You in EWE is our ongoing series spotlighting the distinct style and daily rituals of local creative forces. It’s an honest look at the personalities shaping our culture, seen through the lens of their Framed Ewe eyewear.

If you want to see how our community is styling their eyewear out in the wild, tap into #youinewe on Instagram.

How would you describe Local Nomad to someone who has never been here?

Local Nomad is a shop full of thoughtful gifts for anyone in your life, and a few little things that might just make your own day brighter, too.

What did you want people to feel when they walked into the shop?

A sense of discovery, inspired, warm and welcomed.

How has Phoenix shaped Local Nomad?

I dreamed up the shop when I was living in California, but Local Nomad has been entirely shaped by our interconnected community in Phoenix. Small businesses support each other, and customers support all of us in turn. It’s a beautiful symbiotic relationship I never expected.

What made you create “A Local’s Guide to Phoenix”?

We were always scribbling down our favorite Phoenix spots to share with customers, whether they lived down the street or were just in town for the weekend. Funny enough, I'd only lived here a few months myself when I opened Local Nomad, so at first, I was the one asking for recommendations! I think the best way to fall in love with a city is through its local businesses, and sharing that love with others is one of my greatest joys in life.

What do you appreciate about Framed Ewe as another local business?

Framed Ewe is instantly transporting, and so much of that comes from their lovely team, especially Christy, the absolute coolest, kindest human, who welcomed me with open arms into the Phoenix small business community and has been my cheerleader since we opened. Walking into Framed Ewe, I immediately feel special, and I leave feeling much cooler than I actually am! The design of the shop gives me a serotonin boost, and the frames are arranged so beautifully that the whole space feels like an art gallery. I call each of my purchases an investment in art, ha!

Lauren wears the Moscot x Framed Ewe Dahven

How would you describe your personal frame style?

It mirrors my clothing style: timeless pieces I'll wear for years, but with a playful twist, and maybe a little funk to keep things interesting.

When you choose frames, are you thinking function, identity, or mood?

Well, I only started needing a prescription lens last year, so I've certainly gone through a series of identity crises trying to figure out who I am as a newly glasses-wearing person! Now I keep a handful of frames on hand so I can choose what to wear based on how I'm feeling or where I'm headed.

What does “local” mean to you beyond just being in Phoenix?

To me, local means immersing yourself in the local scene wherever you are. It is being of the mindset to understand a city through the people who pour their hearts into making it what it is.

Any final notes for us viewers?

Get out, shop local, keep small business alive! Because what would our cities be without them!?