Butterflies, Botox & Bold Art
It All Begins with an Idea...
When Ash reached out, it started as a small idea. But let me tell you something—I don’t do small. What began as a casual DM between two creatives turned into something so much more: a living, breathing gallery experience inside my home in Laguna Beach. That moment, that connection, sparked an idea that became pure magic.
The Collaboration That Took Flight (Literally)
So here’s the backstory. I’m an ambassador for Alice + Olivia, and I had just hosted a fun, joy-filled event at their Highland Park Village location in Texas. Ash, an Austin-based artist, happened to see the event on Instagram. Maybe it was the algorithm—or maybe it was something bigger. Either way, she followed me, I followed her, and the energy was instant.
We eventually hopped on a Zoom call (you know, the modern meet-cute), and it felt like reconnecting with an old friend. Same love of fashion, family, color, and creativity. She suggested popping over to Laguna with one of her pieces, and I went to sleep with that on my heart. By morning, I had a bigger idea: what if we turned my home into a full-blown art gallery?
Planning a Gallery in My Home? Say Less.
Now, let’s be real—this wasn’t just a “hang a few canvases” kind of situation. Ash is a wife, a mom of two little ones, and she was about to haul ten original mixed media pieces from Texas to California. This was a full commitment. She talked it over with her family (shoutout to her father-in-law who gave her the "go big or go home" pep talk!), and the next thing I knew, we were planning an immersive art and fashion experience.
Creating the Vibe
My vision? A joyful, light-filled, champagne-sparkling celebration. Think modern gallery meets girlfriend getaway. The kind of space where you walk in, feel seen, sip a cocktail, and fall in love with a piece of art—or a pair of hand-painted jeans.
We added all the extras: a med spa doing brows and Botox, a bring-your-own-denim painting station, music, grazing boards, and even a wildly charming (and wildly aware of it) bartender who may or may not have left with a few phone numbers!
Behind the Scenes? Oh, It Was a Lot.
Let’s not pretend it was all butterflies and bubbly. Coordinating RSVPs, curating a guest list of women who genuinely love art, wrangling catering, drinks, timing, and decor—it was a thing. And honestly? The night before, I barely slept. I was nervous. Hosting someone as talented and dedicated as Ash comes with pressure, especially when she’s poured her heart into creating pieces for your home.
But here's what happened: women showed up. They connected. They laughed. They sipped champagne in the sunshine and made new friends. And best of all, they saw Ash’s work. Not just on a wall, but as a part of a shared experience. A few pieces sold that night, but more importantly—connections were made, and her art found its way into the hearts of so many.
What Happened Next
One guest brought Ash to her home, and now she’s creating a mural on a spiral staircase—complete with scaffolding and all. Another bought a piece for her Beverly Hills condo. And others are mailing in jeans, bags, and jackets for custom creations. That little party? It launched a movement.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
For me, it’s not just about creating events—it’s about creating memories. It’s about making people feel something. Life is busy, chaotic, and overwhelming. But joy? Joy is powerful. This wasn’t just an event. It was an experience. And I can’t wait to do it again.
If you’re a brand, an artist, or someone with a spark of an idea… let’s talk.
Go to amyplusjoe.com/events, fill out the form, and maybe, just maybe your story is the next one we bring to life.
Trending Stories
