In 2003, I made a list. It was comprised of things I’d never done and things I wanted to do and experience in life.
Since as long as I can remember, one of those dreams has been to live in a big city. Have you ever seen the intro scene to Sweet Home Alabama where Reese Witherspoon comes to the street’s edge, coffee in hand, blazer and jeans, sassy blonde hair…looks both ways and crosses the busy street to her New York Design studio?
Yup. That’s what I wanted.
Over the past 10-ish years, I graduated high school, moved to Lafayette, LA and embarked on a journey to become an architect. But somewhere along the way…I found this love for photography and decided to pursue my dreams instead (even though they were somewhat unanticipated initially).
Just a little over four years later, I find myself still completely enthralled in my work, having traveled to some of the most interesting places and having met so many awesome people along the way. I’m challenging myself daily to become not only a better photographer but also a better person…and consistenly striving to set and meet goals.
………………..which brings me back to my initial statement about my goals: specifically the one to live in a bigger city.
In January of this year I began seriously thinking about expanding my business to a bigger city, the nearest of which being New Orleans. After having lived in Lafayette since high school (especially after building a business) here I was scared. But I knew that if I continued down this steady path I would never experience this dream of mine.
When my dad asked me why I was considering moving, my honest answer was “Because I have dreamed I should….” I could just envision myself shooting weddings in this destination city with so much character and variety. Walking. Everywhere. Exploring…and most importantly, growing.
But it really wasn’t until I packed my first box, saw the moving truck drive off, unpacked the last box, did I realize I had finally done it! I am now officially located in TWO cities: Lafayette + New Orleans, LA.
Although Lafayette is the current base for my business I’m hoping to expand equally to both cities and all that’s in between and beyond.
I was scared initially…to let people into this change I’ve made. I’ve worked so hard at building my brand and my business that I was afraid others would criticize this decision rather than encourage it. But at the end of the day…I know that life is too short to live in fear. Of anything.
So…here it is. Here I am, laying it out!
Thus far the adjustment has been wonderful! I spend 50% of the time in both cities and can already feel myself growing. Even Chaos (my tiny chihuahua) has gotten the hang of walking on a leash and exploring the city streets with me.
I cannot wait to see what this next year will bring. I’m hopeful: for the future, for growth, and for seeing fear as an obstacle I’m not willing to let stand in my way. If you also have dreams….hopes….desires: SHOOT for them. And, don’t be afraid to share them with others along the way!
