And what a year it was. Full of many ups and a few downs, both personally and in Ella Bella Weddings and Events.
This year has been my busiest yet with Weddings and Quirky Wedding Fayres. I had my first experience with a Ceilidh band, which were a lot of fun. Have had weddings from festival to country themed. I have worked with the most awesome venues and suppliers. And then the not so aligned ones with my values and that’s ok. Saved a Grandma rolling off in her wheelchair. And as I always say, I learn something new at every wedding I do. For example advising very strongly that an open bar is never left unstaffed.
All my couples this year have been beyond brilliant. I am so lucky to do what I do for a living. I am always honoured to be a part of their special day. For some reason I always get asked if I have to deal with ‘bridezillas’ and no, no I do not. I have the best couples, as we are so aligned and in all honesty it’s usually the parents, because they just want the best day for them.
I was invited on two podcasts this year with The Wedding Business Club and Breakout talking all about being inclusive in your business. Along with completing and passing two level 2s in LGBT Inclusion in the Workplace and Equality and Diversity. Had two of my styled shoots published. Volunteered for Suffolk Pride again this year and hosted a Youth Day with LGBTQIA run market stalls alongside. We won an award for the wedding car hire we do with Luke’s Mustang, which was a lovely end to the season.
Personally this year has been a long journey. Learning all about myself and the ADHD, trying to unmask has not been easy. It is still a long road ahead, but I am so thankful I’ve had the chance to learn as much as I can about it and how it effects me. Some have asked why do you need a label? It has never been about the label, it’s about understanding why I do the things I do, the way I do them, why I think the way
I do. Having answers for all these years of feeling different and for everything making so much sense now. To be kinder to myself, I have had an ongoing commentary in my mind and it hasn’t always been the nicest place to be. Having answers for my children, who are just like me, so they go into the world with the tools they need.
We started home educating our eldest son and what a beautiful journey that has been, it is such a lovely way to learn and I’ve seen his confidence skyrocket!
Achievements this year, personally have been taking my daughters to see Frozen the Musical in the West End. We had our first holiday in over 15 years together it was so needed, to re-connect and have a real break from every day life. Did a zip wire, white water rafting and golf day to raise funds for our charity Amy and Friends, I have also started applying for grants on the charity’s behalf to try and bring in more funding for them.
I am so ready for next year with my awesome couples and suppliers. So here’s to 2025!
And if you are getting married next year or looking to exhibit at a fayre, take a look here for your nearest Quirky Wedding Fayre.
Thanks for reading
x Jodie x