From the Heart of a Planner

Distracted by Weeds

0 · Aug 31, 2015 ·

I entered an Instagram contest. And while I don’t have a large following, I’ve built up enough that I feel like I have to be very intentional about what I post and I’ve come to the point in business that people actually start to recognize me out in the public and may have even heard of my business. These should all be good things. It’s a sign of growth. But to me, it’s terrifying.

I’ve always been fairly reserved in nature. I don’t like people to know what’s going on with me. I don’t like people in my business. So it’s been a learning curve understanding what I’m comfortable with, what I need to challenge myself with and realizing that if I never tell anyone that I’m doing floral design or willing to travel, no one might ask me to do these things. And I want them to hire me to do these things!

Putting myself out there. That’s what I did last week upon entering this contest. I let the world know that I wanted to win something. I let my floral arrangements be judged with multiple entries from across the country. And it was scary.

At first, I felt like I wasn’t good enough. I felt like I shouldn’t even try because I didn’t want people to judge me, I didn’t want to feel like a failure and I didn’t want to have my hopes crushed. Then I got out of my head and just started creating. Some of the arrangements practically made themselves and some where a real struggle. But at the end of the day I felt good with myself. I felt like I had a real chance to be a finalist.

Friday morning hit me like a ton of bricks. All my fears came true. I’m not good enough. That’s what I heard when the five finalists where announced. And it hurt. I’m thirty years old with a business that I’ve built with my own two hands, using my God given talents and I felt inadequate. I started to cry.

I looked at myself in the mirror and didn’t like what I saw. I saw a grown woman crying because someone did pick her flowers, pretty ridiculous, right? People have real problems in this world and I’m getting weepy over a bunch of blooms.

I’ve evaluated and reevaluated every single one of my creations. I critiqued and tried to decide what I could do differently. And I’m pretty happy with my creations, which is all I can ask for at the end of the day. Obviously I compared myself to the other entrants, who wouldn’t? But what these other contestants really are is weeds. They’re weeds that are distracting me from the really beautiful blossoms in my garden. While weeds are quirky and fun and they hold their own beauty, they can also strangle out the plants that have been purposely placed and planted. I want to be purposeful and not distracted by weeds. I need to stay true to myself, even if it isn’t good enough for someone else. I refuse to be distracted by these weeds.

Adventures of Kitty & BFF

0 · Aug 6, 2015 ·

Coordination is the name of the game. I have been up to my eyeballs in details lately. I have organized my little heart out. Typed lists for vendors. Written lists for baby sitters. Jammed 22 centerpieces, 8 bouquets, 4 crates, table numbers, suitcases, emergency kits and more into my tiny little Tahoe. I have coordinated 3 different baby sitters, packed bottles, blankies and formula. I have outlined wedding day timelines and Willa June’s feeding schedule. I packed an emergency kit and emergency snacks for Gretta. Cell phones, Walkie Talkies and car keys all come along for the ride (all to be misplaced an outrageous number of times throughout any given day). Dog sitters, nannies, Grandmas and husband keep life on track at home. I’ve bought more greenhouse plants, made emergency trips to the flower market and dealt with more humidity and wind related issues that I ever care to sweat about again. My mantra through it all – “Someone can plan the perfect event, but it certainly isn’t me”. Truth.

I’m always preparing for the unexpected. I warn every client that something – be it big or small – will go wrong on their wedding day. There’s always a hiccup in the plan. You’re hiring me to manage that glitch.

I’ve just about reached that half way mark throw the wedding season. And to be honest, I’m ready for a teeny break and think it’s time for a bit of comic relief. This is where my bff is always sure to deliver. Friends always know what you need, don’t they? So without further ado, let me tell you about the detail that I failed to consider and definitely did not coordinate.

It was about 11:30 pm the night before my Traverse City wedding. I, for once, found myself already in bed, preparing to get a good night’s sleep prior to tomorrow’s busy wedding day. I then received this text, “I found the Caption”. Confused, I didn’t respond right away. {Caption = the extremely offensive and not even close to being politically correct abbreviated term of endearment we use for our cat, Caption Retard}

The message was then follow up with a screen shot that read, “Ugh, I don’t know what to do. I can’t find her. Went under the deck… treats not working!”

The came my husband’s reply “Hmmm… You can try my toothbrush. It’s an electric one in the bathroom closet. Every night when I brush my teeth she comes running and tries to nuzzle it… Kinda weird, I know. But, could work?”

Let me paint this picture for you. My bff was at my house watching the girls for a brief moment before Grandma came to pick them up. Upon their departure, she helped herself to a glass of wine and made herself to home. During this time, Nelly (our cat’s real name) figured out how to open the screen door and let herself outside. When discovering this, my extremely allergic, cat hating bff searches in desperation and runs circles around our house crying out “Kitty” (because no one ever remembers her real name) with a toothbrush in one hand and a glass of wine in the other. All to no avail.

Moral of the story? Plan for everything, you never know what wedding day shenanigans might take place… and lock the screen door. The scenario still has me laughing. And Nelly is now safe, back at home.

Silence on the Social Front

0 · Jul 22, 2015 ·

It saddens me that nearly a month has passed since my last post. I love blogging. I love sharing tidbits, advice and thoughts about weddings and life in general with all my amazing readers. So when busy takes over and I cannot find a moment to clear my head, write a sentence or much less format a post that’s worth reading, I find myself a little depressed.

It all comes down to priorities. I’m still dreaming of flowers, ribbons and foraging for the most perfect accents for each and every bridal bouquet. I am scheming up designs, laying out floor plans, creating flower recipes and timelines. But being a wedding planner is a selfless profession. It takes an enormous amount of dedication to each and every couple. It’s their needs that are put first, not my own. While I try to find balance in as many places as I possibly can, I always know that my clients come first. It’s their once in a lifetime experience that’s important, not my need to share what I’m up to with the world.

To the outside world, when things become quiet on the social media front it appears that we are doing nothing, we’re not busy and have little to share. To anyone in the wedding industry, we know that this is when we’re our busiest making wedding dreams come true.

Here’s just a peak at one of those dreamy days that we were honored to be a part of. Wishing the happiest of marriages to Hallie and Eric.

Photo by Bradley James Photography, from our wedding together last weekend in Ludington.

Footprints in the Sand

0 · Jun 3, 2015 ·

Sunday I awoke to a nip in the morning air. It had the crisp, clean and fragrant smell of summer with the chilling temperatures of fall. It almost felt as though autumn was closing in upon us or perhaps I had traveled north to the place where my dreams often take me. It felt like a Northern Michigan morning.

That same morning, our pastor talked about waiting. I feel like I’m caught waiting a lot. Waiting can be good. Perhaps we shouldn’t but in such a hurry, life doesn’t have to happen instantaneously. It’s interesting to think though what might happen if we never stopped waiting and just sit in our comfort, dragging our feet. And as my mind always tends to wander, I was thinking, if Jesus is always by our side, then he’s waiting right there with to us. Like footprints in the sand next to us, carrying us, guiding us.

While these two occurrences from Sunday aren’t exactly connected, I couldn’t help but think of this image, it just seemed to sum up the day. I was thinking about chilly and cold feet. I was thinking of the misty shores of Lake Michigan and the damp sand. I was thinking of being lonely and yet having love by my side. I was thinking about how many thoughts and words can come to mind with no way to express themselves besides in one visual image. I don’t have the perfect poetic tidings or ideas to sum up this post, but it’s perplexing the emotions, sentiments and a wealth of thoughts that can be conjured up from just one picture.

This beautiful image was part of a seaside inspirations shoot Ashley Slater Photography and I put together last month. So many more moving photos to be shared soon!

Mommy of 2

0 · May 12, 2015 ·

A day late and a dollar short. That’s the story of my life right now. This is my mother’s day blog post… which in fact is even being posted 2 days late. The most frequently asked question of my personal life is all about being a mommy of 2. How is it? Is it easier/harder? Does Gretta love being a big sister? Is Willa June a good baby? Are you getting much sleep? Cue the super mom comments…

So here we go.. I’m a mommy of 2 beautiful little girls. My business is having it’s busiest year yet. I work from home and have yet to secure a summer sitter. And most days I just classify as a big huge fail. Truth be told, life is CRAZY! At any given moment you might find me holding a baby, typing an email and teaching Gretta how to unpack my new floral containers and pick up wayward stems (she might as well learn to earn her keep!). Every single day is a new adventure.

In lieu of all of this, I think it’s appropriate to reflect back a moment. Those first few days were a little simpler, the hubs stayed home from work, Willa June decided to take naps and Gretta was still a bit unsure about this new phase of life. The time will fly by quickly, it’s hard to believe that Willa June is already 2 months old. Pretty soon there will be two chatty little girls running around the house and we’ll be in the next season of life.

I would love to extend a huge thank you to Kellie of Hetler Photography for so beautifully documenting yet another special moment in our lives.

Feeding Creativity

0 · Apr 21, 2015 ·

Photo: Hetler Photography

I was up at 3:30 this morning feeding Willa June. I don’t usually have many profound thoughts in this half sleeping, middle of the night state of mind. However, last night I began thinking about food. My life has been surrounded by it lately. In the eight hours while my husband escapes to work, I feed Willa June approximately 4 times. On top of that, Gretta gets breakfast, lunch and a snack. Basically this means that I’ve prepared 7 meals before the 5:00 rolls around and I haven’t even eaten yet. But I am surrounded by food.

I was thinking how this relates to my work. Right now I’m in the preparation stages. I have passed along so many floral and design proposals, brainstormed ideas and am so excited for all of this summer’s weddings to take place. I am surrounded by ideas and inspiration. I’m really really busy working with brides who are hungry for ideas. However, all of these ideas are on paper still. They’re just in the prepartion stages and have not been brought to life. I haven’t fed my creative side, I’m just planned a menu.

Without this extra fuel, our minds and imaginations become stagnant. Our creative juices cannot flow and our tank is running on empty. Its something that people outside of this industry just can’t seem to understand – why do you waste your money on workshops or photoshoots? You’ve got a dynamite portfolio and people know what you can do. Your talent speaks for itself. The answer is, sometimes I need to take time out for myself. Sometimes, I need to eat.

New Life

0 · Mar 19, 2015 ·

I’m so thankful for the sunshine and milder weather that has finally reached us here in West Michigan. I think Polly (my cocker spaniel) is pretty thankful as well. We’re finally able to step outdoors without having to be completely bundled head to toe, and as we do every spring, we’re on a quest – searching for new life.

I’m sad to say that as of 3:30pm on March 18, I have no notable findings to report. Brown, matted grass covers the vast majority of the landscape with a few lingering snow piles scattered here and there. Puddles still fill the ditches and tree branches remain barren, with the exception of a few shriveled berries left behind by the birds.

I’m not going to hide my jealousy for our neighbors to the south. I’ve seen peeks of forsythias and daffodils beginning to fill my feeds. However, I feel that this just fuels hope. Spring will arrive as it always does, fashionably late. It will be worth the wait, and we will be thankful after a long cold winter.

In the meantime, the only new life to be spotted is here in my home. I can tell by the increase of blog hits that I have a few nosey readers who are all patiently (or not so patiently!) awaiting a glimpse of the newest addition to our family. Right now my life consists of babies, bliss and blooms. I’m happy to introduce little Willa June. She’s one week old today.

Photography: Hetler Photography

She’s Here!

0 · Mar 13, 2015 ·

7 lbs 3 oz and 19 1/2 inches long, Willa June was born at 9:27 am yesterday. Gretta thought you should know that she’s officially a big sister and I’m now Mama to 2 beautiful girls.

Photography: Ashley Slater Photography | Styling & Floral Design: The Day’s Design | Calligraphy: Kaitlin Parisho Designs | Chair: Cameos & Cardigans

A Winter Maternity Session

0 · Mar 6, 2015 ·

I didn’t have maternity photos taken when I was pregnant with Gretta, and I’m not sure if I completely regret that but do know that there’s a missing piece of documentation in my life. I will never have that visual memory. I’ve never thought of myself as very photogenic so I just didn’t entertain the thought too much. I applaud those women who carry pregnancy with such beauty and grace, because that’s simply not me. However with this pregnancy, I decided to go for it. So back in January, Ashley Slater and I snuck outside for a little wintery photo session to commemorate this time in my life. I really set forth to see the beauty in this moment and try to find that every season has a reason to celebrate. It’s what I preach, it’s time to act on that.

As a bonus, I surprised my husband with these for a little Valentine’s gift. These were totally worth facing the frigid temperatures and now I have some beautiful new artwork to freshen up the baby’s nursery. And if you know me at all, you know that any photo session wouldn’t be complete without some beautiful blooms and a little styling.

Photography: Ashley Slater Photography | Florals & Styling: The Day’s Design | Calligraphy: Kaitlin Parisho Designs | Chair: Cameos & Cardigans

It’s a…

0 · Feb 27, 2015 ·

Yesterday marked my 37th week of pregnancy and I’m officially full term. If you follow me across social media you might notice that I’m not very vocal about it. I did make an announcement back in November, however these things are often quickly forgotten… unless of course, you’re the pregnant one! It’s not that I’m not thankful or excited or any of those things, but I just don’t get the warm fuzzy feelings that are people generally find normal from most expectant moms. I find pregnancy and the pregnancy process a little strange and almost borderline creepy – there’s something growing inside me! I try not to think about it. The goal is to keep this space a positive, loving and optimistic one, so it doesn’t always seem appropriate to share what’s really on my mind. Like Mom always said, if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.

But the truth is, we’re having another little girl. She will be here in less than 2 weeks time. And we’re really excited. Gretta was moved into her new “big girl bedroom” last weekend, and Baby Girl #2 will take over the nursery space. We’re still busy at work with the home reno projects, which we’re hoping (fingers crossed really really tightly!!) will just about be wrapped up this weekend. I don’t know what people do that don’t have parents like mine. Seriously, my dad has worked his hiney off in our nightmare of a bathroom and my mom has been a laundry and baby room warrior.

Meanwhile, I’m here wrapping up some really pretty details for 2015 brides and getting ahead of the game, in hopes of taking the next month to find the new norm and balance in life. I’m not sure that any of us are truly prepared for what life has in store for us but things always seem to work out. I’ll still be checking email and staying in planning mode, just on a little slower pace. So I appreciate your patience and understanding.

There are still openings in my 2015 wedding season for both floral design and planning clients but if you’re considering working with me the spots are filling up fast! Have a great weekend friends and be sure to check back next week as I’m going to share the rest of my maternity shoot with Ashley Slater Photography, with some gorgeous calligraphy pieces from Kaitlin Parisho Designs. It’s pretty, you won’t want to miss it!

Home Improvements

0 · Feb 10, 2015 ·

Sit down, grab a cup of coffee (I’m going to get a refill) and I’ll fill you in on life happenings over here at the Ferguson household…. picture by Hetler Photography.

Back in October I began blogging about all the off-season shenanigans that were about to take place around my home. I had this blissful dream of all the things that I could get accomplished during this slower time of year, organization projects, remodeling to-dos and office updates. And I even thought it would be fun to take you along on my journey via blogging.

Oh the best laid plans…

Our initial house project was fixing the ice damage from last winter which affected both our dining room and living room. This was an insurance claim, so rather than DIYing it (like every other remodeling project that we’ve tackled so far), we hired a pro. I thought this would make things easier. I thought things would get done correctly and in a timelier manor. I thought wrong. Start dates continued to get pushed back and suddenly I was fearful that it wouldn’t be finished in time to put up a Christmas tree. I put up a tree anyway. The crew was let go and the project is yet to be finished. Let’s just say that I have more control and faith in my husband – who is handy, but certainly not a master craftsman – than I do these so called “professionals”. If you’ve been waiting to see the “big reveal”, you’re going to have to keep on waiting. Here are the original plans, in case you’d like to see those.

Project number two has begun. For 5 years we have been living with the most disgusting, outdated and grossest bathroom you’ve ever seen. It’s been embarrassing whenever guests need to use the restroom. It’s dingy, with peeling wallpaper and shredded berber carpet… who carpets a bathroom anyway? My guess is it was updated sometime during the late 80’s, but I’m not too certain. We scheduled this project before realizing that our previous ice project would not be complete, but we have to move forward anyway. We’re having a baby and I refuse to still be remodeling when she arrives. We’ll see how those plans unfold – right now we’re about 40% complete, with 3 more work weekends to go (we’ve had 2 already).

As far as the rest, well, let’s just say that life is different than it was this time last year. Things were much quieter then. This year, it’s been a hustle and bustle of bridal inquiries, meetings and prep for the upcoming season. I’m so thankful, but it has put a few of those blissful organization dreams aside. Now I’m updating office space, making room for baby and tripping over extra tiles, tools and other random objects that seem to be floating throughout my home and things are just plain challenging. But I’m really exciting for what wedding season 2015 will bring – and for the warmer weather ahead. We’re half way through February, spring is right around the corner.

And I almost forgot one really exciting piece of “new business” – there’s a new website in the works! I’ve been hard at work on this baby and love the way it’s making my flowers and designs shine… it will be up and running soon!

A Generation Shaped by Grandma

0 · Jan 30, 2015 ·

January always brings memories of my Grandma; it was her birthday today and the anniversary of her passing earlier this month. She had a huge impact and influence on my life. I loved her so much and wish all the time I could call her up, sit and have a cup to tea (or toast with peanut butter – her fav!) with her or play another game of Cribbage. She was a strong, Godly woman who shaped a piece of who I am.

But it wasn’t until her funeral when I realized how many other lives she had touched. Person after person came forward to share who my grandma a touched their lives. This made my memory of Grandma even more magical.

My grandma has become a source of encouragement for me. She was the inspiration for my daughter’s name, she impacts my day to day life and also has an effect on the business side of my life. My forget-me-knots bordering my logo are in memory of her as I think of how they used to grow wild in her yard and grandpa was not allowed to mow while they were in bloom.

I have come to realize however, that I am not alone in my admiration for my grandma. I have run across a number of others, both in the wedding industry and elsewhere, who blog or tell tales of how their grandmas inspire them. Pieces of their businesses where named by them. Life just isn’t the same with them gone.

Why do we admire Grandma so much?

She grew up in a time before cell phones, internet and computers. She made meals from scratch and gave the best hugs. Her life was simple. She lived in an era when it was still okay to carpool with strangers, houses were made from fieldstones, pictures were in black and white and women were married at the age of 18. And marriages lasted.

What made her such an amazing woman? She didn’t even know how to properly send an email?! Are just romanticizing her memory? I don’t believe so. I believe that Grandma’s unsheltered way of life taught her something. I believe that she learned to fight and work hard, not having an easy way out. I believe that she had an extra burst of stubbornness that refused to quit. She didn’t have an “easy” button or a way to escape through technology. She had to talk about her problem, think about her answers in thoughtful letters of response. She learned to properly converse with one another and how to punctuate a sentence. She knew how to be a lady, as well as how to work on the farm. She walked to her job because she wasn’t spoiled with an extra car. And at the end of the day, she was tired.

Grandma, thank you for your passion and fight. Thank you for keeping me fired up for what really matters and making my family so amazing. Our grandma’s changed our generation. As they’re slowly finding their final resting places, a portion of history and wisdom is being lost in this world. “Simple” ways of life are being forgotten and it makes me sad.

Grandpa and Grandma at our wedding, June 2010. Photography: Shannon Scott Photography {Smug Shots}

Another Year Older

0 · Jan 20, 2015 ·

Photo: Heather Cisler Photography

Yesterday was my birthday. It wasn’t an exciting day, no one sang to me or gave me cake. It was simply just another day reminding us that life moves forward whether we embrace it or not and no one can escape the aging process.

Last month I was sitting with a couple of wedding friends enjoying light-hearted conversation. The topic of pregnancy arose and I made an off-handed comment about that being an issue in the industry, since so many of us are so young. It was at this point that I was very bluntly (but lovingly) put in my place – I’m not that young.

Since it’s been brought to my attention, I’ve realizing the level of truth in this statement. I’m getting old, which I’m sure is a point that would be disputed by those 20+ years my senior. But I’ve been asked before if I’ll “outgrow” my job. I think about long-term business and personal goals and wonder where I really should be at this time in my life. I’m not the 21 year old that just graduated collage and started a business – although truth be told, I don’t think I would have had the guts to take that leap then. I’ve established a level of maturity, and while my business and brand and even life (for that manor) might evolve I don’t foresee it going anywhere. I’m right where I want to be.

So these two inspirational quotes are going to stand by me today.

“Don’t compare your beginnings to someone else’s middle.” And while I feel like I’m finally traveling into the “middle” section of my journey, I still need to be careful not to compare, which leads me to my next point:

“Comparison is the theft of all joy.” Just do your thing. Worry about your life and forget about “the industry” which you’re in. Forget about your friend’s fancy new house or promotion. Just keep pushing on and doing what makes you happy.

Hugs & Cheers for the New Year

0 · Jan 5, 2015 ·

Photography: Eliza Jean Photography

I like to start January off on a positive note. It’s a new and fresh year full of possibilities. But today my heart is heavy and optimism is eluding me as another member of my family went to their eternal home yesterday. It seems the past few Januaries have been challenging, to say the least. Perhaps it’s the Lord’s way of testing me and letting me know it can only go up from here? I don’t really know.

I’ve read numerous year end recaps across Facebook, Instagram and on other blogs. While a couple here and there might make a slight mention of trials in 2014, most of them are extremely positive and almost overly enthusiastic about how great the year was. I almost feel like no one is really real with themselves or perhaps those people just chose not to speak out.

It’s important to know that life is full of complications, sadness and heartbreak. We don’t always choose to share these personal moments of defeat, as it’s so much easier to share the sunshine and celebration than the gloom. Sometimes it’s hard to see the engagement announcements, the shiny new Christmas toys and all the positive wishes for 2015. But if you too are starting the year on a negative note, it’s okay, you’re not alone regardless of what social media might be telling you. We’ll find your time of celebration together.

Hugs and Cheers into the New Year!

Merry Christmas 2014

0 · Dec 24, 2014 ·

Presents are wrapped, the car is being packed and we’re heading down the road to spend some quality time with the fam! So Merry Christmas from our family to yours.

Thanks Kellie for the beautiful Christmas photos!

You Bring Our Hearts to Life

0 · Dec 23, 2014 ·

“We believe in the kingdom come,

We believe in the risen Son,

You bring our hearts to life.”

This is the anthem that’s been ringing through my head this week. And while this isn’t exactly a Christmas song, is it connected to the holiday theme. It’s because of Christmas that we can sing this at all. (You can hear the whole song here.)

Just think, if Jesus hadn’t been born in the manger, there would be no risen Son. There would be no hope, no joy, no peace. Our hearts wouldn’t have life.

It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the presents and hot cocoa or even write blog posts about how much we miss our Christmas trees (I caved and put one up over the weekend, by the way) – but to me this season is really based on hope. I simply cannot comprehend what it would be life to live in this world without the knowledge that someday I’m leaving and headed to my eternal home. This isn’t forever and the best truly is yet to come.

May you be surrounded with this comfort and joy as you celebrate this Christmas.

The above picture was captured by Hetler Photography as part of our “Hat’s Off to the New Year” shoot last winter. You can see the entire holiday post here.

Dear Christmas Tree

0 · Dec 18, 2014 ·

Dear Christmas Tree,

You are without doubt my biggest joy throughout the holiday season. I love to peer upon your loveliness and watch your lights twinkle. I eagerly wait in anticipation for that glorious day in November when it’s no longer “too early” to proudly pick you up from the lot and bring you home to be a part of my holiday traditions. I dress you up with ornaments that have very little monetary value but so many memories, recalling the story behind each and every sparkly little bauble.

You are sorely missed this year as December has hurried by in a blur, not even leaving moment to reflect and focus on the true meaning of the season. I haven’t felt any warm fuzzies or had a moment to hang the stockings with care. You’ll find not a speck of tinsel or garland gracing my home, no pretty ribbons and boxes waiting to share joy on Christmas morning.

With the days of construction dragging on, the anticipation of something new is quickly fading as I long for something old. I yearn for those time-honored traditions and the glow of Christmas tree lights. The nostalgia and peace they bring each December is a quiet reminder to be thankful for the blessings of the year gone by. This year I sadly have found myself forgetting to be thankful for 2014. May we never forget the many miracles and wonder of Christmas.

The above picture was captured by Hetler Photography as part of our “Hat’s Off to the New Year” shoot last winter. You can see the entire holiday post here.

Sharing Thanks

0 · Nov 26, 2014 ·

It’s Gretta’s birthday today (can you believe she’s 2 already!? Flashback to her 1st birthday here) and I’m busy making cake, wrapping a quick present and packing to head out of town for the Thanksgiving holiday but in the midst of it all I’m going to totally be cheesy and cliché here and share a few of the things I have to be thankful for.

No doubt this has been a year of trials and struggles, I feel like a broken record as I’ve said that about the last few years in general. There’s been loss and heartache, ups and downs and challenges for sure. I cannot deny that life is full of struggle. I am hardly the eternal optimist.

Never the less, I am thankful for this space where I can share little tidbits and advice, tips on wedding and life planning, creating beautiful blooms and parts of my heart. I am thankful for you who continue to read the random thoughts that I choose to blog about. I’m thankful that you don’t criticize and critique me too much.

I’m so thankful for all the couples who have hired me to be a part of their 2014 celebration. I finished my last wedding of the season this past weekend (yes, I know I said that at the end of October but I snuck one more in there – more on that later!). I’m ready for a time of rest and refresh until next year which will undoubtedly be my busiest yet, it’s looking seriously fabulous and I can’t wait to celebrate with my 2015 couples!

And I’m thankful for my family. They’re crazy, and often annoying and pushy and intrusive and completely loving, supportive and the greatest people ever. The definition of family is constantly changing for me as people seem to come and go out of my life. There’s the pain of loss but on the other end, we also celebrate the joy of new life.

This joy will be celebrated again in 2015. We’re excited to announce that our family of three will soon be four, with our newest addition set to arrive mid-March. And we’re thankful for that.

So may you all be blessed and have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Lastly, I cannot forget all the vendors who have supported my creative talents and ventures, including the incredibly talented Kellie, of Hetler Photography, who took the above photos and who has had constant faith in my abilities. Thank you!!

Saying “Pish Posh”

0 · Sep 25, 2014 ·

It was around this time back in 2011 that I had my first paid floral order. It was a small order, 3 arrangements for a casual, catered dinner party. Needless to say, I was excited.

I researched and schemed. I gathered information and I was going to make these arrangements be the most beautiful flowers anyone had ever seen. Being as it was September, I choose to add some autumn hints, with browns and burgundy, a few sunflowers and some seeded eucalyptus. One large mantel display and two centerpieces later, I was almost pleased with myself. It was missing something…

So off I went for a walk. The perfect mix of green and yellow is what I sought and I found it easily within my reach, right in the comfort of my own yard. Now they were perfect. The foraged greens added the perfect amount of extra texture and completed my color palette.

Upon arrival with my arrangements, the secretary in charge of the dinner did not share my enthusiasm for the foraged greenery I was so proud of. In fact, other than some pleasantries about how nice it was to meet me, the only comment I heard about my flowers was “these greens, they look like they’re dead”.

I was mortified. I thought I had found a way for me to create; I thought I was stepping outside of the comforts and confines of a traditional floral shop and perhaps even finding my niche. I had always picked roadside blooms and other treasures for my garden, I didn’t see why I couldn’t do it even if I were selling the arrangements. And so I let one negative comment stop my vision of becoming a floral designer. Fear and judgment took over.

A year passed before I played with more flowers. And even then it was mostly for my own viewing pleasure. Her voice was always there, in the back of my head questioning my every move, every flower I choose and leaf I picked.

Today I would like to say “Pish Posh” to her. Her who had the audacity to question my art and pass criticism my way. Today I understand that negative criticism will always be lurking around the corner but I will press forward, maybe learning from my mistakes and maybe just taking it with a grain of salt.

“The voice you believe will determine the future you experience.” — I saw this quote last night and thought it was so fitting.

The above bouquet was 100% foraged from my garden and might include a couple of “weeds” from my yard, but I think it’s kind of lovely in its own spunky way. The picture was captured by Hetler Photography.

Waiting

0 · Aug 27, 2014 ·

Waiting. I fear we live in a world where that concept is lost. It’s old fashioned not to have instant gratification. It’s rare not to have something new in your hands moments after discovering that you want it.

On Monday, I was sent of preview of what was to be posted on Once Wed this week. It was all about waiting. I have waited since May to see the results of the photo shoot which I had a very small role in producing along with my other Team Flower girls. And it was worth the wait.

“In ancient Hebrew culture when a bride and groom were engaged, there was a time of separation, of waiting. Rather than planning every detail of their wedding day together, the groom needed to leave his bride at her home and go to his father’s house to build a room for he and his bride to live in when they married. She never knew exactly when her groom would return, but she trusted him and waited. This trust brought peace and rest to her mind. In that time she prepared herself for his arrival, fully confident he would return at just the right time.”

The idea of not knowing when something will happen, especially something as big as a wedding, is so foreign. I feel as though I would explode from the lack of knowledge and constantly living on the edge of my seat, thinking every moment I needed to be prepared, at my best and completely ready.

I must admit, patience is not a strong suit of mine. But I feel lately that I’ve been sitting here waiting for something – something great, I just don’t know what yet. I’ve left my blog full of silence this month and I’ve just waited for the perfect thing to share. And while my month may have been filled with busy, it was also full of questions. So what’s next? What exactly am I waiting for?

The above picture is simply a tease, you must see the entire feature starring Kelly Perry of Philosophy Flowers & Heather Payne Photography, along with full vendor credits here.

Destine to Bloom

0 · Aug 6, 2014 ·

Photo by Heather Payne Photography

I think it’s really funny how life turns out sometimes. I mean you head down one path and completely turn and do a 180, finding were meant to be on another all along. And the answers really were simple, and right there in front of you – you just never knew it.

My great grandma was a lover of flowers. She had beautiful gardens and knew every variety. Sadly I just recently learned this and I never had the opportunity to meet her. But here I am, unknowingly following in her footsteps. It’s like all along this journey was there, it’s in my blood, and all I had to do was reach out and accept it.

Do you believe destiny is in your blood?

An Evening in the Orchard

0 · Jul 21, 2014 ·

Spring brings a magical time when blooms are all about. I love finding excuses to drive by the orchards in all their flowering glory. The cherry orchards might just be my favorite as they remind me of my childhood trips to Grandma’s house but just about any flowering tree will bring a smile my my face.

This year I promised myself that I would have more pictures taken. I want to capture moments in life before they fade away. I want to remember Gretta’s spiky pigtails, how she hated to wear shoes (but loved to carry them around) and the way her eyes light up every time she sees her daddy.

Back in May these two things collided. My friend Kellie so graciously offered to spend a evening in a blossoming apple orchard and help me preserve a piece of my life. Thank you Kellie. Now the challenge is to pick my favorites to hang on my walls.

Photography: Hetler Photography / Styling & Flowers: The Day’s Design / Loveseat: Fancy Fray / Location: Private Orchard

Always capture the laughter, you may need to remember it in a time of sadness.

Blackbirds

0 · Jun 25, 2014 ·

Image via

When I was younger my favorite bird was the starling, or more commonly known as the blackbird. I just loved their dark color and the almost iridescent appearance their feathers took on at the tips of their wings. To me, this was shiny and sparkly and well, who wouldn’t love a sparkly bird!?

It was then pointed out to me that these birds were a nuisance, not pretty show birds and that I shouldn’t like them. So I set my sights on the bold cardinal in his brilliant red and the sweet, but rarely seen bluebird. I appreciated the speckled coat of the woodpecker and the playful yellow of the finch. But secretly, I still always liked it when Mr. Blackbird landed in my yard.

How often do we do this? How often do we stop liking something simply because someone tells us that it isn’t “cool”? Guilty – right here, point the finger at me!

One of the interesting things about working from home is the way you form ideas and opinions. There’s no one here to tell me my idea blows or that I shouldn’t consider something. There’s no one here at all. So when I come across something I love, I’m free to love it without any judgment passed. Working in my own personal space allows me to be me. Then I step outside of my little bubble and am sometimes hit with the harsh reality that my idea is a little crazy. But I’ve psyched myself up all day about it. So I either re-evaluate and either drop it or stick with my gut. Ultimately though, it is my decision.

I’m probably not going to take up bird watching anytime soon, and I’ve definitely started loving lots of other birds and their “not shiny” feathers. Even as I was looking for a picture to go with this post (because sadly I didn’t have anything in my portfolio with blackbirds, ha!), the words “pest” and “how to get rid of blackbirds” were displayed first and foremost across Google’s results. But sometimes you can find beauty in even the peskiest things. So I think we should always remember to keep ourselves happy and don’t be afraid of standing up for what we like, there’s beauty in that too.

Wild & Free

0 · Jun 23, 2014 ·

Over the weekend I read the quote “All good things are wild and free” – Henry David Thoreau.

I can’t get it out of my head.

I don’t know the original context or what point he was trying to make when he said those words, but I do have this feeling of home when I read it. I feel like it’s somehow belongs with me and holds a liberating truth.

When I think about how I want my life to be, the words contained, ordinary and tame do not come to mind. Not in the least bit. But rather I have this imagery of myself running barefoot through an open field of wild flowers a warm breeze running through my hair. Wild and free.

I think of the majestic lioness on the prowl through the safari of African, graceful and strong. She’s stalking her prey, caring for her young and soaking up the hot summer sun. Wild and free.

I think of a lush, hand picked bouquet. Each flower allowed to shine with it’s own grace, evoking a feeling reminiscent of the garden where it once belonged. Draping greenery, curled stems and delicate petals all speak with their own voice bringing the bouquet to life, not forced to conform into a tight arrangement but able to dance in the fresh air. Wild and free.

Doesn’t that just seem like the way life should be?

Above is my Baby Bean — barefoot and free 🙂 By Hetler Photography.

From the Heart of a Planner

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