About A Girl: Meet Meghan
A lot goes on during the day here at the Free People Home Office, and it takes hard work to keep everything running smoothly. There’s one person who knows a thing or two about BLDG 25, and that girl would be our office coordinator, Meghan.
Tan skin, blonde locks, beachy style…Meghan might just be summer in nut shell. A true Free People girl, she knows our brand just as well as the space we operate it in. She has one of the best Tumblrs I’ve ever seen, and helps contribute to our Pinterest account as well. She has a keen eye for scouring the web to find some of the most inspiring imagery that we use across all boards here at Free People, and her active lifestyle is one that I personally really look up to.
In addition to working at Free People, Meghan teaches Lithe Method a few days a week at a studio located in her neighborhood here in Philly. With all of the new Movement product on our site, I couldn’t think of a better person to feature who would wear it well, and in the right environment. Get to know a little bit more about her and her experience with lithe method, and take a peek inside her beautiful apartment!
In this post, Meghan is wearing: We The Free Circle In The Sand Tee, Ruffle Rib Shortie , Greenwich Thigh Hi, Movement Capri Legging, Movement Crop Top, All In One Tank and the Net Tee.
How long have you been working for Free People? What is your favorite part about your job?
I have been at FP for almost 2 years now. My favorite part about my job is definitely the people I get to work with every day. Everyone is really down-to-earth and inspiring.
Where are you from? How did this shape the person who you are today?
My family lives in Virginia Beach, so I spent much of my time at the beach learning to swim and surf at a young age. I moved to NYC when I was 17 to pursue my dancing career until I decided to go to school for business. I definitely belong near the ocean, but I’ve learned to navigate fast-paced city life, and developed a passion and vision for style and fashion through living in the city.
Can you tell us a little bit about your neighborhood in Philly?
I live in Center City Philadelphia on a quiet tree-lined street around the corner from some of the best bars and restaurants in the city. Philly is great because it’s not too big and you still get the neighborhood vibe wherever you live. I love walking around the small cobblestone alleys and walkways on my way to Whole Foods while still being a couple blocks away from busy center city.
When it comes to decorating, do you have any elements or basic rules you like to stick to?
I would say my decorating style is more simple and minimal than anything. I can’t stand clutter, so I like to keep my living space clean and more modern. I have small shells scattered throughout my apartment from all of the different beaches that my boyfriend has traveled to on surf trips or places we have gone together, but other than that I like to keep it simple. My favorite rule is to always have white bedding and fresh sheets… I love feeling like I’m in a plush hotel when I crawl into bed at night.
Besides working at Free People, you also teach Lithe Method. How long have you been teaching? How did you get into it?
I have been teaching Lithe Method for almost 3 years now. I used to be professional dancer and before that a competitive diver and rhythmic gymnast, so after going to college and settling down with a career I loved the opportunity to teach and continue to be active.
For all of us who might not know what Lithe Method is, what are the basic foundations of the practice?
Lithe Method is a Philly-based company that combines pilates and barre exercises with intense cardio and cheerleading-inspired moves. We utilize props, including resistance bands that hang from the ceiling, so it’s a fun, but no-nonsense type of workout… be prepared to sweat! It’s exciting to be a part of a unique company with such a strong following of fit, inspiring women.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out with Lithe Method?
My best advice would be to go in with an open mind and don’t give up after the first class. It takes a few classes to really “get it.” Once you know the names of the moves and how to execute them correctly, it’s easier to focus on reaching your personal goals and just having fun 🙂
How do you keep up such a healthy lifestyle?
I definitely try to follow the 80/20 rule. I eat very few processed foods, and as many veggies and fish/lean proteins as possible. I start every day with hot water and lemon (I recently kicked my coffee habit), always eat breakfast, and have at least one green smoothie a day. I cook for myself and meal prep on Sundays for the workweek, but when I go out to dinner I always get whatever I want… I never deprive myself of anything. As far as working out, I’m not a fan of the gym and I hate running. Besides teaching, I rely on staying active outdoors as much as possible – being in the water, going on bike rides, or doing yoga. I also believe there’s no better therapy or workout than a fun night out dancing to good music.
What are some of your favorite pieces from the new movement collection?
For working out, I am loving the Movement Capri Legging with its great print, the Lattice Back Bra and the Mudra Romper—I’m all about a good romper or jumpsuit. I also love all of the new surf product for summer days on the beach… I’ve been drooling over the custom painted surfboards ever since they came out—they are so fun!
What are three things you can’t live without?
My pup, my Vitamix, and dry shampoo.
How do you normally spend your weekends?
In the summer, you can find me in Virginia Beach or at the beach in Strathmere, NJ on the weekends. If I’m not at the beach, I’m most likely at a show or a music festival.
Any special trips or projects you have planned for this summer?
I recently got back from a trip to Necker Island in the B.V.I., so I think I’ll be staying local on the East Cost for the rest of the summer. I also just rescued a Wheaten Terrier puppy, Jax, so I plan on taking him to the beach on the weekends and teaching him how to swim and paddle board!
We love looking at your Pinterest and Tumblr for inspiration. What are some of the things that inspire you the most?
I am moved most by raw photography and images that feel natural and free. Some girls love shoes or handbags – I love swimwear. I am always searching for inspired photos that showcase swimwear and intimates in a new way. I’m especially loving lifestyle images from smaller west coast and Australian-based brands right now.
What does being ‘free’ mean to you?
To me, free means always living in the moment.
Thank you for letting us in, Meghan!
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