By Casa de Suna
Published Jul 19
WELCOME TO OUR LATEST SERIES, BEHIND THE HEAT WITH CASA PICOSA, WHERE WE DIVE INTO THE ROUTINES OF OUR COMMUNITY AND EXPLORE HOW THEY FIND BALANCE AND INSPIRATION IN THEIR DAILY LIVES.
As the summer sun shines brightly, we’re delighted to share a peek into the life of one of our favorite home enthusiasts, Jessica Manning. Nestled in the vibrant yet tranquil corners of Los Angeles, Jessica finds joy in day trips around Southern California, beach days, and exploring estate sales and flea markets. With a love for the simple pleasures of home life, she shares her journey of turning a new house into a cozy, personalized haven. Discover how she carves out moments to slow down, especially now as she anticipates the arrival of her first child. And get inspired by her go-to summer dishes.
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QUESTION 02What is your favorite summertime tradition?
I love taking day trips and weekenders to different parts of Southern California in the summer. Also, beach days!
QUESTION 02Tell us a bit about your neighborhood or city – what does an ideal day look like for you?
I live in Los Angeles and recently moved a few miles further out to a quieter neighboring area. I'm a true homebody and an ideal day for me is spending a day around the house with nothing but hobbies and interests to dig into. But I also love going to Estate sales and flea markets, so spending some time exploring those things in the city, grabbing a matcha and some lunch, and ending the day back at home for time just relaxing and enjoying the sunset in the backyard. That is my perfect day.
QUESTION 04What is your favorite part of your home? How do you make your house feel like a home?
My husband and I moved into a house for the first time about 6 months ago and I feel like each day I have a new favorite room. I think the thing I love the most about where we live is the light and the birds! To make a house a home, I think it's really important to find ways to infuse your personality into the space. Take your time furnishing and collecting things that tell a story rather than purchasing everything at once. I think a collected home is what makes it feel like your own.
QUESTION 05How do you carve out moments to slow down each day?
I'm currently pregnant with my first child and let me tell you, I have slowed way down! I am learning more than ever how to listen to my body and take a break when I need one. If and when you can, taking even just a quick break to step away from work or other duties to get outside and deep breathe in the sunshine, or go on a walk in your neighborhood; that can completely turn your day around!
QUESTION 05What is your favorite Casa Picosa flavor? How will you be cooking with it this summer?
I absolutely love the Piña Chil'Ada flavor for fish tacos and the So Pepper flavor is such a good staple. Great on breakfast foods!
QUESTION 07What are five things from the Casa de Suna shop that you’d love to add to your tablescape this season?
First is the Sabri Sabri Bea Placemat, which features scalloped edges and delicate thread-work, making it versatile enough for both everyday meals and special occasions. I also love this 3-Piece Stainless Steel Cheese Set - it's a timeless gift for cheese lovers! For serving, the Il Buco Vita Oval Serving Platter is perfect for presenting dishes at any dinner party. These Ferm Living salad servers, with their organic ash wood design, are ideal for tossing and serving salads. Finally, the Ferm Living Oli Dessert Cups are a vibrant choice for embracing color and adding a playful touch to your tableware.
QUESTION 6What is inspiring you these days? An ingredient, an artist, a destination, something you’ve recently learned, anything...
I've been really inspired by color lately. I typically find myself leaning into neutrals when designing my home and getting dressed but I have found myself gravitating to more color for the summer season!
QUESTION 8Which book, movie, or song best encapsulates the spirit of summer for you?
I am absolutely in love with the movie Call Me By Your Name. This quickly became a favorite and one I love to revisit during the warm summer months. It's not only a beautiful story but it's just brimming with design and food inspiration.
