The Journey from a Rose to a Mrs.

She was America’s sweetheart on ABC’s The Bachelor and got her happily ever after on Season 9 of the Bachelorette. Desiree (Hartsock) Siegfried, an accomplished designer and bridal enthusiast, is now happily married to Chris Siegfried.

Today Desiree is on The Brew to discuss life after the Reality TV Show, her successful online platform, where she finds her inspiration, life as a “Mrs.”, and even dishes on her pick for Ben.

We’re thrilled to have Desiree here today to share what life was like in front of the camera and about her happily ever after following the final rose.

No, not at all. I had never watched a season of The Bachelor or Bachelorette in its entirety, prior to going on, so everything during the show and afterwards was all very new to me and extremely unexpected. I had no idea how large Bachelor Nation was and how involved viewers were with the show. I feel so blessed now to have had this opportunity for all of the wonderful doors that opened after my season of The Bachelorette. I’ve been able to live out experiences and dreams I never knew were possible and will always be so grateful for that.

Absolutely not! Even going on the show was a surprise for many of my friends and myself since I don’t like to be center of attention. It’s truly a testament to being able to find love in the most unexpected place.

Not at all. Like I said before, I was more of the reserved, no spotlight kind of girl so it’s funny to look back and actually have starred in my own reality show. It’s surreal to think this is my life and this is how I met my husband but nothing can really prepare you for a show like The Bachelor/ette. I think that all of my past relationships and life lessons really prepared me for that type of role and allowed me to be ready to meet my husband.

Balance is a very important element of life for me and so I do always strive to have it. With the sudden notoriety I did experience quite a bit of pressure in the beginning and felt overwhelmed much of the time. It’s difficult to navigate the sudden amount of followers that increases unwanted opinions on all fronts along with tons of emails to scour through. I never intended to have such a platform or asked to be famous but this opportunity fell into place and because of that I take it in stride and know that is was all for a reason.  When I can do what I love in my personal and work life while inspiring others – that is where the balance is.

Yes, I am really good friends with Renee from Juan’s season since she moved to Washington and still am very close to Daniella Mcbride from The Bachelor season I was on. We also see Jason and Molly Mesnick quite a bit and keep in touch with quite a few bachelor alums. We all have this rare experience that bonds us together for life.

I’ve learned how important each contestant is to the viewers. As a viewer myself it’s interesting how invested we all become in a particular person or relationship forming as if they are characters and not real people. And being on the other side as well, I’ve learned how important it is to stay true to who you are and not let the pressure or viewers make you feel differently about yourself. I’ve learned to have thick skin.

Luckily, I’ve had a beautiful example of what true love is by watching my parent’s marriage throughout my life. The respect and admiration they share for each other never wavers and is something I have always admired. Marriage is a very sacred relationship to me and I couldn’t have asked for a better man to be married to. As hard as marriage can be, it’s important to always work together on decisions and circumstances while also always working to understand each other. Men and women are so different and when you add different personalities to the mix that makes for some interesting misunderstandings and confusion. Haha. We plan to always communicate through everything and to always take time out for us. Date nights and romance is extremely important!

Well, each day is different but to paint a picture for you… Chris and I wake up and eat breakfast together, we love breakfast so it’s usually made up of eggs bacon and toast or a yogurt parfait for me, Chris heads to work while I head downstairs to my office where I work away for most of the day, I will go through my checklist with emails, blog posts, projects and updates for designs. We will go workout together or I’ll go before dinner and then we eat dinner pretty late, go to bed and do it all over again. Not very exciting but definitely productive!

I actually had a small wedding blog prior to going onto the show so I guess it was something I always wanted to do as an outlet but never thought of it as a running business like it has come to be. 

Most of my wedding inspiration and tips come from a decade long of bridal experience. As for all the other aspects of my blog, I am truly inspired by life and how people perceive it. I like to offer a look into new places and destinations or share more personal stories on faith and relationships. Each day brings a new topic to discuss and why having a blog is such a great way to connect with others.

I finished a wedding book that will come out in the beginning of June that I am really excited about. I am also working on a wedding gown collection that I hope to launch by the end of the year along with doing custom gowns for brides in the meantime. I’m looking to sink my teeth into life and living out my passions more.

I fell in love with Spain the moment I set my eyes on Barcelona. I would say that is my top place followed by Hawaii and Guatemala. I do love to travel but most of my passion lies in design and the wedding industry.

Oh I love both of the girls left! Jojo is beautiful and Lauren’s chemistry with Ben is so obvious. I would be happy with either one but do think Ben is leaning more for Lauren B.

Chai tea lattes and Ginger ales.