Sometimes when I stop for a second and really think about it, I’m blown away by the community that I have within the photography & wedding industries. I moved here almost 5 years ago as a fresh newlywed who had just transplanted my life and fairly new business from Indiana to Virginia, with NO industry connections in Richmond, and only one or two in Northern Virginia. And let me tell you, it’s intimidating to be the new kid on the block. Whether because you’ve just moved, or because you’re just starting out. Either way, it can feel like everyone already has relationships established and they don’t need you….so why reach out? But I’m so glad I took the leap to squelch those fears and attend a photographer get together 2 months after moving here. During that evening I first connected with several photographers who have become dear friends – both within the industry and just in life – and through them have connected with even more…and on and on.

So I guess on this quiet morning my heart has been reminded how deeply grateful I am to not be going it alone. You don’t realize how much you need other people until they infiltrate your life and it’s clear you’re so much better because of it. I’m a better person, my business is better, my LIFE is better, because of generous, kind people who love what they do and want to spur others on to success, as well. Over the 7+ years I’ve been doing this, there have been so many instrumental relationships built, so many people who have had specific impact on me and my business, and so many who have become kindred spirits. I can only hope that in turn, I’ve been those things to others along the way, as well.

#CommunityOverCompetition is more than a catchy phrase or cool, trendy movement. It’s life-changing and life-giving. And it reaches much farther than just photographers or the wedding industry. It’s a heart attitude that says I want to see others succeed, and it’s a blessing if I get to be part of helping them do so. It’s a perspective that has you rejoicing with others, and cheering them on. And you know what? When you genuinely do that for others, there will be people to genuinely do that for you, too. It’s such a beautiful cycle to get to be part of.

If you’re finding yourself feeling like the new kid in town, or on the “outs” of the industry, I challenge you to take the leap and reach out to some fellow creatives. I know not everyone in the world is going to be nice and supportive, but I promise you there are so many who are and they want you to feel welcomed and included. They’ve experienced it for themselves and know life really is better when lived together.

Happy Wednesday, friends. I’m so grateful for all of you!