That's a Wrap on Summer (And I'm Feeling Mushy About It)

Oct 1

3 min read

The summer wedding season is officially winding down, and I'm sitting here in the quiet aftermath—surrounded by empty garnish bowls, a suspicious amount of leftover napkins, and a heart that is absolutely bursting.

What a year it has been.

Our little Sweet Thyme is growing. Not in a dramatic, overnight-success-story kind of way, but in the best way possible—slowly, steadily, and with intention. Each season, we get a little stronger. A little busier. A little more us. And watching that happen? It is the most exciting, humbling, pinch-me-I-actually-did-this feeling in the world.

But here is the thing I learned this year: a business is nothing without its people. And this year, my people shone.

Let me tell you about them.

Delaney is our little—and I mean little. Just under five feet tall, but mighty like a giant. This girl has a smile that could melt the coldest mother-of-the-bride, and a sweet attitude that makes guests absolutely swoon. But don't let the sweetness fool you—she keeps everyone on their toes with her quick wit and sharp sense of humor. She is tiny, she is fierce, and she is an absolute joy to have on the team.

Raya didn't work with us as much as we would have liked this year, but when she did? Service royalty was in the house. This beauty knows her stuff. I mean knows it. She impresses everyone—guests, clients, fellow vendors—with her knowledge, her accommodating attitude, and her outstanding service. When Raya is on the floor, you can relax. Everything is handled. And it's handled beautifully.

Janelle was our smiling soldier this season. This lady is a workhorse and nothing stops her. Guests adore her "yes" attitude. Clients love her "of course we can" policy. She doesn't flinch, she doesn't waver—she just delivers. And here's the thing about Janelle and me: we have worked together on and off for years, and there is no one else in the world who can read me like she does. We don't even need to speak. A glance, a nod, a tiny eyebrow raise, and we are on the same page. We are a well-oiled machine, and there is no one I would rather work with. Full stop.

And then there are the new sweet faces—Allaa, Alivia, Bella, and Amilia. These lovelies joined us this season, and I am already so excited to know them better. Every new person brings something fresh, something unexpected, something them. I cannot wait to see what amazing things I learn about these women next season. The future is looking bright, and it is looking beautiful.

But wait—I can't forget the other star of the show. Sidecar Stella had a very exciting summer too! We had so much fun bringing her to my parents' 50th wedding anniversary, where we got to show off my stepfather's hard work to our family and friends. Seeing her there, surrounded by people we love, was such a proud moment. I am so proud of the work we did together to make her the star she is.

I also got a bit better at backing her up this year—with some (unwanted, haha) instruction from my son-in-law. Let's just say Stella and I are still learning to communicate. Hopefully next year, she and I can get on the same page, and backing her up will not be the discussion it currently is. Baby steps. Or should I say, backing-up steps.

And speaking of challenges—I managed to get through an event this year with a boot cast on. Not exactly the accessory I had in mind for wedding season, but thanks to my wonderful sister, who stepped up and assisted me in my slower condition, we made it work. She was my right-hand woman, my extra set of feet, and my sanity saver. I am so grateful for her.

The charcuterie cart was also busy this year, which was lovely to see. We are having so much fun trying new ideas—it is a great place to let my creativity flow. Every event is a chance to play, to experiment, to make

something beautiful and delicious. And honestly? That is my favorite part.

I am so grateful for the wonderful couples we had this year. They make doing what I do worth it. I was blessed with the kindest, most grateful clients—people who trusted us with their biggest day and thanked us with their whole hearts. That is the stuff that keeps you going.

So as the leaves turn, baseball finishes up, and hockey season starts, I turn my attention to next year. The adventures my staff and I will encounter. The amazing clients we will meet. The fun we will have making guests happy.

I cannot wait.

Here's to summer. Here's to growth. Here's to the women who make it all happen—and to the little sidecar who keeps us rolling.

And here's to whatever beautiful chaos comes next.

XOXO,Sweet Thyme