From Meg’s Desk: March Updates

March always feels like a month in motion. Between travel, fabric swatches, and the first real hints of spring, there’s a quiet shift happening — both at home and behind the scenes at Cailíní Coastal.

Here’s a look at what I’ve been up to lately, what’s inspiring me, and a few little things making everyday life feel a bit more beautiful.

Swatching Season

I’ve been busy swatching this month, and my home office floor is currently covered in fabric samples — a scene I actually love.

With our upholstery launch just days away, plus fresh table linens, pillows, and wallpaper designs in the works, we’ve been sourcing and creating so many beautiful new textiles. There’s a very real moment in every launch where everything feels slightly chaotic before it comes together. This is that moment.

And I wouldn’t trade it.

A Mid-Winter Escape

We snuck away to Florida recently, and it was exactly what we needed.

I always love visiting Hive Palm Beach. Between the home store, apparel boutique, kids’ shop, and restaurant, it’s truly the perfect afternoon destination. It’s colorful, layered, and joyful in a way that Palm Beach does so well.

Palm Beach can certainly be quite the scene, with so many fabulous and trendy restaurants. But to be honest, that’s usually the opposite of what I’m looking for. I prefer somewhere with amazing food that’s relaxed enough to comfortably bring the kids. We love Henry's Palm Beach for exactly that reason — consistently delicious and wonderfully unfussy.

Flowers at Home (While I Wait for Spring)

This isn’t the most compelling season for fresh florals in Connecticut, so my home is entirely full of artificial ones at the moment.

Many rooms are still set from our spring photoshoot, and I’m not mad about it. When you walk through the front door, you see the living room layered with ranunculus, delphinium, and tulips — and it instantly lifts my mood. I’m very ready for real spring, but for now, this is getting me through.

What I’ve Been Reading & Watching

I’m not a big TV watcher, but I’ve been absolutely loving Love Story — such a beautiful and fascinating look into JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s romance. It’s romantic, yes, but also incredibly tragic.

I also just finished The Ride of a Lifetime by Bob Iger and found it both inspiring and grounding. As a business owner and a longtime admirer of the Disney brand, it was a compelling reminder that vision and discipline can coexist.

Little Winter Survival Rituals

I struggle with Northeast winters. Truly. I’m always counting down to warmer days.

To get through it, I focus on creating a soothing environment at home. Mellow background music — usually Bossa Nova, Diana Krall, or Louis Armstrong. A few great-smelling candles (I’m currently loving Jenni Kayne’s Mandeville scent). The fireplace going whenever possible. My motto: limited to no overhead lighting, and soak up every bit of natural daylight you can find.

Last year we installed a Clearlight Infrared Sauna, and it has been one of my favorite home investments ever. It’s been a lifesaver during these colder months — both mentally and physically.

A Recipe I Had to Try

I saw this “boyfriend breakfast” on Gwyneth Paltrow’s Instagram and immediately wanted to recreate it. I swapped in chicken sausage and it was so good — filling, simple, and actually nutritious. Exactly the kind of meal I love this time of year.

Homes That Inspire Me Most

Living in New England means being surrounded by so much architectural charm. I’m endlessly inspired by the historic properties here in Connecticut and in Nantucket — the scale, the restraint, the landscaping.

I especially love following Patrick Ahearn and Christian Daw for their perfectly timeless New England designs. They both have a way of honoring tradition while making spaces feel fresh and livable.

What I’m Buying Now

On our Florida getaway, I realized I needed new coverups and picked up two from Tuckernuck (here and here) that I know I’ll live in all summer.

We recently stayed at Bedford Post Inn, and they had the chicest bath products from Sangre de Fruta. I ordered them for all of our guest rooms at home — it gave each bathroom an instant hotel-like upgrade.

I don’t wear a lot of makeup, and my hair is almost always pulled back. I’ve been loving Iris & Romeo Weekend Skin SPF 50 for a subtle glow with SPF and vitamin C — perfect if you’re not someone who wears much makeup.

Because I wear my hair back so often, it was starting to break. Adding the K-18 hair mask into my routine has been a game changer.

And as I’ve entered my 40s, I’ve started paying more attention to skincare beyond my face. SkinBetter’s Alpharet Body has been incredibly effective for tone and texture.

Lastly, my sun hats had become a cluttered mess in my closet. I bought simple hat stands to organize them, and it’s one of those small fixes that makes everyday life feel calmer.

March is always a bridge month — between seasons, between ideas and execution. There’s a lot happening behind the scenes, and I can’t wait to share more in the weeks ahead.

Until then, I’ll be here swatching fabrics, lighting candles, and counting down to spring!

xo Meg