Amy Stanton

Amy Stanton - brilliant business woman, Venice local, avid dog lover & activist

Describe your style.

- Overall I’d describe my style as simple, classic, comfortable, with some bohemian flair. In both fashion and my home, I like clean, contemporary lines and colors but with a burst of personality. I like bits of complementary contrast. My home is a traditional craftsman style but with modern finishes and a combination of antique and modern furniture. Comfort is key for me, soft materials and environments that feel good.

What are your favorite brands?

-Isabel Marant, Vanessa Bruno, Closed, Prada, Lanvin

Describe your work.

-About 8 years ago, I started my own marketing and PR agency with a focus on marketing to and building brands around women. We represent philosophy-driven brands and individuals in health, fitness, wellness, and active living. All of our clients are making some kind of positive impact in the world and our goal is to help them do that. Since I started the business, my goal has been to promote positive messages and to help build positive female role models – it’s an amazing time for women!

Your company focuses on promoting the importance of healthy lifestyles. How do you incorporate these principles into your own life?

-I am constantly seeking out the latest and greatest in health and wellness – new experts, ideas, innovations and foods. I’m also very active. I run, do yoga, play tennis, and go to the gym. I eat healthily although I do love cheese and dessert -- especially dark chocolate (Green + Black’s 70%, specifically). I do a 3-day juice cleanse once a month as a reset and it makes me feel great – somehow it also makes me feel fine about eating what I want the rest of the time.

Who is your biggest role model?

-I am grateful for many role models in my life. My mom taught me that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. My grandfather was always my role model for business and general life lessons. My grandmother taught me about unconditional love and she and my grandfather were the ultimate role models for marriage, family and love.

Favorite local places to eat?

-The Tasting Kitchen, Axe, Gjelina, Giorgio’s, Venice Ale House.

We hear you’re a dog lover and passionate about animal rescue. Tell us about your dog.

-Bernard was rescued by the Humane Society of NY from St. Bernard’s Parish in New Orleans right after Hurricane Katrina. He was born right after the storm and was saved with his two sisters, Babe and Bartlett and his mom Paisley. I always say that Bernard and I rescued each other – he is the best. He’s almost 9! Now I’m very active with dog welfare and rescue organizations, specifically the ASPCA and Wags and Walks, a local rescue organization. I'd rather stop and talk to a dog than a person any day!

What do you want to be remembered for?

-Having a positive impact in the world and making people laugh and making people feel loved.

If you could choose any other career, what would it be and why?

-I think it would have been fun to be a musician/rock star. It couldn’t be further from this life since I don’t play a single instrument. Next life, perhaps!

What is one piece of advice you wish you could tell your 18-year-old self?

-I would tell her that every challenge we face in life is a great lesson. As painful as situations may seem, they’re actually gifts that will make us better and stronger in the future. It’s hard to see it in the moment, but it’s something I’ve learned over and over again and wish I had perspective on at a much younger age.