Even if you’re not a bookworm, there’s a slim chance you’ve escaped mention of Colleen Hoover in the past few years. Between having dozens of books make the best-sellers list and a movie adaptation in production starring Blake Lively, Hoover is a literary rocket taking off with no signs of stopping.
As beauty editors, manicures and reading are at the top of the list of things we love in our off time, and we’re excited to see the two come together. Founder and CEO of Olive & June Sarah Gibson Tuttle teamed up with Hoover to create a line of polishes and press on nails that represent some of Hoover’s most popular books. They call the launch a “story that blends the hues evolved into a symphony of emotions, mirroring the highs and lows of Hoover’s characters.”
We got to pick Hoover’s brain about the collaboration and her writing process. Hoover’s favorite polish shades include Lily Blooms, Atlas and Corrigan. As for the press on nails, some have already sold out, so be sure to secure yours soon. We love Blooming Lily, which matches the cover of It Ends With Us and Sunset Double French.
You probably have offers from tons of brands asking you to collaborate. Why did this collaboration with Olive & June feel right for you?
“I use and love Olive & June products, so it was a perfect match for me and my brand. At first glance, it may seem like somewhat of a surprising collaboration, but when most people snap a photo of their favorite book, they are usually holding it. More often than not, their nails are in the photo, and I believe many of us love to have a beautiful, fresh mani! When Sarah and I started posting about each other on our social media channels, her followers and my readers immediately started sharing photos of their book and matching manis.
This collaboration came about organically from our love of nails and books. We really wanted to bring these books and characters to life in a unique way that allows you to express your love of the stories and characters on your nails! Nail art and manis are a form of self-expression, so what better way to express your love of manis than to match them with your favorite books?”
Can you share any insight into your daily writing routine?
“I actually don’t write daily! When it’s time to write, I essentially lock myself in a room with no distractions and hole up until I can get my thoughts down and into my computer. I like to outline on sticky notes that I post all over the walls to visually map out the story and timeline. I’ll write a chunk of the story and then rewrite it over and over again until I feel good about it. I’ll go back into the writing hole after that and do it all over again until I piece together a book. I also don’t write in chronological order, which some people find hard to believe. I love to write out the major conflicts first and work backward from there! It can be a really exhausting process, but it also makes me feel alive. I’m so thrilled to be writing again, and I can’t wait for y’all to read the next book!”
What wellness practices help when you have writer’s block?
“I’ve had to learn to have patience with myself and give myself some grace. Pouring your heart into a story and then putting it out there in the world for everyone to judge and criticize is a terrifying thing to do. But I write because I have to, it’s a part of who I am, and it’s what makes me me. Spending time with my friends and family always grounds me. I also take time to rest and reset my mind. Some days, I just need to relax and binge Bravo shows all day!”
