Summer Rules With Gwyn Love | Brightest Young Things

SUMMER RULES is a series where we ask people to share with us how they’re staying safe and sane during this very different summer season; from mask suggestions to soundtrack selections, we’ll take a peek into how others are making these challenging times work.

Gwyn Love is our contributor du jour; the songstress (who recently released her debut single “Never Have to See U Again” off her forthcoming EP, which is due out this fall) is into strawberry daiquiris, lake vibes, throwback tunes and more:

How do you usually feel about summer, as a season overall, and how do you feel about THIS summer, by comparison?

Summer is my favorite season by far. I love the sun, the lake, the freedom, the friends. This summer doesn’t feel like summer to me, it’s just a different vibe. 

What is your summer shaping up to look like?

This summer has been a summer of growth for me. I didn’t have as much fun with my friends compared to previous summers, but I’ve learned a lot about myself. 

Is there anything in particular you’re actually looking forward to this summer?

I look forward to releasing some cool music! I had planned a trip to Cali but ended up canceling because of COVID19. 

What are some of your tips for staying safe and sane right now?

Wear a mask for one. Social distancing. (I feel like we all know that stuff.) For staying sane, I would recommend doing things for yourself. Read a book, start a project, do something that you love. (Don’t just sit and watch TV all day.)

Go-to summer wellness practice advice? Any spots in particular that have been helping you on that front?

Sleep well, eat well, exercise. Don’t you dare stay inside all day, get some sun. Take time to breathe, and don’t feel guilty for taking time for yourself.  

Where did you get your mask from? And what, aside from that, has been your more or less go-to summer uniform?

I don’t have a stylish mask or anything, I got mine from my job. It’s grey and pretty comfortable, matches anything. I’ve had a pretty chill style this summer since I spend a lot of my time at home or working. Shorts and a crop top is the way to go.

What (if anything) are you reading right now, and why do you recommend it? (Alternatively, just share a favorite book.)

I’ve been reading self help books. The one I’m reading right now is called How To Kill A Narcissist, and it’s basically just about recovering from being in toxic relationships and how to recognize that a relationship is turning toxic before you are in too deep. 

Do you have a go-to summer hang-out recipe that still works for a socially distanced gathering? And/or just a favorite general summer recipe that’s still a go-to, even now?

I am so basic when it comes to food haha; my go-to is pizza no matter what season. 

What about a great summer cocktail or mocktail recipe?

I can get down with some cocktails. I got a blender for Christmas from my mother, and I’ve been whipping up frozen drinks all summer long. I like fruity stuff. Take some ice, rum, simple syrup, strawberries, and lime juice; throw it in a blender and you got yourself a delicious strawberry daiquiri. 

What’s on your summer playlist this year, or are there three songs that are permanent summer favorites for you?

I’ve been listening to a lot of stuff I listened to in high school this summer. (It’s a throwback summer, if you will.) The Summer Set is such a great summer vibe, been listening to their albums on repeat. Also been vibin’ with Hoodie Allen. I’m just digging the throwbacks. 

Where do you wish you COULD GO this summer, if there were no restrictions or safety risks?

I would go to Cali in a heartbeat. Seems like the best summer vibe. I would also love to go back to Canada and spend some time in the studio. Gets lonely recording and writing by myself. 

And is there anywhere you’ve been safely going that you could recommend for people who live nearby? Any day trips or local spots worth mentioning, for example?

The lake is a great place to go, and it’s really easy to keep socially distanced as well. I’ve been going to restaurants/bars with patios, too. (Don’t take your mask off until you are sat at your table, though.) Just stay mindful of everything going on right now; it doesn’t mean you can’t have an awesome summer.