How These Lifestyle and Beauty Brand Founders Are Celebrating Thanksgiving
The festive season looks very different from that of last year. This Thanksgiving holiday brings with it a much-needed respite from work and the demands of everyday life, and the chance to spend some quality time with loved ones now that we are able to safely meet and gather with family and friends.
There are, of course, different ways to celebrate the holiday, whether it’s a formal family sit-down dinner or a casual Friendsgiving get-together. But if you’ve ever been curious about how others are spending their Thanksgiving, you’re not alone. The Folklore asked some of our designers to share how they are celebrating, their favorite traditions and what they are thankful for this year.
Maia Alejandro, founder of FOR TMRW
Maia Alejandro is the founder of FOR TMRW, a New York-based lifestyle house rooted in the idea that color can improve your wellbeing. FOR TMRW’s collections are grounded in color psychology, interwoven with influences from design, art, photography and modern culture. The brand specializes in non-toxic nail care that is also long-lasting, luxurious and a modern take on classic colors. Below, Alejandro tells us what she’s up to this Thanksgiving.
How will you be spending Thanksgiving this year?
This year my entire family is gathering together for the first time post-Covid. Family from abroad will be here in NYC and I am hoping it is a special, restorative time for my family as a whole. We are gathering at my mother’s home in Washington Heights—we’ll be dancing and eating all day!
Do you have any Thanksgiving or holiday traditions? What must your Thanksgiving always have?
We do a Caribbean-inspired version of Thanksgiving. There is always rice and beans because no Caribbean meal is complete without it. Someone also always brings Coquito, a Puerto Rican eggnog, to start off the holiday season right.
What is your favorite holiday memory?
My favorite holiday memories are with my brother sneaking a piece of my grandmother’s pernil out of the oven without her noticing!
What is your favorite part of the holiday season?
I love decorating for the holidays. I really enjoy the scent of a natural Christmas tree and the sparkling lights. My daughters’ are now old enough to appreciate a Christmas tree, so I’m looking forward to decorating with them this year.
What are you thankful for in 2021?
In 2021 I am most thankful for the moments of laughter, dancing and eating with those I love. My best friend lives abroad and I was recently able to see her for the first time in two years. There’s nothing like experiencing a joyful moment with my soul family to make me feel whole again.
Chinonye Akunne, founder of Ilera Apothecary
Chinonye Akunne is a self-proclaimed “person that loves life”. The serial entrepreneur own a few businesses including Ilera Apothecary. The beauty brand offers a range of plant-based skincare products infused with ethically sourced natural ingredients to nurture, soothe and heal.
How will you be spending Thanksgiving this year?
I started Thanksgiving a week early and hosted a Friendsgiving event in Detroit with friends. We had an amazing time with great food, good music and amazing vibes. For Thanksgiving day, I will be traveling to Texas to spend time with my brother and cousins. We’ll be visiting extended family.
Do you have any Thanksgiving or holiday traditions? What must your Thanksgiving always have?
I usually spend Thanksgiving in Ohio, which is where I grew up. There aren’t many traditions that I stick with. However, I must have a slice of apple pie and turkey.
What is your favorite holiday memory?
My favorite memory has to be growing up with my entire family in the house at one time. My siblings and I all live in different parts of the world and have not all been under one roof for the holiday in about six years. We do FaceTime as a group every year, which is a new tradition we are starting.
What are you thankful for in 2021?
I am thankful that I’ve been able to push through the adversity I’ve gone though. I’m thankful my spirit is still bright and that I am healthy.
