Ursula Bamnolker: Creative Integrity
- Women Who Run With The Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estes
My dad gave this book to my mom a week before he died. I read it almost constantly during those first few weeks of mourning and it gave me such sustenance. So soulful. - Oh, The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss
Such a basic book about staying on your path when things get tough. - Kelly Hoppen Home by Kelly Hoppen
She’s just brilliant…that’s all. - Think Color by Tricia Guild
This was the first book I read that made me feel that it was okay to love bright colors! I read it so much that the cover almost fell off. - Wear More Cashmere by Jennifer Sander
Endless ideas on how to bring more glamour into your life…and who couldn’t use a little more glamour in their life?
Design Blogger, Mom, Writer
Ursula Bamnolker is wildly passionate about Design. Her passion for bright colors, interesting wallpaper, gorgeous fabrics and glamorous objects is reflected in her blog, Candy Colored Buddha. In a past life (pre-mommyhood), Ursula worked as a Freelance Writer, Teacher and even as a Script Adapter for a Dubbing company in Miami where she “put words into others’ mouths.” Today, she lets others come up with their own words and divides her time between design school, blogging and taking care of her 3 1/2 year old daughter, Isabella.
How did you arrive at your Style Statement?
It has been years in the making…literally. I read about Carrie & Danielle a couple of years ago in a fashion magazine. I was riveted. I knew that I had to figure out what mine was. I signed up for their newsletter and waited VERY patiently for the book to come out. When it did, I snapped it up and came to it. At first, I thought that I was Creative Glamour because I love bright colors, design and all things creative as well as glamourous. But, then I realized that it was much deeper than that. Doing the exercises in the book proved essential and it was only when I completed them that I realized that I am Creative Integrity.
How has your Style Statement been useful to you?
My Style Statement has given me the confidence to let it all hang out. I love bright colors and glamour and organic stuff…and my Style Statement has given me the confidence to combine all three in my own quirky way…and not worry about what others are going to think! I have this saying, “It’s better to be mediocre 30 days a month and than trying to be perfect once a month.” I used to be embarrassed by this thought. There’s such a push for perfection – especially in the design world—that anyone who even admits to just trying for mediocrity is suspect. But, with my Style Statement, I have developed the confidence to listen to my inner wisdom…especially on matters of performance and design.
Where in the world have you, or do you, feel most at home – and why?
I feel most at home with warm (sometimes very bright) colors. I surround myself with soft stuff…soft rugs, velvets, corduroy, cozy fleece…things that feel good. I love the Ocean. I love a good mountain. I spent several months in Safed, Israel (the Kabbalistic mystical city) and had some of the most peaceful moments of my life on top of a lovely mountain there. I love nature…a good hike, an energizing rappel down a mountain, sitting beneath a waterfall. I’m a sun child (Leo) and find Summer to be the most energizing season.
What inspires you? How do you know when you’re inspired?
I’m inspired by spectacular design with a heart. I can’t get enough of Jonathan Adler’s stuff…colorful, fun, fresh and heart-filled all at once. His sense of humor comes through in his work. This, for me, is pure genius. I love Rodarte, Sart (The Sartorialist) and Frank Roop. I am utterly fascinated with the intersection of great fashion and great interior design. Roop does this especially well. He’s another one where his heart shines through his work…but in a very different way than Adler. I love designs that feel organic and real. People too. Ya gotta be real.
If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?
If I could wear one outfit for the rest of my life, it would be a white t-shirt, fabulous comfy jeans, a pair of black Manolo kitten heels, an orange Birkin bag and a pair of diamond stud earrings.
What do you like to be noticed and appreciated for? What kind of friend are you?
I like to be appreciated for my ability to predict trends way before they happen and my sense of humor. I am a loyal friend. I love with all my heart. I am very private but once you’re in my heart, you’re there forever.
How do you play?
Yoga. Pilates. Reiki. I actually find reading Design books and magazines to be extremely relaxing. I love sitting on the beach with my toes in the Ocean. (I don’t get to do it as often as I like but I find that delightfully relaxing.)
Five Books That Have Inspired You?
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February 7th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
nice article. I like ” Women Who run with Wolves”. the books look unique.
February 12th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
She is a great woman, I love bright colors too.
Thanks.
April 12th, 2009 at 8:39 pm
I like diamond stud earrings too. I have two pairs with me in my bag wherever I go.
June 8th, 2009 at 10:47 am
Great job,handling profession and family together requires determination.And this is reflecting in Ursula Bamnolker.
December 9th, 2009 at 7:11 am
Wow… Great article My daughter is seven on sunday and has already planned a day out at the aquarium. Normally we are out and about even in December but this year the weather has been so bad we have had to choose an indoor activity .. any suggestions you can come up with?