Remember a few posts back when I mentioned I had some exciting things happening for me that made me so happy I actually cried? Well I am ready to share some of my excitement with you.
Back in February 2007 when I opened my online shop and started pursuing my dreams... I never imagined the doors it would start opening for me. My shop started with such a humble beginning and only my friends and family really knew how to find it. After I started blogging a month or two later, I was connected to a world of inspiration and friends I never knew existed. I started getting a sale or two a month, and soon my blogging friends were a whole new support system for me.
The first real "OMG" moment came when I received a lovely little email from Tara Frey. She explained she was going to start a new column in Romantic Homes Magazine and asked if I would allow her to feature my blog. At the time I had just recently discovered Romantic Homes from another blogger and had my very first issue which was filled with french inspiration that was just my style. I just about exploded with excitement and of course jumped at the opportunity. The issue with Tara's article and my mention is out on newsstands now. I don't even have my copy yet, but saw a sneak peek at Dawn's site. To add to my excitement, I am featured with three other blogs which I completely admire and adore. Heather, Kim and Cathy are a big source of inspiration for me and are the nicest people. I couldn't ask for better company.
I of course ran out and subscribed to the magazine after Tara's email, and it has quickly become one of my favorites. I then started advertising in the magazine (my first real attempt at advertising) which led to another "OMG" moment. The editor emailed me to ask if she could feature a product of mine in an upcoming issue with a link back to my store. I of course said yes, and that issue was out last month, featuring our "friendship glasses". It was the first time I had seen "Sadie Olive" in print, and my goodness did it feel amazing! My little stores popularity had a big boost from the exposure, and I am proud to say it is blossoming into that dream I once was too shy to even tell others about.
When I was laid off two and a half months ago from my "real job", the panic of how I would pay the bills and the reality of my dreams quite possibly having to be put on hold was devastating. I was so depressed knowing I would have to find a job that would pay the bills instead of staying home like I dreamed of doing to run my shop full time. After months of dead end interviews and hopeless resume posting, the idea came to me to do some "design work" on the side. This has been a blessing in so many ways, as I have had the opportunity to work with some of the people I most admire all while doing something that makes me feel creative and inspired at the same time. It's not paying the bills just yet, but it's fun, it keeps me home, and it brings me joy.
I have had a new door open for me this last month (the day I was brought to tears)... I was contacted by the editor of a new publication by Stampington and Company called "Somerset Life". It seems she was on the hunt for creative minds to assemble a team they call the "Bonnes Vivantes". She explained to me that this was a French term used to describe people who live "the good life", full of creative ideas, optimism, and beautiful surroundings. Or to "live a life with meaning and beauty and authenticity each and every day". I was shocked and amazed to be even considered for this honor. I don't even think my mind had dared to dream that I would be asked to contribute my ideas to a magazine for editorial consideration. It is truly beyond anything I had hoped to achieve when I started this whole venture. I have accepted the honor and hope you will all see some of my ideas in print in the upcoming April 2008 issue of the quarterly magazine. Again I am honored to be in the company of some of the others who have accepted this role, including: Sandra Evertson , Pam Garrison , Lisa Guerin , Amy Hanna , Hanne Matthiessen , Melissa McCobb Hubbell , Lori Oles , Kristen Robinson , Cynthia Shaffer , Analise Sledd and Rebecca Sower.
My mind is soaring with new dreams and new hopes for the future and I owe it in large part to you. Thank you so much for all of your encouragement and support over this last year. It means more to me than I can ever fully express.
Here is a peek at the current (and premiere) issue of Somerset Life:
Sara,
Congrats to you on all of your new ventures.
I knew you would do something great!! It was all written in the stars ahead of time.
I love both of those publications.
Enjoy everything!
Rosemary
Posted by: Rosemary | October 30, 2007 at 02:29 PM
Hi Sara:
You don't know me...but I'm a huge fan of your Blog, your Online Shop and your Design work! (you were so gracious to answer a question over email once). What an amazing opportunity you have ahead of you! Best of luck and I can't wait for April! Tonya Cartwright, Anacortes, WA
Posted by: Tonya Cartwright | October 30, 2007 at 02:50 PM
Sara,
How wonderful that your dreams are coming true, Enjoy! I cant wait to see what you come up with for the magazine. I'll be looking for it. Tracy
Posted by: Junk 2 Jewels | October 30, 2007 at 03:15 PM
Congratulations! Your story is so inspiring and you really deserve it, you're such a talent. The magazine looks divine and I can't wait to check it out (and you in it!). Very best, ~A :-)
Posted by: Angela (Cottage Magpie) | October 30, 2007 at 03:43 PM
Sara, What an Inspiration you are. I am truely so Very Happy for you. You are very talented and deserve all these Wonderful Things happening to you.. There is a Word in Yiddish which is "Bachert" which means, "Meant to Be". Just something else to fill your Thought filled Head... Much Luck to you and Sadie Olive...Jamie
Posted by: jamie | October 30, 2007 at 03:49 PM
Just today I saw the article by Tara in Romantic Homes on your blog. How wonderful for you and all your new endeavors. I am sure you desire the Best ~ xoxo Lynn
Posted by: Lynn Wheeler | October 30, 2007 at 04:16 PM
How exciting Sara - I knew this would all work out for you! Your talent is amazing and I can't help but think that losing your "real" job a while back was truly a blessing in disguise.
This magazine looks awesome, I can't wait to see it in print!
All the best,
Joy
Posted by: Joy | October 30, 2007 at 04:20 PM
Congratulations Sara! You really deserve all of this! I am a big fan also and am dreaming of the day I can have you make my humble blog beautiful! Can't wait to order something from your online store too! I love seeing people fulfill their dreams. Have fun!
Courtney at www.acottagefamily.blogspot.com
Posted by: Courtney | October 30, 2007 at 04:28 PM
All great news Sara. It's as it should be. I just got my copy of Romantic Home and saw your spot there. You have a beautiful blog and online shop, I've been silently peaking in and alway enjoy it seeing what's news.
Smiles and Congratulations!
Becky
Posted by: Becky | October 30, 2007 at 05:04 PM
WHat congratulations to you. Sounds exciting and looks like a wonderful book full of inspiration.
Posted by: tracyg | October 30, 2007 at 08:19 PM
Sara!
I love the ripple effect of your story. It sounds so wonderful. May more blessings come your way! It so so very wonderful your dreams are coming true. Congrats on everything sweetie!
Teresa
xo
Posted by: Teresa | October 30, 2007 at 09:37 PM
congratulations! so much goodness coming into your life. bravo to being so open to it...this is such an inspiration to me today.
blessings to you...
Posted by: liz elayne | October 30, 2007 at 09:50 PM