I was in New York City last week for a whirlwind of a trip. My mom was selected to be on the Today show, and she wanted me to go along with my dad and keep her company. Nothing to complain about there! We flew up Sunday morning and flew back Monday night, so that didn’t leave much time for sightseeing, but we did manage to stuff ourselves at the Meatball Shop, shop at H&M, enjoy a Father’s Day dinner at Mesa Grill, and stroll through Central Park.
So how did my mom get on the Today show? I’m really proud of her, so I hope you don’t mind me sharing the story :) My mom entered the “Kick-Start Your Life Today with Marlo Thomas” essay contest, and her essay was selected, along with two other women. This is what she wrote:
I am 52 years old and I want kick-start my life. I’ve already made efforts to do so. My daughter got married a year ago, March 7, 2010, and I helped her plan her wedding. I enjoyed it so much, that I have authored a Wedding Guide which will be published nationwide in May, 2011, and I also have registered at a local college to take classes to become a Certified Wedding Planner starting in June 2011. I would like to work on a part-time basis helping busy brides-to-be plan their weddings. I am 52 years old and I finally found something that inspires me! I have found a purpose, a passion, and now I have a plan. I am on my way to “kick-starting” my life even if it is at the ripe old age of 52!
What’s funny is that when the Today show called my mom about her submission, my mom vaguely remembered writing it, and she had no idea what she would win! Not only did Marlo Thomas, a Today show producer, and camera crew come to Florida to interview my mom, but they also enlisted the help of David Tutera, expert wedding planner and designer, to offer my mom some advice about breaking into the competitive wedding planning industry.
Marlo’s “Kick-Start” series is aimed at helping women who are “stuck” –whether it be due to financial problems, a divorce, or empty nest syndrome–move on to the next phase in their lives. It’s a great series that brings to light the value of women. My mom really enjoyed the whole experience, and she couldn’t be more prepared to start her new career. If you want to watch her segment, it can be found here: TODAY: Kick-start your new, stellar-career.
Hanging out with David before the segment.
David, Mom & Marlo
My Studio Outfit - Skirt: H&M (last seen here); Top: Gap; Purse: Asos; Heels: Enzo Angiolini; Watch: Michael Kors
Lunch with David at Saks Cafe on Fifth Avenue
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
Glad to here your mom’s appearance went so well! Definitely sounds like a fun and exciting trip. Good Luck to her on her new adventure!!
Thank you, Amber!
~Jenn
That’s so exciting! Love NY … and I love David, too. Congrats to your Mom – and lucky you to get to tag along! Did you get to visit any CL stores while you were there?
Thanks, Meredith! Didn’t get to visit any CL stores but that’s definitely on my “must-do” list next time I’m in the city :-)
~Jenn
That is so cool! When I first heard about your trip, I thought your mom was in the audience, not an actual guest! And your wedding was such a big a part of it! I would happily hire your mom someday :)
My mom is 53 and going back to school for nursing after decades of working, for the most part, as office book keepers. Definitely more kick-starting. Go moms!
That’s great about your mom! We are pretty lucky to have such inspiring ladies in our lives :)
~Jenn
That is so awesome and inspiring! Congrats to your mom!
Thanks, Tina! I’m really excited for her.
~Jenn
Such a great story. Your mom looks so young and beautiful by the way :)
<3 Viva Fashion
I totally saw this segment and thought it was fantastic! I can’t believe that was your mom! Very happy for her and as a recent bride myself – I wish her all the best in this adventure of wedding planning!