Taking Up Space: Reflections on Summer and Stepping Into Fall

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Aug 12

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.

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.

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

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Akeshi Akinseye

Founder & CEO of Kesh Events | Event Planner, Designer, Author & Hospitality Expert

Akeshi Akinseye is the founder and CEO of Kesh Events, a Chicago-based event planning, design and production company creating high-end weddings, destination celebrations, private events and brand experiences worldwide.

With more than 15 years of experience, her work centers on thoughtful hospitality, guest experience, cultural intelligence and the planning, design and production of highly considered celebrations.

Akeshi is also the author of The Art of Celebrating, a book about meaningful gatherings, thoughtful design and creating more intentional moments around the table and at home.

Her work and perspective on weddings, celebrations, design and hospitality have been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, Brides, People and other leading publications.

https://akeshiakinseye.com