Find out on this episode of Dream Day Radio why I am so obsessed with weddings. I’m getting personal and deep about why they are my passion. Spoiler alert: it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. I didn’t even realize the answer to this question until I dug into the subconscious layers of my brain.

It took another business owner, photographer Stephanie Zakas, to help me unravel my why. Although it’s been a while since we’ve spoken, I can say that every time I talk to her, I learn something new about myself. Talking with her has helped me explore my childhood and how I felt isolated during it. I craved connection and close relationships, but ultimately, felt like I never fit in.

My mother died in a car accident when I was six-years-old. Her death was very traumatic and changed the course of my life forever. I had no confidence in myself and who I was, and I was terrified to talk to people. Even though my father remarried my first stepmom when I was young, I never felt like I wasn’t given the parental guidance I needed in childhood. I eventually moved in with my grandparents and resolved to start over.

At 20-years-old, I got married to someone I was not compatible with. It lasted for three years until I filed for divorce. Once I filed, I felt like I could breathe again. I wanted to believe in love, and I knew in my heart and soul there was someone out there who God created for me. I wouldn’t settle until I found that person. I may have made some mistakes along the way, but I’m grateful for where I am now. I prayed it would be obvious when I met my person, and it was.

My love for weddings stemmed from my loneliness as a child. I only ever wanted to feel seen and understood. Weddings remind me that love is good. When I can witness a couple’s heart at their wedding, I feel honored. It truly is a gift.