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May 21, 2013 7:00 AM EDT
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Go Inside Nate Berkus Associates — & Meet The So-Chic Team
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Tara Shade, creative director at Nate Berkus Entertainment

Tell us a little bit about your role.
"I've been helping Nate develop his home decor, home office, and fabric lines (currently at Target and Calico) for seven years. No day is ever quite like the last, and that's what I love about the work we do. I get as excited over a new idea, pattern, or palette color as I did when I first started, which I consider super lucky!"

What’s your go-to work ensemble?
"I usually reach for a simple pairing slightly turned on its ear — like an unexpected pattern mix or accessories with a little edge. Then, it's a toss-up between my favorite Fallon cuff or the vintage black horn and brass bracelet I wear nearly every day. I add different accent pieces to them depending on my outfit and mood."

Favorite Nate Berkus product?
"The Moroccan Chevron Coverlet Set! I have to admit that I've been waiting for it to hit the shelves since our first sample round. It's so light and summer-ready — and it makes my bedroom look like a million bucks."

What’s your favorite in-office tradition?
"We just made over our sitting area using fabric from Nate’s collection at Calico and some of his Target pieces. Now it’s the go-to place to host small office celebrations and the occasional 'wine-down' after a particularly busy season. Even the dogs get into the mix. I appreciate those moments to savor the creativity and humor that everyone brings to the table."

Do you keep anything cool or interesting at your desk?
"I always keep a few little treasures nearby; I especially love little items tied with travel or unique moments in time. A quartz we used on a shoot that a makeup artist once channeled energy with is a particular favorite. It sits right by a wind-up toy rabbit that I shot for a friend's CD cover art. I also have a piece of student art from nearby Talcott Elementary, from our revitalization of their school cafeteria. There's such a Gauguin-like quality to it — the colors and the relaxed pose of the subject…it makes me really happy."

Tara is wearing a vintage jacket and top, J.Crew pants, and Diane von Furstenberg shoes.