You know what it’s like when you visit that house, the one that says, “Welcome! We’re so glad you’re here!” The one that exudes generosity and authenticity so you know, really know those who dwell inside are the same when visitors come calling and when visitors don’t. It’s the house whose lights are always on and shine stronger than others in the ‘hood, and after stepping inside you see it’s because the people glow brighter than bulbs.
It’s the one that whispers, “We want nothing better that to be with you right this second.”
I visited that house recently. Except it wasn’t a house at all, it was a business.
Last month, I had the opportunity to tour a company I have long admired and shopped: DaySpring. While I’ve known DaySpring as the world’s leading producer of Christian greeting cards, I was able to see first hand their passion for serving people like you and me. And if you view the video below, you’ll see this first hand, too.
Holley Gerth, myself, and Mandy Butler
I waltz inside the wide front doors and smile big when I see my welcoming committee, Holley and Mandy. These sweet, gifted girls proceed to take hours from their day to show me around and introduce me to the DaySpring posse.
Just beyond the entrance, I find the history of DaySpring and Scripture intertwined like a faith-filled family tree. It’s fitting for this first space to be dedicated to words and pictures that blend into story. Their products help us weave His story into ours.
As we wind our way back and forth through Scripture-strewn hallways, I meet Elizabeth who explains how the DaySpring writers are listening to YOU and incorporating YOUR heart words into their products. {Please watch Elizabeth talk about this in the video below. It’s the coolest thing since sliced bread!}
I meet Saulwho asks our opinion on a few new DaySpring products. I see first hand how the DaySpring folks put time and care into the smallest detail of each inspired product.
I meet darling Lainie , the Marketing Manager for Blessings Unlimited. Founded by DaySpring, Blessings Unlimited is a direct sales company that offers unique, detailed inspirational products in a home Gathering setting. As we munch on caramel chocolate treats, Lainie describes the creative process for the products of Blessings Unlimited. She tells me how the editorial, creative, and marketing team get together in a team member’s living room and share visions of direction before praying for God to lead them towards His specific message or theme. She tells me how they start with a message and then make the product, not the other way around.
I discover Blessings Unlimited and (in)courage are close relatives as Blessings Unlimited does through products what (in)courage does online: tell a story and lend their ears to yours.
At the forefront of the DaySpring family’s minds are the people they serve. They are about showcasing Jesus, and their products are just a vehicle for this to happen. The Word says,
“Beauty and holy mark his palace rule.”
Psalm 93:5 {The Message}
DaySpring’s passion is to blend the holy and beauty into products that bless and inspire our lives.
Not only do these fine folks treat one another as family, they believe those they serve are family, too. That’s you and me, Sister! In the video below, I pray you get this sense of family.
(If you can’t see the video, click here)
Welcome home!
By Kristen Strong, Chasing Blue Skies
Pst, we’re sneaking into Kristen’s post to let you all in on a happy secret: she’s agreed to join us as a regular contributor for (in)courage. Since Kristen’s been leaving a trail of love and encouragement since day one around these parts we think you’ll all agree she’s been family for a long time now. We’re so delighted to have her sharing her story with us on a monthly basis and, like you, we look forward to reading along! ~ Lisa-Jo and Holley
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Where to Get Your (In)Couragement On says
[…] Will you join me here to read {and see!} how DaySpring bends over backwards to love on folks like you and me? […]
Amy Hunt says
Oh how I’d treasure an opportunity to be more of a part of this company!
Kristen Strong says
Amy, visiting us here means you already *are* a part of the family! 🙂 Also, do you know about this: http://www.blessingsdirect.com/ ?
Amy Hunt says
I didn’t know about that, Kristen–thanks!
Holley Gerth says
Oh, seeing this makes me miss you all over again! So thrilled we got to spend the day together. You are pure encouragement and joy, my friend!
Kristen Strong says
That day was pure happiness for me, my Friend! Thanks again for being beyond generous with your time. I adore you! LOTS.
Stacey says
What a fun visit! I can’t think of a better person to hear from every month at (in)courage!
Welcome Kristen!
Kristen Strong says
Oh Stacey, you are so sweet to say that. Thank YOU for blessing me with your joy-filled, encouraging heart. Love you!
Living the Balanced Life says
Oh, how awesome to visit and tour! What a wonderful opportunity!
Thank you for sharing!
Bernice
As go your days, so goes your life
Kristen Strong says
Hopefully, my words are able to give you a feel for the place, too. The video is awesome *IF* you ignore the tall, lanky, awkward gal in blue. 🙂
Robin Dance ~ PENSIEVE says
Nothing but smiles :). And it was so FUN to hear more about your visit! Lots of details that make me feel like I was *almost* there :).
Welcome Miss Voice of Encouragement/Incouragement :).
xo
Kristen Strong says
Robin, you always make me grin ear to ear. You are pure JOY. XO
Danelle Townsend says
So thrilled for you Kristen!
Writing for incourage would be a dream come true for me, so I know how excited you must be! My heart is smiling!
And it is so wonderful to know that the company behind this beautiful blog full of such beautiful souls is such a God honoring place.
Thanks so much for sharing the story of your visit!
Loads of love to you!
Kristen Strong says
Loads of love right backatcha, Danelle!
Michele Perry says
Congratulations friend! Looking forward to meeting you in person in a few months! Love, hugs and lattes from this unpaved road here in Sudan… well at least I am dreaming of lattes for you!
Kristen Strong says
And I’m dreaming of when we can share one in October! Lifting you up here, sweet friend, as you reflect His love to so many there. XO
Deidra says
Kristen!!!!!!!!!!!! Love you!
That is all. 🙂
Kristen Strong says
Deidra, I love you {more}.
That is all. 🙂
Dawn Camp says
What a fun tour. Welcome to the crew!
Kristen Strong says
Thanks, Dawn. I’m incredibly humbled by the whole shabang. 🙂
Mel @ Trailing After God says
How fun! I’m a little envious! 🙂 I love the cross filled with water, that is gorgeous! I ♥ DaySpring!
Blessings,
Mel
Please feel free to stop by: Trailing After God
Mary @ Giving Up on Perfect says
Kristen, I love hearing about your trip to DaySpring!! And I’m so excited for you to join the team!! Welcome home, indeed!
gitz says
I LOVED getting to see the video and behind the scenes. what a treat. and you know we’re so glad you’re in the sisterhood. it’s a magical place, this home of ours.
Jennifer says
I loved being part of your tour! Your video is fantastic. The cross of water… wow. Felt like I was there… was an amazing place full of amazing people. Welcome home Kristen!
Heather Gemmen Wilson says
I LOVE this! Over and over Dayspring has shown themselves to be generous and loving and ministry oriented, and I find myself constantly snooping around to find out more about this company, to see how they pull off such a healthy attitude. 🙂 Thanks for letting us get a glimpse behind the scenes. (And it’s good to put a face to Saul’s name, and to see Holley again!!!)
Michelle Derusha says
I can absolutely tell that Dayspring/Blessings Unlimited puts that kind of thought, prayer and care into the creation of their products. And how wonderful, Kristen, that you are joining the team. Three cheers for you!