Where did you catch your first wave?
I caught my very first wave at, I believe, La Jolla Shores as a kid... but that was really a one-time event. I caught my first wave in my adult life that sparked my excitement for surfing at Bolsa Chica.
What did you learn from being raised Catholic?
Oh wow, that's a complex question. The first thought that comes to mind is the importance placed on tradition. I admire the beauty and artful ways of old tradition. There isn't much of that anymore and that instills inspiration and intrigue for me now, whether I am in agreement or not with the ideas. I also learned that discomfort is good for you, it can make you present and usually creates some sort of memory. For example, sitting through an hour-and-a-half mass as a 1st grader. I think there is some character building in that.
Why is art important?
Art gives me hope that my thoughts aren't insane, my unique ideas make me special, and everything has value.
What are your thoughts on work-life balance?
If all one does is work, where is the inspiration? How does the work flourish and grow? I think there needs to be balance to create and maintain inspiration.
Who has had the biggest impact on your life and perspective?
My sister has a huge impact on my life. I have always looked up to her. I think nature has the biggest impact on my perspective, offering some of the finest advice.
What are your thoughts on the ocean?
It's healing and gorgeous. It is presence.
What is success?
Success is feeling joy more of the time, knowing how to put inspiration into action, and getting closer to your vision every time.
When was the last time you felt bliss?
I felt bliss probably when I was surfing the other day at 1st point. It was my sweet friend Arthur's birthday. Everyone at 1st, for once, was lovely. He let me ride his 9'4 Gato Heroi Pintail situation.... pure bliss. I haven't felt such excitement in a long time. I would love one of those.
If you had one memory you could carry with you for the rest of your life, what would it be?
The feeling of seeing a first sample of a design that really worked. So exciting. A memory of seeing a sample.
What drives you?
Life is short, and I just want to be the best version of myself every day. I want to learn as much as I can. I just want to achieve some of my goals so that I know this is possible. I think working to achieve goals is a deeper intention to believe in myself and have a greater understanding of my purpose in life.
Please tell me one Isabella fun fact...
I grew up synchronized swimming.
What is the biggest realization you have had about yourself?
My biggest realization is that I don't like to feel my feelings.
Which of your vices or bad habits would be the hardest to give up?
Keeping myself busy so I don't feel my feelings.
What habit do you have now that you wish you started much earlier?
I think everything came at the right time for me.
What would you say has been your best investment?
My best investment was taking time to learn how to surf.
Is your glass half full or half empty?
Glass is half full.
Do you collect anything?
Not really, a lot of something is chaotic for me. But, probably vintage clothing serving as inspiration.
Is there anything you wished would come back into fashion?
Yoga pants with the flare lol.
What is one thing you will never do again?
I won't ever take a lot of mushrooms in a house with no furniture with one other person.
What is love?
Love could be presence.
Sunrise or Sunset?
Sunset.
