Your platform, Caitlin Confidential, is rooted in thoughtful hosting, seasonal slow-living, and the small things that make life beautiful. How has your brand remained rooted in this foundation and how do you envision its evolution?

I think now, more than ever, it is essential to find small daily moments that can ground us in our complicated world. Curating joy in the simple details of life is fulfilling, and a practice that I hope to inspire in my readers.

On the question of evolving, I’m going to be sharing something soon that I’ve been working on for over a year. I have carefully thought out every detail involved and I can’t wait to see how it expands the impact of my platform!

Tell us what a typical day-in-the-life looks like for you.

Each day is different, but my mornings are always the same. I’m an early riser and start my day with the ritual of a pour-over coffee, using freshly ground beans, of course! After that, I take my golden retriever, Theo, on a long walk around the neighborhood. Twice a week I go to my local farmers market and pick up produce for meals. After that, it varies a bit! My days usually entail a mix of shooting projects, running to the flower market or gathering props, as well as content editing, answering emails, and making phone calls. Lately, I’ve also been spending a lot of time preparing for the launch of my new product. More on that later! I cook dinner most evenings, usually a seasonal pasta or soup with a salad.

You’re passionate about seasonal, slow living. What can you share about the ways that this philosophy comes through in the experiences that you create?

Living in alignment with the seasons has many grounding benefits. Going to the local farmers market can serve as a connection to the origins of our food and the people who tend to its growth. It’s really beautiful when you start to notice how the local produce reflects the subtle shifts in the seasons. You can discover which produce is in season and enjoy the unique flavors each time of year has to offer. In spring, seeing those first vibrant green English peas always gets me thinking about how I can use them in a dish. Likewise, I wait all year for peak-season peaches to arrive. In a world where we are more and more disconnected than ever — from nature and from each other — as we spend all day on our devices, I believe that living in harmony with the seasons draws us back into the present moment.

Do you have any hosting tips or tricks you could share with us?

Lighting is an essential part of creating that picture-perfect ambiance! I always have beeswax candles burning on the table and throughout the house. Their warm glow and soft honey scent sets the coziest mood. I am also lucky enough to have a fireplace. I look forward to the colder months here in Southern California so that I can light a fire.

What do you think makes a gathering truly special?

My hosting philosophy is centered around the curation of thoughtful details. Treating your guests to a home-cooked meal, setting a beautiful table, and lighting candles are all things that can make a gathering a bit more special. It’s as simple as that!

We’re thrilled to share your Perfect Roast Chicken recipe. What makes this dish ideal for autumnal hosting?

In my opinion, you can never go wrong with a great roast chicken, and it’s actually what I make in place of turkey for Thanksgiving! I have made this recipe so many times. The key to a really good roast chicken is letting it dry out in the fridge on a sheet pan after seasoning it really well. I like to prepare it the day before it’s cooked, but even doing these two things a few hours before it’s cooked can make a big difference.

Favorite way to relax and unwind?

Getting a massage is my ultimate luxury. I also love taking baths.

One product that’s always in your bag?

I always carry my favorite lip balm and a pair of Joyce Chen scissors.

Favorite playlist?

I’m loving this playlist I recently created, “Music To: Cook To”

Favorite place to visit to spark inspiration?

The wine country in Napa and Sonoma will always have my heart. So much about it inspires me!

Favorite space in your home?

No surprise here — the kitchen! It’s an endless source of joy and creativity for me.