I’m an ideas guy. Now and forever, amen. So much so that (my fiancé) Darren may or may not have a code word to get my attention because I’m so often off in another place — thinking, dreaming, scheming. (The code word is “HARK!” in case you’re trying to get through to me and I’m […]

Welcome to this week’s edition of “Things I probably shouldn’t publicly admit!” Last time, we covered my newly-discovered bulk seed secret. Today, I’m going a little deeper into self-analysis, and the results involve lamps, bagels, and my mom’s labor and delivery doctor (just… go with it, okay?). So, here’s something you should about me: I’m a […]

We heard you loud and clear: MORE simple tips that help you look or work a little sexier online… to prove we can take a hint: 01. Remove Backgrounds from any Image in One-Click TONIC designer + SEO expert Ryan showed us an amazing free online app this week and blew our MINDS. No more spending hours […]

For today’s story, which is actually about stories, we have three bonus surprises to help you tell yours better: I grew up on a 242-acre ostrich ranch (more on that next time, I swear), in a dusty Central Texas horse town filled with cowboys wearing skinny jeans LONG before the world was ready… where the best example […]

Fun fact: about a year ago, we were contemplating ending our newsletter. Yes, the newsletter that now gets feedback like THIS every week: (Read on to see what’s changed) At the time, it had started to feel, honestly, a little like a chore to brainstorm, prep, write and send a newsletter every week, and while we knew […]

Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, a summery, delicious taco bar — and the #tonicapproved drinks to accompany it, of course —with the secret components we use to take ours over the top every time. There are very few dishes that satisfy our love of family-style, design-your-own entertaining like tacos. Guests are free to […]

If you’ve ever been bummed out by your own email signature, here’s our tale of woe and how we finally fixed it in about three minutes.

Hey, Friend. So, how’s your week going? Uh, yeah. Us, too. We know for many this is the first week of a new normal. Maybe you’re suddenly working from home, sans your typical office, or maybe your kids are home from school for the foreseeable future. Either way, things seem unsettled and WEIRD right now, and […]

Is it just us or is a Friday the 13th that also falls just weeks before Christmas extra ironic? The to-do lists, unstuffed stockings, unwrapped (okay, un-bought) presents, and those year-end deadlines just looming over your head like, “oh heyyyy, I’m still heeeeere.” Before we can really slow down this holiday season, we have to wrap up […]

2020 Note: This post was originally published last year — we know you likely won’t be hosting this year, but believe good food, delish drinks, and great company make a holiday wonderful regardless of the party size. Jeff’s ordering in a Thanksgiving meal kit from his favorite chef, and Jen’s added a few make-ahead / […]