I freely admit that a lot of our blogging the last few months has come from our fabulous interns.  I've been pulled in so many directions that I haven't had the opportunity to sit down and write about all things wedding.  I thought that today, it was only appropriate that I took a moment to sit down and really reflect.  Reflect on how far we've come,on all that there is to be proud of, and on how much can be done in a short amount of time if you're passionate, committed, and professional.  I teach students at Bradley and I really "preach" to them the value of reflection - of taking a moment to catch your breath and look back.  Problem is, I haven't practiced what I've preached these last few months.

Today's the Grand Opening of our Behind Every Bride Bridal Studio.  I cannot even believe the day is here!  What started as a little "spark" a long time ago - actually exists now and it's quite the mix of feelings as I prepare to show the world my "baby" for the first time!  I had anxiety when we unveiled the first edition of the magazine but I was still able to "hide" behind it so to speak.  Now with a studio, I feel like we're more "on display" than ever before and it makes you feel vulnerable.  We've opened ourselves up for praise.....but also for criticism.

Behind Every Bride has come a looong way in 18 months.  I know - I can't believe it's only been 18 months either.  Actually, since our original launch party on January 7th, 2010 - it's been 525 days for BEB.  It's only been 47 days since we took possession of our first studio and now we're ready to show it off!

When we first announced BEB, I was working full-time at Bradley. I loved what I was doing but was looking for a creative outlet....and this was it.  What I thought would just be a fun "side" job quickly took on a life of it's own and just 7 months after launching, I went full-time with the businesses.  It was a scary, intimidating, overwhelming leap of faith - and I have to say, I haven't regretted it for a single moment.  I suppose that's an accomplishment in and of itself.

We got a lot of mixed reviews when I first announced BEB.  Some wedding professionals were all for it - some weren't.  Some said, "Where do I sign?"  and some said, "Now...wait a minute!"  In fact, I got a few nasty e-mails and "threats" along the way.....being told that what I was attempting to do would never work.  That it had been tried and failed before.  Did they rattle me?  Sure they did - how could they not!?!  But, I've held onto the fact that we do it differently....and I whole-heartedly believe that, because we do it differently, is the very reason we've been successful.  Others have bridal magazines, websites, bridal shows.....it's not a new idea.  What's new is our approach.  And I'll spend every ounce of energy I have to always do it differently.  I've learned a lot about myself since I started my own businesses.  One of the main things I've learned is that I (surprisingly) love it when people underestimate me or try to discourage me.  It only pushes me to work harder to prove them wrong. 

I've gotten a bit wordy - no surprise there.  I didn't mean to get so "raw" with my post - but I know a lot of other business owners out there (especially young, females) who are in the midst of starting their businesses or aspire to do so one day.  I didn't have a lot of business mentors when I first started so I always strive to be as open and honest about the ups and downs as I can be.  Owning your own business is an incredible journey and you'll never feel more fulfilled.  You'll also never feel more exhausted or beaten up....but the pros far outweigh the cons. 

To sum it all up - I put together our Points of Pride in 525 (days that is!)  Here's what I'm most proud of since we started.  I can't wait to add to this and see where we're at in another 525 days!

Points of Pride in 525

• We have the most complete list of wedding vendors in all of Central Illinois - over 75 vendors in our last edition alone...and we keep growing!
• Our team continues to grow.  We now have 6 staff for BEB (ranging from a Creative Director, an Event Manager, and quite a few Account Service Reps) and we have 4 amazing, wonderful interns. 
• We've created a spin-off publication, Behind Every Mom, which launches later this summer and we have a great team of 3 lovely ladies leading that!
• We now host 4 (soon to be 5) bridal shows.  When we first started, it was only 1!
• Moving from one spare bedroom in my house to two spare bedrooms and now out of the house and into a studio to house the BEB offices and all of our vendors!  Obviously, our studio is a huuuge point of pride and we can't wait for you to come see it!
• Our e-newsletter series launches in August.  Make sure you visit our re-vamped website to register your e-mail to receive them!
• BEB TV.  I mean, that's pretty cool, if we do say so ourselves. 
• The biggest point of pride to me, personally, are the relationships and partnerships we have built.  We work with the most talented professionals in the area, some of which have become close, personal friends.  They know that my team and I will always do our best to take care of them and we will always work with honesty and integrity.