Creating with Intention: Katie Howie on Slow Styling and Storytelling Through Portraits & Spaces

Margo is joined by photographer, slow stylist, and storyteller Katie Howie. Based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Katie brings a thoughtful, refined eye to everything she touches—whether she’s capturing a family in motion, styling a cozy and intentional home, or consulting with small businesses on creative strategy.

Katie shares her journey from studying psychology and women’s studies, to a decade in retail marketing, and ultimately to finding her creative footing as a visual storyteller. Margo and Katie explore the power of slow living and how Katie’s “slow styling” philosophy helps people reconnect with what truly matters in their homes and their lives.

Margo and Katie discuss:

  • Katie’s transition from psychology studies and retail marketing to creative entrepreneurship
  • The origins and meaning of “slow styling” and bringing personalized, accessible touches to home design
  • The power of storytelling in both portrait photography and interior styling
  • Building authentic creative businesses through community engagement rather than paid advertising
  • The importance of staying true to your unique style over following trends
  • How family legacy, history, and personal objects inspire and shape creative work
  • Katie’s community photo projects, including her “By a Thread” series profiling downtown Saint Paul residents
  • Working with families and real people to capture genuine moments rather than posed perfection
  • The therapeutic value of using and repurposing family heirlooms in daily life
  • Practical advice for creatives on finding their voice, sharing their work, and creating from authenticity

Connect with Katie:
http://katiehowie.com/
https://www.instagram.com/_katiehowie
https://www.instagram.com/by_a.thread_saintpaul

People inspiring Katie:
Currently she’s inspired by women who reinvent themselves at midlife, women who take risks and break down barriers. A great example of this is Peggy Flanagan and her run for the Senate. Another example is Pamela Anderson.

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