Meg Venkatesh, a Wilde Woman Muse from the beginning, lives in the heart of inspiration. A New York City based designer + “Jane of all trades”, she creates with her hands – may it be florals, an inviting space, or a beautifully styled tablescape. She breathes creativity and lives it out each day – for others, and for herself.

“The past two years in this pandemic have been so formative in what my relationships look like. It has allowed me to see who I truly cling to in such a time as this and realize the own changes within myself. I've learned that as we grow, sometimes we outgrow certain friendships...that is so okay. I have been able to see the people that move forward through my life with me – despite all the changes in the world and within myself. The relationships I hold with others are probably the most intentional now than they've ever been. Most of my interactions with friends are not planned events. But when it comes to friends that live far, friends in different time zones, scheduling time to connect and chat is such a beautiful way to show love.”

The beauty found in intentional connection to yourself and others first takes an introspective look. To consider the ways one receives love and how to share with others how you feel about them.  

“Knowing everyone receives love differently, I try to incorporate words, touch, gift giving and acts of love and service into my relationships with my loves ones so they just how important they are to me. Growing up words of affirmation were not the common way of communication in my family, so I make sure to use them often and freely. I think they are vital, and also the easiest way to show someone how you feel." – Alina

“The most meaningful words that have been told to me, have been spoken and written to me – ‘Meg, your love and passion for life itself is the most wonderful thing about you,’ and ‘I love the way you talk about life, the way you tell stories’” – Meg

Valentine’s Day – a day to celebrate love. To celebrate those around you that fill up the deepest parts of yourself, the ones that see your truest self, and who encourage the best version of you. To celebrate past memories and maybe even past relationships that have taught you more about yourself. And to celebrate how far you have come and the independence you have forged throughout the way. Valentine’s Day is a day to honor yourself and find gratitude in the intimate connections you have made with others. 

May it be through a written note, a love poem, or just a word of appreciation, show love to both yourself and another this Valentine’s Day.