Last week, I spent 5 days in Chicago attending Trouvaille Workshop hosted by Hey Gorgeous Events.

Laura and I decided to attend together back in December, and it felt like it took forever for it to get here!! We arrived in Chicago one day before so that we could be rested and ready for the experience.We went out to dinner with a few other attendees on Saturday; we enjoyed amazing italian food, great conversations and got some of the nerves out before the workshop began! I’m so happy we decided to arrive early because not only did our plan to feel well-rested work, but we were also able to get in some much needed one-on-one time with each other! Laura brings so much joy into my life and while we are total opposites in some areas, I’m beyond thankful for her wisdom, friendship and humor (the girl is hysterical!)!!

Rhi left no details un-touched and from the moment we checked into our hotel to the minute we left, we were loved on and adored. I met Rhi at Making Things Happen in 2014, and knew I wanted to make Trouvaille happen (no pun intended!)! Every single meal was full of details that would make any wedding planner swoon; the content was rich and business-changing and the conversations were heart-warming and eye-opening.

I was challenged, in the best way possible. I was able to really sit back and reflect on the mission of DSE and have already implanted changes that I think will have a huge impact on current & future clients. I also found clarity I didn’t even know I was looking for. I’m not able to confidently and clearly see a direction & future for DSE, and I’m excited to jump into BIG projects that reflect my brand and mission (more on those soon!)!

If you’re on the fence about attending, I think you should. Not only will you be loved on and cared for, but you’ll also walk away with hands-on skills and practical knowledge for the wedding planning field. I think one of my favorite moments was dinner with the girls on our free night; I’ve talked about this a little bit before, but I’ve struggled to build lasting friendships with planners in my area. The industry is a hard place, friends; and it can be so, so lonely. Laughing, eating and crying with women who get it was exactly what my heart needed & I loved having a safe haven to share my dreams, fears and victories.

I plan to share Shalyn’s amazing pictures once I have the gallery; but for now, these iPhone pics will have to do:) Don’t mind all the selfies of me & my girl Laura:) We couldn’t help ourselves!!:)

Rhi – thank you for hosting such an incredible experience. It was truly a nurturing environment, full of hope, laughter and life-altering content. I love that while the content was very much business-centered, it was also so much MORE. Hearing about the struggles of small business ownership, and finding camaraderie in that, is so important and I’m so happy this was a safe atmosphere to do just that! I’m so grateful for you, friend!!:) 

xo!! kat