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I’m listening to June while I click on a new message and start reading.
“Holy shit.”
“I mean, it’s notthatimpressive.”
I leap out of my chair, adrenaline coursing through my veins. I round the desk and reach for June’s hand.
“Where are we going?” she whisper-hisses as I drag her down the hallway and toward the restroom. Once inside, I slam the door and lock it behind us.
“First, I love that you and Allen had a phone sex breakthrough. That’s amazing. I’m so happy for you.”
“Okay.” She looks around. “So why are we in the restroom?”
“I just got an email from the assistant editor atBridesmagazine. They picked my blog as one of the eight trending wedding blogs they want to feature in their August issue.”
I still can’t believe it as I’m saying the words. The blog I’ve poured my heart and soul into is going to be recognized by a national magazine. It’s part of their up-and-coming series, and I’m dying to know I made the cut.
“That’s amazing, Sophie. Congratulations!” She pulls me into a hug. “I’m still not sure why we’re five feet from a toilet right now.”
“Oh, right. Not many people know about my blog. It’s been a passion project so I haven’t shared much about it and didn’t want to announce it in front of everyone else.”
“If it’s getting recognized inBrides,I’d say it’s legit. You’re acting like it’s a dirty little secret.”
I shrug. “I wasn’t sure it would ever amount to much. It’s not a real career path, just a hobby.”
“Sophie, I don’t know how this all works with blogs, but I’m pretty sure this recognition is a huge deal. Even if it’s a hobby.”
She pulls me in for a hug. “Congratulations. This is exciting!”
Deep down, I know June is right. It’s why I freaked out and rushed her to a private space to tell her. But the other reason for that is I’ve never let myself see my blog,Sustainable Wedding Chic, as anything more than a side hustle. A creative outlet to explore my passion for sustainable wedding décor and services. I’ve definitely never seen it as a potential career path.
It’s been exciting to see the following I’ve built increase. To get offers from advertisers that want to partner with me. But I’ve always thought a nine to five (plus weekends) career was the smart track to take. It’s the one Griffin has encouraged me to follow to ensure financial stability and security.
That’s what I want most. To support myself and be independent.
“Let’s celebrate after work,” June says.
The adrenaline rush of theBridesfeature is wearing off and I can feel the fatigue starting to creep back into my body.
“I’d love to but I’m running on fumes. Is this work schedule not exhausting to you?”
“It’s a lot for sure, but I’m also not working a second job and creating content for a blog.”
I sigh. “That’s true.” Maybe in my attempt to become self-sufficient, I’ve overloaded my schedule.
June reaches for the door. “One drink. We have to celebrate your accomplishment.”
“Okay. One drink,” I tell her as she retreats.
I should get back to work, but I take a moment to gather my thoughts.
Maybe this opportunity withBridesmagazine is a sign that my blog could become something more. That eventually it could be a full-time business. Like I told Hunter, creating my own business is in my long-term plan, but what if I moved the timeline up? Changed my plans?
The thought is both thrilling and overwhelming.
At the mirror, I check my reflection.
I look like me, but there’s something different about my eyes. There’s uncertainty in them.
