This is Story 2 of the Real Style Project. To learn more about the Real Style Project, and what it's all about, click here. 

Let me introduce you to Lindsay Peters,
Founder of Elle Peters Design 

For at least a year, Lindsay and I were, what I'll call, local pen pals. This feels odd to say, even though it's completely normal in this day and age, but we initially "met" on Instagram and starting chatting here and there. It was mostly things like "I love your work!" or "Oh my gosh, that's stunning!"...but it all stemmed from me a being not only a fan of Lindsay's work, but also a fan of Lindsay.

I know that people typically just post the good things in life, or sometimes you just aren't "picking up" what others are "putting down" (if you know what I mean?). But Lindsay isn't either of these things. When I see her photos, read what she has to say, and watch her stories, I can tell that she is kind-hearted and sweet, has a gentle spirit and a genuine joy and passion for her work, her loved ones, and her life.

Now, I don't know about you, but those are definitely qualities that draw me in, and make me want to know someone. Lindsay is a "good vibes only" kinda girl (but in a real, sincere way), and it translates through everything she puts out there. 

If you do get the chance to see Lindsay's work, Insta profile, or anything else that she does, one of the first things you'll notice is that she loves bright and fresh, clean lines, feminine touches, with a smattering of black and white contrast.

You'll also notice that for her own wardrobe, she loves hats, cozy sweaters, fun layers...and when I think about it, all the same elements that I just mentioned above, also seem to fit with what she wears. So really, Lindsay's style isn't just in how she presents herself, it's also what she puts into her work.
This shows that style is more than just what we wear- it is revealed in everything that we do. 

Another thing you'll notice is that Lindsay has a deep and pure love for her husband, Chad.

Lindsay selected Alforno Bakery for the photo shoot because of the amazing atmosphere and Lindsay felt like it resonates well with her style (their amazing coffee and delicious treats are an added bonus too). When I arrived, Lindsay and Chad were already there, and with coffees half gone, I could tell they'd come early to work...together! (Cute, right?!) Chad patiently sat and worked while we did the shoot, and he waited for everything to finish up so that he could walk out with Lindsay. Plus, Lindsay had just revealed to Jenny and I that she was pregnant with their first child and asked if Jenny would take a photo for their announcement!! Now, if this isn't a great story wrapped into another story, then I don't know what is!  :)

I asked Lindsay a few questions, and I want to share them with you so that you can get an even better sense of who Lindsay is and why I asked her to be a part of the Real Style Project.

What is your style in 3 words?

Casual + Comfortable, (but) Put-Together

You can't live without...

My watch! I admit that I originally bought a watch for style purposes, but now I legitimately use it for telling time! I really do feel like something's missing if I leave the house without it. 

What drives or motivates you?

Professionally speaking, and at the risk of sounding cheesy, I really am motivated by happy clients. I love feeling like their lives are even a little bit better, or more joyful, because of a service I can provide to them. I'm also continually motivated by inspiring spaces. Whether that be within my own home when the sunlight hits "just so", or traveling halfway around the world to take in different design ideas.

What do you love about yourself?

I love that I've gotten to a point in my life where I can appreciate something beautiful, but move on and leave it be if it's not the right fit for me. Context is everything in my work! But it's also true for my own personal style. I've learned that just because I love, say, a blouse, that I don't need to own it if it's not flattering on me or if I know I won't actually wear it. I'm confident about what fabrics, styles, and silhouettes work for me and make me feel good.  

What is something about yourself that would surprise people?

People may be surprised to that I own a shockingly small amount of clothing! I usually have only 5 or 6 outfits per season that I love, and I simply mix-and-match and/or rotate them. I chalk it up to being a designer who is confronted with subjective decision-making all day - I want to limit my personal fashion choices to save my creative energy, ha! 

What is style to you?

Style is finding your own unique way of feeling like "yourself"!

Lindsay selected a few items from Apostle, and I asked her why she liked each one. Below you'll see what Lindsay loves, and why! 

"I have been wearing the necklace and rings pretty much every day. I was drawn to each item in large part for that reason: all are simple but elegant pieces that are versatile to work into virtually any outfit I own, whether casual or a bit more dressed up! I love how they are classic and although fairly subtle, they all add a "pretty touch" to whatever I'm wearing."

Cluse Minuit Gold Mesh Watch 

From Lindsay's Style Story, I have learned that it's not only ok, but it's a beautiful thing, to be fully content and in love with who you are and where you're at in life. It's not about having it all, but it's about finding that true inner joy and confidence in yourself, that will bring you the greatest happiness. 

All photos were captured by the ever-talented Jenny from GingerSnap Photography.