MEET ERIN
Born in the scenic city of Portland, Oregon, raised amidst the hearty landscapes of the Midwest and even spent a fascinating chapter of my life in the vibrant South. My journey across these distinct regions has shaped my eclectic tastes, unique perspectives, and deep appreciation for the diverse cultures and traditions I’ve encountered along the way.
A little bit more…
Hello! I’m Erin, a lifelong lover of the arts, a self-taught home cook, a travel enthusiast, and now, an aspiring blogger. My journey has taken me from the vibrant halls of a local art school to a brief stint at the Columbus Museum of Art. Life had other plans, though, and I crossed the street to start a 25-year career at a property and casualty insurance company. Despite the detour, my love for the arts never wavered.
Two decades have passed since I purchased my first home in Tennessee. This was the beginning of my journey in interior design, where I started refining my unique style through hands-on projects, from closet organization and tile installation to crafting a custom 6-foot-tall upholstered headboard. Needless to say, that headboard remained with the house when I moved on!
Since moving back to Columbus 10 years ago, I’ve completely gutted and remodeled my condo. I’ve also designed a restaurant/bar and an elevated sports bar—once overhearing a customer tell their friends it was “the bougiest sports bar he’d ever been to,” which I took as a high compliment. In addition to these major projects, I’ve had the pleasure of helping friends and family with interior decorating and even took on the role of wedding coordinator for my niece’s big day.
Take a peek at some of my work below:
Kitchen
Restaurant / Bar
Sports Bar
fast forward to today
I’ve stepped out of my introverted comfort zone to share my passions through this blog.
As a self-proclaimed foodie, I rarely write reviews because everyone has their taste. However, I remember meals that are either extremely well-crafted or unfortunately bad. I believe in second chances, so I often give restaurants another try if they don’t impress me the first time. As a self-taught home cook, my dishes aren’t anything outrageous, but I’ve learned what foods are beneficial. This knowledge helped me become the fittest I’d ever been in my 40s—until a significant automobile accident led to surgery and physical therapy. The journey to recovery introduced me to acupuncture, which became a lifesaver. It has helped me feel comfortable enough to start my journey back to health. I dedicated an entire blog post to the healing power of acupuncture, you can read it here.
adventure awaits
Traveling has always been a passion of mine. My work took me to remote areas of the US, often in the aftermath of natural disasters. While challenging, it was also rewarding to help people in their greatest time of need. After my stay ended, I always explored the areas I visited, often venturing into bordering states with just my camera for company. Recently, in the last 10 years, I leaped to solo international travel, which has broadened my horizons and fueled my curiosity.
- Eat
- Design
- Explore
- and Flourish
I’m no expert in the topics I’ll cover in this blog. I’m a person, just like you, sharing my experiences, recipes, design ideas, and wellness inspiration with you. As the introduction to my blog reads, life is a feast best savored, an adventure worth exploring, and a canvas ready for creativity. I welcome you to join me on this journey, one delicious, beautiful, and mindful step at a time.
don’t forget to follow along!
Q & A WITH ERIN
Where is Home?
I was born in Portland, Oregon, but grew up in Columbus, OH. After a 10-year hiatus, I returned to Columbus and have lived here since. My two kids, oops, my two nieces, Emily and Laura, also live in Columbus. Fun fact: on a trip to Ireland, despite looking very much like a tourist, I was asked by another tourist for directions.
how did you go from Art School to Insurance?
Life often takes us on unexpected journeys, and mine is no exception. I started my path in art school, nurturing my passion for creativity and design. However, as life unfolded, I found myself drawn to the stability and opportunities in the insurance industry. What began as a temporary position turned into a fulfilling 20-plus-year career. Along the way, I discovered that the skills I honed in art school—attention to detail, problem-solving, and empathy—were invaluable in helping clients navigate the complexities of insurance. This blend of artistry and practicality has shaped a unique and rewarding professional journey.
why did you create arch city chic?
For years, friends and family encouraged me to start a blog, but I never felt I had the time or the skills. As the new year rolled in, I decided to push myself and embark on this new adventure. I wanted a challenge, learn new skills, and explore the world of website building. the goal is to share my experiences in four categories I’m passionate about: design, food, travel, and wellness. This blog is my journey and a platform to connect with others with similar interests.
Did you buy all those items listed for sale on Poshmark?
As a self-proclaimed serial shopper, I’ve amassed quite a collection over the years. My Poshmark closet is bursting with items, most of which are brand new with tags. My style is often described as a minimalist maximalist—while I love a timeless classic look, I somehow end up with so much of it!
how do you relax?
When I’m not immersed in a good book, experimenting with new recipes, trying out the latest restaurant in town, or indulging in a shopping spree, you’ll often find me unwinding with HGTV or the ID Channel. As an introvert, I truly cherish my alone time, using it to reflect on life and recharge. Whether I’m getting inspired by home makeovers on HGTV or diving into gripping true crime stories on the ID Channel, these moments of solitude are my sanctuary. They allow me to relax, gain new insights, and find balance amidst the busyness of life.