“Sliding head first  is the safest way to get to the next base, and the fastest.  You don’t lose momentum, and there is one more reason I slide headfirst, it gets my picture in the paper.” – Pete Rose

That kind of momentum takes courage.  It takes faith.  It turns a blind eye to thoughtful contemplation, which might lead to a logical, risk free path.  Which just might lead you nowhere fast.  To a place that isn’t new, that doesn’t inspire, that won’t challenge.

Erin Gates at home showcasing her signature leopard print.

When I consider Boston-based designer Erin Gates I think of some serious momentum.  I admire it in such an enormous way, and frankly it isn’t limited to Erin, but to people that have the courage to defy common wisdom, to launch into uncharted waters, even if they are only certain that the current pool they are in, doesn’t suit their temperament, but aren’t at all sure which pool will.

Velvet pillows with Key Fret Detailing under $100.  Erin Gates Collection for Wayfair and AllModern.

Art Gallery Manager, Fashion Stylist, Event Planner, and Interior Design Assistant, from what I’ve read it doesn’t appear that Erin’s early jobs where anything but that – a job.  When she launched out on her our, I bet she didn’t imagine that she’d become a business mogul.  An author and publisher of multiple books – her first Elements of Style is an amuse bouche for the eye, her second, out soon will surely be as delicious.  She has collaborated on jewelry design with M. Flynn in Boston’s South End, pottery with Jill Rosenwald, also of Boston, she provides her own fine art pieces to accent spaces when the occasion calls, and her latest venture has her teaming with Wayfair and AllModern to produce a line of home goods.  Her blog – http://www.elementsofstyle.com provide a sneak peak of what she had to offer.

Juniper & Moss . Follow her on Instagram…it’s worth it.

While I think of her signature pattern being a leopard print, and admire the joie de vive it took to put aa stair runner in the front entry of her suburban home in the same, her book jacket which captures my attention.  The bold white and black stripes are distinct and instantly recognizable.  Whomever came up with it should be given a prize.  It’s brilliant, I spy it in dozens of Instagram photos, and it always makes me smile.

Look for the collection on its release 5 October 2015, and visit her blog for additional information on her signature collection.