Paris Unplugged: Surprising Lessons from the City of Light.
Paris - the city of lights, art and unbounded inspiration. This year, I had the incredible opportunity to attend Paris Design Week with my design association, the Interior Design Society, and let me tell you, it was a whirlwind of creativity, passion and reflection. It was also extremely last minute and I was feeling all the feels with mom guilt as this was the first time I have ever left my kids this long and internationally. I then tagged on a solo trip to Amsterdam so I got over that guilt real quick! But I digress. Surrounded by some of the most innovative minds in the industry, I was engulfed in a world of interior design, that while exhilarating, also led me to a profound realization about my own journey and aspirations.
Immersed in Design
Walking through the vibrant streets of the Saint-German-De-Pres district, I was captivated by the displays of creativity at every turn. Well, and the chocolate. From chic showrooms to avant-garde installations at Maison et Objet, everything showcased a spectrum of talent that reconfirmed my passion for design. I marveled at the thoughtful curation of materials and the storytelling woven through every piece of fabric and furniture. It was thrilling to be part of such an inspiring environment, surrounded by like-minded individuals who share a fervent love for aesthetics and functionality.
Yet, as I took in the artistry and brilliance around me, a deeper contemplation began to stir within. Amidst the talk of trends and business strategies, I found myself questioning what truly mattered to me. I think prior to leaving I had this pressure I put on myself to follow the pursuit of becoming this design mogul, especially since I just recently graduated and started my own business. But was the goal to build an empire, or was there something more intimate I longed for?
A Shift in Focus
Returning home, after much clogging and avoiding many potential bicycle collisions in Amsterdam, I felt a calling to refocus my efforts - not on scaling a business but on creating a nurturing space for my family. As a stay-at-home parent, which is at my core my true essence and joy, I realized my greatest joy is crafting a home that inspires and comforts. I wanted to revamp my approach, transforming my business into an inspiration hub for everyone who shares a passion for design like myself - not just those who can afford the luxury of hiring interior designers.
I envisioned a platform where creativity flourishes. Where stories, ideas and DIY projects are shared. After all, design should be accessible and inclusive. I want to empower individuals to create beautiful spaces that reflect their unique personalities, regardless of budget.
I also had a beautiful realization hit me: my business name, Nest + Niche, perfectly encapsulated this new vision. “Nest” represents my home, a sanctuary where family and creativity intertwine, and “Niche” signifies my desire to create a space for all people passionate about design to come for inspiration. I mean….wow. What a way to foster the community I seek to gain and the name speaks to the heart of my mission.
Embracing my Creative Roots
In this new chapter, I felt an undeniable pull to return to my roots as an English major. Writing has always been a refuge for me, a way to express my thoughts and feelings. Inspired by this journey, I’ve decided to start this blog that merges my love design with my passion for writing. Here, I aim to share insights, tutorials, and reflections that resonate with anyone passionate about creating their ideal space. By documenting my experiences and sharing my knowledge, I hope to inspire others to embrace their creativity, no matter their background or financial situation. Design is a powerful tool for self expression, and everyone deserves to feel at home in their own skin - and in their own spaces.
The importance of Self-Care
Amidst all the hustle and excitement, I learned self-care is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. The time spent in Paris rejuvenated my soul and reminded me of the importance to take a step back. Whether its enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee or diving into a good book, these small acts of self care help maintain balance in our lives.
In the chaos of parenting and pursuing professional dreams, its easy to overlook our own needs. But I’ve come to understand that prioritizing self care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for nurturing our creativity and well-being. When we care for ourselves, we are better equipped to nurture others, whether that’s our families or our communities.
Looking Ahead
As I embark on this new journey of sharing design inspiration and personal reflections through my blog, I carry the vibrant energy of Paris Design Week with me. I’m excited to create a space where ideas flourish, creativity thrives, and everyone feels welcome.
In the end, my experience in Paris wasn’t just about design; it was about discovering my true aspirations and finding joy in the everyday. Here’s to embracing creativity, nurturing our souls, and making our homes the sanctuaries they were always meant to be. Join me on this journey as we explore the intersection of design, creativity, and self-care together!
xoxo Kym