The Truth about #blogtourcali

When I was invited to be a part of #blogtourcali I was so excited. I couldn’t wait to mingle with other creatives, and hopefully make one or two new friends. I was excited to see pretty California, and experience the unknown. I was so looking forward to meeting  the creative mind behind Modenus ( Veronika Miller), as well as getting a chance to talk with our lovely sponsors, Mr.Steam, Zephyr, Miele, DXV and Westedge Design Faire.

Upon leaving Nashville, I felt pretty prepared. I had all my jobs caught up, I was going to see one of my BFFS ( Michele of Mod Design Guru) for gods sakes, and traveling the West Coast with her. I thought I was totally prepared for what was about to come…..I WAS’NT.

I WASN’T PREPARED AT ALL!!!

I wasn’t prepared to laugh SO hard everyday. Like Eyes shut tight, mouth wide open, bent at the waist and hitting people, laughing.

I wasn’t prepared to create authentic friendships with everyone on this tour.

I wasn’t prepared to feel like such a part of a beautiful family ( Thank you Flo, Veronika, Sarah, Celia and Chasen) being surrounded by such a loving family, eased the missing of mine!!

I wasn’t prepared to be immersed in  Mother Earths true beauty every single day. ( Hello Pacific Coast Highway)

I wasn’t prepared to be BLOWN away by the innovation and deep thinkers at West Edge Design Faire, as they unveiled brilliant design.

I wasn’t prepared to have such a huge place in my heart for VP of Sales and Marketing of Mr. Steam, Martha Orellana as she shared her authentic story and love for her brand and company. ( CANT WAIT TO TELL YOU MORE!!)

I wasn’t prepared to witness such a strong thread woven from brand to brand, person to person and Design store to Design Store owners that we met, which is, Design is so much more than just being a pretty thing or space. Its the connection to a design that makes it beautiful. AMEN SISTER!!!!

I wasn’t prepared to cry on the last day as we all said our goodbyes. I mean, I cry every time I leave my own family. But it speaks volumes to what type of atmosphere was created this past week. Such Love, integrity, comradery, great design minds, and family atmosphere that I just wasn’t prepared for, but so so grateful I was a part of it!!!

I can not WAIT to share with all of you each day and each sponsor from this trip! Everyday was topped by the next. Each brand just absolutely, gracious and beautiful. I am leaving #blogtourcali with a RE- inspired heart and design mind. I cant wait to tell you every piece, well maybe not EVERY piece…but a good portion of the shenanigans that went on ;)!!

 ~Kim