Monday, March 25, 2013

True Inspiration

Now that the Jay + Renae Collective has officially launch and the preparation madness is past us, it's onto the next hurdle! Which means website, website, website, website.

But I thought I'd take a moment to share a little of the behind-the-scenes of the behind-the-scenes. I know I've been focusing on the fashion aspect of things here which I will forever adore. But what is truly the driving force behind the creation of Jay + Renae is something entirely different.




Jay at the Zoo.
The inspiration behide Jay + Renae.



My sister sent this photo to me - it's of Jay at the zoo which he got to visit with his cousins over the weekend when he finally started feeling better. As I was looking at the picture I was reminded why I'm running around driving myself and everyone else around me a bit crazy. I can't help it. I feel it's my job as his parent to show him how to be whatever he wants to be. And pursuing my dreams is the best way I know how. Because children learn by example.


This week was hard on the little guy. He had a cold that affected his bronchial tubes and a mind ear infection. And I was so busy this week with the launch (and fighting my own battle with a cold) that I was not the mommy I aspire to be. Most nights he didn't get to bed until at least an hour past his bedtime. And mommies know how rough this is on a child on even a normal day. We also didn't get to play together much or go on our usual outings. The launch definitely took center stage. At least he had the pleasure of meeting Robert and Aston of Limestone Films (to whom he took a very strong liking to)!

Tonight was better. We made it to bed by 7:30PM. A small miracle after the whirlwind. We also got to spend the entire day together with mommy not completely distracted and stressed. Another small miracle.

Balancing two jobs, being a mom and building a business, is a challenge. But all of it is worthwhile. Even the mistakes because I know I'm doing what I love most; being there for my son and pursuing my passions. Even when I am doing both imperfectly.

What's been your biggest challenge this past week as a parent? Share with me in the comment section below.

Until next time....

xoxo


Saturday, March 23, 2013

The Jay + Renae Collective...is official!

So today was the launch...and boy was it awesome! All that fretting and hand wringing was for naught. It was perfect as perfect can be...with the small exception of being completely late to set up by no less than an hour. Purely due to my constant flubbing of the little interview point that I had written up for myself!

But...the day was an absolutely gorgeous spring day with megawatts of sunshine. Quite honestly, the most beautiful day we've had all year. The perfect number of guests arrived. There was an overwhelming interest in the jewelry - in fact I felt a little unprepared!

Robert and Aston of Limestone Films were right there holding my hand AND capturing every fun moment on film. I honestly don't think this would have been nearly as incredible without their presence. So here's a huge shout out to Limestone Films - Thank you, thank you, thank you!

I also want to thank all of you for being so supportive throughout this entire adventure. Your encouraging words and assistance (in many forms) was a tremendous help in getting this dream off the ground. I am honored to have such an amazing group of supporters around me. A huge thank you to all of you (you know who you are)!

So what can you expect next? More of Jay + Renae of course! The Website (that's right, I meant to capitalize that) will be the next main focus. The Website is slated to launch on April 9th (if all goes according to plan). Then the interview with Natalie on the Inspiration Show! (That has me a little nervous but excited to share Jay + Renae with a broader audience). 

So keep tuned. You will be the first to know of any new exciting development!

Until next time...

xoxo





Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Jay + Renae...A Modern Collective

Back from Toronto and enter the whirlwind...

Preparations for the trunk show to kickoff the Jay + Renae Collective is in mad force! Some days, I actually don't even know which way is up! But I wanted to take a moment to invite you all. Here is your official invitation...







Love for you to be there!