Today, we’d like to introduce you to Amber Lu. Amber was introduced to us by the brilliant and talented Stephanie Purcell.
Hi Amber, we’re so thrilled to have you sharing your story with us today. Maybe we can kick things off by having you introduce yourself to our readers? We’d love to have you go into your story and how you got to where you are today.
Eatdrinkcat is all about being my most authentic self. I grew up in a very conservative small town and spent most of my young life hearing about things I couldn’t do. My style tastes were too flashy, my obsession with Star Wars was weird, I would never be able to live in California because it was too expensive, and I’d never find a life partner because I was fat. Sometimes spite can be a motivator and I’ve always had a bit of a rebellious streak so as soon as I hear something is weird or that I can’t do it makes me try harder.
I remember a weekend that I’d spent at my grandma’s when I was a kid and I was crying because I had to leave my cat that lived there. My father told me when I grew up and “got a real job” I wouldn’t be able to take my cat to work. I think of this often as Harley dreams her little kitty dreams snoozing on my desk at my office.
My goal is to inspire others to live their most authentic lives without apology. I’m a colorful and crazy cat lady. My cats vacation with me, I love my flamboyant home, and crazy fashion. I’m trying my hardest to be the best role model for myself.
Let’s talk about your work and career – what else should we know?
Eatdrinkcat is constantly evolving depending on my interests but always core to my brand are fashion, fun, and of course, cats. It’s about the adventure of life with a couple fluffy besties along for the ride. When Harley (the first of my two current long-haired Scottish Fold fuzzballs) was only 5 months old I was booked for a modeling gig for a pin-up brand. It was a Christmas theme so they asked if I wanted to try to take a few shots with Harley. It turned out she’s a natural meowdel and we’ve worked many jobs together since then. Through my love of cats, I’ve had the opportunity to appear on billboards in time square, be interviewed on the Ellen show, and host the at-home version of CatCon last fall and this spring. My very favorite time of year is Halloween. A few years ago, I decided that we would do 31 Days of Harleyween, which is to say 31 days of Harley in costumes. What was intended to be a one-time thing has turned into an annual tradition with me often joining in for themed shoots together.
As you know, we’re big fans of Stephanie Purcell and Redesigned Classics we know you’ve worked with them quite a bit as well. We’d love to hear about your experience working with Stephanie.
Stephanie at Redesigned classics is my favorite designer to work with, hands down. She takes the time to listen and get to know you and what works with your lifestyle and budget. I like a lot of color and embellishment but it’s a challenge sometimes to mix and match so many different styles. There are vignettes around my home that are set up purposefully to be a great spot for photos, but as much as I like dramatic scenes it’s also my home and needs to be livable. Oh, and did I mention I have 2 super fluffy kitties? That means some fabrics I need to avoid. I also try to have furniture that is closed to the ground or is high enough that cats can’t hide/or get stuck under pieces. Stephanie listens to all my (sometimes weird and crazy) requirements and has uncovered so many pieces I never would have picked, but truly love. In addition to a full room redesign, I’ve consulted with her on multiple projects and sent friends to her when they needed design help. They are always thrilled with the results, and so am I!
Stephanie has great style herself, but more importantly, she truly listens and enjoys helping clients with their design goals.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatdrinkcat/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatdrinkcat
