Creating House of Wend and this entire blogging journey has been filled with many ups and downs. I’ve largely portrayed it as a solo endeavor, but the truth is I’ve had significant support behind the scenes. My boyfriend Serge, who I affectionately refer to here at H.O.W as my Russian, has been the quiet presence behind the camera, patiently snapping endless photos and encouraging me every step of the way.

 

 

He’s accompanied me on countless adventures abroad, spent many late nights by my side while I worked on posts, learned coding and edited photos, encouraged me through bouts of discouragement and self-doubt and shared in the excitement of acquiring new partnership opportunities.

 

 

During the holidays last year, I was approached by JORD, a watch company specializing in unique timepieces, to review one a of their signature wood watches for women. I instantly fell in love with my Frankie series and it has since accompanied me throughout my travels. Serge couldn’t have been happier for me and was eager to help me shoot and style that campaign.

 

 

When JORD reached out recently and asked if I would be interested in partnering with them again, this time to highlight their Conway series, a new edition to their men’s watch collection, I was thrilled. Not only was I anxious to check out another unique watch, I was even more excited that this time, my Russian could participate. He has played a significant part in this passion project of mine, so it was only appropriate that he be able to share in the fruits of the labor.

 

 

It wasn’t just about gifting him a watch. The reason I agreed to participate in this campaign was because I knew he would be receiving a quality piece that fits our lifestyle. We’re travelers and are constantly on the go. We also work in different cities, me in New York and him in Indianapolis. We’ve sacrificed normalcy and routine for a life of flexibility and adventure.

While this crazy pace is not without its downsides – weeks spent apart while I’m working in New York, travel plans disrupted, and the overall difficulties of maintaining an unconventional long distance relationship –  I don’t think either of us would give it up. Perhaps one day we’ll slow down, but right now there’s still too much left in the world to discover. I’m lucky to have someone who I can share this crazy life with and thankful to JORD for designing a timepiece that can keep up!

 

 

 

 

Who is that special someone in your life that you share your dreams and adventures with? I’d love to hear your stories!

 

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