People We Love: Hayet Rida

You’re going to want to take a page (or two or three) out of content creator and Facebook creative strategist Hayet’s book. Read on for her best WFH advice, the Laundress products that keep her closet and home top notch, and what wellness looks like to her these days.

Most of us are working from home right now. What are your secrets to work from home success?

Music is such a huge part of me working from home. While I was at work, I would always have headphones on to zone out and focus; at home, I put on my fave playlist and jam out. Yes, I have been known to take a mini dance break in between meetings! There are just so many benefits to dancing, especially during this time when we are all going through so many emotions.

You are a creative strategist at Facebook. What does that entail?

My job is to find creative opportunities for brands on our platforms. In other words, that simply means I help brands take their campaigns and adapt them to Instagram or Facebook.

Let’s talk about your home (which is gorgeous, BTW!). What inspires you when decorating?

My home is my favorite place on earth, mainly because it tells stories of who I am and my travels. My entire living room is neutral tones inspired by my trip to Bali. My kitchen is based off of my trip to Morocco, my bedroom is an ode to Africa, and my office is a creative rainbow. For me, I can’t do too much color so having minimal colors but more striking artwork was a huge non-negotiable for me.

Favorite Laundress products and why?

Stain Solution is my absolute go-to because I have a weird desire to own as many white shirts as possible even though I am so, so messy! My second favorite is Fabric Fresh. I sometimes even use it as body spray on my way out of the house. Dont judge me!

Have you been focusing on anything particular during the last few months?

Creativity is my biggest focus. Before quarantine I never had the time to stop and come up with ideas or invest deeply in creative passion projects. Those are the muscles I am working on now, as well as studying documentary filmmaking.

How do you connect with your followers from behind a screen?

I talk to my audience like I talk to friends I deeply care about. It is about pouring into each other and empowering them with actionable initiatives. I started a program called First Blog Check to help pay budding influencers and bring them into some of my paid campaigns. I also openly talk about mental health, therapy, and teach them how to set boundaries. My audience isn’t here to just shop, they’re here to truly be and become their best selves.

Are there any Black-owned businesses that you love and believe in that The Laundress community can also support?

YES! Essie Spice is one of the best tasting sauces ever, they are available online and in select Whole Foods. Studio Badge is also a great home brand, she makes amazing cutting boards and charcuterie boards. In my home, I use Mitchell Black wallpaper which is peel and stick (perfect for people who are renting their apartments).

What are some ways you celebrate and care for yourself?

I allow myself to do things I like. If I want to shop, I do so. If I want to eat ice cream, I do so. It’s about giving myself permission to do whatever I want without wondering how the world will react to it.

What does wellness mean to you?

Wellness, to me, is being unapologetically selfish with my peace. It’s not spa dates and massages. It is about speaking up when people offend you, and setting very, very clear boundaries with how people treat you. If you can’t do that, then your inner wellness is in shambles.

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