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A Bog Inspired By Community OML 2018 Part 3 of 3  Can't get enough of that OML Swag! My final installment of this three part series is about community, which in my opinion is the best way to recap my experience from OML 2018 because if you were there, you know that’s what it truly was all about! I honestly don’t know where to begin and cannot articulate or sum up my feelings about our beautiful maker community and how the event changed me as a maker and a person. I’ve mentioned it before but I was completely taken aback by the buzz of our community when I went to the event. I’m not sure if it’s from being burned by so many friends, or confidence issues (more likely a combination of both) but I was leary and had no idea this event would be filled with so much joy and support. I hope my perspective touches you as a maker. To grow, to reach out, connect, love and share. We are all in this together and couldn’t do it alone! The foundation of my journey began with the wonderful Shannon of @channoncreates_ and Darian of @knittingbydarian sharing an air b&b the night before. I talked to them via insta but had no idea what to expect when meeting them, and when Darian came down to greet me, I knew I’d found a kindred spirit to my own. Darian is such a hard worker, she’s funny as hell, empathetic and just has such great vibes. Shannon is a 5” force to be reckoned with! She is fearless and so talented, I can’t wait to see where each of their journeys take them and I’ so grateful to have made new friendships through this experience. My gratitude toward them cannot be fully expressed, me being so nervous. To be real I have idolized certain people in our community on social media. I idolized, wondered why I wasn’t getting any recognition and was feeling like a failure. My comparison was eating my alive and I was doing it all to myself. I walked in to the event with these feelings and left a different person.  Roomies!! |
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New ventures I'm holding Myself to in order to grow my business
| Using more luxury yarn: Malibrigo! | Diving more into patterns: Tested for @shannoncreates, @woodsandwoolpatternnext and @the.hook.nook goals for the spring |
Because of OML I can be me! I am different, I have something new and exciting to offer. I am worthy and capable, and so are you!
Thank you again to everyone below that make Our Maker Life what it is. I am your biggest advocate, I cant thank you enough and am pumped for next summer!
Founders
@northknits
@knitbrooks
@country.pine.designs
@la.reserve.design
@loopsandthreads
Key Note Speakers
@bhooked
@the.hook.nook
Sponsors
-We are knitters
-Love Crafts
-Koigu
-Sugar Bush Yarns
-Knitcrate
-Lion Brand Yarn
-Joann
Thank you again to everyone below that make Our Maker Life what it is. I am your biggest advocate, I cant thank you enough and am pumped for next summer!
Founders
@northknits
@knitbrooks
@country.pine.designs
@la.reserve.design
@loopsandthreads
Key Note Speakers
@bhooked
@the.hook.nook
Sponsors
-We are knitters
-Love Crafts
-Koigu
-Sugar Bush Yarns
-Knitcrate
-Lion Brand Yarn
-Joann
1 Comment
A Bog Inspired By Key Note Speaker Brittany of BHOOKED, OML 2018
Part 2 of 3
Welcome to the second part, of my three part series detailing my experience from OML 2018 in Chicago, IL. This week is all about the first keynote speaker from the event, Brittany of “Bhooked”. If her words didn’t inspire you to get up, get moving and make thing happen for your business, I don’t know what would!
“If we don’t know where we are going, we will never get there” Brittany reminded us all in her direct, and oh so inspiring speech. I was so appreciative how straight to the point this talk was and that she gave practical advice that we could put into practice, both in our lives and in our business! She does the same in her podcasts as well, which I’ve recently fallen in love with and are the perfect thing to crochet to and contemplate your business.
I know if it take Brittany’s advice and “Make my Dream a Priority” while following these awesome steps she gave us I can only succeed. Her moment in front of the crowd basically gave me permission to dream big. Realizing I can design patterns if I put my mind to it, I could Dye yarn- I CAN START WRITING ON MY BLOG MORE! I now feel like I have a greater sense of direction and a belief I can do so because of her words.
This is Brittany's advice for making your dreams a reality and our combined thoughts on each subject(taking what she said and combining it with my reflections). This is a grat step by step process to guide you along making your dreams a reality, and every small business could benefit from this advice.
“If we don’t know where we are going, we will never get there” Brittany reminded us all in her direct, and oh so inspiring speech. I was so appreciative how straight to the point this talk was and that she gave practical advice that we could put into practice, both in our lives and in our business! She does the same in her podcasts as well, which I’ve recently fallen in love with and are the perfect thing to crochet to and contemplate your business.
I know if it take Brittany’s advice and “Make my Dream a Priority” while following these awesome steps she gave us I can only succeed. Her moment in front of the crowd basically gave me permission to dream big. Realizing I can design patterns if I put my mind to it, I could Dye yarn- I CAN START WRITING ON MY BLOG MORE! I now feel like I have a greater sense of direction and a belief I can do so because of her words.
This is Brittany's advice for making your dreams a reality and our combined thoughts on each subject(taking what she said and combining it with my reflections). This is a grat step by step process to guide you along making your dreams a reality, and every small business could benefit from this advice.
Click On Brittany's Photo to visit her podcast, I've had a great time listening and I'm so excited to discover more!
1. Brainstorm Session (Create/Commit/Refine)
The very first step she talked about hit me like a ton of bricks. Why have I been limiting myself of been stuck in the mindset where I’m not worthy of dreaming? Having this breakthrough opened the floodgates of creativity and options for the future of my business.
Take time to dream, commit to those ideas and refine them. She is giving this advice for your year of business going forward, and I intend to have the “Big Session” for this after my big selling season is complete this winter. But I do have immediate things to be working on where this checklist will work for too!
2. Build Your Support System
This one made me turn inward a bit. I’m a person who tries to do everything on my own. I basically raised myself and don’t naturally, or even really know how to ask others for help.
It’s made me realize how wonderful my partner is, and that I need to trust and open up to those around me. Like dreaming, I don’t know what will happen until I try. P.s. shout out to my grandma for being my new proofreader, she’s always my biggest supporter and my bff!
3. Identify Problem: Create a Solution
My biggest problem in the past with dreaming big has been in the details. I have “x”, or “y” idea and then convince myself I don’t have the money, resources, talent, intelect etc. But you just need to take the first step. And that’s a big one for me- take the emotions or “what if’s” out of the situation, identify the major ways you can make this dream a reality and accomplish those steps. Take action! Identify whats standing in your way and what you need to do to make this goal a reality. It’s possible for me, and it’s possible for you.
4. Create a checklist
Brittany suggested 5-10 things per category(or goal) when creating a checklist. Break down the action, outline, bullet point and work though the details. Lists usually expand but if you outline those big ones you have a go to and it might change but you are working on it! This is one of the things I will be combing through with a fine tooth.
Where do I brainstorm? Where do I write down final ideas? I always have so many. I do love a good sticky note system on the wall so I can visually see things so I’ll have some work to do in the studio. I also love the physicality of writing and I’ve discovered the enjoyment of writing my blogs out by hand, then when I type them it’s like a proofread.
5. Reserve time for items on your list (Schedule and commit)
Funny thing is, I got a planner at the beginning of the year to do just this- schedule in the time and make it happen. I definitely wasn’t as organized as all of Brittany’s advice is and again, I got really caught up in details and discouraged if things moved, or took longer than expected. Perseverance is another thing I’ll be working on, this is my dream, it’s worth it and sometime you just need to push through to get those results. As long as I work my hardest and refuse to become complacent everything will be ok!
6. Give yourself a deadline
Seams simple right? But probably the easiest thing to put on the back burner. When you give tasks a deadline, you are taking them seriously, locking into that commitment as opposed to treating your business you are so passionate about like a hobby (which most of us still create as a hobby too, am I right?).
Do deadlines change? Sure. it’s fine to re-adjust but don’t sell yourself short. Go for the big things, make them happen and one day you will look back in amazement as to what you’ve accomplished.
The very first step she talked about hit me like a ton of bricks. Why have I been limiting myself of been stuck in the mindset where I’m not worthy of dreaming? Having this breakthrough opened the floodgates of creativity and options for the future of my business.
Take time to dream, commit to those ideas and refine them. She is giving this advice for your year of business going forward, and I intend to have the “Big Session” for this after my big selling season is complete this winter. But I do have immediate things to be working on where this checklist will work for too!
2. Build Your Support System
This one made me turn inward a bit. I’m a person who tries to do everything on my own. I basically raised myself and don’t naturally, or even really know how to ask others for help.
It’s made me realize how wonderful my partner is, and that I need to trust and open up to those around me. Like dreaming, I don’t know what will happen until I try. P.s. shout out to my grandma for being my new proofreader, she’s always my biggest supporter and my bff!
3. Identify Problem: Create a Solution
My biggest problem in the past with dreaming big has been in the details. I have “x”, or “y” idea and then convince myself I don’t have the money, resources, talent, intelect etc. But you just need to take the first step. And that’s a big one for me- take the emotions or “what if’s” out of the situation, identify the major ways you can make this dream a reality and accomplish those steps. Take action! Identify whats standing in your way and what you need to do to make this goal a reality. It’s possible for me, and it’s possible for you.
4. Create a checklist
Brittany suggested 5-10 things per category(or goal) when creating a checklist. Break down the action, outline, bullet point and work though the details. Lists usually expand but if you outline those big ones you have a go to and it might change but you are working on it! This is one of the things I will be combing through with a fine tooth.
Where do I brainstorm? Where do I write down final ideas? I always have so many. I do love a good sticky note system on the wall so I can visually see things so I’ll have some work to do in the studio. I also love the physicality of writing and I’ve discovered the enjoyment of writing my blogs out by hand, then when I type them it’s like a proofread.
5. Reserve time for items on your list (Schedule and commit)
Funny thing is, I got a planner at the beginning of the year to do just this- schedule in the time and make it happen. I definitely wasn’t as organized as all of Brittany’s advice is and again, I got really caught up in details and discouraged if things moved, or took longer than expected. Perseverance is another thing I’ll be working on, this is my dream, it’s worth it and sometime you just need to push through to get those results. As long as I work my hardest and refuse to become complacent everything will be ok!
6. Give yourself a deadline
Seams simple right? But probably the easiest thing to put on the back burner. When you give tasks a deadline, you are taking them seriously, locking into that commitment as opposed to treating your business you are so passionate about like a hobby (which most of us still create as a hobby too, am I right?).
Do deadlines change? Sure. it’s fine to re-adjust but don’t sell yourself short. Go for the big things, make them happen and one day you will look back in amazement as to what you’ve accomplished.
Two books Recommended by Brittany, and one I'm reading 'Handmade to Sell" looking forward to reading all the things!
(each can be found on Amazon)
Additional Thoughts
What I love most about Brittany’s message is how practical and straightforward it was, while challenging me emotionally and personally, which is basically what I’ve reflected on here. As you now know, I tend to get stuck on the emotional side of my business and because these instructions are so direct, I feel like they will really help me push through a lot of what I struggle with and just focus on the work and tasks ahead. She reminded me I can make my dreams a reality and that I am doing an amazing job.
This speech made me evaluate what I’m doing well, where I can grow and made me realize I’m looking forward to the parts of myself that I still have yet to discover. I know my busy(and most exciting) season of selling and making is ahead of me and while I need to stick to my initial plan I’m still dreaming and keeping my options open. But now I know where I need to be headed and when I can start planning out those big ideas in my head. There's so much more ahead of us friends, both in life and in our passions. I’m hoping we all have the bravery to do the best we can to make all of our dreams a reality.
-Jenna
Disclaimer
I actually wanted to share with everyone what my next plans are in detail, but you are a trooper by hanging in there this long! I will write about this after my OML series, so I can marinate on these ideas and hopefully express them more eloquently as I keep writing.
What I love most about Brittany’s message is how practical and straightforward it was, while challenging me emotionally and personally, which is basically what I’ve reflected on here. As you now know, I tend to get stuck on the emotional side of my business and because these instructions are so direct, I feel like they will really help me push through a lot of what I struggle with and just focus on the work and tasks ahead. She reminded me I can make my dreams a reality and that I am doing an amazing job.
This speech made me evaluate what I’m doing well, where I can grow and made me realize I’m looking forward to the parts of myself that I still have yet to discover. I know my busy(and most exciting) season of selling and making is ahead of me and while I need to stick to my initial plan I’m still dreaming and keeping my options open. But now I know where I need to be headed and when I can start planning out those big ideas in my head. There's so much more ahead of us friends, both in life and in our passions. I’m hoping we all have the bravery to do the best we can to make all of our dreams a reality.
-Jenna
Disclaimer
I actually wanted to share with everyone what my next plans are in detail, but you are a trooper by hanging in there this long! I will write about this after my OML series, so I can marinate on these ideas and hopefully express them more eloquently as I keep writing.
As you can see I really filled up the page from Brittany's words, love having these to look back on!
A Blog Inspired by Key Note Speaker: Jessica Cary of The Hook Nook, OML 2018
Part 1 of 3
This is a three part series inspired by my experience at OML 2018 (Our Maker Life). A maker movement, and annual meet up of makers, primarily fiber artists. My inspiration came from the people around me. It was a beautiful and overwhelming experience all in one. I am so grateful to everyone that made this event and attended and I can’t wait for 2019! |  Crocheting by the Pool This photo took so much courage for me to post, I love it so much and I'm proud I was brave to put just who I am out there to the world!  From Jessica's Latest blog... I think most, if not all where feeling the emotions during her talk! I was so choked up and to look around the room and see everyone drying their eyes was beautiful.  From Jessica's Blog... I was so nervous to meet these huge makers and they made it so much fun! Even though I wasn't able to fully open up I will treasure this photo forever!  From Jessica's Blog... So inspiring to be, and do you! I am so guilty of thinking I can't have anything I make or don't have time. We all have time to treat ourselves and feel special so don't forget that!  The Photo I posted from Chicago! This felt crazy to post but it was the creative idea I had and I'm so crazy I took the chance. This really feels like me and inspired so much photography I explored during my Florida vacation!  My Notes From Jessica's Talk Before I started choking up and could actually write (yeah you know the notes are pink color coded to match her hair!) For Reference, Jessica's blog is: |
|  My response from the giveaway:) Thank you for my friends Laura and Samantha for helping with this shoot!  New cozies design for the tattoo convention, I'm so proud of these and can't wait to share them in public!  From the "Our Maker Life" Blog, can't wait to meet so many amazing makers in less than 2 weeks!  I may not be posting as much, but I will be over here scaring the crap out of myself and taking risks I'm terrified of! |
I Wanted to do my first huge online giveaway and when approaching so many sale days in retail and being as grateful as I am for all of the support I thought this was the perfect time! I’d like to celebrate the growth of my business this year and my amazing supporters, customers and returning customers(you know who you are and I looove u!!).
Please refer to this blog post anytime for guidance and always let me know if you have any questions! I will be posting up to several times a day to show you NEW items that are available and ready for purchase on my Etsy account at www.etsy.shop/anothercutedesin. As of now all items that are available in my shop are available to you before the holidays and are perfect for gifts or to treat yourself!
On Etsy I have a Thanks!2017 section where you can see items for on discount. While all items in shop are eligible for the gift with purchase.
So there are two different Gifts/Giveaways...
Wednesday November 22, 2017 9 am- Tuesday November 28th, 2017 11:59 pm
How it works…
Gift with purchase
-Purchase any item in our shop from 11/22-11-28 that is over $25, and receive your choice of free gift. Please indicate in the notes if you would like to receive a hair bow or mug cozy and if you have a preferred color way, I will do my best to try to match your request with the current stock I have.
Hat or Cowl Giveaway
-Multiple ways to enter to win a hat or cowl of your choice, winner will be drawn on Thursday November 29th, 2017
With each daily post you can do the following, each action counts as an entry!
Details
-All items will ship on or before Friday December 8th, depending on availability of item. I have reflected that in the shipping time on my items in my shop.
-I will be trying to ship before this time period but want to be realistic with other orders and market prep that I am currently doing.
-You can still custom order colors or sizes during this time, just message me as soon as possible.
Thank you so much for reading :) I really hope these gifts can show how appreciative I am and that you and your loved ones will love my new products. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!!
You can also like or comment on this blog post for an entry!! (congrats for making it through!)
Please refer to this blog post anytime for guidance and always let me know if you have any questions! I will be posting up to several times a day to show you NEW items that are available and ready for purchase on my Etsy account at www.etsy.shop/anothercutedesin. As of now all items that are available in my shop are available to you before the holidays and are perfect for gifts or to treat yourself!
On Etsy I have a Thanks!2017 section where you can see items for on discount. While all items in shop are eligible for the gift with purchase.
So there are two different Gifts/Giveaways...
- Gift With Purchase (of over $25) You can choose (one will be chosen for you if not notified) between a hair bow or mug cozy with purchase. Photos are on this blog and social media.
- GIVEAWAY this is so exciting!! You can choose ANY hay OR cowl design available in our shop. You will have tons of opportunities to enter so keep up with all our posts!
Wednesday November 22, 2017 9 am- Tuesday November 28th, 2017 11:59 pm
How it works…
Gift with purchase
-Purchase any item in our shop from 11/22-11-28 that is over $25, and receive your choice of free gift. Please indicate in the notes if you would like to receive a hair bow or mug cozy and if you have a preferred color way, I will do my best to try to match your request with the current stock I have.
Hat or Cowl Giveaway
-Multiple ways to enter to win a hat or cowl of your choice, winner will be drawn on Thursday November 29th, 2017
With each daily post you can do the following, each action counts as an entry!
- Share the post on your feed (instagram or facebook)
- Tag friends that you think would love the item (each friend is an entry!)
- Each purchase you make enters you as well
Details
-All items will ship on or before Friday December 8th, depending on availability of item. I have reflected that in the shipping time on my items in my shop.
-I will be trying to ship before this time period but want to be realistic with other orders and market prep that I am currently doing.
-You can still custom order colors or sizes during this time, just message me as soon as possible.
Thank you so much for reading :) I really hope these gifts can show how appreciative I am and that you and your loved ones will love my new products. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!!
You can also like or comment on this blog post for an entry!! (congrats for making it through!)
 Hair Bow Gift |  Stitch Style for all Pom Hats |  Beautiful Client Danielle in her beanie!! |
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*New Items just uploaded and cozy option for giveaway
My lanta, I’ve been meaning to write a blog for literally two months and today it’s happening, wherever this posts leads. I tend to have all of these ideas and inspirations and when it comes time to executing, I just have more ideas, lol. I’m ready to pursue more, create more, love more and just enjoy it all.
I don’t think I’ve done a post like this before and I have a million other topics to share, but I was inspired by a novel today, titled “Hello Sunshine”, by Laura Dave. This was a culinary/finding yourself type book that looked great since my boyfriend and I are on a current top chef binge(yeah, from the beginning!). I thought it was a good way to use my brain instead of watching T.V. and receive that culinary/creative feeling. I finished the book and will return it to the library, but it really got me thinking of how I put so much emphasis on my online presence when it comes to my creative/business account and how I just need to enjoy and focus on the positive in general.
Since I was so exhausted from the cider mill Sunday(which keeps getting better and better each sunday and truly feels amazing). I let myself lounge around with my cats and read this morning and then watched some of my fav you-tubers, and the down time was just what I needed. I feel clear headed, re-inspired and that I can conquer the week ahead. So back to the topic, online content. Below I’ve just stated a quote and how I related to it. If you feel the same as a creative or online presence I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Quote: “That was the Cost of my curated life. I had no clue where I’d gotten so lost”
So to set this up, the main character was a youtube/celebrity chef that was finally getting her big break. That came to an end when she was hacked and her true identity was revealed as an absolute fraud.
This quote in particular made me think of where my attention is most of the time. I don’t think I try to put a false persona out into the world, I actually try to be very open and honest. Like most artists I am aware of my content and try to make it the best it can be, but content aside it’s the time- especially mentally that I devote to primarily my instagram account(because I love the visual aspect so much!).
How many times have I not looked up at a special moment, or given my boyfriend a cheek when he tries to kiss me because I’m worried about a filter or announcement? I do care about my business and growing it, obviously since I’m pursuing it full time now, but It can't take over my complete existence. I can and will work hard at it but if I don’t pay attention to the other moments of my life and enjoy them then not only myself, but my work will be lacking as well.
Idea: Living a well-rounded life benefits not only my quality of life but will be reflected in my work as well.
Quote: “It was still trying to figure out what we lost in broadcasting our lives for everyone else's consumption. Before we took the time, you know, to figure out what we wanted our lives to add up to.”
It took me 30 years to figure out what I wanted to do with my life, i just always knew what i was doing then wasn’t what I wanted. I’ve always been hiding, questioning, feeling trapped. Reading this quote made me think I am living the life I want and I need to seize it! I still struggle with anxiety, depression, fear and all of that- but I refuse to not try all my might by fighting against them!
It also made me think of why do I care so much about followers? I love connecting my people and nothing feels better then when someone likes my work but if these are non-engaged followers, at a whopping 300 who cares! Do what you love and it will come.
There a difference between wanting and cultivating your success and being obsessed with popularity, and that’s what this may be to me. A cry for popularity complex like I had in high school, well that got me real far! It kept me from real connections and friendships for sure, it’s not something I want to happen in my business and adult life as well.
I would also love for my business to be primarily online, but I realize this is not what’s best for me. I really enjoy(after my nerves calm down) when people like and interact with my work. Like right now, I’m about to teach a class in the elementary school and I’m soooo nervous. I know after I get there and hang out with a gang of 5 year olds I will come back all smiles. It’s the time leading up, it’s outside my comfort zone and while it’s uncomfortable, it’s what's helping me grow tremendously.
Idea: Do what makes you uncomfortable, focus on your work and doing the best job you can. The success is coming and by focusing on it, it will happen,
Quote: “There was a lesson in that, which Z had taught me, about what we should pay attention to instead. About taking a hard look at what we are willing to throw away, about what we should be letting it show us”.
Look around man(I say to myself). If I wonder if something is going to sell and it does, don’t wonder if it’s going to keep selling, enjoy it! As I’m progressing through being “self-employed” I feel like I’m getting stronger with each week. My organization is getting better, I’m sending out way more things and my sales have NEVER been so high. It feels amazing but I have mixed feelings.
The business is overwhelming since I know it will get busier around the holidays.
It's’ going to slow down at the first of the year.
I happen to be reading another book that is law of attraction, making your success real. Ever since I have started thinking that way it has been happening. Don’t worry about the busy or the what if. I have plans, ideas and so much to explore. It’s going to happen so believe in yourself and more importantly enjoy it as well!!
Idea: Believe in what you are doing, know that it is going to happen and stop worrying so much! You are awesome!!
Well that’s my rant. I think this was more getting my interpretation from these words out. I just felt it, it resonated to what I’m going through at the moment. I’m so grateful I had the time to come to these realizations and to reflect on them.
Now it’s off to teach and work on those etsy updates. Have a great day, and thanks so much for reading if you made it all way through!!
Yesterday I ticked off a big box off my to do list- took pictures for my Etsy account. If you follow my social media happenings at all, you know I have a huge vending event coming up in 3 weeks (my largest event yet). This task was really weighing on me. I was totally stressing myself out about it, this super fun project to build my business. I realized what it was turning it into in my head and felt better and better as I kept simplifying my plan.
Initially I was going to do this huge shoot with multiple models. In the end I was the model, and even when I got to the location I ditched my multiple outfits for a couple tank top changes to compliment the hats. I was able to do this without feeling guilt or freakouts leading up to the shoot. I proceeded as I felt so self conscious posing for the photos, but I got past it(shout out to one of my besties for complimenting me the whole time) and even had a blast!
I knew if I enjoyed the experience and really took advantage of my surroundings that at the very least it would be a starting point for what I’m trying to accomplish creatively. I got to spend time with great friends, explore, laugh and play. It was such a beautiful night. The lighting couldn't have been better and connecting with nature like that really resonated with me.
I couldn’t wait to look at these pictures, I drove home at 2 in the morning and downloaded them right away. All I did when those babies popped up was look at the imperfections, my imperfections. So I picked a fight with my boyfriend and went to bed. I woke up this morning knowing I was irrational(already a huge step for me) and thought about how I wanted to proceed, how I wanted to treat my creative work that I put too much love and passion into.
I started with peace - with truth - with a kind heart toward myself. Not feeling bad that I slept in (hey it’s the weekend and I was out late!) because this is what I would usually do. I felt re-invigorated, excited to edit the photos and prioritized what else I needed to do today. I told myself I wouldn’t look at my weight, or if my hair looked too frizzy. I knew that no matter what that this project has value, that I have value.
This may seem simple to most people, but to me, what I’ve been through and what I’ve put myself through - it’s life altering. I grew up feeling so horrible and insecure. I’ve faced so many trials, and have felt alone thought it all. I’ve put so much blame on myself and hid from the world when I could have been out exploring it. I’ve let anxiety and depression overtake my existence when there was so much in front of me to celebrate.
I’ve been going through one of the largest transitions of my life this year. Realizing the cycles my brain gets caught up in, and how to stop the negative from taking over my thoughts. I’m slowly but surely learning to heal and live in the moment. Coming to realize the things(and people) in my life that may not be good for me and letting those go.
Appreciating the beautiful things I have been given and not to mention all the amazing people that have come into my life. Knowing I am enough, and how I’m so fortunate that the person I’m with Truly loves me.
So here’s to loving yourself, loving your life. Because when you start to try, and keep trying- you will have so much more to be thankful for.
I’m beyond ecstatic to look at this photo. It’s my very favorite from the weekend and yes it’s touched up, but just enhanced. It resembles my transition. It shows how happy and free I’m becoming and I just had to put that energy out into the universe. I feel more like me, nothing can compare and I wish the same for every other soul on this planet.
Thank you so much for reading! Here’s to all of us giving ourselves more love, grace and confidence so we may fulfill our potential and spread that love to others as well.
-Jenna
Initially I was going to do this huge shoot with multiple models. In the end I was the model, and even when I got to the location I ditched my multiple outfits for a couple tank top changes to compliment the hats. I was able to do this without feeling guilt or freakouts leading up to the shoot. I proceeded as I felt so self conscious posing for the photos, but I got past it(shout out to one of my besties for complimenting me the whole time) and even had a blast!
I knew if I enjoyed the experience and really took advantage of my surroundings that at the very least it would be a starting point for what I’m trying to accomplish creatively. I got to spend time with great friends, explore, laugh and play. It was such a beautiful night. The lighting couldn't have been better and connecting with nature like that really resonated with me.
I couldn’t wait to look at these pictures, I drove home at 2 in the morning and downloaded them right away. All I did when those babies popped up was look at the imperfections, my imperfections. So I picked a fight with my boyfriend and went to bed. I woke up this morning knowing I was irrational(already a huge step for me) and thought about how I wanted to proceed, how I wanted to treat my creative work that I put too much love and passion into.
I started with peace - with truth - with a kind heart toward myself. Not feeling bad that I slept in (hey it’s the weekend and I was out late!) because this is what I would usually do. I felt re-invigorated, excited to edit the photos and prioritized what else I needed to do today. I told myself I wouldn’t look at my weight, or if my hair looked too frizzy. I knew that no matter what that this project has value, that I have value.
This may seem simple to most people, but to me, what I’ve been through and what I’ve put myself through - it’s life altering. I grew up feeling so horrible and insecure. I’ve faced so many trials, and have felt alone thought it all. I’ve put so much blame on myself and hid from the world when I could have been out exploring it. I’ve let anxiety and depression overtake my existence when there was so much in front of me to celebrate.
I’ve been going through one of the largest transitions of my life this year. Realizing the cycles my brain gets caught up in, and how to stop the negative from taking over my thoughts. I’m slowly but surely learning to heal and live in the moment. Coming to realize the things(and people) in my life that may not be good for me and letting those go.
Appreciating the beautiful things I have been given and not to mention all the amazing people that have come into my life. Knowing I am enough, and how I’m so fortunate that the person I’m with Truly loves me.
So here’s to loving yourself, loving your life. Because when you start to try, and keep trying- you will have so much more to be thankful for.
I’m beyond ecstatic to look at this photo. It’s my very favorite from the weekend and yes it’s touched up, but just enhanced. It resembles my transition. It shows how happy and free I’m becoming and I just had to put that energy out into the universe. I feel more like me, nothing can compare and I wish the same for every other soul on this planet.
Thank you so much for reading! Here’s to all of us giving ourselves more love, grace and confidence so we may fulfill our potential and spread that love to others as well.
-Jenna
I have been struggling with some serious anxiety and depression lately. So much so, it has made me physically ill and I'm very determined for these feelings to not take over my life and what I want to get out of it.
In response I have been attending a lot of wellness related classes that have helped me tremendously. After attending several events this weekend, I wrote this affirmation the next day. This text had no purpose, but I see it now as a path for me to follow when I feel that sinking feeling. If this can help or relate to one person that is fantastic. PLEASE feel free to comment or discuss on this post as I am so passionate about it's content. It is by no means perfect, but I find it uplifting just the same. Hope you enjoy :).
"I honor myself for who I am and love thyself. I am the only me and I have a purpose. I can contribute what I have to offer and make a difference in the world around me, the way the universe calls me. I will bring light wherever I go and approach all situations with an open heart. I will have the time to accomplish all of my desires and will process all of them when the time is right. I will overcome my obstacles with grace as they approach and celebrate the joys of life with purity. Just as the world evolves, so do I. I ebb and flow, I belong and everything will work out the way it is intended to. Remembering not one single situation or object will complete me, it is more important to be present in the moment and live with intention. I have hope, I have faith, I give and receive love".
As always thanks for reading!
-Jenna
*Update to Comment Below
Thank you for the love Melinda! I wouldn't be half the person I am without you in my life. I'm very fortunate!!
In response I have been attending a lot of wellness related classes that have helped me tremendously. After attending several events this weekend, I wrote this affirmation the next day. This text had no purpose, but I see it now as a path for me to follow when I feel that sinking feeling. If this can help or relate to one person that is fantastic. PLEASE feel free to comment or discuss on this post as I am so passionate about it's content. It is by no means perfect, but I find it uplifting just the same. Hope you enjoy :).
"I honor myself for who I am and love thyself. I am the only me and I have a purpose. I can contribute what I have to offer and make a difference in the world around me, the way the universe calls me. I will bring light wherever I go and approach all situations with an open heart. I will have the time to accomplish all of my desires and will process all of them when the time is right. I will overcome my obstacles with grace as they approach and celebrate the joys of life with purity. Just as the world evolves, so do I. I ebb and flow, I belong and everything will work out the way it is intended to. Remembering not one single situation or object will complete me, it is more important to be present in the moment and live with intention. I have hope, I have faith, I give and receive love".
As always thanks for reading!
-Jenna
*Update to Comment Below
Thank you for the love Melinda! I wouldn't be half the person I am without you in my life. I'm very fortunate!!
| h Biggest News, Biggest Show, and the Biggest Smile on My Face!! I am proud to announce I am officially registered to vend at the First Annual Motor City Tattoo Expo in August this year!! Keep reading about this journey and how truly excited I am for this opportunity. When getting accepted to this show, I quite frankly thought it was a long shot to get in. It’s quite possible I cried! It all started about 6 years ago when I went to my first tattoo convention. I was traveling around, as a tattoo collector and visiting a few conventions that season. I remember to going to one in particular thinking, “Man, I want to spend some money on some stuff!”. Nothing was really available and that thought stayed in the back of my mind. I wanted things that fit my alternative lifestyle and fulfilled me a little bit, even if I couldn’t afford a tattoo that day. My second thought was, “What a dream it would be if I could sell at a venue like this”. People of like minds, appreciation for art, unique items, small business’ and the hustle that goes along with all of those things. I had that thought hidden in the depths of my mind, and there it stayed for years. Fast forward seasons later and I am developing my own small business... Two years ago I moved back to Michigan and I knew it was my time to stop being afraid, have confidence in myself and just hit the ground running with my creative impulses- and I haven’t stopped since. I recently just accepted a more demanding 9-5 job, which on the upside has mandatory breaks and a predictable schedule so I am often working on my business during those down times at work. I was anxious about taking on this responsibility, what it would mean for my lifestyle and my small business I’m trying to grow. But I'm really enjoying the structure, the challenge and the new skills I'm learning (eghem, see the awesome flyer I made at the top of this page.) I heard of the convention when getting tattooed at the show in March from my buddies and thought maybe I could do the March show next year. Again, just writing it off as a maybe one day option. One day I just knew I had to do it and thought, “Why the hell not?!”. I had no idea what it would cost or the work involved, but I had to just contact them and ask if I could apply. Even though I knew I’ve never really seen any hand makers at the show vending. About a week later I was accepted and was on a high for a while. I crunched the numbers, set goals and now have an inventory and booth plan for the next 15 weeks to prepare for the show!! I have so many exciting things planned, a photo shoot for my line, new Items to offer for the fall (which some still have to be designed- :) and other new shows I’ve been looking at for a while. I am challenged with advice that it's too much work. That it may compromise the quality of my life. But I say fuck that. I can do it, I can do anything I put my mind to so in free time I'm reading books like "Girl Boss" where I'm continually inspired and encouraged. I can take this task on, and you know what? I'm shooting to succeed! This is my opportunity to create what I visualize my business to become. I am determined to not let anything hold me back, but enjoy the ride and have fun doing it! It's 3 day long show with a new booth set up, better advertising, product development, give-aways, and a site redesign. My two hands have their fingers crossed so hard it hurts. Reality is I may not sell a damn thing, or close to it. But this is a dream, an opportunity and something I am so proud of just for having the courage to try. I am so grateful for this opportunity and hope I have the time, energy and focus to post the process- the good and the bad. If you are reading this, I appreciate it as this is such an amazingly huge step for me. I am pulling out of a retail space I haven’t been fond of and after all the mental work and planning for my business the beginning of this year, I’m in awe of how this fits right into my plan, It’s the most work I’ve had to take on, four times more expensive to get into any show I’ve done and technically out of season for my business and I’ve never been so ready for anything in my life!! Let the carpal tunnel begin... |  Check out my new Photo Shop Skills!! I think this will be showing up a bit in the next few months.  Sites of the Ren, home of the convention.  Becoming a #GIRLBOSS. Fell in love with the Netflix series, and loving the book! It's given my great energy and inspiration when I need it |
Disclaimer: This entry has no flashy pictures or fun things to look at but really just rolled off my brain into text. It's also quite personal which I have been considering going more in that direction so I will have to see how this feels:)
Now that I have changed positions(which I haven’t even started yet) I just can’t stop wondering if what I want to accomplish is possible?!! I already worked so hard when I was working 32 hours or less at my previous job and had creative overlap. I will be working more and while I will have a lot of freedom I have to use it wisely and help build a sector of a business. I just can’t help wondering if it is all really possible?
AT the end of 2016 I overbooked myself, worked myself like crazy-0 and for what? I’m still reflecting on everything I did and I have ideas for the new year. New projects, new goals and a business type plan but I also need to consider the actual quality of the life I’m leading. Leaving time for free time, spending time on meaningful relationships and just doing things for fun. I left no room for this and drove myself into the ground.
I think part of this is why I needed to leave my previous employer. I wore myself down and every situation, drama and unfair practice that has wore on me for the last two years just wasn’t worth it anymore. Sometimes I feel like I gave up on that place, and partly on my dream because it was so flexible and continuously creative.
Then I remind myself I am simply pursuing an opportunity. I can always leave(although not completely in my nature) if I don’t like it but I have a great opportunity before me. I get to work for a company that WANTS me to take an initiative. That TRUSTS me to build their business and is WILLING to work with my other commitments. They are giving me the FREEDOM to work on my own business while at work and I get a predictable schedule, who would want or need more?
ANother thought that scares me is how much I enjoy working on project when they aren’t for money. That once you take the pressure off it feels liberating, comporting and free. This year for me is all about exploration and enjoyment. I know how to work, to dedicate myself to something- it’s a trait that I was born with and will never give up. But what type of life do I want to lead? WHat type of wedding will I eventually like to have? And I guess the root of this exploration is WHAT DO I WANT TO SEE MY BUSINESS GROW INTO?
I have tons of ideas for my business- website, products, shows so I just need to go with it. But really remember it’s what I enjoy to do and that’s why I do it:)
-Jenna
Now that I have changed positions(which I haven’t even started yet) I just can’t stop wondering if what I want to accomplish is possible?!! I already worked so hard when I was working 32 hours or less at my previous job and had creative overlap. I will be working more and while I will have a lot of freedom I have to use it wisely and help build a sector of a business. I just can’t help wondering if it is all really possible?
AT the end of 2016 I overbooked myself, worked myself like crazy-0 and for what? I’m still reflecting on everything I did and I have ideas for the new year. New projects, new goals and a business type plan but I also need to consider the actual quality of the life I’m leading. Leaving time for free time, spending time on meaningful relationships and just doing things for fun. I left no room for this and drove myself into the ground.
I think part of this is why I needed to leave my previous employer. I wore myself down and every situation, drama and unfair practice that has wore on me for the last two years just wasn’t worth it anymore. Sometimes I feel like I gave up on that place, and partly on my dream because it was so flexible and continuously creative.
Then I remind myself I am simply pursuing an opportunity. I can always leave(although not completely in my nature) if I don’t like it but I have a great opportunity before me. I get to work for a company that WANTS me to take an initiative. That TRUSTS me to build their business and is WILLING to work with my other commitments. They are giving me the FREEDOM to work on my own business while at work and I get a predictable schedule, who would want or need more?
ANother thought that scares me is how much I enjoy working on project when they aren’t for money. That once you take the pressure off it feels liberating, comporting and free. This year for me is all about exploration and enjoyment. I know how to work, to dedicate myself to something- it’s a trait that I was born with and will never give up. But what type of life do I want to lead? WHat type of wedding will I eventually like to have? And I guess the root of this exploration is WHAT DO I WANT TO SEE MY BUSINESS GROW INTO?
I have tons of ideas for my business- website, products, shows so I just need to go with it. But really remember it’s what I enjoy to do and that’s why I do it:)
-Jenna
