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In the dynamic world of interior design, a trend known as " bookshelf wealth " is gaining momentum as the first interior design trend of 2024. This concept goes beyond just aesthetics and dives into the world of curated literature that elevates bookshelves, offering a glimpse into the passions and interests of homeowners and renters alike. “Bookshelf Wealth for 2024 is all about embracing a cozy and lived-in look rather than the super sleek and minimalistic vibes we've been seeing.” Said Kelleigh Beckett of ImperfectHomemaking.com . “Art and other treasures now share center stage with your book collection. It's the kind of shelf that never gets old and isn't done but has been growing and changing over time.” Ally Boldan Ally Boldan “‘Bookshelf wealth’ may be picking up steam because we're oversaturated with the same old inspiration,” says Halie Porter, Founder & Lead Designer at Swann Street Interiors, suggesting that "bookshelf wealth" is on the rise due to oversaturation with conventional inspiration. She notes, "Just as individuals curate their content or social media feed to convey a certain vibe, people are now curating their homes to reflect their interests. Each book or object becomes a Pin on their real-life mood board." Valerie de la Rosa of The Weary Educator adds, "Coffee table books are not only visually stunning but also narrate captivating stories about various facets of life." The selection of coffee table books is a highly personal choice. Your coffee table books should display your interests, so there's no linear path you should take, and the opportunities to curate your collection are endless. Porter states that the average coffee table book is typically at least 9” x 11” and at least 1” thick. HOT TIP: Opt in for a hardcover over a paperback book to achieve a more put-together look. As for me, I started collecting coffee table books in 2019. I was in college and had just moved into my first off campus house, I let my passion for interior design absolutely run wild. As I started to pick out pieces of furniture, it was apparent to me that something had to cover all that surface space, and I was going to make sure it was enticing. Coffee table books became my go-to. I realized how much the presence of eye-catching books adds to a space. They offer an immersive experience. With stunning covers and flipping through high-quality printed pages, it’s a special way to experience new and familiar realms of knowledge with a sense of nostalgia. How to Achieve “Bookshelf Wealth”: DKT Interior Design DKT Interior Design DKT Interior Design DKT Interior Design Porter stated that unlike the name “bookshelf wealth” would imply, it’s crucial to layer in objects other than books very intentionally. Anything from prints, mirrors, candles, vases, decorative trays, baskets, and trinkets are all welcome party guests. You need rich components to achieve “bookshelf wealth.” Over the past five years, curating my visual bookshelf collection involved extensive research and introspection…they’re part of my space, which is an extension of myself. I spend a lot of time appreciating my collection each day (maybe because I have 25+ in my apartment and they’re everywhere, so I have to…not to mention I have an inordinate amount of trinkets); but when I spend that much time appreciating something, I want to make sure it aligns with my passions and eclectic aesthetic. Personal Bookshelf I fell in love with ASSOULINE’s “ Travel Collection ” and became determined to collect volumes from places I've visited. My collection continues to grow, with each book becoming a treasured possession. In the ever-evolving interior design landscape, the "bookshelf wealth" trend signifies more than a design choice—it's a curated reflection of one's identity. Celebrate the artistry within the pages of each carefully chosen volume. “I like to layer by size like on my bookshelf, the biggest books at the bottom going in a pyramid granting to small little books. For my coffee table, I like to layer and fan out the pieces,” said Ally Boldan. Now, for a special treat, presenting Dhilnawaaz Trotman's complete guide to "Bookshelf Wealth." Look for publications from renowned publishers such as: Rizzoli , Taschen , Abrams , the publisher of choice for Vogue, ASSOULINE , and artists like Gray Malin and Slim Aarons . Beckett had this to say on some of the top coffee table books to look out for: “ The Family of Man " filled with incredible photographs celebrating the human condition by Edward Steichen from 1955, or Yann Arthus-Bertrand's " Earth from Above " for those mind-blowing aerial photographs of life on Earth and the changes wrought by our very existence on it. But frankly, with "bookshelf wealth," it's less about what you fill them with than how you style them, right? Personal Bookshelf

Vincent Zurzolo, a prominent figure in the world of comics and collectibles, has carved a unique path. In this exclusive email interview, Zurzolo sheds light on pivotal moments that led him to establish iconic establishments like Metropolis and ComicConnect. Additionally, he reflects on his personal journey as a collector of both comics and art, shares insights into the challenges of the industry, and discusses his views on the translation of comic stories to the film medium. “I’ve loved comics since I was a kid. I started dealing [them] at 15 and kept going. After college I sold comics on the streets of Manhattan, conventions and out of my apartment.” Following Zurzolo’s early days in Manhattan, he merged his company in 1999 with Stephen Fishler and continue to operate under the name Metropolis . Together, they formed ComicConnect in 2007, further solidifying their presence in the industry. As an avid collector of art, Zurzolo reveals that his all-time favorite piece is the cover art to Amazing Adventures 11 . This piece holds sentimental value, as it connects him to his childhood. He told News Nuggets in an email “I remember reading my big brothers’ copy as a kid and finding it simply incredible. When the cover came up for sale at auction my heart raced the entire week until the end and I won it.” “I collect certain artists like Frank Frazetta , Gil Kane , Bill Everett , Stephen Platt and Todd McFarlane . I also collect characters I really like: Wolverine, Spider-Man, The Flash and Batman” he said. One of the significant challenges in the comic market, according to Zurzolo, is sourcing great material. However, with a stellar reputation and longstanding relationships with collectors worldwide, he emphasizes that his extensive network has been instrumental in overcoming this challenge. There was a time where he faced an internal struggle, he was offered the original cover art to Famous Funnies 215 by Frank Frazetta, “some of the most highly collected comics around” he noted, something that is nearly impossible to acquire. Despite having been saving up for a house, Zurzolo chose to invest in the rare Frazetta piece, a decision he has never regretted. “When would I have another opportunity to buy a Frazetta. I bought it and have never regretted it.” Zurzolo believes that comics can “educate, entertain, and offer escapism.” Reflecting on the challenges and rewards of tackling taboo topics in comics, he acknowledges that the landscape has evolved over the years. In 2023, Zurzolo, along with his writing partner, David Quinn, launched his first comic book, “The Addiction,” which explores themes of drug addiction and abuse. When asked about comic book characters or storylines he would like to see adapted into film, Zurzolo expressed interest in seeing The Addiction, Deathlok, Badger, The Question, Nexus, Saga, and a new Conan movie “done right.” While discussing how recent trends in comic book themes have influenced his business strategies, Zurzolo emphasizes the evolution of vintage comic trends, highlighting their dependence on changing tastes, perceived value, and effective marketing. Zurzolo, fan of the first Blade movie, appreciates the blend of dialogue, direction, fight choreography, and casting that makes it an enjoyable experience. Nostalgically, he holds the first Superman and 1989 Batman close to his heart, as well as Captain America: The Winter Soldier. “In my mind, if you take the superhero aspects out of the movie it still reads as a great action, thrill ride, and suspenseful movie in the same vein as many 1970s spy movies.” The son of Italian immigrants, Zurzolo, revealed his love for cooking. Had he not pursued a career in comics and collectibles, he envisioned himself following in his father's footsteps as a chef and restaurateur. Of course, we asked the most important question, how he enjoys his chicken nuggets, to which he replied that though he is not an avid consumer, he definitely indulges on special occasions. “Food is love and I love to cook. I know if I wasn’t selling comics I would be cooking something somewhere.” Zurzolo continues to leave a prominent mark as a collector, entrepreneur, and advocate for the comic book industry. His journey from his childhood love of comics to the establishment of Metropolis and ComicConnect is a testament to his unwavering passion for the art form.

N: A lot of little girls dabble in beauty growing up. Can you recall any particular moment that led to you becoming a beauty editor? H: I always knew I’d be a writer, but I never knew how my career would take shape. I always enjoyed reading beauty magazines and experimenting with products, but becoming a beauty editor wasn’t something I envisioned in high school or even my first year of college. In trying to figure out my place in media, I wrote about various topics (ranging from fitness to fashion) to see what I was most passionate about. However, once I landed my internship at Byrdie, I knew I was meant to be a beauty journalist. You can tell so many powerful stories through beauty, and getting to do this every day sparks so much joy for me. And for me, following joy in my personal and professional life is what I strive to do. N: Your journey at Byrdie began as an intern and has since seen significant growth. Can you elaborate more on your journey? H: I started my journey at Byrdie as an intern in 2019. After that, I continued to write for the brand as a freelance writer and later returned the following summer for a second internship. Once that concluded, I joined the team as a freelance news writer until I graduated from Georgia State University in December 2020 and accepted a full-time offer as an associate editor. A year later, I was promoted to editor. I’m very proud to have accomplished my goal of becoming an editor at 21, but I always remind myself that realizing this dream took years of hard work and consistency. I landed my first editorial internship at 14 with an organization called Pretty Girls Sweat (formerly Teen Diaries), and from then on, I continued to find ways to sharpen my writing, editing, and interviewing skills in an effort to get to where I am today. N: Through your role, what changes or improvements do you hope to bring to the beauty industry? H: I’m proud to take up space in the beauty industry because it allows me to celebrate and amplify the stories of so many incredible Black and Brown founders, influencers, and celebrities. Since I was an intern, I’ve focused on highlighting Black-owned products, looking at beauty news through a cultural context, and spotlighting incredible Black people in beauty. Doing this work will always be my central focus, and in doing so, I hope I’m helping people of color feel more seen in the beauty industry. It’s also important to note that part of my motivation stems from the fact that there are so many Black women who came before me in this industry and opened the door for me to be here. Because of this, I feel it’s my responsibility to continue in their trailblazing footsteps and show young writers of color they can make their dreams come true in media and use their platform to make a difference. N: You’ve met so many incredible individuals throughout your time as a beauty editor; no need to pick favorites ;), but what valuable life lessons have you gleaned from these encounters that have had a lasting impact on you? H: The most valuable lesson I’ve learned from these encounters is to be intentional about not letting my work consume or define me. It’s easy to let professional accomplishments completely influence how we view ourselves and shape our sense of worth. However, I’m constantly reminded how important it is to recognize that my work isn’t all I am and that I shouldn’t base my value on how well I’m doing in my field. Of course, I’m incredibly proud of all I’ve done, but how I’m evolving as a person and contributing positively to other people’s lives is what matters most. N: What beauty products do you always have with you and consider essential in your daily routine? H: I always keep Ami Colé’s Lip Treatment Oil, Dior Le Baume, Ellis Brooklyn’s Vanilla Milk Eau de Parfum, and a Bread Beauty Supply Scrunchie in my bag. N: Award-winning products don't always suit everyone. What guidance would you offer to individuals experimenting with different products, emphasizing the importance of understanding their skin's unique needs? H: As a beauty editor, I am grateful that part of my job is to test the latest and greatest products. However, I’ve learned to gradually introduce things into my routine to avoid adverse skin reactions. I’d always recommend patch testing, researching if new products are compatible with your existing routine, and experimenting with only one or two new products at a time. And when in doubt, always consult a dermatologist for their expert advice on what your skin needs. N: Are there any exciting new ventures or projects on your horizon? H: This year, I set a goal to write one cover story, and thankfully, I was able to write two. I interviewed the brilliant multihyphenate Yara Shahidi for Byrdie’s March digital issue. And this month, my second cover story with the wonderful actress and entrepreneur Shay Mitchell debuted. So, right now, I’m basking in these 2023 accomplishments and reflecting on the year. However, I hope to bring my podcast, The Hue Report, back next year. N: Lastly, and most importantly, how do you like to enjoy your chicken nuggets? H: With honey mustard, a side of French fries, and a fruit punch with light ice!

N: What inspired you to enter the niche exotic snack industry? A: After graduating University in 2021, I was working in the UK for a professional soccer, or ‘football’ team. I always knew that the British had great chocolate but as I was living there I found myself eating maybe a bit too much chocolate. Eventually, when the COVID virus hit and I was forced to return home to Canada, I found myself missing some of the sweets from back in the UK. During quarantine, I started to look into how I could get some of these snacks brought into Canada for myself, one thing lead to another and Willy Wacky Snacks was created. N: Can you recall the pivotal moment in your early career when you realized you were onto something big? A: I started Willy Wacky Snacks thinking it would be a bit of a side hustle until I could get back over to the UK post COVID. I recall telling my Dad, "if I can make a couple hundred bucks a month doing this during Covid I would be happy." It didn't take long for the TikTok page to grab some traction and our family house to fully fill up with orders. Quite literally... our entire house was filled with boxes of orders every day. In the third month of operation is when I rented my first location exclusively for Willy Wacky Snacks. I think that was probably the point where I thought that maybe I wouldn't be heading back to the UK! N: There are countless intriguing locations in this world and options for snacks, what goes into selecting the products for your business? A: The first thing you have to consider when finding snacks from around the world is the logistics in terms of bringing in the snacks. When I first started the business I sent quite literally thousands of emails and made hundreds of phone calls to people around the world who I thought could help me bring snacks over into Canada from other countries. You have to find the right dancing partners for the whole thing to work, most people in the business don't really want to deal with all the hassles involved in exporting to other countries. Nowadays I am quite a bit more established so I have a lot more people reaching out to me rather than the other way around which makes life much easier. Once the logistics part is sorted I have sort of developed a pretty accurate "THAT'S SO COOL" radar which helps me identify what snacks are worth bringing over. N: How do you stay up to date with evolving consumer preferences and emerging snack trends? A: To be completely honest, I don’t really spend too much time looking into the overall trends and consumer preferences in the general snack/confectionary industry. We are very much sort of in our own lane and have customers that just want the weirdest and hardest to find snacks. These snacks are not meant to replace your regular go-to snacks, but are rather meant to be part of a fun experience. I always tell people that I am not trying to sell these snacks as being "better" than the regular snacks at your local store, after all those snacks are literally manufactured with the North American palette in mind, I am instead selling an experience where whether you like the snack or not, you still had a great time, experienced new flavors and traveled through "food." N: What unique challenges do you face in the exotic snack industry, and how do you overcome them? A: I think the biggest unique challenge that we face pretty regularly is keeping up with some of the demand for some of our most popular products. At this point we have a fairly big group of customers who are always on the lookout and ready to pounce on our newest drops. Unfortunately, due to the nature of the business, many of the snacks we get are "limited edition" and are made in very low quantities. Sometimes this can be frustrating for those who want to try all the latest stuff but through our Email and SMS notifications we try to keep everyone as up to date on drops as possible. N: Describe your general day for us! A: Wake up and immediately hit the emails responding to general enquiries. Then I absolutely have to have my coffee and I drive over from Toronto to the warehouse in Burlington which is about an hour away. I have 6 full time employees right now so I catch up with them in the morning and go over the game plan for the day. If we are behind on orders I will help with picking/packing/labeling orders. If the staff have that under control, I can start doing product research into new snacks that are coming out worldwide and start working on what bringing them into the country would look like. In the afternoon I will usually start working on planning & editing content. Such a huge part of this business is social media. After work when everyone leaves at 5pm I will usually stay about an hour extra to film any content. I get back home around 8pm, go for a run and I finish the day pretty tired! N: Are there any insights that you’d like to share with aspiring entrepreneurs? A: I think that firstly you should figure out your "why?" Make sure you start something you enjoy, are passionate about and believe in! Entrepreneurship is a lot of hard work and can be lonely, especially at the beginning so finding your ‘why’ is going to help you get through all of that! Once you have found your business and your "why," dedicate yourself to it and you will learn so much regardless of whether your business ultimately finds success or not! N: With your impressive TikTok following, do you consider it a cornerstone of your business success? A: Absolutely! TikTok has allowed so many businesses to organically grow and build a customer base! We have never spent a single dollar in paid advertising, we just opened up the doors to our business through TikTok. I try to be as authentic and transparent in my videos as possible! N: Any upcoming partnerships or launches in the pipeline? A: We are having our next restock Nov 10th (today) so we are super excited to share all the new snacks with everybody! We have had a few potential opportunities to run a pop up in either Toronto or LA so that may be something I consider if it's something our customer base is interested in! N: And lastly, the most important question of all: How do you enjoy your chicken nuggets? A: I don't know if this is an unpopular opinion or not but however, McDonalds does them is how I want them haha!

In the world of ghostwriting, where the essence of one's craft is to remain invisible, Dr. Marcia Layton Turner has carved a niche for herself, standing out as a New York Times bestselling ghostwriter. Her journey into the profession and the founding of the Association of Ghostwriters is a testament to her dedication and passion for writing and supporting others in the field. The Genesis of a Ghostwriting Career Dr. Turner's entry into ghostwriting stemmed from an innate ability of her ability to communicate effectively through writing, a skill first exercised in drafting a book for her father to market his paintings. "I didn’t realize it then, but writing a book-length work was an important hurdle I had cleared - proving that I could write something longer than an article," Dr. Turner said via email. Her serendipitous pivot to ghostwriting came after she was discovered by an editor at Macmillan which brought her to become a technical editor. This was her first foray into the world of book publishing, where she quickly made a name for herself as a "fixer" — someone capable of working magic quickly on manuscripts. It wasn't long before she was introduced to the concept of ghostwriting by her agent, following a project where she wrote an entire book based on the author's notes and discussions. Fostering a Community for Ghostwriters Dr. Turner's realization of the solitary nature of ghostwriting led her to establish the Association of Ghostwriters in 2010, "recognizing there was value in having a community to turn to, I established the Association of Ghostwriters... It’s been going strong ever since..." she explains. This initiative has provided a platform for ghostwriters to connect, share experiences, and support each other, enhancing the profession's collective knowledge and camaraderie. A Writing Process Tailored to Each Client Describing her approach to ghostwriting, Dr. Turner emphasizes the bespoke nature of her writing process, which is meticulously tailored to fit each client's preferences and requirements. From detailed discussions, outline creation and chapter drafting, her process is flexible, adaptive, and client-focused. "Each project, like each client, is so different that the writing process stretches and adapts to match each person’s preference for how we work together." She is not just a writer but also a project manager, interviewer, therapist, and consultant. Overcoming Challenges in the Shadows Despite the challenges of ghostwriting, such as "recognition estrangement," Dr. Turner has a positive perspective on her work. She views the books she writes with her clients as theirs, not hers, emphasizing the collaborative nature of ghostwriting. "They could have written them without me, but I couldn’t have written the books without them." Advice for Aspiring Ghostwriters For those looking to break into ghostwriting, Dr. Turner advises starting with smaller projects like articles and blog posts to build credibility and experience. She encourages aspiring ghostwriters to pursue opportunities that may lead to book projects, underscoring the importance of adaptability and the willingness to learn from each experience. A Personal Touch Dr. Turner shared a fondness for how she enjoys her chicken nuggets (the most important question of all!): Dipped in honey.

The Grand Budapest Hotel, IMDB Growing up, I certainly had my fair share of favorite movies, but I don't think ever appreciated them, and remember transitioning my sentiment toward actual films once I peered through through Wes Anderson's lens. It was "The Grand Budapest Hotel" that drew me in. I mean, it's a great film; it was nominated for nine Oscars in 2015. Anderson's work transcends the time periods viewers are currently set in, which is part of what makes him "an auteur," as noted by Stephen Michael Brown, Chief Film Critic at Silver Screen Capture . In one scene, without giving away too much, the two main characters find themselves aboard a sleeper train in the year 1932 with a top and bottom bunk. Inside: there is also a tiny sink, an ordinary over-the-sink mirror, and a small circular swing-arm adjustable mirror. Above that sink, they have placed a very crucial possession, which is the driving factor throughout most of the film. With effortless precision, the first character (Monsieur Gustave) says something to the second character (Zero), who is snuggled up on the bunk above. Zero pops into perfect view in the tiny side mirror – a meticulously orchestrated detail that probably required numerous takes. It's a small, but captivating detail that I've continued to think about, even after watching the film year after year. The Grand Budapest Hotel, IMDB "Few film artists are more distinctive – [in regard to] works recognizable in a split second – than Wes Anderson!" Brown said via email. "There are roomfuls of incidental storylines from murders to jailbreaks, all meticulously crafted in signature manicured Anderson style," he then elaborated. The Royal Tenenbaums, IMDB “[The Royal Tenenbaums] was the first movie I ‘met’ him [Wes Anderson] through,” Nicole Russin-McFarland , film score composer and actress, stated over email. “The story was all about what happens when you get blocked and need a mental push to move ahead. People have always been weird and Hollywood used to disguise that with perfect characters all the time. Wes Anderson is the antithesis…” The Royal Tenenbaums, IMDB Another very common trend among Anderson's films is his exploration of complex relationships between family members and friends. He often highlights dysfunction and rejection, especially with the presence of an unusual or absent patriarch, a constant character that shows up in nearly every film. Anderson sets a weightier tone alongside the whimsy through the reflection of male role models or the lack thereof with his characters. Moonrise Kingdom, IMDB “His attention to detail is what I love most. You can tell that every frame of the film has been planned thoroughly and conveys a deeper meaning than just what you are seeing on-screen.” Said Neil Chase , screenwriter, actor, novelist, and story coach. “From his use of symmetry to countless 'Easter Eggs' and cameos, it is as visually pleasing as it is thematically resonant. There is a playful innocence to his characters and stories but he is always ready to pull the rug out from under you as a viewer, and deliver an emotional gut-punch that you didn't expect.” The Grand Budapest Hotel, IMDB Similar to my own taste, Chase’s favorite film is "The Grand Budapest Hotel". He notes Anderson’s use of “a diverse cast of well-known actors as well as newcomers.” By using a range of talent, while historically having showcased repeat (but loved) faces, it shows his willingness to include up-and-coming talent. The Grand Budapest Hotel, IMDB The tremendous amount of thought that goes into Anderson's distinct visual style, the symmetry, the charming and quirky characters, as well as the color palettes are remarkable. In addition to his inventive storytelling and sets, Anderson always incorporates eclectic soundtracks that complement his storylines. So much so that yea, maybe I DO listen to "The Grand Budapest Hotel" soundtrack while I pick out lemons at the grocery store, it's transcending. "A very Wes Anderson playlist" HUNGER TV (Moonrise Kingdom) Wes Anderson's attention to detail demonstrates his commitment to visual excellence. Beyond aesthetics, Anderson explores complex relationships; and his willingness to blend well-known actors with fresh talent, coupled with thematic resonance and emotional depth, makes him stand out from the rest. His playful innocence, coupled with the readiness to deliver unexpected emotional punches creates a cinematic experience that goes beyond surface charm, leaving a long-lasting impact on viewers. IndieWire