ILLUSTRATOR
Instagram @JOSIE_PORTILLO
Josie lives in Los Angeles and drew the playful art for our story about handling all those holiday invitations (page 78).
The ideal sandwich:
It’s simple! Burrata and anchovies stuffed in a baguette with a generous drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. A glass of chilled Prosecco makes it even better.
Dream job as a kid:
I wanted to be an architect, then it morphed into fashion designer.
Your next big purchase:
I recently bought a La Marzocco espresso machine, so I don’t think I’ll be making any other big purchases soon!
RECIPE DEVELOPER
Instagram @TRISHMANZANERO
This Birmingham, Alabama–based cookie wizard (who also creates recipes for our related brands) came up with the festive treats on page 144.
Where’s your happy place?
Gathered around the table, surrounded by the people I love. I could not feel more at home than when I’m enjoying delicious food in great company.
Favorite trip so far:
Japan. All the food was incredible, the culture was beautiful, and the people were so kind. The efficiency of everything—transportation, Wi-Fi access—also really spoke to my organization-obsessed soul.
PROP STYLIST
Instagram @HEDGEHEDGE
Our gift guide picks (page 92) are stunning on their own, but Megan made them feel extra special during their close-ups.
Currently binge-watching:
Only Murders in the Building. It’s so fun to watch and to look at. It has the best set design.
What inspires you?
Color! I love creating surprising color palettes.
Your best gift-wrapping trick:
A double-faced satin ribbon will make the most mundane object look amazing.
LIFESTYLE & FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER
Instagram @MEREDITHJENKS
Known for her cool vibes on set and stellar photos (duh!), Meredith shot the holiday outfits starting on page 126.
Childhood life goal:
I wanted to be a fashion designer with a red Mazda Miata and live in Paris.
Favorite plant:
My six-foot-tall rubber tree. I grew it from a small clipping and have had it for 10 years now!
REAL SIMPLE EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Instagram @ITSMELISABETH
Normally, Lisa just edits the stories in our magazine. This month, she also wrote one, about spotting financial planners who are up to no good (page 86).
She’s got a thing for exclamation points!!!
Currently reading:
Rogues—a collection of articles about real-life grifters and crooks by journalist Patrick Radden Keefe. There’s wine fraud, a black market arms merchant, and more. Crime doesn’t pay, you guys!
Winter weekend plans:
A quick hike or antique shopping in the morning, lunch out, TV and cocktails, break to make dinner, then more TV with wine.
NAIL TECHNICIAN
Instagram @NAILSBYMAMIE
When we do a fashion story (page 126), we go all out—with hair, makeup, etc.! Mamie was in charge of the manicures.
Where did you grow up?
Kobe, Japan—a mountainous and scenic city located 30 minutes outside of Osaka.
Favorite item at home:
All my scented candles. I want to be comfortable, and having a variety of aromas around helps my mood.
What’s your motto?
Art is life—it’s forever changing.
FREEL ANCE WRITER
Instagram @ELENI_GAGE
An author and editor, Eleni found out how we can get more awe in our lives (page 70).
Everyday uniform:
I’m always wearing an evil eye somewhere on my person. Better safe than sorry, people.
Favorite recipe to make at home:
Vasilopita, the traditional Greek New Year’s cake. You wrap a coin in foil and hide it in the cake, and whoever finds it is going to have good luck all year. Who doesn’t love a magic cake?
How do you unwind?
I spend far too much time watching clips of Say Yes to the Dress on my phone.
FREEL ANCE FOOD WRITER
Instagram @HANNAHMHOWARD
Hannah spent years writing copy for famed fromage shop Murray’s Cheese, so we tapped her to write our cheese board how-to on page 43.
Something you nerd out over:
Olive oil! I’m a little obsessed with discovering producers I love and the freshest oil I can.
Hidden talent:
I can find an excellent place to have lunch in any city or town.
Favorite podcast:
I just binged Scamanda, a true-crime podcast about a woman in San Jose, California, who lied about having cancer. It was absolutely fascinating.
HEADSHOTS COURTESY OF SUBJECTS