Taking Up Space: Reflections on Summer and Stepping Into Fall

Photo by Lucy Munoz Photography

The Season of Transition

Somehow, summer always feels like it’s just beginning—and then suddenly, you’re looking at your calendar and realizing it’s almost over. This summer was no exception. Between planning beautiful celebrations, traveling to new places, styling unforgettable tables, and carving out moments for my own self-care, the days flew by faster than I could catch them.

Yet, as we stand at the threshold of a new season, I’m reminded that these seasonal shifts are also invitations—moments to pause, reflect, and realign.

A Season of Self-Reflection

For me, this reflection isn’t just about my work as an event designer and lifestyle creator. It’s about my journey as a woman, an entrepreneur, a friend, a mentor, and simply as a human navigating this beautiful, complicated thing called life.

The theme pressing most on my heart right now is taking up space—boldly, unapologetically, and without waiting for permission.

Photo by Lucy Munoz Photography

Taking Up Space

I’m learning that taking up space is more than just being seen. It’s about fully inhabiting your life, your gifts, and your voice—without shrinking to fit into the comfort zones of others. It’s about saying yes to the things that fuel you with joy and purpose, and doing so with the utmost authenticity and kindness.

This also means silencing the noise of other people’s opinions and judgments. Because the truth is, when you live in alignment with your best self, you inspire others to do the same.

Photo by Hannah Schweiss Photography

Moving Into Fall with Intention

Fall is often a season of grounding—slower rhythms, deeper conversations, and intentional choices. As I step into this new season, I want to bring with me the lessons of summer: to create, to connect, to celebrate, and to never shy away from the fullness of who I am.

To anyone reading this—your best self is not something you have to ask permission to be. Step into it now. Take up space. Live your truth. And do it with grace, courage, and kindness.

I’d love to hear from you—what’s one way you plan to take up space this fall? Share it with me in the comments or DM me on Instagram @keshevents

Akeshi Akinseye

Global Luxury Event Planner & Designer. Tastemaker.

Akeshi Akinseye is the founder of Kesh Events, a global event planning and production firm known for leading refined, high-touch celebrations worldwide.

She is the author of The Art of Celebrating, a book dedicated to meaningful gatherings, thoughtful design, and the rituals that bring people together. Through her work, Akeshi explores celebration as both an experience and a philosophy—rooted in intention, culture, and care.

Her perspective has been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, Brides, People, and other leading publications.

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Hello, September: A New Season, A New Energy, and So Much to Celebrate

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A Date I Dread: Honoring My Mother Five Years Later