Nordstrom YOUphoria Recap

Last Thursday I was honored to co-host an event sponsored by Nordstrom at their Houston Galleria store. This was honestly one of the most rewarding things I have participated since I started blogging. It is not just because I got a few perks from being involved, but because a small piece of my family finally got to see what this blogging "business" is all about. When I say "business", I don't mean that literally. I will get to that in a minute. 

I was a little overwhelmed and anxious when I arrived at the store. Seeing a big sign with my name, hanging from the ceiling was all too surreal for me. I am a small town girl, living a simple life, never in my life have I felt like the star of a show, besides my wedding and giving birth.

From the minute I stepped foot into the door, the Nordstrom team made me feel like I was a star. Their kindness and generosity was heartfelt and genuine. I was a believer in this company before, but after this experience, I am a lifelong fan.

Before guests arrived, I frantically perused the Savvy department to curate my own personal pop-up boutique to showcase a few of my favorite pieces and trends for the fall season. I fell in love with this tie waist coat. I plan on adding this wood handle satchel bag to my growing collection. And this print-on-print ensemble (skirt & top) is killer. I even styled the mannequin you see in the back. I did this all in about 30 minutes. Talk about working under pressure.

 

Guests of the event were greeted with speakers playing tunes of the latest and greatest, swag bags full of fun, sweet drinks, trays of gourmet treats, fruity popsicles and a four different beauty bars.

I had the chance to meet some fellow bloggers, local shop owners and made some new friends along the way.

The best part? Like I said up above, it was the first time my mom, dad and mother-in-law got to see, sort of, what blogging has done for me. Yes, they are some of my biggest fans and daily readers, but for them to actually be there and see the rewards of hard work and dedication meant more to me than any glam, lights, cameras and action. Their love and support has always been strong and something I can't really put into words. All I can say is that I am blessed. They are my rocks. My inspiration. My role models and heroes.

 

In case you didn't know, this event was a two week long fashion face-off that was based on online votes. The winner was announced at the event and even though I feel like Monica and I were equal winners, I was lucky enough to be announced with the most votes. So, thank you to everyone who took time out of their day to vote for me. I won this because of you and honestly, that is the only reason. At the end of the day, regardless who had the best outfit, style, make-up, hair, smile or whatever else that is JUST external, I have friends, family and readers that are REAL. We all do. When people rally on your behalf and go out of their way to support your endeavors, that is more meaningful than anything. Please know that I never take for granted the opportunities that have been passed my way. I am grateful for each and every one, but also work very hard. This blog means more to me than you know. Like I have said before, it's like my third child, but will never replace my flesh and blood. Again, thank you so much for your votes, kind words and well wishes. 

And then there is this photo. As soon as I saw it, tears filled my eyes. I wish each one of you could meet my dad. He is a gem. I true soul with a heart of gold. Anyone that knows him would say the same thing. Ever since I was a little girl, he has been been there for me...secretly holding back tears when his little girl did something that made him proud. Can I just say, that it's a HUGE deal that he was using a digital camera. Typically, he whips out the old 35mm camera and then dashes off to the local CVS to drop off the film. Dad, this time, I am proud of you!

A multitude of gratitude goes out to everyone at the Houston Galleria Nordstrom store. You guys are a stellar team, with so much class, style and grace. You made me feel like a queen for a day and this is one moment in my life that I will never forget. Thanks for making dreams come true.

WHAT I WORE: c/o Nordstrom

Skirt
Top
Necklace
Shoes 
Bracelet

P.S. I could never forget my husband, Ross. Thank you for taking care of the girls and getting them off to school while I was away. Even though you weren't able to be there in person, your spirit and love was with me the entire time. You are my soul. I love you. 

YOUphoria: It's more attainable than you think. Find yours at Nordstrom.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Nordstrom via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are 100% my own and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Nordstrom.