What I Learned at ISSE Carmel

This past December, I had the immense privilege of attending the Inspire Smart Success Experience held in gorgeous Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. This 4 day conference/retreat was just what the doctor ordered for this tired and wedding-weary photographer. The end of wedding season is bittersweet. I loved getting to meet and spend the day celebrating the love of all of our AGP couples, but, especially with a new baby at home, I was exhausted by the end of the season. It’s hard work, and I was burnt out. Enter ISSE.

I got to go a few days early and spend some time in San Fransisco, all by my lonesome because Ashley, tragically, got food poisoning the first day. (So sorry, Ashley!) I rented a car, and drove around the city, stopping in Ghirardelli Square and traipsing down to the Fisherman’s Wharf. I stared for a solid hour at the Golden Gate Bridge, and when the sun sank (and Ashley was feeling better), we all went down to the beach and watched the sunset. It was peaceful, it was an adventure, and it was refreshing. I didn’t realize how much I needed that time to just be me. To not have the responsibility of work and a young baby, of my (always) messy house, or even having to talk to people. I even got to get back in touch with my inner daredevil by climbing dangerous rocks, expensive camera in tow, and test my limits when we day tripped down Big Sur to Pfeiffer Beach.

Then the conference began. I met incredible professionals who I instantly connected with. They were kindred spirits, who knew the time, energy and hustle that it takes to work in this industry that we love. I got to hear from Stacie Francombe (founder of ISS), as she encouraged us to believe in ourselves. To take fears and doubts, and cast them aside and instead focus on the positive changes we want to make this year. I got to hear from social media gurus like Kunbi Odubogun (of Aisle Perfect) and Natalie Franke and Krista Jones (of the Rising Tide Society). I learned how to be more effective in using those tools to connect to our brides in engaging and fun ways. I even got to learn calligraphy basics from the lovely Jenny Sanders (of Graceline).

But most importantly, I learned that I am not alone in how I feel. We all struggle with feeling tired, feeling burnt out, feeling like we aren’t as good as we are or should be. I learned that it is not about not having those feelings, but, rather, what we do when those feelings come. I was challenged to set goals (and I did, remember?) and to believe in myself and work hard to make them happen. I was reminded that I see the world uniquely, and that I see my brides uniquely. It won’t be everyone’s style, and that is ok. I am me, and that is enough.

So, all that to say, I am refreshed and absolutely cannot wait until wedding season. My goals are set, they are smart, and they are contributing to my excitement level. I’m looking forward to serving 2016’s brides and their grooms with renewed vigor, some new tricks up my sleeves, and I am especially excited to give away a little piece of my heart to each and every one of the wonderful people I get to photograph this year. Bring it on!