From the Heart of a Planner

Little Sister Getting Married {To Be Continued}

0 · Jan 14, 2014 ·

I have fairly openly blogged about my little sister’s wedding, a little more-so than with other brides and projects I’m working on. Her wedding has truly been a labor of love with lots of gorgeous details in the works. There’s also been a lot of anticipation for this event; I hear buzz from wedding guests, other vendors and friends alike. “You’re going to blog the results, right???” I can’t even count the number of times those words have been said.

But the piece of the wedding that makes the day so beautiful is the love, commitment and the person you have waiting for you at the end of the aisle. And sometimes throughout the planning process another truth is presented. Sometimes you realize that your family is perfect just the way it is.

Photo by Bradley James Photography

While its human nature to long for companionship, I truly believe the best relationships might be the ones that are right in front of you – your family, your best friend, your beautiful little girl. Your {future} spouse may not necessarily make your life complete.

My little sister is completely heartbroken after making the tough decision to call off her wedding, which was supposed to have taken place past weekend. It’s a brave and bold choice to make. But I fully support her decision and know from the bottom of my heart that she will triumph over this.

I originally thought that this would be the final post in the “Little Sister Getting Married” series, however I have rethought this. It’s just To Be Continued, a little stalling period to keep the audience in suspense. I have no doubt that the best in her life is yet to come.

Overcoming your Three Greatest Challenges in the New Year

0 · Jan 3, 2014 ·

Well friends, 2014 is officially here. And after traveling to Lake Leelanau, Detroit and East Lansing and hosting 2 dinner parties all in the past 2 weeks, I’m ready for life to start getting back to a normal pace. I am also ready for focus on things ahead.

I have never been one for New Year’s resolutions though. I suppose it’s really more of a fear of failing at them, which most people do. So rather than concurring my fears, I tend to just avoid them. Which right now, I fully intend to continue doing. You see, a couple months ago I thought that if I blogged about my goals for the month, it would help me stay accountable. That didn’t work either. I was purposely vague about them (rather than making them specific and attainable as I have been taught in all my business classes) and I just disappointed myself, in the end feeling more like a failure.

So on that note, I’ve been trying to figure out how to approach 2014, both personally and professionally. I still haven’t figured it out. However, on Sunday we had a guest speaker at our church and I think he had some great insights on the New Year. Here’s what he had to say:

Overcoming your Three Greatest Challenges in the New Year

1. There will be storms to survive.

The New Year will provide new challenges. Some of those might be left over from last year and some may be completely out of the blue and brand spanking new. But either way, God is with you. With Him, you can weather the storm. The key is to keep your eye on the provider, the one who can calm the wind and the waves, rather than focusing on the problem, or the storm itself.

2. There will be mountains to climb.

Instantly when he said this the first thought that came to mind was “no hill for a stepper” – which is a ridiculous saying that I have heard come out of my mother’s mouth time and time again. But there’s some truth there. Take one step at a time making your way to the top. It might be a slow journey, but you can make it. God is for you! When God looks at you, he can see your full potential. Have faith that through Him you can do all things.

3. There will be battles to fight.

God is fighting for you.

“Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all the generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21.

Our minds are so little and cannot even comprehend all the God is able to do. Do you ever wonder if God finds our simple requests silly and is up there having a good chuckle? Nevertheless, He will fight for you. The outcome might not be exactly what you had planned, but that’s okay. I think He has His eye on a bigger picture.

I know there will be surprises along the way and challenges on the road ahead. However, I’m having faith that there is a greater plan and better things yet to come in 2014.

Happy New Year!

The beautiful bouquet above was created by yours truly this fall and photographed so beautifully by Bradley James Photography.

Merry Christmas

0 · Dec 28, 2013 ·

My Facebook page informed me that it has been 8 days since I’ve posted anything “your audience wants to hear from you!!” Ha. I’m sure you’re all on the edge of your seatings wondering what’s happening over here! Actually, I feel as though I just dissolved into the magic of the holidays, celebrating family and togetherness in its entire splendor. Nope, no “Happy Holidays” message from The Day’s Design. Sorry, social media just didn’t find its way into my merriness!

However, that doesn’t mean that good wishes into the New Year aren’t bestowed upon you. It also doesn’t mean I didn’t wish you a Merry Christmas.

Sadly, someone I know who did post something on social media about her Christmas and it’s true meaning found herself the victim of criticism and hurtful backlash – which boiled down to calling her a hypocrite because she put Christ at the center of Christmas but also loved receiving lots of Christmas presents.

To that I would say this – everyone is entitled to their own version of what Christmas represents. I love giving presents and yes, I like to receive them too. I love to shop and find the perfect gift. I love the ribbons and the bows. Fires, hot cocoa, the smell of evergreen and the twinkle of lights warm my heart. But most of all, Christ is at the center of my Christmas. He is the reason that I celebrate. Without Him, I can see no purpose for joy, hope or merriment. The future is dark and there’s no reason to think that there are better things to come.

There are many views regarding the meaning of Christmas. The reason for my season though, is gratitude. I have a heart of thanksgiving, not only at Christmas, but throughout the year, celebrating all that God has done, provided and given me. Christmas is just that additional opportunity to spread that cheer.

So even though I’m three days late, know that my heart was with you, wishing all the very merriest of Christmases and a wonderful New Year!!

From our family to yours !! Picture by my dear friends at Hetler Photography

Happy December

0 · Dec 2, 2013 ·

Happy December!! It’s here the month I wait all year for. It’s time for the magic and warmth that the holidays bring and the feeling of thankfulness that carries over from November. I have so much to be thankful for, despite me not having jumped on the 30 days of thankful bandwagon, that doesn’t mean that I do feel it or recognize what God has blessed me with.

I feel like December is the month for wrapping up the old and starting fresh with the new. Not that there was anything wrong with 2013, but I’m excited for a fresh start and new hopes and promises that 2014 bring. Is there anything you’d like to see more of from The Day’s Design in 2014???

I’m compiling a list of things that I would like to update and some things that will likely remain to the same in 2014. I’m working with consistency, updating the website a tad and a couple fun new ideas that are scheduled to happen even before we ring in 2014. So my goals for December? Live life to the fullest, keep on trucking and enjoy the holidays… even if there is lots of work in the mix!!

Photo by Hetler Photography, xoxo

The Birthday Challenge

0 · Nov 26, 2013 ·

Guess what?! Miss Gretta is officially 1 year old today! I can’t even believe it!! Margaretta James Ferguson, 6 lbs 13 oz, she was born at 11:32 pm on this chilly November day!

Which leads me into my next question, have you read about the contentment challenge? It is really inspiring me and has helped to focus on needs and necessities verse wants. Let’s face it, as Americans we are blessed with so much. Due to current circumstances Josh and I pretty much practice a bare bones living. Now that does not mean we don’t splurge or do something special now and again. But as of late, our spending habits are not very frivolous.

In addition, I have really been focusing on “Do what you can with what you have” – another piece of advice passed along to me that keeps ringing through my head. I know it’s the time of year where we are all supposed to be thankful, which I am, but this goes beyond that. It’s an ache in my heart. And at one time it was focus of my business. When I began, my hope was to prove that you don’t need an unlimited wedding budget to have a beautiful day. And you definitely don’t need to drive yourself into debt doing so. There’s something to be said about creating a simply pretty event. There’s an art to it.

With all this in mind, I am busy busy with my next project. It’s a very special party for my little birthday girl. My challenge has been creating an amazing party (which I am well aware that she will not remember – but I have to do it anyway!) without spending any money. Alright, I will admit, I’m going to spend a little, people need plates and napkins and I can’t resist putting together some beautiful blooms, but beyond that, everything has been created from things laying around the house. Recycle, reuse and spray-paint!! It is sort of my own version of the contentment challenge, The Birthday Challenge. This is a very peaceful mindset and I cannot wait to share the results of the party, as well as this challenge as suddenly I feel like I am able to look at my humble house with new eyes.

In case I don’t have another chance to blog again this week, have a fabulous Thanksgiving!!!

The above photo was Gretta at 5 months, from Hetler Photography. I think it’s time for some new ones, don’t you???

My Sock Bun Hits the Ceiling!!

0 · Oct 11, 2013 ·

I rarely wear my hair up. And if I do it’s one of those super-messy, spur-of-the-moment, I-HAVE-to-get-my-hair-off-my-neck situations. I have this really weird thing about my neck and showing off my ears, anyway, so NOT the point of this post (I’m just quirky and don’t like my hair up – enough said).

In addition to being the pre-wedding coordinator and event designer for my sister’s wedding, I have the added bonus of also being the maid of honor. I am so super excited about this and about her, and it is truly an honor to be a part of her dream day in such a big way. It is also my duty as a bridesmaid to be an awesome MOH and realize that it’s her day, and things will be done her way. Perfect.

But she thinks she wants the girls to wear their hair up. So as a good older sister and bridesmaid I’ve begun experimenting with how I can wear my hair up and keep both of us happy. The ever so popular sock bun has come into play. I love the look of a giant, sophisticated and neat bun. I would still get big hair, but it wouldn’t be messy. Yes, I thought this might be the perfect solution.

I rocked it for a couple days. And then I got in my car.

Now, I’m not going to go off on a tangent about how cars were clearly designed by bald men who have no appreciation of a greatly teased head of hair. However, the frustration of having to lean my seat back and slouch while driving is great. It might even be classified as a safety risk. But of course as a female, I tend to put beauty before safety, oops.

When I drive my Tahoe, it’s not an issue. I have since told my husband that I will no longer be driving the car. He rolled his eyes and switched keys.

What I am wondering is, how are you brides with fabulous up-dos being transported to your ceremony location or who’s driving you home from the salon? Are you going to have to be crammed in a car or do you have a luxurious SUV of some sort? Or perhaps your stylist is coming to you (which I highly recommend). Am I just being crazy?? Maybe others don’t really have this concern… Maybe I just like my hair too big!!

The above image is from here. And you’ll also learn how to achieve this look yourself!!

Just the thoughts going through my head on the beautiful Friday morning! Have a great weekend!!

Welcome October

0 · Oct 1, 2013 ·

Anyone else a little panicked that today is the last day of September? That means three big things:

It’s my little sister’s birthday…yay!! Let’s celebrate with her! She’s a pretty amazing girly and totally deserves to have the best day ever. That’s her below with my mom (who also celebrated a birthday this month… we’re not getting older though, only wiser!)
There are only 91 days left in 2013 (and only 85 days until Christmas… I can hardly wait, I want to start wrapping Christmas presents!)
And thirdly, it’s time to check in on my September goals. Unfortunately, I have to admit that I’m a failure. (Here are my September goals, in case you need a refresh)

I definitely spent some time focusing on what matters to me. I dropped everything last week to spend the day with my mom on her birthday, and there were a couple other family fun weekends thrown into the mix. Gretta got sick for the first time ever this month, so we spent a lot of extra time snuggling. And I did definitely clean my desk and organize some, so I can halfway check this off my list. The failure part comes in with my someday projects. I can’t really check anything off my list, and to make it worse, the list is getting longer. I cleaned out my closet. And that to some might be a huge accomplishment, but when your closet is barely the size of a shoe box it really doesn’t seem like that great of an achievement. Especially when I have 2 closets, so it’s really like I am only 50% of the way done. But that’s okay, right? Tomorrow starts a new month with a new beginning. So, my goals will just have to carry on over.

Happy Monday!!

Photo by Shannon Scott {Smug Shots}

Be Still

0 · Sep 18, 2013 ·

Lately I’ve been in this strange place. I want more from my business, more from life and yet not wanting so much that I can’t actually LIVE my life. So I’ve talked about balance before, trying to figure out this perfect formula for living. But maybe it’s not just balance I need to focus on, maybe it’s also contentment.

“You will not find My Peace by engaging in excessive planning, attempting to control what will happen to you in the future.”

-Sara Young, Jesus Calling

This showed up in my Instagram feed this morning. Umm… I plan things for a living, so what am I supposed to make of this?

A couple weeks ago I shared my perfect plan about what this summer was supposed to look like for me. I’d be wrapping up wedding season, be able to sit down and relax in my super awesome studio space and so on (read more here – just in case you missed it).

And again we’ll fast forward to today… I want more, more, MORE! I have not wrapped up wedding season and am still getting inquiries for 2013, which is absolutely amazing and I am so thankful for. However, I am still greed stricken as I want my 2014 to start filling up and I want to book more weddings and have a better peace of mind.

“Be still and know that I am God”

-Psalms 46:10

I just need to step back and stop trying to figure out how to get more, and rather start focusing on what I have TODAY. Today might actually be a pretty amazing day, if I can just stop thinking about tomorrow.

I was looking through my notebook and I have the words “Gratitude changes everything” scribbled across my notes. So that’s the thought I’m going to leave with today. Be thankful.

September Goals

0 · Sep 3, 2013 ·

September. The hum of lawn mowers and bees will soon be replaced by the crunching of leaves. The scent of honeysuckle swapped for pumpkin spice and the holidays are right around the corner. I usually await the start of fall with open arms.

I’m just not sure if I’m ready yet this year. Sure I can still hit the beach on a nice day, but somehow the mindset and mood is just a little different. You have to savor these last scarce nice days knowing that there are so few left. (And I love Lara Casey’s post about savoring September which you can read here.)

So how do you do that? To begin, I have a list of things that I WILL accomplish THIS MONTH. I’m really horrible at tackling my to-do lists, but I’ve made my goals very achievable and I’m going to stick to it!

September’s Goals:

1. Focus on what matters most

I have weekend plans with family, lots of space in my schedule to play with Gretta and some time to share with friends

2. Get Organized

My desk is a little chaotic with several projects in the works and finished projects needing to be filed.
My work space and house is also evolving as Gretta has suddenly become a bit more mobile… everything needs to move up, up, UP.

3. Wrap up loose ends

I have so many “someday” projects. You know, those things that you’ll get to someday – those pictures that need to be hung, that drawer that needs to be organized, the chair that needs to be refinished. So, I’m going to start room by room and complete those things, starting NOW.

I sat down last night and looked at my September planner and thought I was going to have a pretty quiet month, and then I realized I just hadn’t written anything down yet! Oops…!!!

Photo by Bradley James Photography

So cheers to lots of projects, lots of pretty and lots of accomplished goals!! Happy September!

One Year Ago

0 · Aug 26, 2013 ·

It was about this time last year that The Day’s Design became an “official” business (paperwork filed, DBA, tax IDs and all that un-fun stuff put in order). I was almost seven months pregnant and waiting to be called back into work after a short and temporary summer lay-off. Around this time I had high hopes and dreams about what this summer would bring, bustling around with numerous brides, designing away and getting ready to wrap up wedding season, all with my perfect little baby girl by my side.

Yup, life was to be just about perfect. My basement studio space would be shabby chic fabulousness and provide lots of space and organization. I would have the best of both worlds being able to work from home and not have to send Gretta to day care – not missing a single moment of her life. We could spend time playing together in the mornings and I’d stay busy crafting and creating while she peaceful slept each naptime.

Now we’ll fast forward to today. That studio space doesn’t even exist. Instead my basement looks like a moving truck full of décor exploded, with vases, tulle and supplies scattered in every direction, creating an obstacle course for me to maneuver through each time I need a new supply. My office has been relocated to the living room for convenience purposes and is haphazardly organized and accessorized by a baby gate. Miss Gretta is crawling nonstop, hardly allowing me to sit down and scribble down an idea or blog post, much less all the other pieces of owning a business I need to work on. Despite it all, this summer has been amazing and I wouldn’t change a thing.

But it does leave me wondering, why didn’t anyone point out to me how crazy I was starting a business now??? Shouldn’t my mother have told me I was getting in over my head? (Moms are supposed to warn you about stuff, right?) It probably wouldn’t have mattered much anyway, I was and still am super determined to make this work. It does work, just not in the same way that I had envisioned. But on that note, I have every intention to take the rest of this week off, savoring what little sliver of summer we have left organizing life before the onset of fall, and even sneaking up north for a couple days too!

So loves, have a great week and a happy Labor Day! I’ll talk to you next week!!

And also last year around this time I was busy designing my first photo shoot with Unikke Photography, as I prepared to launch my website. This is just one of the images we created together 🙂

When does ‘Happily Ever After’ begin?

0 · Aug 19, 2013 ·

I’m a daydreamer and a fairytale lover so being as such, I often reference the “happily ever after” period of time. You know, that magical moment when your go from the damsel in distress hopelessly looking for Mr. Right, to Mrs. Right, complete with a white gown fit for a queen and you ride off together into the sunset to forever live in a blissful “happily ever after” state.

The reality is we’re all looking for our knight in shining armor. We are given this illusion that if we just marry a wonder man then we can be forever happy. And while there is some truth to this, we also might find ourselves a bit disenchanted with him over time.

My Prince Charming and I got into a little quarrel yesterday morning. Or maybe it was more of a big quarrel. At any rate, the fact of the matter is, everything isn’t going to be just peachy because you took vows to love each other forever. I have mentioned before that people have told me the first year of marriage is the hardest. My mother will tell you the first seven years are the hardest (and she has been married for thirty-eight years now). What I can definitely tell you is that we’ve had arguments and differences in all three years that we’ve been married.

So yesterday morning we were not speaking much as we drove to church. But I was determined that we were still going. My mother also used to say that arguing on Sunday mornings was the way of the Devil trying to get you to skip church. I think there’s some truth there, as there just seems to be lots of extra stress rushing around on Sundays.

I sat through the service feeling a little down, thinking about how this isn’t exactly the married life that I had envisioned. When suddenly it occurred to me, happily ever after starts when YOU want it too! YOU have to create that life that you dreamed of. No one is going to just hand it over to you. And while there might be some curves and bumps along the way, it’s a journey that you can choose to travel onward together.

As you think about that white horse carrying you off into the sunset, remember that just because you lost site of the horse on the horizon, doesn’t mean it stopped walking. Journey on that horse together and maybe that will be better than the destination.

PS – We made up 🙂 And that picture up there? That’s one of my first ever brides from two summers ago, captured by Kelly Lynne Photography… it’s amazing how time flies!

It’s the Weekend!

0 · Aug 16, 2013 ·

Coming home after a few days away is like entering a whole new world of possibilities. Stepping away allows me to clear my head, refresh and refocus. We skipped town for a couple of days last weekend, purposely leaving my laptop cord behind, so we could soak up some sun and Lake Michigan air.

It was pretty chilly last weekend, so our plan didn’t pan out exactly as I’d hoped, but it was still great to get away. Tuesday morning when I stepping back into my office, I didn’t even know where to start… I was simply bursting at the seams with inspiration! It’s one of those times where I have so many ideas, trying to figure out how to get them all out of your head and onto paper, somewhat organized and making sense of it all seems nearly impossible. And the ideas are so scattered, multiple events with various components can leave to an overload of creativity, but I love it! This is what I thrive on 🙂

So this week my desk has been covered with random sketches tossed every which way, I have been elbows deep in piles of tulle, lace, feathers and Swarovski crystals and unpacking my suitcase has been shoved way down low on my priority list!

To some people a strong work ethic includes spending extra hours away from home, not taking vacations and having zero family time – they’re married to their work. For me, its understanding that some time away can lead to new possibilities, more creativity and a healthier overall perspective on life. So please excuse the mess… this busy mama has work to do!

Happy Friday friends!!

For more glimpses of what I’ve been up to, follow in Instagram!

Fear: Part 2

0 · Aug 8, 2013 ·

Just a little recap from earlier in this story, I was feeling a nudge to leave my comfortable job and to spend more time with my family, while focusing more on what matters in life. I acted on that, but perhaps I stepped in the wrong direction… (for more, read part 1 here.)

It seemed everywhere I turned there were signs pointing me in another direction. That spring and summer our pastor preached countless sermons on taking leaps of faith, and not just being contented but also fulfilled in life. I cannot remember the entire message, but one Sunday in particular he spoke about the ABC’s:

A – We get super excited about something new. We are absolutely on fire and cannot wait for our journey to begin.

B – The road becomes a bit more difficult. Challenges arise and the journey seems too long. We cannot see the end of our path.

It’s at this point that many people turn back. They look for a new point A, a new beginning. Inevitably, difficulties will arise again (point B) and so the search for another A also begins and it’s a vicious cycle of never seeing anything through.

C – However, point C brings the fruits of our labor. If we can just push through those difficult times, we can reap the rewards and be fired up once more. The message was aimed right at me, I knew it to the depths of my soul. Point A was over so I left my job and now in my new job had gone through A and B, but it didn’t even seem worth continuing on to C. And I was paralyzed by fear.

So much fear. I didn’t know what I was doing. I had this idea to start my own event design and planning company for years now, but it was such a distant daydream. It was just a hobby, people don’t support their families doing stuff like this! And did I mention, I was pregnant?

And then Pastor Brian said something else: are you willing to fail for God? Wow.

I cannot say that my next actions made any sense at all. I began researching all the wedding planning businesses in the area (and there are A LOT). The market seemed like it was becoming saturated. I couldn’t figure out if this was a smart move in business. But I began writing a business plan anyway.

I have made many of my first moves in fear. I have never been an outgoing person and I hate being the center of attention. I have reached out to other vendors and tried to live reminding myself that they can’t say anything more than “no.” But “no” is a scary word. It gets you questioning everything you do, wondering if you’re good enough, smart enough and talented enough. I keep me reminding myself that I am enough (and if you need a reminder about that, I highly encourage you to read this post by my good friend Kellie – who I would not have met without having started this “scary” business).

I am a control freak and I like to have all my ducks in a row, with a perfect plan in place before I start anything (I’m an event planner, remember??). I am fearful of starting anything without first knowing exactly where I’m going and exactly how I’m going to get there. But lately I feel like I’ve been feeling another nudge…

Countless people in the wedding industry lately have been posting tidbits about anxiety and how “done” is better than perfect. “A year from now, what will you wish you had started today?” Quotes about fear and rejection have been popping up all over my Facebook and Instagram feeds. I’ve already of made a couple of mistakes and wish I would have done some things differently in this little baby business of mine, and I don’t like that feeling. I think it’s that icky feeling that’s holding me back.

What are these feelings holding me back from and where is this nudge leading? Don’t worry, I’m not leaving The Day’s Design, I love this business that I have created, I just have the notion that it could be more. There are more services to offer and more opportunities awaiting, but am I ready for them?

As you read this, I know what you’re thinking, “You felt like you needed to make and different and do something that matters and you chose wedding planning??” It’s okay, I had that moment too! But a wedding is a huge deal! It’s so much more than just a pretty celebration; it’s a recognition of a commitment, not only between man and wife but a commitment to God. I want to be a part of that! I want to utilize the talents He has given me. I want to help create a beautiful start to the rest of each couple’s lives.

So what’s next for The Day’s Design? A step forward. I need my grandma’s faith in me. I need faith in myself. And most of all, I need to have faith in God. I must overcome fear.

The above print and quote is from Lara Casey, such an amazing woman and inspiration. You can find it here.

Fear

0 · Aug 6, 2013 ·

I let fear hold me back. That’s an honest and open, bold and truthful statement. I get scared and am unsure of what my next step in life should be.

Two years ago (summer 2011), I received a promotion to Dining Room Manager at the restaurant where I was currently employed. It was a decent job with good pay, the hours were not exactly what I’d like in a perfect world, but I could go shopping, we could continue remodeling our house and life was pretty comfortable. I continued to work here and there on weddings, although there just wasn’t too much time for that.

It was not where I was supposed to be and I knew it, but I continued on with my comfortable life. That fall my grandma, who I was VERY close to was diagnosed with cancer and she began failing fast. As the holidays approached work got busier, life got busier and the question arose as to whether or not Grandma would make it to Christmas.

During one of the most joyous times of the year my heart was so heavy. I remember being bitter towards all the people celebrating with their loved ones as I served food, greeted guests and tried to stay somewhat upbeat. I have over 10 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, so customer service has become second nature to me. But not during this time. All I wanted to do was scream “My Grandma is dying, and you’re upset that your steak is slightly overcooked!!”

A time like this really has a way of putting things into perspective. We find meaning in life’s dark times and are able to focus on what’s really important. For me, that was family. I felt like I needed to be with them and I needed to make a difference and give my life more purpose than just overseeing a dining room of overindulgent seafood lovers.

Three days before Christmas I approached my boss and told him I would not be into work for the next few days. I had to go see Grandma and focus on what mattered most.

We had the best Christmas EVER. I cannot even begin to describe it more than that… it was just an amazing time being surrounded with family and love. Period.

January 9, 2012 Jesus called Grandma home. On one extremely snowy and blusterous day we all gathered around to celebrate her life. She was an absolutely amazing God filled woman who I was so proud to also call my friend. She always pushed me to do my best and was filled with simple words of wisdom and comfort.

More than ever, I knew it was time to leave my restaurant home of six years. It was time for something new, but what? I accepted a new position as an event coordinator at a private club in downtown Grand Rapids, leaving my old job on a whim. I was there for a few months but nudge, nudge…

So why is this post titled “Fear”? This is just the beginning, the story doesn’t end here, part 2 will soon follow.

Our Social Connection

0 · Jul 31, 2013 ·

Social media is this worldwide phenomenon that keeps us oh so connected with people that we might otherwise never see or speak to, or at least have a very limited contact to. Thanks to Twitter, Facebook and Instagram I can now know what my high school crush’s first baby not only looks like, but also know the exact moment that they took their first steps and said “mama”. I am able to connect with other wedding professionals across the country and see the mock ups they created for their clients today or know that they’re having a slow week. Through the magic of selfies I now know exactly how much eye make-up my friends are wearing, if they are having a bad hair day and what shade of pink their blouse is. I see when someone splurged on a new Coach bag, is drinking coffee at their desk, in the middle of a brand re-launch or if their hubby bought them flowers “just because”. I feel so connected.

But am I really???

While we might post the random comment expressing a strong distaste for some political movement or a fit of road rage, we really don’t let our true selves shine through. In reality, we create this online “virtual version” of ourselves, sharing only the side of us that we really want people to see, usually the more positive one. We showcase our fabulous lives, the glitz and the glam, nights out on the town and the high end purchases we just made on our huge shopping spree. What we don’t share is the credit card debt or the blisters on our toes from the amazing 4 inches heels that you just had to party like a rock star in. In a sense we’re branding ourselves. We’re all our own paparazzi and PR professionals. We broadcast our lives in the light that we want others to see it in.

I don’t really know what it’s like to be you. I don’t know what makes your worry or how insecure you are about your next move in life. I may read your blog and see your triple post across Twitter, Facebook and Instagram (is it really that important that I see it all three times???), but what I don’t know what really makes you tick, what’s keeping you up at night or gets under your skin. Since I have a this false sense of knowledge about how peachy your life is, I use it as an excuse not to pick up the phone and call or meet for coffee and stay really connected. The sound of people’s voices is becoming a piece of the past as text replaces talk.

We laugh that future generations won’t know how to write, other than the short hand versions we use in texting and proper grammar might be lost forever. But could we also loose the feeling of actual human contact as well?

Just some thoughts on my mind lately, as I have found that I compare myself to other professionals, thinking the grass is much greener on their side of the fence (or town or country). I am discouraged by their success not taking into account their failures. I by no means am saying that I’m getting rid of social media or dislike checking my Facebook page and Instagram feed, I just want to keep things in perspective. I love to see what others are up to. I want to see your vacations photos and be jealous of your time at the beach. I enjoy seeing your children grow and your thoughts on life. Sometimes you even inspire me. But I also want to see the real live version of your face and connect on a more personal level. I want you to know that I really do care and I want to be you friend, to share your sorrows, joys and all life’s happy moments.

Photo by Shannon Scott {Smug Shots}

Let’s create friendships that last!!

After “I Do”

0 · Jul 28, 2013 ·

I generally try not to blog or do any work on a Sunday. Sunday’s are that amazing day every week where we can sit back and relax, take a nap after church and possibly not plan anything at all and just let the day happen.

However, sometimes my brain doesn’t really get that memo. I find myself daydreaming about wedding plans, designs and colors. I’m guilty of looking at other’s sneak peeks from the weekend’s wedding and events. I’m thinking about my upcoming brides, with upcoming plans, both in the distant future and in the upcoming week. And even if I can manage to steer my mind away, I my mind just wonders to thoughts about home décor and I find myself staring at the hideously awful green color of my living room/office.

So in all the wedding magazines, websites and planning tools I stumbled across, in combination of advice and words of wisdom from family and friends, I don’t feel that anyone really prepared me for this. This being the I’ve-been-married-3-years-live-in-a-“starter”-home-have-a-baby-a-career-and-want-life-to-be-perfect stage of life. Sure people gave me useless pieces of advice like “You must fall in love over and over again, with the same person” or warnings that the first year of marriage would be the toughest (which I do not agree with!) But how could you really prepare for this? How can you warn people what being married is like?

I just read that… warn people. Is that really what I meant? Certainly not! But sometimes, yes. Each year, month, week, day and hour brings a new challenge of married life. So I debate… should I share these challenges with you? Should someone give you a little glimpse of the life that comes after “I do”? It’s a battle and balance between personal and professional, a line that I’m constantly trying to keep in check. But I can’t help but wonder, what exactly are the marriages I’m helping to create going to be like?

I promised myself I would never help my couples do all the planning for their wedding, walk down the aisle and then just leave, never to be seen or heard from again. So in starting to share a little bit more of my day to day life, I hope to help inspire and encourage those of you who might find yourself in a “rough patch” of marriage or just feeling blah and depressed for the day. We all feel that way, even those of us who seemingly have a perfect life, from the outside looking in anyway. Let’s move into Married Land together and learn from each other as we start this life “After I Do.”

Oh, and you know that rhyme, “First comes love, then comes marriage…” well this is Gretta a couple months ago, she arrived in the “baby carriage” last November. Kellie of Hetler Photography worked her magic and took some amazing pictures of the two of us back in May (Gretta was about 5 months).

3 Years Ago

0 · Jun 19, 2013 ·

I was married 3 years ago today. 3 years ago Pinterest did not exist and wedding blogs were yet to dominate the internet planning world. I purchased bridal magazines and used creations from my very own imagination. 3 years ago I had a wedding filled with rustic and earthy details that have long since been forgotten about by my guests. Timelines and seating charts are a thing of the past and my ivory taffeta gown is shoved in the back of my closet. Linens and charger plates have been returned and my gorgeous peony and wildflower bouquet has long since wilted.

So what remains from my wedding 3 years ago? A marriage.

For 3 years now I have had a man by my side. Together we have built a life full of stress, chaos and laughter. Since we said “I do” we have celebrated a life together full of family, sorrow, adventure and new life. I cannot think of a person I’d rather have by my side.

We are long since past the point of living in wedded bliss. The “honeymoon phase” dissolved quickly as argued about paint colors, kitchen remodeling plans and whether or not shoes should be worn in the house. Sometimes we go to bed angry. Sometimes I have to vent to friends and gripe about how his way of thinking is completely backwards and opposite (and clearly wrong!) from mine.

Recently I was asked how I knew that I was marrying the right man. What a loaded question! I never had that a-ha moment where I just knew that Josh was “the one”. I really didn’t even know where to begin in answering that, but after much debate here’s my conclusion. You much choose to love someone for the rest of your life. Butterflies and bliss will not last forever, so if that’s what your marriage is based on, be prepared for failure. Spend some time on your knees, I asked God every night to show me if there was a reason I should not marry Josh. He will show you. Do not take this commitment lightly, being caught up in the romance of a wedding. Make sure you can handle their cute little quirks, which will drive you crazy later. Think about what your life would be life without him, does that scenario even exist? And be prepared to never give up.

Photo by Shannon Scott {Smug Shots}

Happy Anniversary baby… I love you!!

Tuesday’s Chat

0 · May 30, 2013 ·

Take a little step back in time with me, I actually wrote this post yesterday (Tuesday) morning but you get to read it now!

I’m a last minute planner… it’s true. My day today will be spend scrambling around doing last minute errands and crafting last minute details for tomorrow’s completely fabulously glitzy photo shoot.

And as much as I like to plan and have dates and times and itineraries all typed out on my cute stationary, sometimes you just can’t plan for new inspiration (or plan for the fact that your computer won’t turn on, hence why you’re reading this a day late!) I’m a laying in bed thinker. I often get epiphanies late at night, thus I keep a notepad on my nightstand – there’s nothing worse than have a great idea and then forgetting it by morning. That being said, sometimes my design plan can completely change in the middle of the night, or I may have figured out a way to make it even better. This is why it is so important to trust your vendors! Sure I drew up a beautiful proposal when we began planning your event, but sometimes I stumble across products and ideas which will make it THAT much better!

So here I am sharing all of this on the day before my big shoot, when I actually need to be crafting, creating and running errands, all because I came up with an amazing element to add while I was out of town enjoying a wonderful Memorial Day at the lake.

Happy Monday… er, Tuesday (actually Wednesday now)!!! Bring on the coffee, it’s going to be a long but fabulous day!

PS – I can’t wait to share the results with you! Lot’s of pretty coming soon!!!

Summer’s Here!

0 · May 23, 2013 ·

Memorial Day weekend is quickly approaching, marking the unofficial start to summer. There’s something magical about summer… longer days, warmer weather and an overall feeling of happy, let’s go to the beach!

But with those longer days comes more to cram into your schedule. Graduation parties, weddings and backyard barbeques take up our free time. In the mist of all the hustle don’t forget to take just a couple moments for yourself. Head to the beach, watch a sunset and remember what summer felt like as a kid.

Isn’t this image super romantic? I borrowed it from Love and Lavender, go ahead and look at the rest of the post, it’ll make you fall in love all over again!

Have a great weekend, I’m headed to the lake!

Life’s Little Moments

0 · May 11, 2013 ·

Do the little things in life make you excited? I mean, there are these great moments in life that are huge, life changing make you want to scream from the rooftop and give you tingles all over… your first kiss, the day he proposed, walking down the aisle and saying “I do” and life after that, your first baby being born or even the moment that you find out your pregnant. But what about all those insignificant details in between?

Take a couple moments to appreciate the “little things” today. Stop and look at the pretty green leaves that have finally returned to us. Find pleasure in a stranger’s smile. Enjoy your late morning cup of coffee. Call your mom, it’s a day early, but I’ll be she’ll be surprised!

Remember to live a little between the “big moments”. Sometimes it is the journey that’s far more important than the destination. Some days I simple take a break from work and play with my baby girl, yes I could be doing the dishes that are piled in my sink or making my bed… but her smile is more important. Sometimes having a cup of coffee with my husband it more momentous that an elaborate date night. Find something beautiful in the everyday.

How do you feel when the sun comes out after a day of rain? It just brings a smile to my face. It’s a reminder of balance; we would not appreciate it so much without the gloomy times.

Image via Pinterest

I had a happy moment today… I hope you find one too!

The Day’s Business: Rest & Relaxation

0 · Apr 22, 2013 ·

A little rest and relaxation is good for the soul. This past weekend I did just that, I took a little step away from my Grand Rapids world and headed Up North.

I had planned on using this time to get some work done that I’ve been putting off. I thought I could spend some quiet time in front of my computer (yuck) but away from my phone/email (yay!), because phone service is lacking and my internet rarely loads. I aimed to slip away from social media and reconnect with my own ideas.

However, life keeps moving forward and in the name of progress, my internet actually worked on this visit! And it wasn’t even snail speed, loading times were actually semi decent. Bummer!

While this may benefit the residents of the area, it meant I had to be more disciplined about my relaxation methods. I actually like taking an old fashioned approach to getting things done. While technology has its place, I really prefer doing some things in a less technological way. I visited with family, had real live face-to-face conversations, channeling back on the texting. I read a home décor magazine, not a blog. Then I wrote some ideas down on paper, in my own handwriting on a notebook that I shared with my niece – complete with scribbles of red crayon.

I did not make anything pretty this weekend. I did not craft or create. I did not type anything, worrying about fancy fonts and lovely pictures. I did not even make sure that my hand writing looked nice… I just scrawled my ideas down in semi illegible penmanship!

Well this is all great… but what does it have to do with The Day’s Design, or wedding planning or love and why are you writing about this on your business blog??? (It’s okay, I know that’s what you’re thinking!) Here’s how it relates:

To Business:

I’m back to business. I was able to clear my head and stop thinking about what everyone else is doing via Facebook, Twitter and wedding blogs, and truly just focus on my own business model and what I want to achieve. I focused on what makes me special. Stop comparing yourself to others and do your own thing. Forget the “industry standards” and just go for it!

To Brides (and her hansom Groom):

Feeling a little overwhelmed in the planning process? We’ve all been there. I’ve said this before, but here it goes again – step back for a bit. Regroup. Remember why you’re planning a wedding day. Stop looking at the Pinterest boards and focusing on wedding trends and what your friends say and doing. Put the wedding day back into perspective and focus on your love for one another. Instead of looking for uber creative ideas on place card displays, focus on details that really make you happy. What truly represents you as a couple? Remember that your love is what make the wedding day unique. There will always be other brides using the same ideas as you, dreaming up the same details (you just were not aware of it before all of this technology and the lovely World Wide Web). Your bond as husband and wife is truly the most unique part of the wedding day.

To All Others:

Because not everyone reading this is getting married. Maybe you are already married. Reconnect with your husband. Have dinner together. Dedicate one night a week to be phone/internet free and just enjoy each other’s company. Spend some quiet time accessing your life goals and creating your own vision. It is amazing where your own imagination can take you. Read a good book. Listen to the birds chirp. Sit outside and close your eyes for a moment. Just. Pause.

I think there’s a reason we like incorporated vintage items into our décor so much. And it’s not just high style. But it reminds us of a much simpler time. I look at an old piece of furniture and think of the stories it could tell. When we share memories and look at sentimental photos of smiling faces, usually they’re full of simple pleasures. Simple moments when we stepped back and let go.

PS – I stumbled across this aqua typewriter at an estate sale and just had to have it! It’s it super cute?! The case is even printed with daisies on it… sigh…

Reality Check

0 · Apr 15, 2013 ·

I had a bad day today. Baby girl was being super fussy, I was late for a meeting with a client (which I hate, hate, hate!) and I was trying to get some work done and figure out what to blog. On top of it all, I was working on finances, which is stressful in both my personal and business life. I’m trying to build a business based on love, commitment and happily ever after – not an easy task when you’re having a “bad” day.

And then I was faced with a huge reality check. The news is blasting stories about the tragedy in Boston. Life is suddenly put back into perspective. I am having a bad day? I don’t think so! I cannot imagine living through an event such as the disaster at the Boston Marathon. What evil has overcome the world?

There are people every day that live in constant fear and uncertainty. Victims of hurricane Sandy are still homeless, parents in Newton are still childless and those in Boston are being warned to stay away from crowds and stay indoors because who knows what will happen next. In a flash, life was changed forever.

Meanwhile, I am nice and warm on my sofa staring at flowers and home décor ideas, wishing my Pottery Barn pillows were a different color. What a spoiled little American I am!

While we cannot live our lives in constant fear, we also need to realize that any moment could be our last. Snuggle with your children, your husband/significant other and don’t push those relationships away. Don’t put things off until tomorrow. Call your mom. Have the lonely neighbor over for coffee. Tell your sister that you love her. Nurture broken relationships. Find balance in your work and personal lives. Sign off from social media and have a real conversation with someone. Do not take tomorrow for granted and make every moment count.

This pep talk is designed to be motivation for myself, just as much as anyone else. Yes, I am guilty of not taking my own advice. But stop and think, what are the moments in life that I am missing?

Just a few Instagram moments that I am glad I did not miss this month… I have the best family! What moments are you thankful for???

The Pursuit of Companionship

0 · Apr 12, 2013 ·

Women like to be pursued. We like to feel wanted and loved. We love the thought of a grand romance. It’s said that women are complicated creatures and men cannot seem to figure us out, but if you treat us right, act like you like us and stay in constant pursuit then we’ll stay happy. Seems pretty simple to me.

A couple weeks ago I wrote a post about defining yourself and knowing who you are before entering into a marriage (or any relationship really). You can read more about that here. Shortly thereafter, our pastor talked about the lies that Satan will have all women believe and I thought it was a good follow-up to that post. You see, Satan is a sneaky, deceitful little guy who will have us women believing that we can depend on some guy to meet all of our needs. And when that guy fails us, we’re left holding the broken pieces with no one left to blame but ourselves.

We, as women, tend to put all of our hopes on one guy. We long for companionship. We get into the wrong relationships and think that we can “fix” him. We get wrapped up in the fairytale and the distant thought of “happily ever after.”

If we have a clear definition of who we are before entering that relationship, our visions won’t get as clouded by “love”. We are less likely to compromise ourselves for that companionship, and we can focus on being not only who we want to be, but also the person that you are looking for is looking for. Now that’s a thought to twist your head around!

Think about how Dad feels before he’s going to give his little girl away. This is the little girl he’s fought for his whole life, threatening boyfriends, setting early curfews and refusing to allow you to wear that mini skirt. Dad has fought for your purity and your well-being. Is your husband/fiancé/boyfriend doing the same? Can Daddy rest assured that this is “the one” that will constantly pursue you and keep you happy for the rest of your life?

Picture via Dennisse Lisseth

The Light

0 · Apr 3, 2013 ·

I debated on whether to share these pictures or not. So here’s my disclaimer: This is NOT my best work, it was a great idea for a great cause. I know as event planners we should always showcase our best work… that is what our website/blog is here for, it is an advertising platform. However, this is real life. Not every event turns out picture perfect. Not every photograph is captured perfectly or emphasizes the most beautiful flower in the garden.

In real life we simply put our best foot forward and live every day to its fullest. I try to inspire others while seeking my own inspiration. And I put my whole heart into every project I work on.

I am posting my Easter Breakfast pictures because somebody may need to see the light. Somebody may need to know that inspiration can come from something as simple as flipping on a light switch. Additionally, last week I promised you the results, good or bad, and I am not backing down on my word.

So here it is. The inspiration struck me as my husband turned on his bedside reading lamp late Wednesday night. I was then reminded of one of my favorite verses, Psalms 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” I came alive with thoughts about Jesus being the light of the world and how he brought that light filled with hope back to a dark world on Easter Sunday. Decorating with lamps suddenly seemed very appropriate for Sunday’s celebration. With a little research I came up with several other verses about lamps and then slept pretty well that night.

Photos by Unikke Photography

Here’s what I’ll leave you with today, Matthew 5:15-16 “Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. In the same way, let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” We all have a light inside us, let’s make them shine!

From the Heart of a Planner

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