Today’s post was a difficult one to write. You know that I have opened up and shared about many personal things on this blog, including our family’s journey with grief. Today is not nearly as sad, but a crossroads all the same. My talented sister, Kristin, and I launched Casey Grace Design almost two years ago. We are both crazy passionate about design and savor the opportunity to do what we love. We truly had no idea that Casey Grace Design would grow so rapidly. We are humbled by the interest and have worked tirelessly to keep up with the demand. So much so, that we have had serious discussions about taking on another designer and truly growing the team and therefore our reach and services. We never dreamed we would be able to do that in such a short amount of time. And then something happened . . . 
The Corona Del Mar House … an opportunity presented itself to my sister and her family. An opportunity to move. But we are not talking a move next door or even a move to a nearby state. . . . Singapore. A move to Singapore. Both my sister and I are inherently adventurous and savor any chance to travel. This is an amazing opportunity for her husband and her children. While I would be lying if I said there weren’t copious amounts of tears involved on my end {because there have been}, I have come to terms with the fact that my dear sister is moving. Very far away. 
The Tustin House We have spent sleepless nights and many an afternoon discussing our options with regards to the business. It’s been a very tough call. At a time when we are growing and expanding, the idea of us not being together really shone a new light on our situation. While I could carry the load and expand the business on my own . . . we started this together and we will continue it together. Just not right now. It stings a bit to say this, but we are no longer taking Casey Grace Design clients {locally or online} until Kristin returns from Singapore. 
Realistically, I need to focus on my children, my husband and this blog that I started on a whim. It too has grown and takes much more time to keep up with than I ever anticipated. This also means I will be able to focus on projects around my own home instead of putting them on the back burner. With my parents nearby, I also want to be more available to them while my sister is away. Kristin needs to embrace this adventure. She needs to focus on moving her family and all that it means to move abroad. There are so many unknowns and I am so very proud of her for being up for this crazy adventure. My sister and I cling to one another after losing our brother and it’s hard for me to watch her go. It truly is. But it’s even harder to imagine all that she must be feeling and thinking. I am so very proud of her. Kristin, I want to see you be brave. I am so honored to call you my sister and I am so proud of all we have done in such a short amount of time. The video below captures only a fraction of all that we have tackled together. I love you. Casey Grace Design from A Thoughtful Place Blog on Vimeo. While we are no longer taking on any new clients or spaces, we very much look forward to Kristin returning in a couple of years and the re-launch of Casey Grace Design. We have big things planned and will look forward to creating beautiful interiors for our clients once we are side by side again. A huge thank you to everyone who has supported us and most importantly, to all of our dear clients.
I truly believe that everything happens for a reason, even though we don't always understand it at the time. You have a beautiful family and an amazing blog, and I can't wait to see what lies ahead for you! I'm looking forward to seeing more projects around your house, that sounds exciting! I loved seeing all of your design work. You and your sister are truly talented ladies! Have a wonderful day!
Wow what am amazing opportunity for your sister and her family! I can totally understand why this is bittersweet for you! I'm sure you will miss you sister, business partner, and friend.
Congratulations to your sister and so proud of you for your strength Courtney. This must have been a very difficult decision.
I know you're sad, but this could be a wonderful opportunity for you both. Maybe the break that you need 🙂 (Although we both know blogging and taking care of a family isn't exactly a "break". . . )
Wow, I am so sorry to hear your sister will be so far from you and that you have to give the business a hiatus…but it may be a wonderful opportunity on both sides…I believe there's always a silver lining. Good luck 🙂
-Morgan
Style Oyster
The Gym Bunny
I'm so close to my sisters that I can understand how heartbroken you are that your sister is moving so far away. At least you know that she will be moving back in a few years, so you have that to look forward to. Thanks for being so open and honest.
I'm sure there are so many mixed emotions! Congratulations, Kristin. I look forward to your blog, Courtney!
Congratulations to your sister! I'm sure this was a very difficult decision for you both. I have been a long time reader as I love your voice, your commitment and love for your family, and of course your amazing eye for design. I am excited to continue to follow your journey!
You are such a good and supportive sister. What a wonderful opportunity for her and her family. And that time in such a different community will only enhance your business when you two start back up again. Cheers to you both!
Oh Sweet friend..I know this must be hard for you, but you are amazingly strong and I commend you for supporting your sister. I know you will continue to grow your business just by spending more time on your blogging. There are so many people out there cheering you on and will be a fabulous support when Casey Grace Designs returns! Sometimes we just need to know when to jump and then know when to take a step back. Can't wait to see what you do with your blog this year! You have my support!! XOXO
I'm all misty and heavy-hearted for you!!! I know this was a tough call, but some great things will be revealed for you during this time! You still have two sisters in Texas!! 🙂 xoxoxo
Oh Courtney I know this has to be so tough! You all make such a great team – loved that video! Big hugs friend!
oh how my heart hurts for you! I have two sisters and we leave within min. of each other- I could never imagine my life without them so close by. But I am also quite excited for your sister and the amazing adventure and inspiration she will have! Just think of all the amazing ideas she will have that will fuel your future design projects- there is nothing more inspiring than traveling abroad! Best of luck to the both of you!! and save your pennies so you can go visit her!!
I wish your sister all the best as she embarks on this new adventure! My family lived in SE Asia when I was in Junior High, and we spent a lot of time in Singapore…I have wonderful memories from our time there and growing up overseas. And for you- hang in there as you go through this change, and embrace all the good that comes with it! Elle
I am on the other end of this story. My family and I are moving to Germany in a few weeks…although not a business partner with my sisters, we have been a team helping my mom and visiting my dad at nursing home. I am so grateful for my mom and sister's support and encouragement to take on this adventure as I'm sure your sister is grateful to you. All the best to you. I totally get all the emotions behind this situation as I've been holding back tears on a daily basis trying to purge and pack up this house and see everyone I want to see before I go. I'm a hugger, so I'm sending you a hug! 🙂
So bittersweet, Courtney….but it sounds like this will be an incredible time for both of you! New adventures in a new place for your sister's family, and new adventures at home for you, where you get to be more…invested? Is that the right word? That dynamic duo will be back together before you know it, with all those experiences to add to an already amazing team….hugs!
Oh my, heart-wrenching to see your sister go so far away. But I agree that I think it's impressive and amazing that she's going for it. I'm not sure I could? I'm sure this crossroads will bring you much success and happiness…a door closing (for now) but I bet there's a window cracking open somewhere nearby for you 🙂 xoxo
Your designs are so beautiful! I know you two will love working together again soon. Enjoy the refresh the break brings (I know, break is a loose term given all you still have going on). Best wishes for your sister and her family on their amazing adventure!
Wow. What an adventure and I can only imagine the range of emotions you all must be feeling. Your designs are beautiful….and no doubt, people will be ready to put you to work when you decide it is time again. Hope you find some rest and comfort in this decision!
Courtney, you are making the right decision about Casey Grace Design. You are fantastic at designing beautiful, comfortable spaces, but it would be overwhelming, I believe, to handle it all on your own. Your children are young and I know that you want to enjoy watching them and helping them grow. When Kristen returns from Singapore your kids will be older and more on their own. And congrats to Kristen for an exciting adventure ahead. Now start planning a family trip to Singapore in the next year!
Hugs to you sweet friend! I got all misty eyed reading this and watching your video. I know how important family is to you and your heart. I have a great feeling about your time off and that you will only grow even more from it. xoxo!
Also on a whim, I went to Singapore for several weeks a few years ago and it is an absolutely amazing place. Kristin, you will love it and I am sure you will reflect back on it as a great choice for years to come.
Good luck to your sister Courtney! It will be an amazing experience. Im sure you will miss her tho 🙁
The Lord is with you both! I loved the video! You just made me get teary eyed! XOXO I have a dear friend who lived in Singapore for two years for her husband's job. She is too very adventurous!
Sibling bonds are special and I wish your sister the best. Can I say though, that I was so worried you were going to say you were shutting down the blog?! I didn't realize 'til then how attached I am… 😉
What a void that would me in my life for sure!
This makes me so sad! And so happy for your sister at the same time. Loved the video!! xo
What an exciting time for your sister, but I am sure it must be so hard on you for her to go. I have no doubt once she's back Casey Grace will be back and better than ever! I can't wait!
I have 3 sisters and feel your pain. Sounds like you both made the best thoughtful, prayerful decision. Blessings! And a trip to Singapore is in your future …
Thank you for opening your heart and sharing your vulnerabilities regarding your sister. You are so obviously very brave yourself, and your support of your sister is the biggest gift you could give her
I feel awkward that this is my first comment on your blog, since I've followed off and on (though more ON) for a while now. But as someone who has never had a sister but always wanted one, I feel compelled to leave a comment! I am sending hugs. You both obviously work so well together as a team; literally every shot of the video you posted I went "oh! Oh! OH! THAT is how I want my house to look!" I'm sure you both are feeling mixed emotions right now. I'm sure you both know you have a ton of fans supporting you and that once Casey Grace is up & running again that you will have people waiting in line for your work! 🙂 I'm thinking I just better start saving NOW so that when you guys are back in the saddle I can hire you to help me with my ridiculous house. 😀 Hugs to you both,
Oh no, that is so sad! I think it will definitely be a challenge and you will miss her and miss your business, but it is nice to have a break, especially if you want to focus on your house and family and get some quality time with them. You seem to always be so busy, so maybe it is a blessing in disguise, and then bounce back with fresh ideas when she gets back! You can do it!
I have to say, I always look forward to the beautiful designs that come out of Casey Grace! But I know that this was such a tough decision, so I'm proud of you for making it! And I know you will now have even more opportunities to channel that amazing talent into your own home and other projects. I can't wait to see what's ahead of you, Court! xo
So exciting for her but so tough for you! I dream of living by my sisters one day, I think it sounds absolutely perfect. You two together are a dream team, so much talent it is insane. Much love your way!
I'm sure you are both making the right decision at this time, so keep your chin up and we'll be ready for the re-launch of Casey Grace when it happens!
What an exciting time for your sister and I definitely understand how you are feeling, too! So proud of you for being strong for your sister. And just think- her amazing travels and adventures will help strengthen and broaden the outlook on design when she gets back. And your time spent on your projects and thoughts for growing the business while she is gone, will make the relaunch incredible. So excited to see what is in both of your futures!!
That is huge, exciting, disappointing, happy news! So nice to see you so supportive of your sister, even when it means an upheaval of your own plans. I'm sure that this change will just open up new opportunities for you too. Best of luck to you both!
Courtney, I cannot even begin to imagine how hard this decision was for all involved. I know how important family is to you, and your entire family. You are both amazingly talented, and are quite the team. I guess that is just it, you're a team, and I understand your need to put the design business on hold until the team can be together again. As others have mentioned, the kids are at an age where they are busy and demand a lot of your attention. I know Kristin's are a bit older, but again at ages where they too will be making life changing decisions shortly. This time apart while difficult will give you both the opportunity to be fully present in your families lives. I had several friends who at one time or another lived in Singapore and LOVED it, felt very comfortable there (some wished they could have remained there). God will go before both of you, and create the path is has planned for you. Just think of it as a fork in the road that one day will merge together again in His timing. God bless you both as you make this transition.
What a great sister you are! Once she's back from Singapore I have no doubt your business will be bigger and better than ever!! In the meantime, you have a fabulous place to take the fam on vacation! 🙂 xo
Courtney – I can only dream of having a sister like you!! I guess I can say that since I don't have a sister and longingly wanted one for as long as I can remember! I always tell my girls that must be the reason God blessed me with two daughters so they get to experience the bond that only sisters can understand. Really admire the decision that you girls came to together – I think that makes it extra special! Wishing Kristin and her family all the best on their new adventure abroad and I am positively certain that we will get to experience Singapore through you and your vacation travels there! Excited for both of you! LOVE the video and visualized you both dancing to Be Brave! XO
Court! Thinking of you and your sister and wishing the best for you both! xxooxoxo
As soon as I read the word Singapore I started crying — and I don't even have a sister! Just imagining what that would feel like broke my heart for you. But how exciting! You're being totally brave by putting your business on hold. I know that's not easy. But I truly believe that when God puts something on hold that we wouldn't have done ourselves, he's making room for something new. hugs, Abby M.
I lived away from my sisters for way too long. 20 years ago myself and "the bunny" moved to Atlanta and now all three of us are together. It was life changing. You have built in "best friends"….nobody loves you more. Hopefully the next couple of years will go fast and of course now you have a reason to go to Singapore:)
What a brave post to write! I am sure you will love and enjoy the break more than you know. When your sister comes back you'll be more motivated and passionate about design I'm sure!
Courtney! I had no idea! I'm way behind on reading your blog. So sad to hear this. Y'all are amazing. I'm so glad I got to work with you.
Sarah