Hi sweet friends! It has been a while since we have spoken. In the social media business world that is a big no-no. But can I admit a little secret to you? I have been mentally, & physically burnt out. I have been going at break-neck speeds working, & being “busy”, only to find myself not wanting to even pick up a camera.

Those who know me, know that’s not like me at all. I have so much love & passion for what I do as a photographer, but during this small break I have learned what my true passion is. I honestly thought photography was it. What else could there possibly be?

It turns out after spending all of 2018 refining my brand, praying over certain areas of my life & business, I found that my true passion lies in helping other women feel inspired, confident, & beautiful. I decided to start up my personal Instagram again, and working on my brand, “Hope Ann” as a whole.

Yes, you read that right my friends. I am officially working under my own brand name. I am taking the time to get everything switched over currently, but felt that this was a perfect fit for what my vision is.

So how is all this going to work? Are you still pursuing photography at all?

Photography will be under this brand name, but I aspire to create more. There will be more blog posts on topics that are meant to inspire others, help them find their confidence, and help them feel beautiful. I’m not 100% sure what all this brand will entail, but the more I spend time creating the more the ideas just flow.

I’ve noticed you haven’t been on social media as much. Why?

I have been trying to spend more time creating, rather than spending so much time on social media. I love social media, and think it can be used as a wonderful tool, but I became too sucked into the social media world. I spiraled downward, because I constantly compared myself to others who seemed to just “have it all together”. (That’s a whole other topic for another blog post)  That played on my mental energy so much, and I constantly felt anxious so I knew it was time for a break. Taking time to step away helps me focus, gives me clarity, and peace of mind. That way I know for 100% certain I am working on my own God-given ideas, and not the ideas of others.

What’s the deal with Mary-Kay? It seems random that you joined while working on this vision??

Yes that does seem completely random that I joined, and I never planned on joining another direct sell company ever again. I just became so drawn to the brand, drawn to the lifestyle, and the values just seemed to match my own business so perfectly. Mary-Kay’s focus is on helping other women feel inspired, confident, and beautiful. (Sound familiar?) I’ll let you in on a little secret, I’m actually working on some collections where brides & seniors will be able to receive a full make-over before their session & at or before their wedding.

This new direction is very exciting, and scary all at the same time. I hope to document each step of this journey, and take you along for the ride. 2019 is shaping up to be a very exciting year, and I cannot wait to see what it holds.

Love,

Hope*