and the writing goes on

By: Jessica Robinson
Who would of ever imagined I would ever write a book?!  Then, I got the bright idea to write a second one.  Since the first one was so fun and I felt so inspired!

Now that we are settled into a really beautiful design studio in the heart of Collinsville, I feel even more inspired.  Just a few little touches to decorate and make it feel warm and cozy, then we're done.  I'm thrilled with the space and how it's evolved.

When I started writing the wedding book I never imagined it would be SO hard to publish it.  I honestly thought, I'll write this thing and be able to publish it no problem.  Then, the economy tanked.  Which made the publishing world take a major hit as well.  It's a great accomplishment to get a literary agent to represent you.  In December, I signed with a new agent to look for a contract for BOTH of the books I wrote.  Hours of writing with my fingers happily typing away while the ideas were flowing like the river in Collinsville and two books later.  I have weeks of non-stop writing then weeks were I write nothing at all.  It's just how the writing/creative process works for me.  I've learned to write EVERYTHING down on note pads.  Since, usually I'm half asleep when I have the best idea and I will completely forget if I do not write it down!

It took hundreds of query letters to get only about 12 agents to read my manuscript.  Which apparently is a huge feat.  I have been fortunate enough to have a wonderful literary agent representing me.  She is pushing hard for a contract with a major publisher.  She's now in talks with several publishing companies.

Since the books will soon be published and I'll be traveling to promote both books we're going to only take on a very limited amount of weddings each year.  I want to inspire many couples to have weddings beyond their wildest dreams.  Think outside the box and dream big.  A wedding should reflect your personal style and be amazing. 

The first signs of spring

By: Jessica Robinson
Most of us are just plain tired of the long winter we've had.  We're looking forward to spring, warmer weather and honestly, flip flops.  The tulips and daffodils are starting to push their way through the soil and emerge to reach the suns rays. 

I LOVE all the spring flowers available this time of year.  Such as, ranunculus, peonies, parrot tulips, anemones and sweet peas.  So many wonderful spring colors and a touch of sweet fragrance of a new beginning.

There is lots happening right now.  First, we have been asked to be a part of a bridal event at Sur La Table (in Canton) on April 9th @ 4-6 pm.  It's such a fabulous store filled with kitchenware and your everyday kitchen needs.  Now that we've opened our new studio, I'm working on networking with other great designers and companies.  Amie, has a great spa down the hall from us.  (Waterfalls- A Spa on the Farmington River)  She says it's her passion to give women the power to treat themselves to a pampering day.  She insists you need time to yourself and that will help you be happier.

I'm happily working on book tour details as well.  Coming up with creative ideas to share both of my books with everyone. 

New Studio in Collinsville

By: Jessica Robinson
After months of remodeling and fixing up, we're finally in our new studio!  I'm so excited!  We're still putting a few personal touches on the space, but we're finally MOVED in.  Which feels good.  Paperwork is all moved, new computer all hooked up and we're meeting lots of wonderful new couples in the space.  Just a few little things to finish, such as hanging up some pictures and maybe a vase of fresh flowers to the table.  We are going to install a big flat screen TV on the wall for couples to view the transformations of spaces we've created over the last few years.

There are SO many wonderful artists that fill the studio spaces in the Collinsville Axe Factory.  I feel so much peace in this space.  It's going to be a great place to write and to work.  I'm looking forward to spring and summer on the rails to trails.  The trail runs parallel to the Farmington river and looks over the historical buildings that surround the axe factory.