01/05/2025
This is a long post and I thank those who give the time to read it. But its time. 🥹🙏
Running my own business has been one of the biggest highlights of my life yet!
Being my own boss, and making my dreams come true ✨️
But it also comes with alot of challenges, like anything in life! For the last 6 years it has been my goal to do it full-time one day. Now the time is finally here and suddenly it isn't how I thought it would be (it's very lonely). I have always had incredible support and clients who have followed me right from the start through this whole journey and I can't thank you all enough! Apart of me does feel like I'm letting you all down but I also want to give you the best version of me, which is happy and passionate about what I do! 🤎
Unfortunately it is all starting to take its toll on me. I don't have set days or times (I have tried to do this) therefore I am around the clock 24/7. I get messages late at night, first thing in the morning and I feel the need to reply straight away. As I don't want to be rude or get a bad reputation. I give myself realistic timelines to complete an album to deliver back to clients but yet I still feel so much pressure to get them done as professionally and promptly as possible. In a week I would spend at least 15 hours alone replying to clients. Then downloading, sorting out the images, setting up, taking down, cleaning and reorganising my studio room at least four times a week. Always thinking about my next session and what is required to give the best experience depending on the different age groups. Checking all my gear before each session, batteries, cleaning lenses, if props are required which ones(washing and cleaning them after using). Cleaning my house before clients arrive.
Then the session times, editing each image, posting on social media, researching ideas, sending out reminders, chasing up deposits.
Trying to keep it budget family friendly on cost too.
I'm finding myself feeling guilty for going on walks with my friends or living my life because in the back of my mind I'm constantly thinking about all the business side of things that I need to complete. Or what if a client sees me out having fun and I haven't delivered their photos yet(this has happened). Plus working a few days a week at my retail job 🐾
While on top of trying to give my own family my 100% all. I know the business hasn't failed 😌 and I'm beyond blessed to have done this for the last 6 years. It's hard to be a kind person while also wanting to give my best to everyone! Trying to be everything can really make you loose your mind.
So narrowing everything down I will only take on ONE client each week while I have returned back to my retail job that I absolutely LOVE as well 🥰🥹 and settling into the new school routine five days a week.
🚫 I am no longer doing mini seasonal sessions, Mother's Day, Fathers Day, Christmas, Easter or events. 🚫
Once again thank you all for supporting me 🫶🌻
