I can't believe it has been three years since I boldy (and a bit naively) launched my wedding stationery business. I have learned SO much and am so thankful to be sitting right where I am. I am growing and changing through my passion and goals every day. This small business challenges me in so many ways and it's one of the things that I love most about what I do. I love the goals, challenges, ups, downs, and the blood, sweat and tears that go into it all.
Five years ago, I graduated from Texas State University with a BFA in Communication Design (aka graphic design). I had my mind made up early on about what I wanted to study and it really was the perfect path for me. I love being a designer. I love using my skill set and talents to bring joy to, as well as provide solutions for, other people.
I was thrilled with the first job that I got after graduating- a designer at a wedding stationery company. I genuinely loved my job, but hated the city and didn't like the mundane feeling that comes along with working a 9-5. Every day seemed the same (too long), I dreaded the commute and I needed an "end goal". That experience made me realize that I like working TOWARDS things. I was so accustomed to looking forward to the next step. Graduating high school, going to college, getting through each semester, graduating college. Each one of those phases was broken down into segments, making it easier to look forward to the "end goal". There wasn't a "end goal" working at a 9-5. I knew that I needed something to work towards and be excited about. SO I moved to Austin and launched my business out of a tiny one bedroom apartment.
I would be lying if I said the first couple of years weren't difficult. (I mean it's still hard, y'all). But I absolutely love it and I would choose this every day, over and over again. I have learned so much about myself, the wedding industry, small business, taxes, accounting, marketing, photography... the list could go on forever. Having the opportunity to grow and learn every day excites me. Working towards this goal and filling my days with things that I am passionate about make me feel fulfilled.
So thankful for all of the brides who trusted me with their wedding stationery, my loving and continuously supportive family and friends, AND all of the old friends who have popped up to place a small order and lend their support. It all means the world to me!
Cheers to three years, y'all!
Photos by Rachel Driskell