amanda is a natural beauty in every sense of the word. warm, welcoming and incredibly talented, she is simultaneously the girl next door and the ultimate girl crush. 

whether it’s her skilled makeup applications at Ivy Wild or her behind the scenes Instagram footage of artfully-plated home cooked meals and vibrant plant life, amanda brings her innate style and artistic sensibility to everything that she touches. 

take a look into amanda’s world–what fuels her, inspires her, and keeps her well-rounded. 

name: Amanda Santoro 

occupation: Operations + Store Manager at Ivy Wild 

social: @pandasantoro

dc neighborhood: Columbia Heights

what is the first thing that you do when you wake up

Give my dog a good cuddle, check on the well-being of my plants, drink coffee on my deck, then go to the dog park (more of a morning ritual than the first thing I do!) 

what is your morning beverage of choice (tonic, tincture, coffee, smoothie, etc.)

Most of the time it’s coffee. Sometimes, I follow up with a nutritional smoothie.

do you have one non-negotiable daily ritual

My in-depth skincare routine!

do you have a regular movement practice

Probably dancing. 

what is your favorite DC destination

I’ve been in DC for 8 years and have a lot of spots I love. I recently found a new appreciation for plants, so I’d say any local plant shop or the National Arboretum. Also, I spend a lot of time at work (Ivy Wild) and it’s honestly one of my favorite spaces in DC! Favorite food/drink destinations are Maydan and No Kisses.

how do you set your conditions for a life well lived

I like to be as present as possible and really stay in tune with what I need from myself – physically or mentally. Whether that be alone time, exercise, changing my diet, etc. Surrounding myself with intellectual, open minded individuals is important and removing unsupportive and narrow minded people from my life. This has significantly improved my mental well being. 

what products are in your current rotation?

Gosh, so many! I’m very loyal when I find products I love too! 
– Beauty – the entire Kosas line, and Sans Ceuticals Face and Body Oil
– Kitchen – Nutritional Yeast – I will add this to anything! Gotta get in my B-12.  
– Medicine Cabinet – Wthn Daily Supplements. I really like their Run the – World vitamin – gives me just the boost of energy I need on a slow day.

any other book, podcast and/or music recommendations

I’m very into music and have built a 600+ song playlist on Spotify of all my faves. My current rotation includes Polo and Pan, Kevin Morby, Tame Impala & Fela Kuti. But really, anything with a good beat. 

how do you unwind in the evening:

You can find me sitting on my back deck with a glass of wine, tunes and always a little bit of weed to relieve any stressors of the day 

I’m very into music and have built a 600+ song playlist on Spotify of all my faves. My current rotation includes Polo and Pan, Kevin Morby, Tame Impala & Fela Kuti. But really, anything with a good beat. 

do you have any go-to self-care practices

For the most part, I listen to myself. If I need to have a low key night and spend time with myself – I do it. If I want a huge plate of french fries for dinner – I eat it. If I’m feeling creative and need to paint or express myself in some way – I do it! 

what is your food philosophy

Food, for me, is all about balance and is guilt free. Generally, I eat very healthy but don’t limit myself if I really want to eat a slice of pizza.

what is your guilty pleasure(s)

Currently, it’s red wine and plants! 

how would you describe your personal aesthetic

Oh gosh, this is a tough one! This might even change daily depending on my mood. But I enjoy a balance of classy, edgy, earthy, and unique aesthetics. Also, low maintenance. 

what is your sacred or most prized possession

My 3-year-old adopted cattle dog mix, Pi. She’s the most special thing in my life. 

favorite place to travel or dream travel destination

Anywhere with a beach. I grew up in Florida and miss being within 30 minutes of the ocean. 

season of choice

I love summer…especially in DC. Just walking down the street you can tell the mood is different and more positive. I had no idea what SAD (seasonal affective disorder) was until I moved to DC. Generally speaking, people tend to feel depressed in the summer, but I’m the opposite – I thrive! Perhaps it’s the Floridian in me. 

any hidden talents

Does juggling count? I taught myself how to juggle in college for extra credit in a psychology class. The purpose was to prove you can train your mind to do anything. 

do you have a current obsession

Have I mentioned my love of plants?…

where do you seek inspiration / what or who inspires you

Everywhere! People, places. Gosh, I draw inspiration from everything! I try to surround myself with inspiring women who are taking steps to follow their personal dreams and goals. Style also inspires me to step out of my comfort zone a little bit and dress for the mood I’m in that day. Other things that inspire me: food, design, art, and my older sister who gives the world’s best advice.

what is one thing you would go back and tell your younger self

don’t be so critical of yourself and you will make it through the toughest of times.

thank you for taking the time to answer these questions! you inspire me. <3