When I called my mother to let her know I have exciting news! Her first response was, “You’re pregnant!”. I get it. It’s expected after being married to Jorge for 5 years, but I have some time, people!

Any-who! I’m insanely excited to announce that I AM NOW A FULL TIME WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER!

That’s right, you read it right. I’m chasing my dreams and turning my passion into a career! It’s scary, nerve-wrecking, overwhelming, but over-all exciting. The last week of April was my last week working in the corporate world. I took the first week of May to “settle” into being a full-time entrepreneur/small business owner. I’m still working on a solid system, but I’m happy to be able to dedicate more time into the business, and more importantly, to my couples.

So what does it mean to be a full time wedding photographer?

1. I get “Me” time back! Since I was juggling so much at the time, the day I decided to become a photographer was the day I lost “Me” time. For so long after coming home from work, I dove right into learning about photography, editing photos for a session or wedding, or researching how to refine my skills. Needless to say, that ate into my personal time, and I missed out on a lot.
2. I now have office hours! I have to say this part was weird. Setting your own hours is not an easy task, especially since I sometimes work 10 to 20, even 30 hours on a weekend! The office hours are from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Of course engagement sessions are still in the evenings. :)
3. I have more time to invest in my couples and business. Instead of having 8:30 PM to 11:30 PM to run a business, I now have more time to focus on growing Vanessa Marie Photography, AND time to focus on my lovely couples!
4. I’m happy! I’ve never felt so fulfilled in my career as I did when I decided to become a wedding photographer. I can not express how amazing it feels. I am blessed to be able to do what I love for a living.

I have so much to share in the upcoming weeks. New website, weddings, engagements, and my business journey. Thank you for taking the time to read this little blog of mine. Be sure to stay tuned for more exciting news and beautiful weddings! xo!