Happy New Year! I hope everyone is slowly easing into 2026.
I love taking this week to look back at everything I loved in the past year! Feeling so grateful, and ready to take on another year.
x
Allison
Here’s a random assortment of things and places that sparked joy this year (in no particular order):
The Dolomites!! I visited for the first time this year and fell in love.
Waking up with my Hatch alarm clock vs. my phone. Game-changing for my productivity and mental health.
Saying yes to spontaneous travel.
Seeing Olivia Dean live (!!) My girl crush.
The guests-only lounge at The Manner in SoHo. Great for escaping the hustle and bustle.
Train travel…I spent 5 weeks in Europe this summer and didn’t get on a plane once.
A Southern California boutique hotel I loved this year.
This every day shoulder bag.
Shooting film, everywhere. 50+ rolls of film shot around the world this year!
If you’re a brand or hotel looking for film content this year, let’s connect.
Biarritz, France — One of those places that feels like home. I spent two weeks here with my best friends and had the time of my life.
Speaking of Biarritz — a few food favorites here. Cheri Bibi, Pepite Cookie, and Nelly’s Burgers. Plus, sunset drinks at Hôtel du Palais Biarritz
Hosting my first in-person dinner event (A Sunday In Tuscany) with Sara Tane and Sam at Cottage Bleu!!
I won’t shut up about this Body Serum — smells incredible!
Celebrating my bffs getting married!! From Mexico to Austin to Sun Valley to Hawaii and Northern California.
I still swear by the Dyson Airwrap. I bought it on sale in 2020 and still use it 2-3x/week.
Supporting small businesses always!! A few of my favorites this year…Bessette, Brennan Studios, Pryce Le Studio.
Meeting my best friend’s babies.
This hotel in Cabo with panoramic ocean views.
Moving into a new place with lots of natural light. Curating a space I love! Hotel Sur ;)
Big Sur, forever. And brunch at the coziest.
Upgrading my shampoo & conditioner (hi, Crown Affair)
Visiting Australia for the first time. It’s so worth it, and the flight was actually a breeze.
Flying over the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia.
Moon Juice products! I’ve used their face wash and moisturizer for years, and love the hyaluronic serum too.
Solo Travel! I’ve somehow ended up on a solo trip for the last three years in a row. My personal recipe: pair it with a friend or work trip and view the solo portion as a mini retreat for yourself.
My most worn jeans. I sized down 1-2 sizes!
Sending snail mail. I made holiday cards for my clients this year with Artifact Uprising and it was a nice way to say thank you after a crazy year. You can use this link and code “SURCOLLECTIVE15” for 15% off.
Menorca — I booked a last minute trip here after a work trip in Spain. I rented a car, stayed at Menorca Experimental, explored the beaches and towns and soaked in the natural beauty of the island. Full getaway guide coming soon, and reach out if you’re looking for hotel recs or support planning your next trip.
Ojai for a weekend reset. Ojai Valley Inn, swoon.
Staying at La Fantaisie in Paris. The rooftop bar is a must!
Favorite stores in Paris…Bubble Rock Studio, Merci, Timeless Pearly, all the vintage stores in the Marais.
Everything about the Cotswolds. Loved our stay at this 11-room boutique hotel, and the restaurant here was incredible.
The largest carry-on roller bag that still fits in the overhead bin.
This throat spray has saved me time and time again.
Dinner at this cozy Carmel staple.
Wishing all of you the best start to the year! I can’t wait to see what 2026 will bring.
need to know everything about the five weeks in europe train route