yourself to be sad, don’t try to hide it, it’s okay to be heartbroken – it just means that you dared to put yourself out there, that you gave love a chance.

 

THE FORECAST – TRENDS AND TENDENCIES

 

What is going to be the next big thing? (concepts, businesses, ideas, mega trends, etc.)
I think we will start to hear a lot more about environmental sustainability, conscious consumption, minimalistic living, and how the way we are working is changing. The younger generations simply do not value the same things as our parents did, and that is going to create some interesting challenges. Young people do not want to spend their whole lives working just to make a living, they want a life, and they want the freedom and opportunity to spend that life in the best possible way. It’s more about finding your own path and figuring out what happiness means to you, I think…

We would love to find out about cool new places and things to do in your area. What are your favorite places? Where do you like to go to have fun? 
Ever since I came home, I have been recommending everyone I know to go to Costa Rica and experience the raw and uncompromising nature. But I feel kind of ambiguous because the amazing thing was that the nature was so untouched. I know that will change if too many people travel there.

On LULU—LAND, we try to share our recommendations everywhere we go in our stories and highlights. Please follow :) We will be in NY in the coming weeks.

Left: Playa Manzanillo, Costa Rica Right: Elevator, co-working space, Hotel Indigo, NY

THE ONES THAT DIDN'T FIT INTO THE OTHER CATEGORIES

What is the most favorite, most useful, and most useless object you own, respectively?

Favorite object: My Passport

Most useful object(s): My Mac Book Pro, notebooks, and my Yantra Mat. (An acupressure mat that helps me sleep like a baby. This needs a short explanation, I know. An acupressure mat is a foam mat with thousands of very sharp, short needles. You sit, lie, or stand on the mat for anywhere between 20 and 40 minutes. I know it sounds like it would feel completely miserable, but I swear it feels FANTASTIC. It takes away the feeling of restlessness and makes your entire body relax.

Most useless object(s): Some might argue that would be my stones and crystals. But I like them.

 

What was the last thing you searched for on your phone? Be careful: you might be required to show proof. 
The air train from JFK Airport to Jamaica Station – I hate spending money on transfer. I’d much rather spend it on food and having a good time.

Call or text? Which is better, and why?
Calls. Fewer misunderstandings.

 

What is your pet peeve?
Cats. I hate them! I’m sorry, but I do. Also, I’m not the biggest fan of stinginess.

 

What is the most interesting thing in your trash can?
Oh, I’ll have to check. 2 sec. It’s empty. My roomie must have taken it down again. I should start doing that more often. Now I feel bad.

 

You’ve been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it. What would you do with it?
I love elephants! I would keep it for sure. I don’t know how, but I would find a way and name it Giraffe.

THE BIG ONES

 

What is the meaning of life?
I don’t think I have figured this one out yet. Hopefully, I’ll have time. It’s definitely something with love, people, and relations. Maybe the meaning is something we decide for ourselves. Figuring out what happiness is to you. I don’t think it is the same for all of us.

 

"For me, success is doing something I love, something I think is funny, and that makes me happy. By trying, I’m not failing – only learning"

Look, mom, I made it! – How do you define success? 
In the continued act of trying and not giving up. I don’t believe in overnight success. For me, success is doing something I love, something I think is funny, and that makes me happy. By trying, I’m not failing – only learning. People tend to forget that “profitability” is only one parameter of success. I really like this quote from The Artist’s Way: “What we really want to do is what we are really meant to do. When we do what we are meant to do, money comes to us, doors open for us, we feel useful, and the work we do feels like play to us.” – Julia Cameron.

THE FINAL TWO

 

Name three people you would like to answer these questions?

Steph O’ Labbe, Entrepreneur (Vancouver)

Joel Runyon, Entrepreneur and founder of Impossible® (Austin)

Tyler James Koenig, Copywriter (California)  

 

How would you describe LULU—LAND?
It feels like I have answered this question a million times already, and I tend to explain it differently every time. I hope I’ll get better at this eventually or that someone else will be able to nail it for me. For now, I’ll just say that LULU—LAND is a wonderful creative mess.

THE END

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