It has been four years since I took a leap of faith and registered my business with the state. I have been photographing couples since 2011, but in 2015 I decided it was time to believe in my business and make it legit!

What a crazy few years it has been. I’ve learned a lot and am excited to learn more as I continue to grow KKP. I thought I would write down some of the things I have learned in the last four years. Not only for myself, but for others who may be wanting to move forward with their business.

SACRIFICE:

Being an entrepreneur is no joke. It takes a lot of time, money and sacrifice. Those sentences may get an eye roll because I’m sure you’ve heard them before. I thought it was noteworthy because I did not realize how MUCH time, money and sacrifice was required. I don’t mention this to discourage you if you’re hoping to be self-employed; it’s simply a reminder that in order to make a way for your company, there will be quite a bit of blood and sweat and gallons of tears. Haha

REJECTION:

I am a pretty sensitive person. It’s been four years and the rejection is still difficult. However, I am able to brush it off quicker now, and instead of letting those “no thanks” emails bother me for days, it empowers me to keep pressing on. KKP has changed in the last year since I’ve added blogging. That brought with it a whole new batch of rejection. It took me a while to get in my groove and realize that I’m doing what I love, and with that comes a little bit of rejection. And that’s okay!

REST:

Ooo this one is so important. I’m still working on this one if I’m being completely honest with myself. It’s not in my nature to want to rest. I’m a list maker and organizer. I also get an idea in my head and want to see it through. Now that I have two babies, rest HAS to be incorporated into my schedule. Even if that means I schedule rest time 😉

VOICE:

Again, this one might seem redundant; however, it needs to be said: Be yourself. It seems simple, but with social media now-a-days, there’s the temptation to only show your good days or not say what’s on your mind because the fear of losing followers takes over. Let that go! You have a unique perspective on things and there are people who want to hear it.

I’m definitely NOT an expert by any stretch of the imagination. I have plenty to learn as I move forward, some of which includes taking my own advice I jotted down above. I’m hoping this is an encouragement to press on, even when it’s a tough day, week or month 🙂