The encouraging response

I've been swimming in doubt about the choice to be myself on my blog. So I sent out an email to my friends and clients to ask them their feedback.


I asked, "Is this blog post me? Does it resonate with the crazy person who shot your wedding?"


And Valerie Bowers (formerly Cushman) got back to me with her thoughts:


"I think what you are doing is risky.


"You are putting your spin on someone else's day.  Some people are going to be far toooooo immature to understand the kind of wonderful godsend that could be to their lives.  They are worried about me, me, me that day, which is a shame because they are missing out.


"And you are right that those people aren't the people you should focus your time and "unicorn" energy on.  You should focus it on the type of brides and grooms who will put every last fiber of their being into something bigger than themselves-- their marriage.

"However, I also think that all the really GREAT things in life...all the things that are worth the fight and the tears (like marriage) are in fact  very risky.


"I think people who are young and get married these days, need everyone and everything that they can get on their side.  I have learned in only a few short weeks that marriage is in fact tough.  It is a commitment for life and it is something I am going to need help with on many occasions.  Your pictures, and more importantly, your outlook will have a lasting impression.  Not only on that day but also on what my marital future holds and should look like.


"You taught me about respect and communication and gritting it out and how you should appreciate the amazing blessing that has come your way to even be getting married in the first place.

"You aren't just a photographer or a guy who shows up on wedding days and makes people look great (though you do that very well).  You show up and make people FEEL great.  And more importantly you don't just show up on  that day.  I could call you in 14 years when I am super angry about something and vent and I believe that you would listen to my every word and help me through it.


"We weren't really "friends" before this.  You were a nice guy I knew who took great pictures.  You were a smile that could light up a room and someone I wanted there to help on our wedding day.  Now you are a friend who has changed my life and will guard my marriage with all of your strength and "awesome sauce."

"LOL how many friggin' vendors can say that?

"I don't know how to post this or I would so umm yeah can you do that for me.

"I hope this is what you needed to hear because your goal is amazing and you can def achieve it!  I hope you know how much you mean to Lance and I both.  I think you are one of those people who can do anything!"




Val, thank you so very much. I needed to read this to let me know I'm taking the right risk.