When I first moved to Phoenix, AZ, I was so nervous about meeting new people and finding another powerful and supportive tribe like the ones I had in Maryland/Pennsylvania and California. I had no idea what to expect, all I knew was that I was starting all over… again, and I was scared.

Moving again hasn’t been easy, but Arizona is full of beautiful surprises. The desert sunsets, the exotic plants and animals, the rock formations, and the dry sauna-like heat also comes with a strong sense of community in regard to other entrepreneurs. A community like I have never witnessed before. As Meg and I were building our business and finding what works for us, we looked to mentors like Katelyn James, Jenna Kutcher, and Amy & Jordan Demos for inspiration and love, when we had no idea where to even begin. All three of these communities are supportive, but lucky for me, Amy & Jordan are Arizona natives, and the community they have worked so hard to build is like a tight-knit family. This group of photographers come together to help with social media content, share stories, meet for coffee, and lift each other up when the going gets tough; and what’s even better, they welcomed me with open arms.

I could not be more thankful.

The very first time I met just a small number of group members was during this precious styled anniversary portrait session for Trisha and Micah. Trisha is a labor and delivery nurse, mamma of two little humans and an adorable puppy, and she too is a photographer in our Arizona group. She announced that she was celebrating five years of marriage with her husband and they were planning on a staycation to the Phoenix Marriott Resort Tempe at The Buttes, their very first “getaway” since having their children. Part of their celebration would include dinner and a movie, as well as an anniversary portrait session in which all group members were invited to take part in. I saw a few other opportunities posted in the Facebook group, but I wasn’t quite ready to take the leap of faith. What if I wasn’t good enough? What if I didn’t fit in? What if no one liked me? What if….  (HUMAN MOMENTS… Am I Right?)

Well, my what ifs couldn’t be further from the truth. As I walked into the hotel, I saw a group of beautiful ladies of all ages, backgrounds, and photographic abilities. With a quiver in my voice, but the energetic smile I put on my face, I introduced myself, and everyone went around the circle doing the same. Within minutes we were building friendships and getting to know each other. When Trisha arrived in the lobby, we got right to work photographing this beautiful couple before us. They are clearly in love, they wore the perfect wardrobe for the session, and they picked such a great location!

I am excited for all the adventures and relationships to come from this phenomenal group of creatives and I truly appreciate how we each work together to show support, share opportunities, and provide insight. During this session, we pushed each other outside of our comfort zones, learned and collaborated, and photographed for about two hours until the sun completely disappeared below the horizon.

I am so thankful for this experience, Trisha and Micha, our group, and these images. I hope you enjoy them as well.

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