Author: Breegan Jane

Mekuno Project: The Role of Education

John Donne said, “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the Continent, a part of the main.” That sentiment, the concept of interdependence, is a huge part of why I do the work I do in Kenya with the organization I co-founded: Mekuno Project. The girls and women in the areas we work are having their rights taken away because of both a cultural ritual called Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), as well as child marriage. Mekuno Project is working every day to put a permanent end to both, with practical solutions. Education is one of the pillars of our holistic plan, and I’ll show you why in today’s blog.

FGM and Successfully Ending It 

If you’re unfamiliar, FGM involves the complete or partial removal of female sexual organs, serving as a mechanism to control girls’ sexual behavior. This horrendous ritual is largely performed between the ages of five and nine years old. FGM is viewed as a girl’s rite of passage into womanhood as well as a prerequisite for marriage. Mekuno Project knows there are better, safer alternatives. We have formulated and introduced Alternative Rites of Passage (ARP) in order to eliminate the need for FGM. However, that didn’t happen overnight. We have enjoyed success in the regions we work with a more than 90% drop in the prevalence of FGM in some communities. But if we want to see those results expand, we must understand the root causes of FGM and child marriage.

The WHY

You, like many others, may be wondering why female genital mutilation is still practiced if it’s such an awful, harmful thing. It’s because of what it affords a family. When girls are married, their families often receive a dowry. A dowry is usually in the form of money or livestock. In impoverished regions, the dowry can feel like the only viable option for a family to endure economic hardships. Many families regard this payment as the only secure source of income. As resources become scarcer, families become more desperate. This is why FGM gets practiced at younger ages. Mekuno Project has identified a way to combat this problem.

The Role of Education

Here in the United States school is something many take for granted. Our children are mandated to attend during a period of their lives in order to gain education and skills they will need in adulthood. For the girls in the regions we work, an education isn’t guaranteed, and for many it isn’t even likely! 

Access to quality education opens doors to previously unimaginable possibilities for a girl. Education has the power to break the cycle of poverty and stop the cycle of child marriage and FGM. When we visited Kenya to reveal the new school building they would be using, the entire experience shifted my perspective. I watched these girls jump with pure glee and delight at the realization that they would be afforded an opportunity to attend school. Suddenly, we all knew this wasn’t just about reading, math and science. It was as if we had given them the key that would unlock proverbial doors. These were the doors that had previously held freedom, security and empowerment captive. 

Freedom and Safety

Mekuno Project is determined to bring education to the girls and women in Kenya because the impact is SO great! Schools offer safe havens for girls in communities that practice FGM. Our studies show that the longer a girl stays in school, the less likely she is to be married. When a girl gets her education, she gains the ability to grow up and be a contributor to her community without the need for a dowry. She can go back into her village as a nurse or doctor and use her skills to bring resources to her family. Education helps mothers and fathers see that there is another way that doesn’t have to involve cutting.

The HOW

So now we know why education is so important in our quest to end FGM and child marriage, but we need to know how we bring it to fruition. Well, collaboration is the answer. Mekuno Project supports access to quality education via advocacy at local and national levels. Our partners collaborate with the Kenyan government to fulfill its legal mandate to ensure children have access to high-quality schooling. We also understand the need to consider those who are especially vulnerable. For those girls and boys we provide school fees and other personal supports such as Dignity Kits, school uniforms, and supplies, so they can stay in school and learn without interruption. We even work with the local governments to ensure there are menstruation washrooms, dormitories, rescue centers and access to clean water.

Education holds the key to a new life for not just individual girls and women, but for entire communities. Mekuno Project is dedicated to making it a reality for all of them, but we need your help! Please visit our website to learn more about what we do. Consider donating to this very important cause. Thank you in advance. Together, we can change lives. Let’s do that!

 

Moody Modern Breegan Jane Lighting

When you think of your favorite places on earth, what comes to mind? Is it what you do when you visit? Maybe it’s the beautiful scenery. Perhaps it’s the way you feel when you’re there. I talk about my favorite place all of the time. When I step off the plane in Ibiza, it’s almost as if I can breathe a little easier. My muscles relax and my heart rate slows. Simply put, my mood turns to bliss! The impact our surroundings have on us is undeniable. This is one of the biggest reasons why interior design matters so much. We want to feel good in our spaces. So is it any wonder that “moody modern” is having a moment right now? If you’re looking to add some lighting pizzazz to this cozy design styling, I’ve got the perfect pieces for you!

Moody Modern Matters

Moody Modern is characterized by rich hues, a darker color palette, intimate and cozy ambiance all wrapped up in a beautiful package that makes a space feel luxe. Think: a sexy den or parlor with gorgeous velvets and tufted furnishings. These factors culminate in the ultimate moody space with allure. Every element contributes, so selecting the right lighting can make or break your design. No worries, though. Let’s talk about a few that would be perfect for any moody modern space.

Venice by Breegan Jane

If you’re looking for a fixture that brings the moody AND the sparkle, Venice is for you. One look at the faceted crystal petals against the Metropolis Black finish will definitely have you swooning. Venice is a chandelier made of hammered metal. As if it’s not stunning enough, the inside is a hand-applied gold finish. With crystals on the ceiling canopy and a rich metallic inside, no matter the angle, Venice is guaranteed to wow.

Estrella Del Mar by Breegan Jane

Want to make a statement? Estrella Del Mar to the rescue! You probably don’t think of this profile when the word “chandelier” comes to mind. Estrella breaks the mold. Inspired by curling leaves of a rubber tree, this piece brings a natural element to your moody modern space. Finished in Burnished Gold on the inside, the leaves create a warm glow. That metallic is ideal against the moody Centura finish on the outside. Craftsmanship is unmistakable with these hand-applied finishes. Can you imagine this in a space with a bold wallpaper? I can!

Portinatx by Breegan Jane

A linear chandelier can really take “modern” to the next level, and Portinatx is exactly that. Who said florals couldn’t be edgy? This piece features cascading metal flowers made of hammered metal petals. Portinatx combines a hand-applied gold finish with a hand-applied Satin Black finish. It’s a perfect balance that will glow against a deeply hued painted wall. If you’re looking for a conversation piece, you’ve found it.

Heiress by Breegan Jane

I continue to be inspired by the Mediterranean, and Heiress absolutely embodies that. What a stately fixture! Heiress is a simple structure festooned with dramatically curving metal leaves that wear a hand-applied Patinated Bronze finish. This piece, aptly named, feels regal.

Turaco by Breegan Jane

Turaco is another light featuring the classic black and gold combination. It has three rows of petals with a hand-applied finish. Turaco brings the drama without overwhelming the room. It feels contemporary in profile without being trendy. 

No matter what you’re looking for in lighting for your Moody Modern space, you’re sure to find it in my collection with Savoy House! Add a statement piece with a deeper hue and watch your room transform. Let me know which is your favorite, and tag me if you decide to get one!

Financial Literacy For Kids

Conversations about money are often cited as some of the most uncomfortable to have. But they don’t have to be. I don’t want to raise sons who are ignorant of money matters or intimidated by them. I want my boys to have an appreciation for money, a strong work ethic to make it, and the wisdom to grow it. Most of all, I want them to have a life free of financial bondage. I prioritize financial literacy for kids because financial freedom is something everyone deserves, but not everyone has. I’ll tell you more in today’s blog.

It Starts at Home

Most of you know me as an interior designer, but the truth is I’ve been an entrepreneur for far longer than almost anything else. I realized I owe much of my success to my ability to grow money and build wealth. But I wasn’t born with those skills; I was taught them. A great deal of what I know about money came from my father, who was and still is a skilled investor. While my dad’s financial lessons for me as a young girl surpassed what I saw my peers learning, we all look back and believe we could have been doing more. Dad taught me a lot, but I’m very honest about coming from a place of privilege where I didn’t ever want for anything. I did, however, work for the money earned from modeling and auditions. More on that later. Money and its impacts were introduced to me early in life. I’m passing on that wisdom to my boys.

Why Money Matters

In today’s society we talk a lot about money. The discussions are usually around what you can buy with it, what you can achieve with it, and how it impacts your status. Those things absolutely carry weight, but they weren’t the basis for the financial education for my boys.

My boys come from a divorced household. As many parents in my position understand, that means our kids often receive multiple messages about money habits. They know mom’s approach, and they also know dad’s. I wanted my boys to develop their own relationship with money. I also wanted to be intentional about the lessons. Kids are getting messaging whether you want them to or not. They are inundated with images and themes around “rizz” and cars and bling. They are also absorbing our ideas and habits around money. It’s all there and you can’t avoid it.What we can do, however, is empower them with knowledge and strategy. That’s what financial literacy does.

Financial Freedom as a Goal

Jim Carrey once said, “I think everybody should get rich and famous and have everything they ever dreamed of so they can see that that’s not the answer.” 

I think that perfectly encapsulates why I believe financial literacy is so important. Money can absolutely make life easier. It is necessary for so many of our basic needs. But money isn’t the end all be all. Financial freedom is! Right now my kids are at the ages where their innocence and naivety around purchasing power is understandable. Requests like “Mom can we get a boat?” aren’t a result of them being spoiled, rather it’s more about the lack of financial literacy. It’s always been crucial for me that my boys see their mom working hard. Now, I realize they also need to connect the hard work to results.

Kingsley and Kensi might grow up and be in a position to buy a boat, or a nice home. Maybe they’ll be CEOs of major companies, who knows. That isn’t what I’m after. I don’t care if my sons choose to live extravagantly or lead simple, humble lives. I just want them to be able to make the choice, and be comfortable. Financial freedom is about having the ability to make your own choices with how you use and spend your money. That begins with knowing how to make and grow it.

Lessons in Financial Literacy

I have been quite thoughtful and deliberate when it comes to incorporating financial literacy into both life lessons and my sons’ curriculum. I don’t want money to feel intimidating or foreign to them, so we make it practical. One of the first things I did was take my boys to the bank, piggy banks in tow. We set up bank accounts at Chase Bank for each of them. Now, I could have done this without them, but I wanted them to see the process and understand what an actual “bank” is. This is money they save and don’t touch. Of course, being so young still, all of their needs are taken care of, so that part is fairly easy. But the concept of saving is something they can learn even now.

A Financial Advisor

One of the most helpful things I’ve done with the boys is hire a financial advisor who works for and with individual families in investing. I wanted someone willing to have conversations with them about financial literacy as a part of their tutoring schedule. She uses finance games to teach them about banking, stocks and even helps them develop fictitious business plans. If you’re able to take advantage of an advisor in this way, I highly recommend it.

Greenlight

Another tool of ours is the Greenlight app. It’s an all-in-one money app for families that allows kids to have their own debit cards, but in a way that parents can control. They are pre-loaded upfront, so there’s never a worry about running up a bill. My favorite feature is the “earn” element. I can list chores or jobs the kids can do in order to earn money. I get an alert each time something is accomplished, and the money goes into their account! It’s an excellent way to teach the value of work while also incentivizing them to do their chores.

Robinhood

Investing is a skill that even many adults don’t have. Robinhood is an app that makes it easy. Now, this one you have to be 18 to use, so I let my boys use my account and only under my supervision. I gave them each $100 to invest however they wanted, and they have fun logging in to check each day. It’s been interesting to watch them make certain decisions together and others individually. They are learning how stocks work, and how to invest wisely, all before their teenage years!

There are so many tools available to help kids become financially wise. We just have to prioritize it and be willing to help them understand it all. Sometimes simply buying your child a wallet and making him or her responsible for keeping up with the money inside is enough to get the ball rolling. Remember, while we need money for this life, financial freedom is what truly determines the quality of the life you live. That’s the lesson I hope my boys get as they learn more about how money is made. Check out these tools for your family!

“Different” as a Compliment

I don’t think I’ll ever stop talking about the way travel enriches life. Yes, we can all agree that discovering new places is fun. I mean, who doesn’t love a change of scenery from time to time? But traveling for my family is so much more than just recreation. It has the ability to shift and change our perspectives in more ways than most realize. One of the most impactful parts of traveling outside of the States is the expansion of the way we perceive differences. I’ve found myself unusually intuitive regarding this topic, and I’d love to explore it with you in today’s blog.

The Benefits of Traveling

I always wanted to raise kids who would spend summers with me in Europe. Now, seeing as how I am not from Europe, this might strike many as strange. However, I’ve been traveling since I was a kid, and the experiences that I’ve had are invaluable. In fact, so many of my closest friends live all over the globe, and I attribute that to my passion for travel that I’ve had my entire life. I wanted my kids to be able to experience that as well. So they’ve been on airplanes since they were newborns!

 

If you’re able, I’d advise you to travel any and everywhere that piques your interest. Of course by now you know my favorite place in the world is Ibiza, Spain. I’ve talked at length about how it inspires my design aesthetic. My kids and I travel there a few times a year, and we typically spend a couple months on the island in the summer. I love watching Ibiza become their second home.

Different is a Compliment

One of the things I’ve noticed in Ibiza and other countries is the way other cultures use and view the word: “different.” When we’re in another place people often look at my sons’ hair and they say, “Their hair is so different!” I watch as the kind strangers’ eyes widen and light up as they describe the hair texture. I’ve gotten that about my own hair as well. If I’m wearing a unique necklace or pair of earrings, they say: “That’s so different!” and they want to know more about it. So, as maybe back home that would be a cause for suspicion to many, here it was admiration and genuine curiosity.

 

 

People are commenting on something they have never seen before. It’s new and fascinating, and they want to learn about it. Those statements are accompanied by questions, and the intention behind them becomes clear. They are having a novel experience, and they want to embrace it. Sadly, that’s not always the case back at home.

An Intolerance for Differences

The reason all of that stuck out to me in the first place was because of the way differences are viewed and handled in the States. Here, different isn’t a compliment. It’s weird, discouraged and often said as an insult. Don’t believe me? Think about the girl who bullied others in highschool. The first thing people do in those situations is point out differences. Kids exclude others because someone looks different, acts differently, or exists in a different socioeconomic class…and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. But kids aren’t where it ends. 

How many times have you heard someone else or even yourself say things like, “I can’t eat that. It’s too different!” Or maybe you’ve heard it said with a sassy attitude that implied far more than just something being diverse. 

“Their family is just…different.”

We all know the tone there, and we know enough to realize it’s never said or meant as flattery. “Different” in these examples is divisive. It’s a way to put a boundary up or to express disinterest. That’s a far cry from the people in other places who want to know the origin story behind something they’re encountering for the first time. 

Beauty in Diversity

When did we get so far from appreciating the beauty in differences? When my boys and I travel, whether domestically or internationally, we love to point out all the ways each place is similar and different from what we’re accustomed to back home. I want them to welcome the features of each place and develop an appreciation for them.

The beauty of uniqueness is what makes the world go ‘round. Think about our ecosystem and how vast it is. So many elements keep it healthy and thriving. If one part of the system ceases to exist, the entire system is in danger. It’s the differences in the plants and animals that keep the whole of it all healthy. We, as a society, should be functioning much like that.

Different in Design

I have always found an intolerance for differences to be so odd. Maybe it’s because my own origin story is so unique. Or maybe because when you’ve traveled all over you realize no place or people are exactly alike, and that’s the wonderful part of it. In interior design, being different is viewed as a good thing. There’s space for weird and strange in our community. I can put disco balls in my kitchen without people batting an eye. In certain luxury markets (cars, fine leather goods, etc) “different” is even marketed as a selling point. These are the only places I’ve experienced it as a good thing. I think it’s time to change that.

 

Making Different Cool Again

I have a challenge for you. This week I want you to tell someone something they have on, a hairstyle, a fragrance or anything else is “different.” I want you to genuinely mean it as a compliment. Be curious! Ask them about it and be interested in the answer. Wholeheartedly mean it. Let’s see if we can shift the connotation and become a nation of people who appreciate variety, diversity and differences. Chat with me about it on my socials!

California Beach House Luxury: Available for Pre-order NOW!

It’s HERE! I’m pleased to bring you my new book available for pre-order NOW:

California Beach House Luxury.

Rich with vivid imagery that exhibits luxe detailing accompanied by a sophisticated minimalism, my book explores the artistry and acumen behind designing my dream home. You’ll get a glimpse into the Breegan Jane unique approach to creating curated interiors. I can’t wait to also give you insight and expertise concerning building around the needs of a busy homeschool-hybrid family. 

California Beach House Luxury is a reflection of my design prowess and philosophy that I aim to bring to each home I touch. In addition to an extensive analysis of the beautiful details, we’ll dive into the “why” behind each choice. This is no doubt an explorative experience of how I created an inspired, welcoming, customized space with touches of opulence throughout.

As a multicultural, self-proclaimed “child of California,” my background and its influence are on full display in the book. This home epitomizes my love for and ability to accentuate diversity—such as blending striking African elements seamlessly with refined Parisian and Spanish decor in ways that maintain a clean and modern simplicity.

I used custom furniture throughout the house tailored to meet the needs of our family’s lifestyle and passions. The extraordinary home is outfitted with a music studio, DJ booth and baby grand piano to further my sons’ musical skills. 

“The luxe mirror ball-adorned kitchen, playroom complete with climbing wall and treenet, and bedrooms with breathtaking ocean views are all embodiments of Breegan Jane’s unmatched ingenuity in the design space.”

The book is edited by House Beautiful Market Director: Carisha Swanson. Brands used throughout the home include Kohler, Clarke and Clarke, Thompson Traders, Four Hands, Parachute, TileBar and Savoy House.

 

Celebrity Designer Breegan Jane Shares Every Design Detail Of Her LA Dream Home In New Book, California Beach House Luxury, Available March 25, 2025

Teal: The Art and Influence of Color

Many of the most significant ways to change a space, shift a mood, or make a statement begin with one essential element: color. Think about it. How many times has your temperament for the day influenced what you chose to wear? We select cars, buy decor and paint our walls with the shade as a guide, whether we realize it or not. So diving deeply into why we feel drawn to a certain color or array of colors can help us understand how to use them wisely in design. My favorite color has been teal for quite some time now. I’ll let you in on why that is, in today’s blog.

 

Color as an Influence

Have you ever heard of the “Lipstick Effect”? In 2001, Estee Lauder’s lipstick sales soared despite the recession. This shocking fact led Leonard Lauder to coin the term that originated from the idea that even during difficult times, people still spend money on small luxuries like beauty products that make them feel good. Isn’t it interesting that of all the products their customers were purchasing, lipstick—something we immediately think of as a color-based cosmetic, was at the top? I think it’s because women realize how much a bright or muted color on the lips can completely change their appearance. The same can be said of other areas in our lives. 

I think color is so impactful because it’s one of the elements that demands to be seen. You can’t change the color of something without people noticing. Color is eye-catching. When I’m designing a space it’s always at the forefront of my mind. So when I fell in love with teal, I knew there had to be a psychology around it. 

 

My Favorite Hue

Anyone who knows Breegan is aware of my great love affair with Ibiza, Spain. My family went from short vacations to spending extended parts of the year in this beautiful place. Honestly, if I was to ever move away from my beloved California, it would be to live in Ibiza. The region is just stunning. It’s kid-friendly (don’t let the IG pages filled with nothing but partying fool ya!), it’s slower-paced, and the people are lovely. Each time I visit, I’m instantly more at peace. When I explored that a bit, I discovered a big part of that feeling was due to my aesthetically pleasing surroundings, which had a lot to do with—you guessed it, color! 

Teal was everywhere. The ocean waters sparkled in the immersive hue like a shimmering mermaid’s tail. The sea itself is already beautiful, but it’s even more striking against the white architecture and sandy shore line. I’m always so relaxed once my feet hit the ground in this part of the Mediterranean.

 

 

Teal and other shades of blue seem to all have some sort of soothing effect. In fact, if you think of any resort brochure or website, or even your favorite spa, you’ll likely notice they all tend to include a good amount of blue tones. It’s because of the way these colors make us feel. Teal has a perceptible impact on our bodies and minds.

Interior Design and Teal

So, we have our favorite colors. What now? Well, the first thing is to determine how they affect your mood. That will become your guide on where and how to use them. If you love yellow because it energizes you, perhaps it would work well in an office space where you want to feel productive and awake. On the contrary, using that same color in a bedroom might be disastrous. Generally, we like our sleeping spaces to feel calm and serene. So a color like teal might work better there. 

I want my home to be my sanctuary. I love neutrals because they make my always busy and working mind feel comforted by a non-cluttered space. Since there tends to be a lot of white and cream in my spaces, I knew my accent color would have to work well with that. The Ibizan landscape proved that teal would work perfectly.

Using Color as an Accent

I infuse my spaces with my favorite color here and there in order to keep it neutral while also introducing vibrancy in conspicuous ways. One of easiest ways to do that is with throw pillows. I love mixing prints and patterns in similar colorways for a unique look.This is always a recommendation of mine because these types of decor can be easily switched out whenever the mood hits. Check out these examples from my line with Clarke and Clarke.  

 

 

Another way to use your favorite color is with paint and wallpaper. I have used teal in many of my paint projects. I’ve done an ombre accent wall for a restaurant I designed. I’ve painted the walls of my office in a muted teal. I’ve even used it in a baby nursery. Each shade was different but equally beautiful. 

 

 

Maybe your favorite color isn’t one that you want in large doses. Choose smaller pieces and arrange them carefully in your rooms for an intentional look. I like using functional items like glassware to achieve this look. It’s unexpected but significant.

It doesn’t matter how you prefer to use your color of choice, only that it makes you happy where you put it. Teal will always read as tranquil and soothing to my soul. It will likely always find its way into my favorite spaces, and I love that it just screams “Breegan” when people see it! Let me know what your color is, and show me how you’ve incorporated it into your spaces.

 

Beautiful Blues: Breegan Jane Fabrics and Wallpapers

When I created Breegan Jane fabrics and Breegan Jane wallpapers, I knew I wanted the pieces to be more than just attractive. I wanted them to positively influence the feeling of your spaces. We all want our homes to be beautiful, but interior design is more than just perfecting the aesthetic of a room. The right selections, often highly determined by color, can direct our senses. On every list of current trends you’ll almost always find a shade of blue. Blue, with its endless shades, has the power to make a home feel soothing, grounded, or even vibrant, depending on the tone. My line with Clarke & Clarke features several stunning shades of blue for every taste and preference. I’ll share a few with you in today’s blog.

Wallpaper that Wows

By now you probably know about my love for travel. I not only frequently travel for work, I also visit many of my favorite places for pleasure multiple times a year. In every place I go I fall more in love with the majestic sunset scenes I witness. Nairobi, a Breegan Jane wallpaper, is deeply inspired by them. This wide-width panel wallpaper softly blends colors and expressive brushstrokes to invoke a sense of tranquility. It only takes a glance to see the stunning quality of this wallpaper. If you want a space to envelop you with beauty, this is the one!

Styled, Personally

I recently completed my dream beach home (a project that took over two years to finish!), and if you’ve seen clips of the finished product, you’ll immediately realize I don’t “do trends.” I’ve never been interested in doing what everyone else was doing, or creating a space that looked like anyone else’s space. Instead, I want my home to feel like a reflection of who I am. In my opinion, that’s what home should always be. Tired of your home looking like every other Instagram reel or TikTok? Well, Palmyra in the Midnight colorway is calling your name! This Breegan Jane wallpaper is especially unique because it features a metallic highlight in the palm tree prints which gives them an extra “pop” against the rich, deeper blue background. The wallpaper also has a linen texture for added depth. Palmyra in Midnight is the kind of wallpaper that takes your breath away when you walk into a room. It feels luxe, immersive and custom. No one-size-fits-all design with this wallcovering, that’s for sure.

Pattern and print are certainly having a moment in the world of current trends, but texture is forever! Xan is for the lovers of timeless design. The Caribbean colorway infuses an indescribable peacefulness in this modern take on a seagrass wallpaper. 

Custom design is my greatest love, and adding one-of-a-kind pieces to your home is the simplest way to achieve that. Breegan Jane fabrics are ideal for all your upholstery, drapery and bedding needs. I’ve used so many of them in my own home.

I will never tire of the gorgeous Kisumu print! It is available in both a fabric and a wallpaper, and it features a hand-drawn African toile. Kisumu in Midnight and in the Caribbean colorway are both lovely blue fabrics to use in a space. I used Kisumu to upholster a bed, and it is stunning! 

Breegan Jane Fabrics: Mix and Match

Pokot is a fan-favorite, and you can absolutely see why! This velvety fabric puts a contemporary spin on animal print. It is available in five colors, but Pokot in Caribbean is a definite showstopper. 

To create a curated look with your fabrics, combine prints in similar colors that complement one another. Serengeti is an abstract print designed on the horizontal scale with a delicate foil texture printed on top. The Midnight colorway feels lively and energetic, and it pairs perfectly with the Pokot and Kisumu fabrics.

Need even more options? You’ll want to be sure to check out the beautiful Narobi fabric which boasts bold shades of cerulean, or my Malindi fabric—a woven jacquard in monochromatic colourways.

It isn’t hard to see why so many love the bold and beautiful blues. They add so much appeal to a space. My collection absolutely has something for anyone looking to give their homes a bespoke and sophisticated design, and I hope you’ll check each piece out for yourselves! Stay tuned for more!

An Open Letter to the Single Mom

To the single mom:

I’ve been watching you, mama. Watching you grow and thrive in your career. I have seen you shine, and I’ve celebrated those moments with you. Oftentimes I’ve held your hand and heard your heart as we talk about life and love. You were so excited about the men in your life, and it made me so excited to see the joy pour out of your soul. I loved the happiness that exuded from your spirit. THAT smile—YOUR smile—is unmatched. Seeing the confidence in your countenance blossom…it displays everything you are, from the inside out.

I’ve also received the late-night phone call from you, with your voice full of disappointment and dejection. Because of my care and concern for you, I immediately shared your hurt. Your love interest didn’t portray themselves as they really are, and they gave up on a difficult situation. I’ve been there. They wronged you, and you were forced to stand up for yourself despite a sullen spirit. As much as I hate to see it, I understand why you sank into yourself. It’s the only place you feel safe. I’m so sorry, sweet single mom.

Your Joy Is YOURS!

What I want to say to you is something I had to look in the mirror and say to myself: Your. Joy. Is. YOURS! It is not theirs to take! That joy is and has always been inside of you. You’ve worked so incredibly hard to cultivate it within yourself. Find it again, and don’t let go of it. And, never allow anyone outside of you to take it away. You have been killing it, single mom. Many could not go through what you have had to endure and fight for. And you had to do it alone and while protecting another human.

You have an amazing life because of your hard work and yours alone. You share beautiful experiences with your little one. Nothing or no one can compare to that. Never forget how far you’ve gotten, and never let hurt cause you to veer off your path of success. We are allowed to live a joy-filled life with or without a partner at our sides. Being single, and being a single mom, is not a curse. Neither is it a synonym for unhappiness.

This is not where you give up or settle. In fact, you’re not going to settle at all. You’ve fought too long and too hard to be where you are, to settle. Please, do not give up and sink into the hurt I see in your eyes. You alone have the power to enhance the life you fought really hard to have. Don’t hand that control to someone else. I feel like you should hear that.

Love Begins Within

I don’t know why we as women have been taught the fantasy of finding the boy from the romantic film who will sweep us off our feet. Once that happens, we will magically and all of a sudden be our best selves. Our wedding day solidifies perfection for the rest of our lives, and we live happily ever after. Romantic love isn’t the magic key to happiness. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting love and a relationship. But know this: your individuality is no less amazing. Don’t put a relationship on a pedestal. You’re just as amazing, just as you are.

Perfect love begins within, single mom, and it radiates from the inside. Find that joy for yourself, and don’t stress about when Mr. Right will arrive. We all want love and connection. I know I do. The relationship will come. Regardless, you still have you, all the things you are, the accomplishments you’ve made, and all you have yet to pursue. Society says life looks brighter and happiness increases when we are in relationships. But it’s not the origin of your contentment. That has always been in you. You are your strength, whether you connect with another person or not. By all means, pursue love, and don’t forsake it if it truly becomes a part of your life.

Simply put, single mom, you are me, and I am you. We are fabulous right where we are, as we are. On your quest for love, remember that a romantic relationship is just one chapter of your life. You’re a whole book, mama! Continue creating all the other amazing parts of your story.

In love, strength and joy,

Breegan

Florals from the Breegan Jane Wallpaper Collection: Modern and Fresh

Is it just me, or is the entire world in search of a little more joy these days? When we were in the throes of the pandemic, we saw interior design choices shift towards elements that felt serene and in many ways directly connected us to nature. That made sense, as we were locked away in our homes, unable to get outside as much as we’d like to enjoy fresh air with our friends and loved ones. Now, I think we’re all ready to lean into a bit more fun and playfulness, and interior design is showcasing that in several ways. Dopamine decor is bringing big bold color, and with it, florals are back! If you’re craving some botanical beauty in your world, floral wallpaper is the ideal way to infuse it in your home. Let’s find the perfect print for you in the Breegan Jane wallpaper collection!

Floral Wallpaper: A Fresh Take

Designers take inspiration from everywhere, but nature has long been one of the greatest muses for many of us.Think about it, it’s pretty hard to walk past a well maintained garden full of various colorful flowers and not acknowledge the beauty of it all. I think floral prints have a timeless quality about them. That’s why generation after generation has used them as decor in their homes. But, if the first thing you think about is your grandparents’ living room when you hear “florals”, you’ll be happy to know that bountiful blossoms have come a long way in the last several years! Floral prints have been reimagined in new and fresh ways, and my Breegan Jane wallpaper collection with Clarke & Clarke of the Sanderson Design Group has so many unique wallpapers that feel modern and refined.

Delicate or Bold?

If you’re in the market for floral wallpaper but unsure of where to begin, decide if you’re looking for a big punch of floral goodness, or if you’d prefer something a bit more subtle. I always suggest letting the space lead with decisions like this. For instance, a larger space with a significant amount of statement decor like chandeliers, oversized accent chairs and eye-catching artwork might benefit from something understated like Palmyra. 

Palmyra from the Breegan Jane wallpaper collection pays homage to my own seaside roots. I love this paper because most people don’t automatically picture palm trees when they think about florals, but they should! Palmyra has palm trees floating in a gentle breeze, a print reminiscent of the banana leaf patterns found in Beverly Hills. It comes in four colorways, and three of them feature muted tones that allow this wallpaper to play the background in any space if you want other decor to shine. 

If you’re looking for an edgier print that feels bold and avant-garde, Malindi is for you! One of the things I love about a more modern floral print of today is how we can combine them with other elements and shapes. Malindi is also a Breegan Jane wallpaper, and it showcases lush greenery and tropical palms, but it also has shapes intertwined in the design that almost feel like an ode to art deco. Malindi is named after a town in Kenya, but it is also inspired by the glamor and retro artistry of an LA rooftop. With metallic highlights, this wallpaper is dynamic and one-of-a-kind. Malindi is offered in three colorways (even neutral!) to suit a wide variety of palettes! 

Dark and Moody

If you’ve been around for a bit you probably know I’m the kind of designer that doesn’t mind breaking “design rules.” What I mean is, I believe the best design is the type that works for your life, suits your aesthetic, and makes you feel good in your spaces. Florals don’t always have to be pastel and slight. If you’re looking for a wallpaper that engulfs you and makes the space feel sumptuous, go for one with a deep, richer hue. 

Have you seen Kisumu in Midnight or /Noir Luxe yet? Both of these colorways are absolutely luxuriant! I love a gorgeous toile, because it isn’t your traditional floral print—and yet, this one depicts the iconic Baobab tree, known as the “Tree of Life” in a celebration of the African landscape. In the darker colorways you’ll notice a contemporary twist added with the print being enhanced by metallics, another Breegan Jane signature. Trust me this isn’t your grandmother’s floral!

No worries if you’re looking to keep things airy and bright. Brighter colors definitely bring more light into the space. I love Kisumu in Noir from the Breegan Jane wallpaper collection for that. It features the same immersive toile but with a white background. No matter what you need, we have you covered!

A Little is Sometimes A Lot

Wallpaper can truly be manipulated to capture the look you’re after. You can choose to paper an entire room, just one wall, or even use the paper as trim. One of the ways I chose to use a favorite of mine, Mombasa, was almost as an accent wall. Mombasa is a wide-width panel wallpaper that has an expansive, mural quality. Again, it isn’t a traditional floral print. Mombasa radiates fun with lush jungle vegetation and beautiful jewel tones. THIS is the kind of wallpaper that starts conversations. I wanted it to feel immersive and captivating, and I think that’s exactly what you’ll get when you install it in your home!

Florals are back and better than ever. I have always challenged conventional design norms, and my fabrics and wallpapers line definitely supports that. Florals are an excellent way to bring delight and whimsy into a space, but updating them for a fresh, modern take can upgrade the entire feeling of the rooms you select for them! Check out the entire Breegan Jane wallpaper collection and let me know your favorites!

 

The Gift of Transitioning

My job as an interior designer has always been multi-faceted, but it’s perhaps at its most complex right now. Besides designing residential and commercial spaces, I’m frequently a guest on panels and other speaker series, I’m heavily involved in product development and licensing, and I also participate in quite a few podcasts. Recently, I visited A Well-Designed Business podcast with my friend Luann Nigara. She asked me about something I learned that has helped propel me towards my goals. My answer?  “To take your pain or fear along with your talents, and use them as the fuel that allows you to grow.” Today, I want to talk to you about the gift of transitioning and how it has been instrumental in my own growth, both personally and professionally.

Only a Glimpse

It’s easy to look at anyone’s current position in life and assume they have always been successful, or that they’ve had it easy. The truth is, that’s rarely the case. We’re usually never witness to someone’s starting point; only their present. The same is the case for me. If you’ve been around for the last year or so, you’ve likely seen glimpses of all the projects I’ve been working on. My life has been incredibly busy with things like the building of my new beach home, the launch of my lighting line with Savoy House and my new fabrics and wallpapers line with Clarke & Clarke, just to name a few. Life is… good. But it hasn’t been a smooth and easy ride to this point. You’ve heard the saying “social media is only a highlight reel”. Well I think it’s time to normalize the realization that even what you see of someone in real life is only a glimpse. You’re not getting all the juicy details or behind-the-scenes experiences that led up to that moment. So, with that in mind, what role does transitioning play in goal-getting?

Transitioning is Risky

Breegan Jane as a company has gone through so many evolutions. I can remember at the start of building my brand, sitting around the conference room of the apartment complex I was living in while my house was being built. I had a few other moms working with me, and all of our kids were crawling around at our feet while we worked and strategized. I didn’t know exactly where I was headed with my business, but I remember telling them we were building an empire that would be all-encompassing and even referencing Martha Stewart. 

I look back at that younger version of myself, and I marvel at the audacity of that statement! I could not have known exactly what the road to get there would entail, and I don’t know if I even knew all the details of what I wanted. But I knew I wanted to be a brand that could do more and reach more people than I could actually physically touch, in person. To accomplish that, whatever we were developing had to be huge. Sometimes, transitioning involves stepping out into the unknown with only the belief that you can and will make it happen. The truth is, transitioning rarely comes without a risk. There’s no way to know how the story will go. But elevation is worth it. If you can combine your risk with courage, fortitude and determination, the risk significantly decreases. I was driven to make my dreams a reality by any means. I’m happy to say I did.

Transitioning Takes Time

I’ve been fortunate to mentor several young women throughout my career. One of the most frequently asked questions is regarding how to get to where I am. The questions come in many different forms, but the sentiment is the same. What’s the secret? I hate to break it to ya, but there are no shortcuts in this business. There aren’t any in life, period. 

I’ve been a content creator far longer than most people realize. Long before I launched www.breeganjane.com I made myself blog every week for a year before I invested money in building a site. I held myself to a standard as an act of intentionality. I had identified what I wanted for my life, and I recognized it would require a lot from me. So, I worked on all the things I would need in order to get to where I desired to end up! Future mentees, this is the definition of reverse engineering. If you learn nothing else from this blog, take this piece of advice:

Be available for the opportunities you want.

Nothing about my path has been easy. It’s been a long road of understanding all facets of design, and the learning never stops. The work? It doesn’t either. When you decide to transition into the next phase of your career, don’t fight against the labor and trials, embrace them. Each step takes you closer to the goal.

Transitioning Doesn’t Mean Failure

I could rattle off many things that have contributed to favorable outcomes in my career, but the reality is that most people had to “fail” in order to succeed. However, maybe we should consider redefining failure. Transitioning into new areas of design is what allowed me to continue to grow. After years of conventional interior design work, I needed to find a more extensive way to help my clients. As I began branching out into other methods, I can remember wondering if I had failed at centering clients. I had several moments of, “Should I be scaling this differently? Am I doing something wrong?” None of it was true! When I get stuck in that kind of cycle, it usually means I’m holding on emotionally to something longer than I should.

The Oxford Dictionary literally defines transitioning as: “the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.” When you’re ready to move into something greater, you must be willing to let go of what you previously had and did. So many times we are faced with letting go of something we thought was meant for us for fear of that meaning failure. And yet, letting go is precisely how we make room for newness! In interior design we know decluttering can be emotional. We encourage clients to part ways with items that no longer serve them so that their homes can be transformed into beautiful spaces that allow them to thrive. The same is true in life and career. Good things will come into your life when you clear out the muck. I wanted to evolve, so I had to clear out the things I’d outgrown.

Trust the Process

When I think of the process of transitioning, I imagine a field of crops. First that field has to be empty, right? The farmer tills the land and prepares it for planting. He tends to the seedlings as they grow, and eventually the field yields a great harvest. The process is key to the success of the crop. In life, it can feel uncomfortable when our proverbial ground is empty. We panic thinking, “oh no, what are we planting! I need the fruit!” But these steps have to happen if we want to grow and evolve. Transitioning from the comfortable and familiar into unknown, but fertile ground isn’t failure. It’s growth! Change is necessary. 

How have I gotten to this point in my career? It’s been a long, storied road. But none of it would have been possible if I wasn’t willing to transition from one thing to the next…over and over again. Am I always 100% certain of what tomorrow brings? Absolutely not. But it’s always an adventure and lesson in perseverance and having a willingness to stretch. That’s valuable. Welcome the journey. It will be worth it.