Ruthie Lindsey shines. Life radiates from her and her joy for that life is somewhat contagious. She is kind, generous, spirited and light. She is sweet. So, so sweet. Although born and raised in Louisiana, Ruthie is now a well known creative Nashville soul, who's talent and work lies in styling and design. Although I have only known her lovely face for a short amount of time, already I can share that she is by far the most inspiring person that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I had been following Ruthie on Instagram for a little while before hand, however it wasn't until I listened to her speech from the Nashville Creative Mornings talks that I became truly hooked on her story. Half an hour of being so deeply moved and having to wipe away many heartfelt tears, I came to learn that Ruthie's life wasn't all that rosy. Ruthie described her life as being broken. At a point where many of us would find ourselves guilty of giving up, Ruthie chose to seek beauty beyond that brokenness and to constantly and consciously choose to seek positive purpose in her life - one that is now notably inspired and buoyant. I had to meet her. I was thrilled to find the opportunity at the Nashville Kinfolk dinner in May. If I didn't already have a girl crush on this beautiful soul, my meeting with Ruthie may have, possibly, thrown me into stalker territory. She was lovely. I am truly inspired by this one and I have the absolute delight of sharing the snaps from our little photo shoot together (Ruthie taught me how to suck wild honeysuckle!), along with Ruthie's answers to some interview questions below. I encourage you to read with a slight southern drawl - it will make the read a sweeter and more genuine one.

What projects are you currently working on?

This week I am hosting a party in my backyard for Free People with Local Milk. Sugar and the Hi Lows are going to play a set and lots of fun will be had! I’m really excited about it. I am also working on an ongoing project decorating my friend Mikky Ekko's loft. Next week will be totally different which I love! My days look different all the time.

Where do you draw your creative inspiration from?

Mostly from my community here in Nashville. I am so incredibly blessed to be surrounded with the most inspiring and talented friends. They make me want to want to always strive to be better and to stretch myself. I also feel so inspired by nature, wild flowers never cease to amaze me by their beauty!

Why a stylist / designer?

Honestly? People told me that was what I was good at so I just trusted their words...I still feel like I’m tricking people because I honestly dont know what I’m doing, but I think most creatives feel that way. I have no training so it’s been more of an organic thing that I have fallen into. I feel really thankful for every job!

Do you listen to music while you work? If so, would you be so kind to share some of your favourite artists?

I do! I usually listen to rap music while I’m working because it excites me :) I have a really deep love for dirty rap music... I also love so much music that’s coming out of Nashville right now. My friend Mikkey Ekko is a genius, Matthew Perryman Jones is hauntingly beautiful. I love Paper Route, Alt-j, I can listen to Ray Charles all day long! I also love Ray Lamontagne. Gosh, that barely skims the surface. I adore music. I’m really fortunate to live in Nashville because I get to go hear incredible live music all the time! I feel really spoiled!

Do you have a morning ritual?

I really don’t. Just the past few weeks I've decided that I want to be more disciplined and I’m trying to get up and walk and make my schedule for the day. But a lot of times I get up and rush out to meetings.

What's your idea of a perfect Friday night?

This past weekend was pretty amazing, we sat in my friends backyard and ate and drank and caught fireflies. Anything that involves my wonderful friends and yummy food and drink is always a good time for me!

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would really love to go to Australia! I’ve wanted to go for so long!

Best piece of advice you've ever given or been given?

My papa would tell me every time he left me as a child, “I love you so much, remember your manners and always look out for the little guy" he wanted his children to always have eyes to see people, people that may get missed or may feel uncomfortable in groups. I fail at it constantly but I long to be a really good friend to people. My papa made everyone feel like they were the most important, and so loved. I want to be like that.

What's for dinner?

Eeeep, I don’t cook, so it’s usually meals with friends at one of our yummy east Nashville joints. Tonight will most likely be Mas Tacos.

The best part about being a creative?

Being able to express myself through my projects. I love telling a story with whatever it is I’m working on.

The worst part?

Inconsistent pay check.

Day or night? Sunset :) Old or new? Old City or Country? I need a mix of both but I love the perks of the city Coffee or Tea? Neither. I only drink water and alcohol :)

What do you enjoy most about living in Nashville?

The people. The music.

Thoughts for the future:

I’m excited for it. if I’ve learned anything the past few years it’s that life can change on a dime so I want to always be open to whatever life brings, the good the bad!