One of my go to people for anything pretty and cute is the always adorable Elizabeth Smillie of The path less traveled! She is one seriously talented mama who makes the most beautiful products on Etsy. I recently had the pleasure to chat with her and wanted all of you to get to know her as well. Enjoy!!!

Q. How did you come up with the name the path less traveled?
A. The name “the Path Less Traveled” comes from the Robert Frost poem (of course), which I have always loved. Years ago I started a personal blog with that title to journal a bit and share whatever struck me at the moment. The idea of being on the “path less traveled” seems like such a perfect metaphor to me of walking with God – as Christians we are truly walking the less traveled way – especially the last line “And that has made the difference”. Because, really, that is the only difference between my life and that of any other creative woman in the world. So when I needed a shop name, my husband said “well, why not just use your blog name? It would fit pretty well!” And it has!

Q. Tell us about the path less traveled and what you offer?
A. The shop’s tag line is ” a little shop filled with unique party and wedding decorations, custom keepsakes and a few sweet vintage pieces” – and that pretty much sums it up!
I’ve got a variety (that is always increasing!) of party/wedding decorations, from cupcake toppers to garlands to statement pieces. I also make silhouettes and offer some of my vintage finds. I also do quite a few custom orders, and seldom turn down a request, so if you don’t see something you’re looking for, feel free to ask!

Q. Where does this sweet business reside and do you ship world wide?
A. Indianapolis, Indiana and yes, I ship anywhere!

Q. What sets you apart from other designers?
A. I make sure that I love each item in my shop – when you scroll though it, you really get a sense of “me” and what I enjoy – so, while I I offer things that are in line with current trends, I make sure that they are also all in line with the timeless look that I love.
And I really do care about my customers. : ) I hope it comes across in each interaction!

Q. What do you heart most about the design process?
A. That there is no limit to what you can do (other than yourself)!

Q. What are some new and exciting stationary trends you’re seeing for weddings?
A. I love how some brides are using organic and natural elements, such as actual trees, in their decor. That couples are embracing more “rustic” cakes (there’s still a ton of fondant, but the casual, home-made look is making an appearance!). Brides are loving lace! And color … oooo, almost wish I could re-do my own wedding!

Q. Do you have any tips for our love birds when considering wedding stationary and decor?
A. After getting all of your ideas, filling your Pinterest boards and thumbing through magazines and catalogs, take a step back and let all the ideas steep. Think about what you really love and then toss the rest (even if you always thought you’d like to have a long train on your dress, that might not be “you” anymore). You will never regret going with what you really love and getting the best version of it that you can! Oh, and do your absolute best not to go into debt for your wedding (not very romantic I know, but really, one of my top tips!)

If you would like to see more of The path less traveled check her out on the following links!

Facebook page
Etsy Shop
Twitter
Blog

Alixann Loosle is pretty much perfection! She is a master of capturing all things beautiful. Her photographs are so gorgeous that you could pretty much hang anyone of them up on your wall and call it art…yes my loves..she is that good. I recently had the pleasure of getting to know her and I am so so sooooooo excited to get to work with her in the new year! Until then, check out this recent Q & A I did with Alixann!

Q: What inspired you to be a photographer?
A: My dad was actually a photographer for years. I started assisting him when I was 12, and instantly fell in love. After he retired a few years back, I decided to take after him and start my own business! We still can sit around and talk photography for hours.

Q: What is your photography style?
A: I would say my style is modern-vintage. I like things to be very clean.. clean backdrops, props, poses, and colors. I am incredibly picky and strongly opinionated! I want everything to be perfect, and I think my clients hire me for that reason. I love to keep things modern, but also add a vintage twist with my colors and props.

Q: What is your favorite thing about being a photographer?
A: I get to use my creativity. I have ALWAYS had an obsession with beauty and with using my creative mind. When I was younger, I would draw and paint for hours and hours. I loved to dress up in unique clothing and show off my style in any way I could. I don’t know what I would do if my job didn’t allow me to release all of that creative energy!

Q: What inspires you on a regular basis?
A: Oh my goodness.. EVERYTHING! Music, art, ideas, movies.. I love to see anything new. I love to hear new ideas and concepts about ANYTHING. I love to dream.. it’s funny because if I’m ever having a difficult time thinking of concepts for a shoot, I will lie down and take a nap. When I dream, my mind fills with pictures and emotions that I can’t see and feel when I’m awake. I usually wake up with a new idea and new sense of being, that I can transfer to my photos.

Q: What has been your proudest moment as a photographer?
A: Having my photos published in print. I don’t think there is anything better than buying a magazine with your photo on the cover.

Q: You shoot so many gorgeous weddings…what is your favorite part about photographing a wedding?
A: My favorite part is being with the couple on the happiest day of their lives. I love to see people in love. I love to see how happy their family and friends are.. I am so lucky to be around people on this day.

Q: How do you make the couple feel at east on their special day?
A: I always try to act very calm and relaxed. When the photographer is uptight and stressed, it makes everyone else feel the same way. I like to act like any mis-haps or issues aren’t a big deal. The most important thing is just to enjoy the day. I like to separate the bride and groom from their family and friends for a while, and just let them hang out and chat as I take pictures of them.

Q: Any advice for couples who are searching for their dream photographer?
A: Yes. Go with the photographer that fits your style! Photography (in my opinion) is one of the most important part of a wedding day! You will always have these photos to look back on and show your family members and friends. Don’t hold back on getting the photographer of your choice, and that fits your style the best. It may be an investment, but it’s worth it.

Q: Do you have any advice you can give to other photographers who are starting out?
A: Yes. Things are always hard at first! No one’s style will be perfect, but if you keep working and focusing, you will get to where you want to be. It’s a long and hard road, but if you give every shoot your full commitment, you will get there!

To see more of Alixann’s gorgeous work be sure to check out her beautiful blog!

All gorgeous photos courtesy of Alixann Loosle