I felt this was the most fitting first post to the blog.
Almost 15 years ago I began Certified Images. The name originated from my amazing show horse (yes, way back when I used to show horses not just take pictures and create ads of them!), A Certified Edition.
"Winston" is still listed as the All Time Leading AQHA Amateur Hunter Under Saddle horse and together we won 12 AQHA World and Reserve World Champion Titles and 18 Congress Champion and Reserve Champion Titles. "Winston" is still a part of our family and is happily retired at a friend's farm.
Through the 15 years in business, Certified Images grew beyond anything I could have ever imagined. I was incredibly blessed with a company that allowed me the opportunity to meet and work for some of the best people.
Because of the success that CI was, it wasn't an easy decision to change the business name. Certified Images had become a well known company to so many, but in the end it was who I was and not who I was becoming.
So much had happened through my journey and I felt like a new name was the fresh start that I needed. A new name that really reflected my heart and soul. A new name for a new me.
So in I took a step of faith and rebranded Certified Images to Willow Grace Design Co.
Most of you will have that burning question... why after 15 years change the name??
Well, I'd love to share a very shorten version for you...
2018 was hands-down the hardest year of my life. After losing my dad at the beginning of the year, I was hit week after week and month after month with hardship and struggle. From emotional to physical to spiritual, I watched as my life completely transformed into something totally, and more beautiful, than anything I could have ever imagined.
By the fall I knew I was no longer the person I used to be. The season and year of brokenness had changed me forever. As I reflected on everything that had happened and everything I had been through, one thing kept coming to my heart.
When I was a kid my parents planted a willow tree at the end of our driveway.
I remember laying under that tree and just feeling so at peace and so in awe of its beauty. Its roots are deep and its trunk is strong, but its branches give with grace and ease to the ever-changing wind.
That willow tree was my dad's favorite. And it was mine as well.
So as I look to what lies ahead in this crazy, beautiful life, I want to be like that willow tree. Strong and steady in my faith and foundation, but giving grace freely to all of the people and situations around me.
So there it is... Willow Grace Design Co. has been born. Thanks for being on this journey with me. I couldn't live out my passions and calling with out each and every one of you!
Kristin Martin Certified Images is now... Willow Grace Design Co.
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