I think we all are constantly striving to get from "here" to "there" - whatever that means for you. For some that may mean a new house, a promotion, completing a degree or getting married, having children... I love when I realize that I'm in a "here" place that used to be "there."

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness." - Lamentations 3:22-23
 

Currently, I'm sitting in my home-office of our new home (as of this past summer), with two crazy toddlers playing in the next room, and a handsome husband at work. In a prominent place on our living room wall is a canvas of a quote that is an adaptation of the verse above. It's a daily reminder to me - that God has brought us "here." 

I'm also reflecting on the past 8 years in business. Although I still have much to learn and changes to make, I am so very blessed to be in a "here" place. When I started photography, I would shoot anything & everything - for the experience & exposure. I was  dreaming of the day that I would be "there." For me that was to contribute to the household, stay home from the corporate job and raise our family, take care of our home, and do what I love - Weddings & Elopements. Now, as of last year, I'm "Here." 

It's also made me realize, that in the past several years I have sort of "grown out" of the business name & branding style that I started with. In the past 3 years really - I cringe a little every time I tell someone my business name, thinking they'll find it cheesy and immature. If you know me, you know I'm not really the kind of person to let people's opinions bother me. But when it comes to branding... It matters how you're seen. Even more important than perception though, is the client's experience. (More on that in a bit.)

So for the past 2 years I've been collecting my thoughts, prayers, dreams, phrases or words that have deep meaning personally, or in symbolism... And I've landed on something I just can't seem to cross off the list. 

For me, the Emerald is more than just a stone. It's a deep sense of knowing who I am, and where I come from. Growing up, my family used to go "Gemstone Grubbing" every weekend during the summer. If you don't know what that is... you're really missing out! You get a big back of dirt and a miner's pan, and have to find the gold/gems. It's rugged and dirty and wonderful. :) We moved around a lot growing up, and as I struggled with each new school to find my place, family was always constant. And my big box of rocks. They're probably worthless stones, but I know those experiences and memories are more valuable than I could have imagined. 

It's a part of my childhood, my story, my birthstone & favorite color, and symbolizes "complex emotion, growth, peace, balance, healing." It's also said that it's the most calming color - which is what I strive to be for my clients, through the planning process and especially on their Wedding Day. I think your photographer should be someone that settles your nerves, and has a calming presence on this sometimes chaotic and whirlwind of a day. I'm also drawn to rich color, contrast, and deep emotion in my images. 

Ivy is always seen to represent growth through even through the toughest environment, as well as deep emotional connection and affection, or eternal love. 

There's SO much I could say about my beliefs on love, eternity, marriage... but I want this part of my business name to represent another term I found in researching the meaning & symbolism of Ivy: Fidelity. Faithfulness. I believe that's one of the core values you should find in marriage. I have been so very blessed with a wonderful and faithful husband. We aren't perfect and we don't always agree on things - I let the dishes pile up and he throws his clothes on the floor. But I truly believe God created us for each other, to complete one another and honor Him in our marriage. I pray for that forever love & faithfulness for every couple I have the honor of working with. 

God's faithfulness has also been very evident in my life, in my business, in my heart. I prayed for this business. I desired to have something that I could do for others, and I couldn't do this without His faithfulness in giving me this talent, a supportive and encouraging husband, helpful and gracious family, and bringing the right clients along. 

If you're still reading, thanks so much for sticking with me! I'm not a writer, by any means! But I wanted to share my heart, in why I've decided to change my business name.