I was so lucky to have a few mini vacations in the middle of this busy wedding season. This year, my goal was to surrender the need to be constantly busy. I was really tested with that during my off season when I actually experienced a season of slowness. It was SO tough at the time because I was used to going nonstop. Seriously, I don’t like NOT being busy. But I knew deep down in my heart that my lifestyle had to change to make room for new things, even though I didn’t know what those things would be and didn’t have anything to replace it with.

Now it’s starting to make sense. Even though wedding season is busy, I’m nowhere near as busy as I was last year. Last year I said “yes” to every wedding and every opportunity. I took on 32 amazing weddings but felt tired afterwards and my home life suffered. I took on every single workshop or speaking opportunity that was offered to me because I was trying to build a new part of my creative coaching business without truly thinking about if it was a good fit for me.

But this year, it’s different. I surrendered to taking on a new way of life even though it makes me uncomfortable at times (and REALLY uncomfortable at other times.) I’m making room for God to do new things in my life. The best part is that I’m trying my hardest to let go of what I “think” I want for my career and letting God direct me. I glorified the word “busy” and deep down, I knew it wasn’t right. There is a difference between ambition and hustling and letting your work-life consume you.

I don’t know what the next steps are. I have some big plans and big dreams I’m working on but I’m open to what the future will hold. In the mean time, I’m absolutely loving this season I’m in. My calendar is full of weddings but I’m not feeling overwhelmed. I’m photographing them on the weekends and having them edited and delivered within one-two weeks so I’m never behind. I have 23 weddings this year and I’m so honored to still be able to do what I love!

This season has even given me a chance to ENJOY myself by taking several vacations, like the one Matt and I had this past week in Door County. I even left my laptop at home! I’m learning how to turn off work/entrepreneur mode once and a while and just be Shaunae. Not a business, not a brand, just a person. A person who would rather look back and know she built an amazing life not just an amazing career.

Here’s some of snapshots from our time in Door County this week. When you stop being “busy,” beautiful things can happen. Things like eating delicious meals, spending time on the beach, watching the sun set, and getting to spend time with your best friend. I want that for you too, my friends. Life is meant to be lived, you deserve to enjoy it.