Be Inspired: Courtney

It is my hope that you leave this blog feeling inspired.  Whether you spend 2 minutes reading the blog every month or check the blog on a daily basis, it is my hope that when you click away from my site you leave inspired.  Inspired to try something new.  Inspired to step out of your comfort zone.  Inspired to embrace a new challenge.  Inspired to make a difference.  Inspired to dream big and chase those dreams.  Inspired to live life a little bit different.  Inspired to be the best you possible.  This series introduces you to people and stories that inspire me and it is my hope that they will inspire you as well.

Y’all I am beyond excited to introduce you to Courtney in our first installment of the Be Inspired series!  I first found Courtney’s website soon after it was launched and quickly became hooked.  I love party planning and entertaining and Courtney showcases absolutely fabulous parties and decor ideas.  In 2012 Courtney published her first book, Push Up Pops and went on a book tour to promote the book.  At the time I was living in Philadelphia and so I made a trip up to NYC to meet Courtney and she was absolutely adorable in person!  When it comes to entertaining Courtney is one of my biggest inspirations and I hope she inspires you as well!  You can connect with Courtney on Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!

What dream are you currently pursuing? 

I’m currently trying to create a happy balance of work with my new baby girl! I absolutely adore what I do and I am tickled pink to be a new mom. My dream is to be able to combine the two and find a little me time in there too 😉 I know that it is difficult as I’ve discovered this the last 3 months but I think it can be done!

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to continue to find a way to challenge myself creatively through my styling projects. I’d love to work exclusively as a stylist for a large company (while still keeping Pizzazzerie going as my side project)! Perhaps a food or decor company where I exclusively style all their new products, what a dream!

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your life?

Besides my sweet daughter, I have to say writing 3 cookbooks in 2 years while growing Pizzazzerie.com to a point where it’s supporting my family. I never thought a crazy website I started would ultimately pay the bills! I’m pretty proud of that 😉

Who has been an inspiration to you and how have they inspired you?

My Mom is a daily inspiration to me. I grew up watching her style tablescapes and DIY ideas for southern and craft magazines. She was doing what I do as a blogger back before the internet even existed! She works so hard every day because she loves being creatively charged with fabulous ideas. She just recently moved to my city so now we’re a dynamic duo and shooting from a new studio in her house!

How do you handle obstacles that arise as you pursue your dreams?

I’ve definitely had a few obstacles arise since I started pursuing my dreams. Namely they are events that pull me away from work and don’t leave me with enough time. I need time to come up with creative ideas, and it’s difficult to do on demand. I’ve handled these things by taking a step back to handle whatever the issue is and then recharging myself when I can. It’s not always easy to set my business on the shelf for a week (or longer) but I’m lucky that I have the option to do so when other needs arise!

Can you share five interesting facts about yourself?

Fave TV Show: Bachelor – it’s my guilty pleasure!

Fave Snack: Popcorn!

Fave Dessert: Vanilla cake – simply yet tasty!

Fave Holiday: Christmas

Fave Party Theme: Nautical

 I’d love to hear…What is your favorite holiday?  What is your favorite TV show?  Who inspires you?