Purpose Driven Rhythms is a monthly blog feature that highlights the rhythms and routines of ordinary people with the goal of inspiring new ideas and intentional living.
Photo Credit: YTK Photography
Kelsey Gates – Stylist, Freelance Marketer, Miss Wears-A-Lotta-Hats
Where do you live?
Beautiful downtown Albany, NY
What do you do for a living?
It depends on the day! I have ran in the opposite direction of routine or same day-to-day kind of scheduling. I have this burning desire to do a limitless amount of things. But a run down version of my career is, I’ve worked at a bridal shop since 2017 as a stylist and now also as Marketing Coordinator. I also work at one of the most fabulous boutiques in Upstate NY called Circles. There, I’m a stylist and work on their marketing team as well. And then there’s the service industry! I’ve been a server since I was in my teens. I love food and the energy of restaurants and just being part of that culture. SO if you’re still keeping up, I also work at the very cute local restaurant and you guessed it, also help with their marketing!
What are some of your hobbies outside of work
- I love to cook. Truly where I find my center, but also burst with creativity. There is something so rewarding about making and planning a meal.
- I discovered the Peloton in 2020 (like many!) and it was an instant love. It also brought me to my true love, road biking!
- I live in such a beautiful city. I love wandering and weaving around and falling in love with its charm, the brownstones, its rich history and all the beauty that surrounds Upstate NY. You can also always catch me planning my next meal. I am constantly on the lookout for new restaurants in the area, or somewhere worth driving to.
What does a day in the life look like for you?
Mornings typically start later than most. I’m a lucky gal and my job doesn’t start till 10am. So, I wake up at about 7:30. I turn on my hot water for dandelion tea and lemon, which is a great detox. I start up my juicer and make my juice of the day. I’m currently loving my carrot, pineapple, lemon, and ginger combo to get me through NY winters! I’ll then peruse my closet and see what outfit is inspiring me today and then hop on the bike. I love doing climb rides. They’re intense but only 20 mins and results feel instant! After, I hit my eucalyptus drenched shower and get ready!
I love music and have a playlist for every part of my day. My “morning coffee” is one of my favs and easy vibes to get my day going. I head into the shop and start styling for the day; whether that’s everyday wear or bridal.
Evenings are my time. I try to make dinner 3-4x a week. I’m always on Pinterest looking for new recipes and inspiration. My latest go-to is a pesto couscous with yellow squash, corn and cajun shrimp – YUM.
I end my days with the most zen space I can create. I love the warmth of Edison light bulbs and a salt lamp for the ultimate cozy vibes. Then its legs up against the wall for 15 mins and get in a chapter of my book. I love to read, especially personal development books. Right now I can’t put down 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth.
A keystone habit is a habit that impacts other aspects of your routine and has a positive impact on your overall rhythms in life. What is one of your keystone habits?
If I could preach about the benefits of juicing I think I would! I started about 3 years ago and I have felt such a pivot in my life and my health. I call it the internal oil change. We focus so much on our outside appearances, but we have to also have to remember to give that same attention to our insides.
What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone who is trying to establish a routine that works for their lifestyle?
Be consistent with your time. Really learn your schedule and where things fit for you. Also, ALWAYS plug in downtime. It sounds so silly, but every Wednesday evening I leave it empty. It’s my night, where I make no plans (unless I want to) and do whatever brings me joy.
What are three of your simple joys in life?
1. A really, really good cup of pour over coffee.
2. Dinners around a table with family or friends.
3. Being on an airplane. I love knowing I’m going somewhere through the clouds. It always feels so poetic.
Where can people follow along with you?
Good ole @Kellydonuts on IG! I was hacked once upon a time, but I created an incognito account from my fav nickname and fav food in the world.