This past weekend, I flew to Chicago to attend my first-ever trade show. The National Bridal Market is a twice-a-year event where designers and retailers in the bridal industry are able to gather in one place to view the newest collections.
Never having been on a work trip, I was in awe of everything there was to take in at the show. A wedding dress can be made in how many different ways? The talent, creativity, and passion were evident in each design. I feel so fortunate to have been able to see this side of the fashion industry and how it operates.
When I sat in on my first fashion show, all I could think about was the endless opportunities that exist out there to be creative. These are artists that are making their designs come to life and showcasing them in front of everyone, and I want to do the same.
My photography, my writing, these things make me feel like one of the designers, and I often fall into cycles that puts them on the back burner. But when I’m watching a show, meeting Randy Fenoli and having a totally casual convo (while internally screaming), or speaking to the publisher of a magazine, I’m reminded just how important it is to engulf yourself in the things that light you up. Watching others succeed in their art ignites me. Being around inspiring people, inspires (shocker).
So here I am, reminding myself that my dreams are worth chasing, that authenticity is the bridge that will guide me to where I want to be. Not a trend, not a quick-post, work that really resonates. That makes sense to me and searches for those like-minded.
Sometimes I feel like I’m forcing myself to fit into a box. Something that makes me compromise my creativity in order for it to be understood or appreciated. I almost always feel regret when I look back at the drawing I’ve made of myself, because it doesn’t feel true. And this weekend showed me just how important it is to remain true, to put your work out there and let what’s meant to be…just be.
“My creativity doesn’t have to be good, it just needs to be true.”