Funny story: this was Round Two. Sometimes, the best stories are born out of chaos. My first international gig was meant to be a week-long retreat in Mexico, celebrating seven incredible women co-authoring a book called First Class Life. It sounded like a dream—until a hurricane decided to crash the party. That trip turned into a whirlwind adventure I still laugh about: "the time I went to Mexico and was back home within 24 hours."
Fast forward to Round Two, and it was everything we hoped for and more. Fresh off shooting a wedding in Chicago, I packed up and flew straight to Mexico, ready to capture something magical. These women had poured their hearts into their work, and this retreat was their moment to shine. We spent the week capturing their essence, their hard work, and the bonds they’d built—portraits and moments full of life, strength, and celebration.
This trip wasn’t just a do-over; it was a pivot. It marked the beginning of my traveling career, opening my eyes to the incredible stories waiting to be told around the world. I didn’t realize it at the time, but that week in Mexico was the spark for so much more.
Picture this: I traded my services for a flight and a trip, and not only did I get an unforgettable experience, but my portfolio came out looking chef’s kiss amazing. This wasn’t just a vacation; it was a power move. Trading value for value is one of the smartest ways to grow your business without stretching your budget.
This trip didn’t just add pretty pictures to my portfolio. It gave me the chance to showcase versatility, work in new environments, and flex my creative muscles in ways that clients love to see. Plus, it’s proof that you don’t need a massive budget to make big things happen—you just need strategy, a little hustle, and the willingness to think outside the box.
And here’s the thing: I can teach you how to do the same. Whether it’s trading services, building partnerships, or creating opportunities from scratch, it’s all about knowing your worth and leaning into your creativity. That’s the real story behind these photos—a mix of heart, hustle, and a little bit of chaos turned into something unforgettable.
