Choosing My Dreams: How I Found Purpose, Passion, and Strength Through Wedding Planning

By: Brandi Swanson

Next Chapter Weddings | Based in Houston, TX

"Serving couples and entrepreneurs with heart."

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There was a time when my dream felt impossible.

When I decided to leave behind the dance studio I owned for seven years and step into the world of event planning, my heart was set on weddings — on love stories, on capturing moments where two people commit to a lifetime together.

I landed a wedding planning internship. It was a chance to learn, grow, and start a new chapter. But the night before my very first wedding, my then-husband told me I wasn’t allowed to go. He said weddings would take me away from my family, that I needed to stay home and focus on being a mom, and that this dream wasn’t mine to chase — It was a heartbreaking moment. But it was also a turning point.

When One Door Closed, I Opened Another

That marriage eventually ended, and with it came a painful but powerful clarity: I was meant to be in the wedding industry.

Not just to work weddings, but to thrive in a career fueled by passion and purpose. I knew I had a mission bigger than myself — to remove distractions on a couple’s most important day, so they could truly focus on each other. I believe in true love, real, raw, beautiful love that deserves to be protected and celebrated.

And for me, playing a small role in safeguarding that love is an honor I take seriously every single day.

Proof That Dreams Can Be Real Even as a Single Mom

Starting this journey wasn’t easy. I had to prove to myself that I could be a great mom and pursue my dreams at the same time. That I could build a business that supported my family and my heart.

Fast forward six years, and here I am: thriving in a career I love, supporting my kids, and sharing my passion with couples who entrust me with their wedding day. When I met my husband Donovan, I shared my dreams with him. He didn’t just listen, he became my biggest cheerleader. He checked in often, encouraged me to keep pushing, and now, as I write this, I’m on my way to do the work I love while he holds down the fort at home with our kids.

Our family blends the love and support of all our children — from my previous marriage and this one — creating a home built on respect, encouragement, and shared purpose.

To the Women Who Are Dreaming Right Now

If you’re reading this as a single mom, an entrepreneur, or simply a woman with a big heart and bigger dreams — I want you to know this:

You are allowed to pursue your purpose. You are worthy of a life that fulfills you. Your dreams matter, not just for you, but for those you serve and love.

Your path might have detours, roadblocks, and people who doubt your vision. That’s okay. It’s part of the story that makes your success even sweeter. Remember — chasing a dream that impacts others in a positive way is not selfish. It’s courageous. It’s life-changing. It’s exactly what the world needs.

Your Dream Is Waiting... Will You Take the Leap?

Whether it’s starting a business, switching careers, or going after a passion that makes your soul sing, I encourage you to take that step. Surround yourself with people who believe in you. Celebrate every win, no matter how small. And keep your heart open to the journey ahead.

Because when you do — when you choose your dreams even in the face of fear — you’re not just changing your life. You’re lighting the way for others to do the same.

With love and fierce belief in you,

Brandi

Founder + Lead Planner, Next Chapter Weddings

📍 Houston, TX — Proud to serve couples and entrepreneurs across Texas and beyond

 Connect with me → @next_chapter_weddings