I’m just going to be really candid and upfront about this — a couple of years ago, we posted and asked for your vote in the annual Wisconsin Bride Magazine “Best Of” Awards. It is an award that is given to the top voted wedding vendor in each respective category in our wonderful, cheesy, and Packer-loving state of Wisconsin.

Well, we didn’t win the award … we didn’t even place in the top “three” and so we weren’t even recognized. I felt kind of embarrassed, I felt bad that I asked you all to vote for us, and then IMMEDIATELY believed that there was no way we would ever win or place in the category photography … so I gave up and didn’t ask for your vote when the opportunity came around the last couple of years.

I am so sick of letting fear hold me back.

It definitely doesn’t matter if we win these awards. What matters is that I stop letting fear whisper in my ear, “but not YOU, Maison. It’s too tough … how would you even do that? It’s too far out of your reach, it would be too much work and you don’t have the resources. You aren’t popular enough, unique enough, special enough … you aren’t _______.” I might appear to be fearless, and sometimes (just sometimes) I do feel fearless. But being fearless is unfortunately the exception to the rule in my world. I am SO sick of letting fear hold me back from chasing the things I want to at least TRY and pursue.

So … these awards. They are a big stepping stone for me today. By writing this post and asking you to vote for Caleb and I for “Best Wedding Photographer” in Wisconsin (if and only if you really believe this!), I am shutting the door on fear. I am sticking my hand in front of fear’s face and saying, “Step back. I’m done with you.” Here’s to a new journey of being brave <3

*A Note on Voting: At least six categories must be completed for your vote to count. Here are some of our dearest (and highly admired!) “friend-ors” if you just don’t know who to vote for! Votes can be casted here: wibride.com/vote-wisconsin-brides-best-2017-awards!

Custom Dress Maker: Monirose-Bespoke Gowns

Planner: Elevate Events, Cherry Blossom Events, Sash & Bow, Glitter + Twine Events

Rental and Décor: A La Crate Vintage Rentals, Event Essentials

Florist: Madison Wedding Flowers, Daffodil Parker, Flora by Jamae, Alluring Blooms, Bud’s n Bloom, KP Designs

Calligraphy: Saffron Avenue

Videography: One Fine Day, Vaughter Weddings, Mollica Film Co

DJ: Celebrations Entertainment, Kuhl Entertainment

Stationery: Mint & Lovely, Sugar Pear Design

Cakes: Yield Bakehouse