An Interview with Kaitlin Holland of the School of Styling

For the launch of our Party collection we called our friend Kaitlin Holland, founder of The School of Styling, to style a fun and bright shoot to showcase our new party products. We love everything Kaitlin does so it's no surprise that we think she nailed it! Check out our interview with Kaitlin where she talks styling, hostessing and her faves from our new collection.

Kaitlin: The School of Styling is an educational community designed to equip and encourage creative entrepreneurs to build smart businesses, style with intention, and cultivate a life-giving community. We host 2-3 workshops a year, provide daily inspiration and education through our social media platforms and blog, and create online content to help educate the entrepreneur.

M&L: What’s the most rewarding thing about running TSOS?

Kaitlin: The most rewarding part about running TSOS is getting to hear stories of how we have encouraged or educated people along their own journey. When they walk away feeling hopeful, empowered and supported - that’s the good stuff.

M&L: What was your inspiration behind this shoot?

Kaitlin: I adore the Moon and Lola brand and I was so inspired by the new Party Collection. I wanted to keep things light and bright with bold pops of the classic Moon and Lola pink. Because Moon and Lola is such a fun-loving brand, I could incorporate elements into the shoot that were more punchy and unexpected, like the flamingo napkins. The ultimate goal was to show off how beautiful and fun the new Party Collection is!

M&L: Walk us through the process of styling the perfect tablescape.

Kaitlin: For this shoot, I started with a basic table layout, placing the Moon and Lola pieces I would incorporate. I incorporated beautiful half-wreaths around each place setting that our wonderful florist, Alana of Serendipity Designs, created for us. Next, I decided on arrangements and other floral elements. The flamingo napkins added the punch of color we needed on each place setting to tie in with the flowers. Each tabletop design is different, but it’s all about layering one element on top of the next.

M&L: What is your favorite product from our new Party collection and why?

Kaitlin: That’s a tough question! I love the Party collection so much. If I have to choose, I would pick the cake toppers. I love that Moon and Lola created a topper for every celebration - and what’s a celebration without cake?! I thought they popped and made a beautiful addition to the tabletop.

M&L: What is the best hostessing tip you can give us?

Kaitlin: There is so much that goes into hosting a gathering or event and the biggest lesson I have learned is know where you thrive and outsource the rest. I’m not a great cook (just ask my husband), so for me cooking is a big source of stress. So, I know what I do love to do - decorating, drinks, and other special touches that make people feel loved.

Kaitlin: If it’s a cooler month, I love Roasted Toasted. It’s a delicious almond/coffee/cream drink that is perfect for a fall or holiday party. For warmer months, I love to make any version of sangria, however I love to put a twist on it with white wine, a variety of fruits, and other fun mix-ins. It’s a crowd favorite and a light spring/summer option!