2017 | Year in Review
Photo by Thomas Sawyer
This year was pretty transformative. It pushed me to grow, it challenged me, and I'm pretty sure it gave me TMJ (stress, man!). The challenges I faced were all good ones, and I enjoyed the satisfaction that comes with achieving a goal and making it to the other side. No grit, no pearl, as they say.
I set business goals at the beginning of each year, and intend to do the same in the next few days. I went through some necessary evolution with my blog and brand, and I'm looking forward to blogging more now that I've established a balance that works for me. It's hard to accomplish my goals for SS while working full time, but I've made a focused effort on re-prioritizing to make it work. I cut out the time wasters that didn't serve me, and learned to manage my time more efficiently. I stopped spending time doing aimless shit online, and instead made a conscious effort to grow creatively. I bought an iPad Pro and learned to work digitally in a whole new way. I started making art for fun again, without intention. I read books on the porch swing and forgot about checking my phone. I worked on re-programming my thoughts to break bad habits. I polished up my social media approach, but I also didn't take it — or myself — too seriously. I think all of these things worked together to make me more focused, driven, and honestly — happier. The grass is definitely greener where you water it.
I was thrilled to work with new shops and partners this year — the people I've met through this little endeavor continue to be the special sauce that makes this so enjoyable. I welcomed Cuyahoga Collective and Love, Anji as new wholesalers, and enjoy the excuse to shop when I'm making deliveries ;) I was also excited to start working with the lovely Courtney of Fleeting Fox Photography, whose talents and presence have been a big part of my growth this year. I teamed up with Blair Ritchey and Lovely Paperie and Gifts to create our exclusive map tote bags, which have been a runaway success! It was a blast to do something a little different and a pleasure to work with these two brilliant business owners. Designing Blair's new logo was another custom project I enjoyed — you can check it out here! I launched a few new products and apparel styles and plan to bring you even more options in the spring.
Personally, it was the first year that we didn't have a wedding to plan or a big renovation to complete, which freed up our time and money to do/see/experience other things. Jim and I opted to take our Italy trip that we'd been planning, and that fulfilled us both on a level I can't describe. It's a strange feeling of déjà vu when you find yourself in a scene that you've dreamed about. The places you go really become a part of you. I can't wait to plan our next trip, we just have to choose a destination...so send your suggestions!
We did some light redecorating this year — after five years in the house (!!) there were a few rooms that needed a facelift, and I'll be sharing the details here on the blog in the coming weeks. We're finally going to be renovating our bathroom, so that will be our big project for 2018. I get a lot of questions about our house, so I know many of you are interested in seeing what we're up to — I promise I'll be sharing along the way!
Thank you guys for reading this novel of a post ;) and for your orders, your support, your comments and feedback. As I said before, the people I've met and collaborated with along the way make this journey really special and for that, I'm grateful. I can't wait to bring you fresh products and content in the new year. Cheers to you + yours, and have a safe and happy new year!
xo
Rachael
2016 | Year in Review
The new year lies ahead, and while I don't believe much in resolutions (I will never stop eating candy so forget it), I do believe in reflection and taking stock of the milestones of the past year. It's been a busy one for SS, and also a year full of personal growth. Without a wedding to plan, I've had more time to explore, create, COOK and enjoy the pace of life without so many moving parts. That was much needed after the chaotic (but oh so amazing) year prior.
Jim and I have made it our New Year's Eve tradition to treat ourselves to a nice, long dinner out, sip some bub and make our plans for the year ahead. It really helps us focus (if you know us personally, you know we're totally GO GO GO all the time) so we have to prioritize.
Last year, we talked about putting our kitchen remodel on the short list, and we're both so insanely glad we were able to do it this year! My home studio got a much-needed refresh, which has given me more storage for inventory and space for packing orders (or as we call them, "shore-ders"...haha). We also celebrated a couple of big milestones—my 30th birthday, and shortly after, toasted to our first anniversary with a lobster-filled trip through Cape Cod. As an extra surprise, our wedding was featured by BRIDES with the help of Kayla Coleman Photography's gorgeous photos!
I'm thrilled to have met some new collaborators and clients this year, who have also become friends. The year started off with a full branding and website project for Stella & Shay Beauty Bar, which opened right here in Lakewood. Many, many meetings and brainstorms led to the design as it is today, and it's so fun to see the salon in full swing! I also loved working with Sapphire Pear on their exclusive tea towel designs for everyday and holiday.
And let's not forget - Cleveland had quite the year! Between the Cavs becoming NBA Champions and the Indians' amazing World Series run, we spent most of the year entrenched in playoff sports (which is something I never thought I'd experience as a native)! I hope we can do it all again next year, although two game sevens are more than my heart can take!
So in our usual style, we'll be headed out tonight and looking forward to what lies ahead. We have a trip to Italy planned for the end of summer, but the rest is mostly a blank canvas, which is my favorite kind. Thank you all for reading, for shopping, for your continued support. I wouldn't be able to do what I love without you. THANK YOU and I wish you guys the best in 2017!