After 8 extraordinary years, I’m announcing the retirement of my coveted VIPteam following the graduation of the Class of 2021. I’m announcing this now since it’s the time of year I usually start receiving inquiries regarding next year’s team and the normal application time is approaching. Since I know this may be surprising, it’s easier to explain here so you’ll understand my decision and I can answer questions or in some cases, concerns regarding the future. A few things have helped shape this decision. Let me explain:

One. Our son Noah started kart racing last spring (Go #11)! This means the majority of our weekends are at the racetrack with weekdays spent in preparation. Noah has a bright future in motorsports and next season we may be traveling to some out of state tracks. My husband and I have taken on the roles of Noah’s crew chief, mechanic, public relations specialist, webmaster, photographer, cheerleader, and so much more. Check out noahmatthewsracing.com! These things keep us very busy and we hope our hard work will lead him to a race team someday whether that’s in the driver’s seat or on the mechanical end. You don’t get second chances, so we’re helping him chase this dream!

Two. The application process for VIPteam is a very difficult for me each winter. Some years, I would receive well over 100 applications, and it would never be possible for me to shoot that many sessions yearly. Turning people away is never enjoyable, especially when they’ve put their hopes into an application process. I’ve decided it’s time to change things up and be more inclusive to all the seniors I’m grateful to work with each year. Starting with the Class of 2022, ALL seniors who book a session will receive a standing invitation to pop-up shoots; such as winter snow and my annual graduation celebration sessions! Including ALL the seniors I work with during each year sounds refreshingly fun and inclusive, right?! 🙂

Three. I’m returning to nursing on a part-time basis. Some of you may know I’m a Registered Nurse. I left nursing in 2017 to homeschool our son for a few years. Nursing is a huge part of my life and I’ve wanted to return in some capacity for quite a while. This will somewhat affect my availability, but not as much as you may think. For example, while I used to take 3-4 sessions a week, I will now limit myself to 2. But I will also be starting my season a few weeks earlier and ending a few weeks later, so this really isn’t a big deal. I easily balanced my business with nursing for many years, so this isn’t a huge change.

For some of you, especially past members, parents, and those who have future interest, this news may be a little sad to hear. I understand because it’s sad for me, too. Know I adore and appreciate you. I’ve met so many inspiring teens and parents over the years (all 130+ of you!), many who have come to be sweet friends and repeat clients. This isn’t an end to beautiful senior portraits, nor the friendly and FUN experience you’ve come to know from me. My VIPteam has been a blessing, but it’s time for a new direction and I couldn’t be more excited!

As always, thank you for your support!