I am Rose - Emily Jane Johnston

Who is Rose anyway? Here's a hint, a woman wearing See ROSE Go is engaged in the world, savvy and selective. She appreciates those that deem to care. Its awe inspiring to meet a person who cares so intently, they will go out of their way to support strangers (or brands) they whole heartily believe in. This is immediately apparent when we reached out to Emily Jane Johnston. A writer and content creator by trade Emily was quick to offer, “how can I help?” She seems to have unlimited energy to devote to supporting others. Throughout the pandemic she continuously offered her social network as a platform for small businesses needing a lifeline during lock down. Her infectious generosity isn't the only reason to feel inspired. Emily is also a seeker and adventurer. Look no further for new savory or sweet treats, swoon worthy vacation spots and of course, inclusive and exciting fashion. We bet you learn something new. It’s our pleasure to highlight Emily Jane Johnston

SRG: Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you please share with us a little about your path and what makes you the woman you are today?

EJJ: First of all, I guess I better explain that I am an American living in London, well, was living in London. I moved over here nearly 20 years ago on a temp work visa and it stuck. Then, in March of last year, I moved just outside of London for what I thought was a temporary break from the city. It too seems to have stuck, at least until the Pandemic is over! I worked in the art world in London for eight years before starting my blog at the age of 29. I was a late bloomer in the fashion world, but had always been a massive follower of all things fashion in my personal life. I pinch myself everyday that this is what I get to do full time… basically play dress up every single moment of every day. How is that not the dream job!

SRG: You’re an avid traveler and lover of trying new things - what have you been doing to satisfy your wanderlust?

EJJ: At the moment, I’m reliving memories. I’m sharing a lot of places I’ve visited over the past decade and in doing so I’m reliving it all myself. Basically ramping up for the next time I can get on a plane. I’m making a lot of lists and preparing a lot of wardrobing ideas for the future!

SRG: Any packing hacks you can share?

EJJ: I plan every single outfit I pack, down to the earrings, and take pictures of the full look, before it goes into the suitcase. That way nothing extra or unneeded gets packed!

SRG: Quick, what are your top 5 places on Earth?

Beaufort, South Carolina
London, England
Kennebunkport, Maine
Jumby Bay, Antigua
Florence, Italy

SRG: Mindfulness is a center value for us at SRG. You have an interesting perspective living in two different parts of the world. How do you define “mindful”?

EJJ: I have to tell you that calling two places home has made it harder to be mindful. I find myself wishing I was here or there a lot. But, I wake up every morning, and I take stock of the fact that I’m alive. My grandmother, who was a pretty religious lady, used to say, “every morning you wake up is a gift from God. What you do with that day is your gift to God.” I think that applies no matter your religious beliefs. Every day is a gift, no matter where you are. And what you do with it is your gift to everyone around you, including yourself. So, my opinion is… you just gotta make the best of every single moment. I also have to say I’m a brain surgery survivor, so that might explain why I’m eternally optimistic.

SRG: Do you find women approach building their wardrobe differently in Europe vs United States?

EJJ: Nope! I think it’s pretty much the same over here. I will say, however, that London is like a real life runway. I find people take a lot more risks with fashion over here than they do in my hometown. I fell in love with how free and open you can be experimenting with fashion over here with zero judgement!

SRG: Good, bad, ugly and beautiful. Last year was all the above, but as we know much can be learned from experiences. Do you feel the need to re-aligning in this new year?

EJJ: I feel like last year was a wakeup call for me. It was the first time I’ve been home for longer than two weeks in ten years. It required me to reevaluate everything and I am so thankful. It’s also made me realise that family, more so than ever, is the most important thing on this year and that our health is something we all take for granted all too often! Last year was a total mind reset. So this year is about living that reset to its fullest!

SRG: We are inspired and in awe of your enthusiastic support of local and small businesses. What drives you to share your platform so generously?

EJJ: You are so kind. Why wouldn’t I? There are so many amazingly talented men and women on this earth and I love how social media has opened up the doors for so many people. When I first saw you guys online I knew I’d have to shout about you! Women working for women’s wardrobes in a way that is truly inspirational and inclusive…. Be still my heart. I will always work to support as much as I can. If I’m not using my platform to support others, what on earth am I doing?!

SRG: We are so thankful to have you as a part of our community at See ROSE Go and the impact you make in the fashion community. Is there a particular person that has made a significant impact on you? Can you share a story?

EJJ: There are so many, too many, and it changes every day. Every single day I am inspired by the women I chat to on Instagram. I am flattered that they share their stories or their battle scars. It’s a whole new world out there and social media allows for next level inspiration from thousands, if you open yourself up to it!

SRG: What’s next for you?

EJJ: I have absolutely no clue! Haha! But I’ve said the same for the last 12 years when it comes to the blog and everything that has happened since I started it. Every day that I get to continue calling this my “full time gig” is a pinch me moment. So what’s next? Your guess is as good as mine! x