Speak to Me

There is something about the way I feel when making something or rehabbing something with my own hands that gives me a thrill, a connection to the world, a creative high that I can ride for days. Creating is something that I plan to introduce more and more into re:find Joy's collections. I really believe in the value of handmade pieces, those things that are one of a kind, made by another human being that you can meet and see in person...who can have a conversation with you and who really cares about what it is you're trying to do. 

That's just it, really. I care so much about the beauty of objects and how each piece can make or break a scene. I love looking at catalog photographs and seeing all of the seemingly insignifant background pieces that bring each product to life...the rich textures of fabrics, papers, backdrops and items that were brought in to breathe life into each photo. 

While we humans have life, I feel that objects have a life and energy too. They've been places, transferred hands, travelled across continents, been broken and pieced back together by loving hands. And those objects that have been crafted by an artisan somewhere who has passion for what they do? Those really speak to you...at least they speak to me.

Growing up my mom used to only purchase things that she felt "spoke to her." And I guess that's what I hope my props do for people. I hope that each piece has a voice, calling out to those who may connect with it. Every little item was sought out, having sat on a shelf or tucked in a corner in a market somewhere waiting for the perfect home, for someone to appreciate its beauty and blemishes. 

What speaks to you?

Featured: Style Me Pretty Illinois

I am here on this gloriously sunny Monday afternoon to share some amazing news. A wonderfully unique and inspiring wedding we worked on earlier this year has been featured on Style Me Pretty Illinois! 

re:find Joy provided the beautiful Jadeite cake stands you can see below. Katie Jayne of Jayne Weddings did an amazing job planning this event, with such great attention to detail.

To view the full gallery of awe-inspiring images, click HERE!

On the Horizon

It has been quite the busy winter, despite the slow season. We've been involved in so many amazing and wonderful bridal shows, weddings and other events. You've probably seen photos of our handiwork from Indie Wed, Simply Elegant Wedding Showcase and Poladora's Launch Event. We're hoping to get photos of these events up on the site soon!

re:find Joy has some pretty big and exciting things on the horizon. We have been working on expanding our inventory options, so that we can best serve you, our clients and friends. There has been much inspiration to be had this winter, and so many great ideas have come to us. While we have to wait to reveal our really big plan, with any luck, we are hoping to roll out our new inventory offerings this Spring! 

All About You

One of the things I love about designing for weddings is learning about the couple and how they are manifesting their love into their wedding. There is a certain kind of joy in listening to them talk about where they're from, how they met, and quirky details about their relationship that they want to include in their special day. I love it when a client tells me little secrets or playful things and asks what they can do to incorporate that detail into their wedding. In the end, it is these details that make their day even more special, not because they're trendy or look cool, but because they represent the couple and their life together. These little bits are even better for those that don't get to spend every day with them. When a couple can look around and remember that day so long ago when they met, or that little trinket she gave to him while they dated long distance for 2 years, or laugh at an inside joke that they shared that got them through a hard time...those details have an ability to transform that day into the culmination of all of their years together.

This is why I do what I do. I love to find quirky and playful ways to show others the love that you share...because those little things are important. The notes he leaves you that you don't find until weeks later, the tradition you have of picking up certain kinds of items on road trips, how you fell in love...it is important to remember those things. Incorporating these special details makes your wedding about you. I encourage you to think about these things when planning your day. It will make all the difference, and change your day to one that is all about you. 

A Life Lesson from Buddy Guy

We went to a Buddy Guy performance on Sunday and he told us a story...

When Buddy was 15 he had to drop out of high school to take care of his family. They weren't well off, and he learned the blues all on his own, just working hard and doing his thing. Well, one day he went to New York and showed up broke and in need of food at a club. He told the manager he would play him a song just for a bite to eat. The manager, he says, I don't know you...but if you can play what I put on the jukebox, I'll give you a meal. 

So Buddy, he has been working his ass off and not giving up on his dream of playing the blues...and he plays every song that manager puts on the jukebox. The Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Muddy Waters...and he kills it. The manager says, I've never heard anyone play the blues quite like you do.

Buddy finishes his story and he says...it doesn't matter where you came from, what you did before, what you started out as...never give up on your dream. He says, I never gave up...I just kept playing and doing what I loved and now I'm standing here playing the blues for you at 76.

The next day Buddy Guy flew to D.C. to play blues for the Presidential Inauguration events. He's a living legend, one of the best blues musicians of all time. We can all learn a little something from him.