Daily Inspiration: Meet Devin Parrish

Today we’d like to introduce you to Devin Parrish. 

Hi Devin, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story and my business were born out of changing season for our family. We moved to Michigan from Arizona in the dead of winter. I had a 3-month-old, and a 2-year-old & my husband was starting a new career. At that time I knew no one in our new state and had no help with the kids during the day… but I knew that I needed to do something to help bring in a little extra. I wasn’t sure what I could do… I knew I couldn’t do a 9-5… so I decided to take my love for photography (which was just a hobby at the time) and asked my neighbor if she would let me take photos of her son. She graciously posted the images on her Facebook and tagged me, and quite honestly, the rest is history. Her friends started reaching out… I think I charged $60 for my first session. Each time I did a session the families would post it on Facebook and then another person would contact me… I was literally so blown away. Referrals & word of mouth were my lifelines. Each client was (and still is) a blessing and my hobby turned business honestly blew me away. This business has been such a gift to me & my family. Putting myself out there 10 years ago… really not knowing anything… has gifted me many amazing opportunities and the chance to meet SO many amazing people! These families I see every year are so dear to me! It’s been a Joy to learn, grow, and be transformed into a real-life businesswoman… Who would have thought?

Also… In the midst of this… I have been able to share my first love of Makeup Artistry, Interior design & fashion. My Instagram followers know… You’ll find a mix of all of my loves rolled into one package… Which is where @mydistressedmess was born. In the winter months, when I am not as busy doing outdoor sessions due to our cold Michigan weather… I’m in homes designing & decorating spaces! In all things, it brings me great Joy to bring beauty into people’s lives! I love getting “that shot” that brings them to tears; I love getting a text saying how they now LOVE their home. Life is too short to not embrace all of the moments & love your spaces!!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Having to literally learn everything about running/owning a business. I felt like I was constantly playing catch-up. That part was and still is, at times, the most stressful part…. I’d venture to guess that’s the most stressful part for most creatives lol. Also trying to balance work life with family life. I am a stay-at-home mom who has a night and weekend job. I always want to be at my kids’ “Things.” As they have gotten older, it’s gotten harder… But I am always pivoting and figuring it out.

What makes you happy?
What brings me Joy is my family… 3 kiddos & husband. My oldest was what started my love for photography! When she was a baby… and I was home looking for a creative outlet… I found so much Joy in getting her all dressed up and doing little photoshoots! Those pictures are still some of my favorites (even though the edits are awful, LOL). I also lead worship at our church & serve in Women’s ministry there! It’s such a gift and a blessing to my life to get to serve in those capacities!!

Pricing:

• $450 for lifestyle sessions
• $75 an hour for design work

Contact Info:

• Website: www.devinparrishphotography.com/
• Instagram: @mydistressedmess and @devinparrishphotography

Image Credits
@renaefrancesphotography
@the.beautographer
@devinparrishphotography