I’m Hattie, and I love Birmingham. And a lot of other things.

I’m originally from Decatur, Alabama and moved to Birmingham for college, graduating from my beloved Birmingham-Southern College. The Birmingham I first met was home to Bottletree. I spent evenings at Gip’s Place and J. Clyde. I credit those early years for instilling my deep love for our city and my appreciation for the people making things for us to enjoy. The city has evolved a lot in my time here, but I fall more deeply in love with Birmingham with every new step forward.

One Week in Birmingham was born out of that love. Once upon a time, I overheard someone say “Can you believe we have to live here?”. And that stuck with me. HAVE to? Do you leave your house? Do you talk to people? Are your eyes open? And on a Wednesday in September, I decided that if that person followed me around for a week, they wouldn’t feel that way. OWIB was born.

I love Birmingham, but I love a LOT of things. I’m deeply obsessed with traveling and maps and geography - and I plan a hell of a trip. I learn about wine like I have an exam coming up. Styling a great outfit is sometimes the best part of my day, the more color the better. I savor any chance to write or create or play. I can build a campfire with a single match most every time. I read slowly but I read every morning. And ultimately, I’m on a lifelong quest to make you laugh.

And somewhere along the line, I gained a nearly impenetrable optimism toward life. I’m grateful for it every day and I treasure it like a temporary gift. Every moment isn’t beautiful (my therapist would like a word!) But there are SO many moments that are. I try to notice every good thing so they know they’re appreciated, and I gotta believe that’s why they keep coming back.