F5: Elizabeth Rees Reveals Her Favorite Reads: Discover Vintage Wicker & More!

Elizabeth Rees has a rich heritage in the printing industry, with a family background in creating large-scale visual advertisements such as billboards and bus ads. When she was living in Manhattan, she helped a friend revamp her office by inventing a peel-and-stick wallpaper. This innovative wallpaper was not only simple to apply but also versatile enough to be swapped out easily, making it an ideal choice for design enthusiasts who wished to experiment with their interiors without the commitment and expense of a full renovation.

In 2013, Rees launched Chasing Paper alongside her brother Mike Rees. The company, now situated in Rees’s native Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she resides with her husband and two daughters, offers a wide array of decorative solutions. These products, ranging from elaborate murals to stylish tile decals, are the result of collaborations with renowned designers and influencers.

Given her surroundings, filled with a diverse array of colors and patterns, it’s natural that Rees is driven by visual inspirations. She aspires to someday share her experiences in a published book that would resonate with avid readers. “I have a passion for storytelling and selecting just the right words to capture a feeling or a moment,” she explains. “Penning a novel would be a fulfillment of a lifelong dream.”

Rees is involved in various projects and her role encompasses multiple aspects of leadership. Comfortable with public speaking, she has found enjoyment in facilitating discussions. Last year, she moderated two panels, finding the experience both natural and a delightful deviation from her usual activities. She is eager for more such engagements in the future.

Maintaining balance can be challenging, but Rees has a particular routine that helps keep her grounded. “Stepping outside or getting on the treadmill is crucial for transitioning from my work to home life,” she remarks. “Walking not only clears my mind but also helps diminish the physical stress accumulated throughout the day.”

Today, Elizabeth Rees joins us for Friday Five!

1. Charmspring Springboard

Aside from her entrepreneurial role, Rees is also a mother of two. The Charmspring Springboard is a favorite tool for providing her family with a structured yet enjoyable routine through its visually appealing, design-centric approach.

2. A Stack of Books (Always!)

A pile of cherished books adds a cozy, layered look to any space. Rees is currently engrossed in The Creative Act by Rick Rubin, a recommended read for those in creative fields. She also enjoys fiction and recently completed All the Colors of the Dark, praising its engaging and well-crafted narrative.

3. The Brick Device

Rees advocates for being present and has embraced the Brick device, a minimalist tool that limits smartphone use, helping reduce distractions from social media and notifications. This device is particularly useful when she’s brainstorming new wallpaper patterns or spending quality time coloring with her daughters, allowing for more focused and meaningful interactions.

4. Marimekko Green Green Tea Towels

Known for their vibrant, graphic designs, Marimekko’s Green Green Tea Towels have recently become a staple in Rees’s kitchen. They bring joy to everyday tasks and serve as a reminder that thoughtful design can be part of everyday items, not just large statement pieces.

5. Vintage Wicker

Rees has a penchant for unique vintage items, with a current focus on vintage wicker. Its texture and warmth provide a perfect counterbalance to more contemporary decor, adding character and a touch of effortless elegance to any room, whether adorned with cushions or left unadorned for a more sculptural look.

Works by Chasing Paper: