November 13, 2010

If you follow me on twitter or facebook, you might think this post is about the wonderful couple that got married this weekend/the wedding that Young Designs did yesterday in downtown Little Rock.....or.......the CALS Centennial Celebration that happened last night which has kept me busy this past week. But you see it's not. This day has a lot more meaning to it......

First off, Happy Birthday Uncle Al!

Second:

A year ago this day, I was sitting in my usual spot- laptop on table/coffee in hand- at the Coffee Bean on Sepulveda Blvd. in Culver City, California, trying to decide what to do. I had a decision to make- whether to stay in California or move back home; and no idea what I would do in either place, just knew I wanted it to do something in the event industry. That night, sitting in that spot. I made a decision. Called my mom, and said "Book your flight, your baby girl is headed home." Two days later, I met her in Las Vegas to begin my journey home. While in the coffee shop that night, I soaked in it all. That seat had been where I kept this blog alive while in California, and it was my last time to be there. I sent my friends and family a text message saying I had made my decision. Once I got back to my apartment, that I had to be out of either way by the 15, my brain was turning. There sitting in my bed, I came up with the words "Young Designs," came up with my plan and how I was going to start it. Who I was going to contact, how I was going to do this. The company name was decided on in LA- that night, my company's name. I am a firm believer that the good Lord has a plan and his plan is far greater than we can ever fathom, ladies and gentlemen-- that was His doing-- His turning the new page--His creation, guidance and leading. With my boss Mark Sheldon giving me the confidence that I could do it, and have 30+ people in LA to call with any questions- I said good bye to the greatest experience a 22 year old could have, and hello to the next step of my climb.

So on this day, I am reminded of that. While working at my twelfth wedding of the year for Young Designs, and while my first corporate event is taking place- all on the same night. I am at the wedding reception and the brother of the bride tells me, "look Shawna, you did it." I look over and yes, we can see the fireworks from the Centennial Celebration at the wedding. It was a joke that I got it for the Bride and Groom- but just a mere coincidence since the events were 5 blocks way. It was a celebration inside (me) of all sorts. One I can't explain. So that day, I am reminded of making that call to Mom and naming my company a year ago. Now it's not a name- it's an identity of its' own and growing and announced on Friday, it was named top 3 event designers of Central Arkansas by Soiree Magazine!!!! HE has a plan for each of us, and when you second guess that "sign," the good Lord will show you a far bigger one; even if it is bringing you an event for 400+ to plan 3 weeks out- to show you- you are on his course.