From mindset shifts to iconic brand stories and buzzy fiction, we’re sharing what’s on our reading list
— the books we’ve already read and loved, plus the ones coming with us next. These are the titles we’re reaching for at home before bed, on early morning flights, and packed into our carry-ons for vacation. Our book club mixes business inspiration, brand storytelling, and the kind of fiction you can’t put down.
Unreasonable Hospitality
By Will Guidara
One of our most-loved reads this year, Unreasonable Hospitality shares the story behind Eleven Madison Park and how a commitment to extraordinary service transformed a restaurant into the best in the world. Guidara’s philosophy is simple but powerful: going above and beyond creates unforgettable experiences.
Why We Loved It:
This book perfectly captures something we talk about all the time — creating meaningful moments for our clients. It’s a reminder that hospitality isn’t just about service, it’s about how you make people feel.
They All Came To Barney's
By Gene Pressman
A behind-the-scenes look at the legendary New York retailer Barneys and the visionaries who made it iconic. This personal history captures the creativity, culture, and fashion moments that defined one of the most influential stores in the world.
Why We Loved It:
As a family business rooted in retail, we love stories about brands that shape culture. This one is filled with inspiration for anyone building something special.
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow
By Gabrielle Zevin
A sweeping and imaginative novel about friendship, creativity, ambition, and the world of video game design. The story follows two childhood friends who build a gaming empire together — navigating success, rivalry, and the complexities of collaboration.
Why It's On Our List:
This novel has been everywhere lately and comes highly recommended. With themes of creativity, ambition, and collaboration, it feels like the perfect fiction pick for our book club — and we can’t wait to dive in.
The Obstacle Is The Way
By Ryan Holiday
Drawing from ancient Stoic philosophy, this modern classic explores how challenges can become opportunities for growth. Ryan Holiday shows how discipline, resilience, and perspective can turn obstacles into advantages.
Why It's On Our List:
This mindset classic has been recommended to us countless times. Its focus on resilience, perspective, and turning challenges into opportunities made it an easy addition to our reading list.
The Gee Reading Ritual
Whether it’s a quiet moment before bed or a long flight where we finally have time to open a book, we love turning reading into a small wind-down ritual. A few skincare essentials, something calming to sip, and a good candle set the tone (when we are at home, of course).
These are the things we reach for while we read:
Agent Nateur Calm (Beauty)
A few drops of this soothing oil are the perfect final step before settling in with a book. It’s calming, nourishing, and instantly makes any moment — at home or while traveling — feel more like a ritual.
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
Our multitasking moment. We’ll often pop on the LED mask and read a few pages while it works its magic — perfect for winding down at home or making the most of downtime on a flight.
Dr. Sebagh High Maintenance Hand Cream
Always within reach. Whether we’re turning pages in bed or on a plane, soft, hydrated hands make the whole reading moment feel a little more luxurious.
Rest + Digest Tea
Our go-to calming tea. Warm and soothing, it’s perfect for slowing down with a book at the end of the day or settling in during a long flight.
Crown Affair Hair Oil
A few drops through the ends before settling in with a book helps nourish and restore hair overnight. It’s an easy step to add while winding down — whether you’re reading in bed or relaxing with a few quiet pages while traveling.
