Positive reinforcement has been proven to be one of the most effective ways to encourage good behavior. It's human nature... we love rewards. On those days when it is particularly difficult to get out of my warm cozy bed, I make a half-asleep pact with myself, “Ivy, if you get up right now, you can go to Collective Espresso.”

First thing first, Collective Espresso has great coffee. Sometimes I'll order a cappuccino, sometimes I'll go with an iced cold brew. Today, I went with a cortado. Cortados are gaining some popularity in Cincinnati recently, but Collective is the first place I ever saw this treat on a menu. While Italian is the primary language of espresso drinks, the word 'Cortado' is actually spanish, meaning, “cut.” So, an espresso cortado is espresso cut with steamed milk. The cortado is luscious and as my good friend David Falk pointed out, it’s the perfect ratio of coffee and milk.

Aside from a delicious dose of caffeine, I also love Collective Espresso because it has become part of the morning ritual for so many of my friends. Today I pushed open the doors and immediately saw the always stylish Jake Gerth of Frameshop, hard at work with his coffee at the bar. Rachel Appel from Power Pilates was chatting with one of the baristas over a cappuccino. Micah Paladino from PB&J was grabbing an iced latte on his way into the office. I sat down with my dear friend Emma Paxton and savored the neighborhood cafe experience. There is no better way to start the day than among your favorite people in the world.

Collective is a hub for creatives and professionals, the professionally creative and the people you're convinced do nothing but while away the day lost in a good book. Collective men are in noble denim and plaid, but you will also find a bespoke suit among these aesthetes and coffee lovers (beards optional). I'm either dressed for clients or meeting friends, which means comfortable and casual with a pro touch.

Ivy: Modern Simplicity - perfect for a day of personal shopping and client meetings.

Top: The Marina kimono  - Made by Hackwith Design exclusively for Fern Studio.
Tee: Simple white tissue cotton v-neck by Nation
Denim: Madewell tomboy distressed denim.
Necklace: Vintage pieces (including Ivy’s grandfather’s money clip) made for Ivy by a local jewelry designer.)

Ben is wearing...
Jacket - Vintage from Casablanca
Sweater - Wallin & Bros. Nordstrom
Button down - J. Crew
Sunglasses - Urban Outfitters