Things I love: glitter, Kate Spade, and bows.
A few weeks ago, I went to this really amazing wedding show-type-thing called the Cream. Maybe you've heard of it? Basically, a whole bunch of incredibly creative people come together to put on a non-bridal show, if that makes sense. When you get these vendors together, you get a gorgeous venue full of eccentric details and lots of pretty.
I can't lie, I get jealous of a lot these people. How is it that they are so much farther ahead or more creative or just cooler than I am? I look at the things that they do and I am seriously amazed. Part of me thinks that yeah, I can do that. Honestly, I don't doubt that I could do that. But then I come back down to earth, and realize that maybe I don't actually want to do that.
I am not a hipster. These people love being ahead of the trend, but sometimes that trend is just so far out there. Yeah, everything neon is fun to look at sometimes, but my brides aren't exactly clamoring for lime green accents with their midcentury furniture.
I don't want to say that there's anything bad about designing things like this. I already said that I get jealous when people are that creative! I just have to say that it's not me.
I like pink peonies and navy stripes and Kate Spade. I prefer my home to be warm and full and comforting (even if that means cluttered) rather than minimalist and concrete. I love Taylor Swift, and can't deny that I'm really tired of that Lumineers song.
These shouldn't be a bad thing, but this industry can get kind of ruthless sometimes. If you aren't with it, you know? I love planning things for other people that are their style, but what about my style? Should I be ashamed if I see another blogger or indie wedding designer on the street when I'm wearing my anchor skirt and white button up shirt? Because I think I'm cute, but that doesn't necessarily make me cool. And I think that's kind of sad.
It all goes back to that comparison thing. You've heard the saying...Comparison is the thief of joy. I won't deny that I compare myself to others. It's kind of difficult not to when you're constantly surrounded by people with a serious eye for detail, and you're held to a higher standard of creativity. I wish I felt like I were able to cultivate my own tastes and style, rather than follow along with someone else.
I need to learn that it's okay. I am not a hipster. I'm not anything or anyone other than Joelle Duff, hair bow aficionado and a damn good wedding planner.