I spent this past Saturday at Creative Estates. Met some remarkable women.

Shelly of The House of Smith’s and Megan of Brassy Apple.

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Laura of Laura Winslow Photography, my sweet friend Wendy, Toni & Kim with The TomKat Studio.

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I was part of a panel discussion with Becki of Whippy Cake, Megan of Brassy Apple, and Melanie of Above All Fabric (we couldn’t find her for this photo opportunity).

I am stoked that we got to discuss and share ideas on the topic of “balancing it all” … family, business, everything. But my absolutely favorite part of the experience was meeting so many really terrific and genuine women who are in a similar camp. The camp called … My family is #1 no matter what. I also love having a business because I care deeply about what I have to share. They get it. I get them. It was a beautiful thing and I’m grateful for the experience.

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{ behind-the-scenes }

I looked a little extra dolled-up than I normally do. My magic trick? It’s a little pill called … Becki Crosby. When she asked if I would let her do my hair & makeup for the day … I was like … umm. Are you kidding me?

Yes. I suppose I would be stoked about that.

I hung out in her bathroom early in the morning and she went for sassy. Sassy with the hair …

And sassy with the makeup …

And our new BFF Megan was with us as we chatted and laughed and geared up for the day. She also happens to know what she’s doing with a camera (thanks for documenting the makeover Megan!).

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{ the creative connection }

There is another conference coming up in September — The Creative Connection and are you thinking what I’m thinking? I’m going to need that magic Becki pill there too.

I have been invited to be a keynote speaker with the ever-marvelous Stacy Julian. I am honored. Surprised. Humbled. A little nervous. And thrilled to be side-by-side with my dear friend Stacy. I have so much adoration and respect for this woman that I met “back in the day”. I was probably 14. Well, not quite. But I was a baby in this industry when it was all becoming an “industry” and we did meet very early on. Super excited to team up with her. Thinking I might strategically chicken out at the last minute and just let her run with it. You’ll be great, Stacy.

Anyway — be sure to check out The Creative Connection Event if you have any interest at all in the handmade market, running a small business, social media, and even food. This is for creative and passionate women. I’m pretty sure it’s going to be pretty incredible. Registration is opening soon.