Danny Seo is a pioneer when it comes to living an eco-friendly lifestyle and over the years he’s become a best-selling author, television and radio host, syndicated columnist, and product designer, so it’s no question he’s the leading green lifestyle expert out there. Having been born on Earth Day in 1977, it only seems fitting that he found his calling at a young age, shepherding worldwide campaigns focused on the environment. Partnering with Wilsonart, an American manufacturer of laminate surfaces, Seo is not only their national spokesperson, he has designed a collection of eco-friendly countertops that will hit the market in early 2015. As if that isn’t enough, he’s launching a lifestyle magazine, Naturally, Danny Seo, nationwide on July 15th. For this Friday Five, take a look at what the über busy, multi-hyphenate Seo picks as his favorite things.
1. The Circa watch by Movado
I hate anything that is “trendy.” For me, this watch represents everything I aspire to be: classic, timeless, forever. There’s something Mad Men about it, but not overtly retro; it’s updated, but not ultra-modern. This watch works for me.
2. Mohawk Fine Papers
A few years ago, I picked up a flyer at a Martha Stewart event in NYC celebrating American Made products. The program was printed on this richly textured, gorgeous paper and I sorta became obsessed. Obsessed enough to travel to upstate NY and beg for a tour of the factory that made it. It was that trip that convinced me to do my own magazine, but printed only on really high-end, highest-quality, eco-friendly paper. Yeah, I have Martha Stewart to thank for my magazine, I guess!
3. Anything from Apolis
I don’t know what it is about this brand, but to me it’s more than a fashion or lifestyle brand: it’s the way I want to live my life and travel the world around me. I’m obsessed with anything from Apolis. Everything not only feels authentic and well-made, but so many of their projects have a true altruistic reason for being. Who knew my Apolis coffee could help someone else halfway around the world… and taste great, too?
4. Le Labo Santal 26 candle
I always thought it was foolish to spend so much money on a scented candle that you only burn away. But this candle is the same scent used in the Gramercy Park Hotel and it literally transforms a room. When I’m at home working away, I just light it and I feel like my living room turns into this boho writer’s den. Best. Candle. Ever.
5. Bundles of Dried Vetiver
I have bundles and bundles of dried vetiver grass in a large apothecary jar at home. It’s from Haiti where it’s grown by farmers and sold to perfumers. Apparently Haiti is the best place to grow the world’s finest vetiver. The long roots from the grass plant are also literally rebuilding earthquake ravaged Haiti. Something nice about mixing commerce with charity: it’s not a hand out at all. It’s just luxurious and beautiful.
