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June 27, 2017

Katelyn James Workshop Experience

Where to begin….I’ve been following Katelyn’s blog for several years now, and I will admit that she is the reason I became a photographer. When I found out that she is exactly my age, she is from my home state and taught herself everything she knows (no degree in photography, no fancy certificate or higher education from an art institute) I knew that I was capable of doing the same thing if I would just put myself out there and try. I began to dream that one day I could experience a KJ Workshop and learn from my photography hero. I had no idea that a door would one day be opened for me to actually do it!! Still doesn’t feel like it happened.

Here’s the thing about Katelyn, she is truly so real and down to earth that you forget she’s a super human. Because she is so transparent online, when you walk into her home you feel like you already know her on a personal level. OH and let’s talk about her home – she’s the next Joanna Gaines, I’m calling it! It was amazing being able to see it in person because I also love design and symmetry, and KJ does it SO well! Every room just flows into the next so beautifully and seamlessly.

I’ll be processing all that she taught me over the next weeks and months I’m sure. It was hard to absorb it all in just two days, but I’m so grateful for her generosity and pouring out all that she knows, she just didn’t hold back. She truly wants people to succeed and cultivate a business with purpose, and I consider her one of the pioneers of this idea in the modern photography world. I guess back in the day, this concept was completely unheard of. There were no workshops where photographers gave away all their secrets or wanted to see their peers thrive. Now, you see photographers holding workshops nationwide and even across the globe, it’s astounding. It’s amazing how deeply you can change people’s lives by creating a business centered around generosity and invitation.

Below are a few behind-the-scenes of KJ in action followed by a peek at the workshop styled shoot. It was a dream to photograph all of the gorgeous details in the flawless scenery of her home and surrounding property. It’s not often you have this many talented vendors in one place!

Hair & Makeup @HELLODARLINGBEAUTY

Hair Clip @BRIDESANDHAIRPINS

Flowers @LAUREN_GINGERANDBLOOMS

Styling: @DEARSWEETHEARTEVENTS

Paper Details: @WHIMSYBPAPERIE

Calligraphy: @OFFTHEBEATENPRESS

Cake: @SORBYSWEET

Katelyn, thank you for inviting us into your home and loving and serving each of us so well! You, Michael, Evy and your entire family were just as gracious and kind as I imagined. I’ll never forget this experience!!