As a lot of you know, this is my fifth year in business. As a small business owner who was really trying to find her footing in this rather large world we call the "creative arts," I've been under selling myself. In the past few years, I've actually been paying myself below minimum wage!
 

This year, I changed things up a bit. I finally valued myself a bit more. In doing so, more of you amazing people noticed! I finally found my style of editing. I finally set boundaries for myself. It was quite a year over here!
 

I couldn't be more thankful for those clients who have stuck around even though my prices have almost quadrupled in the past few years! You've been absolutely amazing and inspiring! I really do try to show my gratitude as much as I can. Whether it be over delivering on your images or getting them to you in half the time I say I will! I promise, I try!
 

With all of this being said, I've had one amazing year as a small business owner. This year, I actually made, what the government would define as, a "living wage!" No joke! I never started this business to become a millionaire but I never thought I would actually "live" off of it! We were feeling SO incredibly blessed, that we REALLY wanted to show our gratitude in more ways than just being good at this business....
 

For Thanksgiving, all through funds provided from YOU (you amazing clients), we were able to give THREE local families food for a full Thanksgiving meal!
 

...now it's close to Christmas.
 

Again, through funds completely provided by YOU, I just dropped off "Christmas" for two families (necessities as well as gifts), as well as SEVEN additional children received gifts that their parents will say is from them.. I hope!
 

Nope, these are not my children, nor my friends' children! These are complete strangers that I've never met in my life. Their friends or families members informed me of what was going on, so we filled the need. Isn't that what the holidays are about? Filling the needs of others who are having one of "those" years?!
 

This was what my vehicle looked like in the morning.. it's empty now :)
 

I also sent some amazing clients a little holiday cheer :)
 

I'm hoping next year will be even BETTER! Just remember: I do weekly drop offs as a local food bank. No matter what time of year, there are still those who are hungry. If you are a couponer with extra to give, or just someone who has cleaned out the pantry. If we have a session coming up or if you're just in the neighborhood, you're more than welcome to drop off your items with me and we'll bring it on over!
 

My children and I will be making goody bags for the homeless the Sunday before Christmas if anyone is interested in coming by and helping out! :)
 

Again, thank you for being absolutely amazing individuals and for giving hiring a small business. I just wanted to let you know that your dime is going somewhere it needs to be!