Resources That Inspire: Megan Howard Forbes

Woman in white dress and hat, embodying The Scout Guide elegance. — *Photography by Ashley Monogue*

Range Curated is a lifestyle concierge curating memorable events, travel experiences, and brand productions for their discerning clientele. Founder Megan Howard Forbes brings inspired concepts to life with a strong focus on personalized experiences that are equally thoughtful and unique. We chatted about her sources of inspiration, her ideal day in Naples, the importance of continuous learning, and a few of her travel must-haves.

What is a travel destination you’ve recently discovered and loved? Where do you travel and feel the most inspired? We recently returned from Scotland, for both our first project in the country and a personal lineage trip. We were told the weather we had for those 10 days was one in a million; blue skies with crisp air that felt like New England fall. Anywhere with rich history is incredibly inspiring to us, and to personally work both with a localized genealogist and artist to commemorate the experience was beyond special. We strive to curate travels for clients that always stimulate curiosity, advance local knowledge, and inspire lasting memories, but learning of your own personal history is another level of human connection. We’re excited to be working with several families on their next generational heritage trip and learning more deeply about those places through their lens.

Which novels do you read and leave feeling inspired? Any digital platforms you utilize for inspiration? Truthfully, I can’t say I read a lot of novels. Whenever I am on a boat, plane, car, or train, I’m reading international travel magazines, food magazines, design magazines, or articles on any of the above. The Virgin lounge at London Heathrow has the most incredible collection of publications to go. Last time I was there, I tried to carry half a dozen out with me and finally forfeited a few when my arm started going numb! I’m still one of those people with physical subscriptions, as I like the tangible excitement of getting something new in the mail and having a reason to force myself to sit without a screen.

If I am reading anything other than a magazine, I’m reading biographies/autobiographies on disruptors and legends in the hospitality, culinary, fashion, and entertainment industries, or published works on my accomplished clients, as I am constantly learning from them.

I also collect cookbooks on the road, as well as countless coffee table books from Taschen and Assouline. I’m constantly referring back to those when conversing with a client on evoking a mood or creating a theme. A lot of the time, a client wants to travel to a specific destination for the food. Cookbooks help foster a deeper understanding of the overall culture of the place. I also subscribe to Masterclass and recently got into the Acquired Podcast series. Anything that can expand my knowledge on my industry, my clients, and cultural uniqueness gets my attention.

What’s a daily practice that inspires? Following along on the entrepreneurial journey of creatives in Naples, New England, and internationally helps me stay connected with others in this space and continues to inspire our approach to experiences. A grounding practice of mine is walking barefoot in the grass at our property in Southern Vermont, our true respite from the New York City grind.

What’s a day in Naples “off the clock” that leaves you feeling inspired and creative? I love to peruse the new collections at the independent boutiques downtown and consignment shops. Peach Tree Designs and Patina Collection are a few of my favorites, and I cannot wait for Kaleidoscope to reopen! I can always find inspiration and ideas on curating party favors and hostess gifts while browsing locally.

Antiques, nostalgia, and things from long ago and far away inspire me. Naples has an incredible assortment of these ephemeral collection shops, and I love perusing what’s been newly added and learning the story behind the piece. Finding a piece of porcelain from Royal Copenhagen, a rattan bar cart, blown glass from Murano, or worn French linen napkins all inspire a narrative or an itinerary purpose that I can pitch to clients.

On a personal note, my primary residence is filled with collected gems from our travels. I am not the clean, modern, minimalist girlie. I am the neo-traditional maximalist who acquires, covets, and can always justify an occasion to use such pieces!

Any hidden Naples gems? I like to stop for a dirty martini to end a day out boating on the water. Depending on where we dock, it’ll be Bleu Provence, Chez Boët, or Syren Oyster Bar. We love rotating between the three, as all offer such a unique menu and atmosphere.

What is it about your clients that inspires you on a daily basis? Any sage pieces of advice you’ve received? I truly admire their lust for life. Each of my clients is exceptionally talented and accomplished, all while remaining humble, kind, and philanthropic. That’s a lesson right there! Their love of friends and family inspire many of the events and travels I work closely with them to plan.

Two takeaways from my years of experience working with highly successful individuals are that you must put in the hard work, stay disciplined, and stay focused. That, and choose a spouse who will be your partner in designing the life you want.

Anything you currently cannot live without? I have a few travel must-haves at the moment. Loop earplugs, a Lunya sleep mask and Cymbiotika magnesium oil are considered necessities for smooth and restful travel!