Kate Arends refuses to be boxed in. In a landscape that pushes us to market ourselves as brands, she resists limiting her identity to a single niche. Why try to condense our desires, personalities, and achievements into a brief pitch when those moments can't capture our full essence?
Through her various roles—designer, mother, founder, and creative director of Wit & Delight—Kate has crafted a brand that celebrates beauty. Her stunning visuals and thoughtful content radiate an artistic touch that encourages others to find their own joy.
Scrolling through Instagram is an experience unlike typical influencer feeds. Kate's posts don't aim for unattainable aspiration; instead, they invite us to see that with a shift in perspective, we can all uncover the same enchantment she enjoys.
Waking Up with Kate Arends
Her originality shines through in her St. Paul home, featuring woodland-themed wallpaper, plush velvet couches, and color palettes that reflect her keen eye. We connected with Kate on a snowy Monday, and her home proved to be a cozy retreat from the chilly weather.
Having run a business for years, I've learned that it doesn't get easier; you just grow accustomed to the discomfort.
Kate embodies the idea that success looks different for everyone. As an early blogger in the design field, she's navigated the ups and downs of creating a career online. With partnerships at major retailers like Target, Anthropologie, and West Elm, one might assume she spends endless hours at her desk. Yet, Kate prioritizes exercise, outdoor time, and quality moments with her family.
Curious about her secrets? We sat down with Kate to discover how she balances her creative career while keeping her days flowing smoothly.
Can you share your journey as an entrepreneur?
Crazy? Always changing? After years in business, I understand that challenges don't vanish; you become more comfortable managing them. I appreciate the resilience this journey fosters in me. I strive for a blend of flexibility and structure in my schedule, and I'm grateful for the ongoing learning opportunities that arise in my work.
What's the biggest lesson you've learned recently?
I've realized I don't have to do everything. I used to keep every door open for opportunities, but I now understand that when everything seems significant, it's tough to know what truly matters. So, I've been saying no more often.
Describe your personal style in a few words.
Classic with a touch of whimsy.
What does a typical day look like for you?
6-8 am: I wake up at 6 to work out, then get the kids ready for school. If possible, I catch up on emails during this time.
8:30-11 am: I aim for 90 minutes of focused work, which can involve designing or planning home projects like choosing colors or product selections. Some days, I dedicate this time to writing for Wit & Delight and my newsletter, House Call.
11 am-3 pm: Lunch and meetings fill this time. I often have consultations on Tuesdays and Thursdays, alongside planning sessions with my team and new business calls.
3-5 pm: I shoot content for our platforms or tackle whatever project is a priority that week.
5-8 pm: Family time!
8-10 pm: I read or catch up on emails.
What time do you wake up, and how much sleep do you get?
I wake up at 6 am, usually in bed by 9 pm and asleep by 10 or 10:30 pm after some reading.
What's the first thing you do in the morning?
I drink water and begin my workout, alternating between pilates, HIIT, and strength training.
What rituals do you practice for success?
My routines have varied greatly over the years. I've found flexibility in timing is crucial, but I maintain strict priorities to keep life running smoothly. This means committing to daily movement for both mental and physical health, focusing on deep work, and spending quality time with loved ones. Everything else can wait. A sustainable routine is key.
Flexibility in time is essential, but you must be strict about what facilitates a smooth life.
Walk us through your morning beauty routine.
I brush my teeth, cleanse with Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser, and apply SkinCeuticals vitamin C serum. I follow with Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen mixed with Drunk Elephant bronzing drops, then I do my makeup.
Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser
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Shop NowWhat's your breakfast routine?
I start with hot water and lemon, then coffee, and usually have an apple or oatmeal (¼ cup oats in ¾ cup water, simmer five minutes, topped with flax seeds, hemp seeds, maple syrup, and walnuts).
What staples are in your refrigerator?
Fresh herbs, kale, quality cheese, eggs, olives, salami, a variety of mustards, pickled vegetables, and big containers of beans and rice for easy meals.
What are your essential morning rituals?
Coffee and my skincare routine are non-negotiable.
What books do you love?
My favorites shift, but here are a few I've read multiple times:
- Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
- Atomic Habits by James Clear
- Normal People by Sally Rooney
What's on your nightstand?
Nivea Creme, Bag Balm, whatever book I'm reading, and my AirPods.
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Shop NowShop NowWhat's your go-to getting-ready playlist?
Recently, I've enjoyed listening to Midnights by Taylor Swift, though I'm always creating playlists and sharing recommendations.
Do you exercise in the morning?
Yes, I aim for at least 30 minutes, rotating between HIIT, pilates, and cycling. I also try to walk for an hour three times a week, though in winter, I often walk in the afternoon due to the cold.
What's your daily outfit?
I work from home but still dress for the day. In winter, my go-to outfit is a cream babaà sweater, Levi's vintage 501s, red socks, and black loafers.
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Shop NowIf you had an extra hour each morning, how would you spend it?
I'd read, write, or design just for my own enjoyment.
What are a couple of daily habits that bring you joy?
There's never enough time to accomplish everything, so I concentrate on what truly matters. Sometimes that means stepping away from emails or tossing the to-do list. I reflect on what I can do to build the future I want for my family, which clarifies my priorities. Time can feel limited, but it can also sharpen focus.
If you could attribute your success to one thing, what would it be?
Persisting in believing in myself and being open to change.
Sentence Finishers:
I never leave home without: my wallet.
If I had more hours in the day, I would: foster curiosity—exploring nature, visiting museums, and playing with my kids.
Healthiest morning habit: appreciating each new day.
Worst morning habit: thinking I must adhere to a rigid routine for success.
I want to be known for: my compassion and courage.
My greatest fear: not equipping my children for adulthood.
When I feel that fear, I: remind myself that setting a good example is the best approach.
Recommended book: Atomic Habits.
Essential trait for success: resilience.
Bath or shower? What's your favorite product? I prefer baths, but currently don't have one! I love this conditioning rinse by R+Co.
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