We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kristine Willson. Check out our conversation below.
Kristine, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I am most proud of building Simply Willson Acres. I think people see it, but they do not really see it, if that makes sense. I am proud of creating a space where creatives feel comfortable and at home, but also of building a sense of community. A place where people feel safe coming to me with anything, without feeling scared, anxious, rushed, or overwhelmed. It is simply a space where they can create, connect, and breathe. That is what I am most proud of.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Of course. My name is Kristine Willson, and I am the owner of the Simply Willson brand. I run Simply Willson Photography LLC, and I also co-own Simply Willson Acres alongside my husband in Davison, Michigan.
I am a wife, a mother, and a creative at heart. My brand is deeply rooted in the idea of community over competition and spreading kindness whenever possible. I love ending my posts with words of affirmation, because you never know who needs to hear them.
Right now, I am working on growing my photography business while also bringing a shared dream to life with my husband. We are transforming our ten acres into a creative safe space where photographers and artists can take photos, host workshops, and create in an environment that feels comfortable and welcoming.
As a photographer, I have worked in many beautiful spaces, but I often noticed how competitive, rushed, and high-pressure those environments could feel. That experience inspired me to build something different. I wanted to create a space rooted in positivity, support, and genuine community.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I believe what breaks bonds between people is miscommunication and negativity. Relationships built on false pretenses, or maintained for personal gain, tend to create distance instead of connection. When people rally others around negativity or comparison, it slowly erodes trust and authenticity.
What restores bonds is self-reflection, honest communication, and accountability. Being willing to look inward, acknowledge your part, and communicate openly creates space for understanding, healing, and genuine connection.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self that it is okay, and that everything truly does become okay. That one day, you will have the family you always yearned for and the opportunity to make others feel seen and supported through community.
I would also remind her that there will always be people who try to tear you down simply for being yourself, but that your perseverance is something to be proud of. Do not give up. One day, you will look back and realize how strong you really were.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
To an extent, yes. I try to be as transparent as I can about what I am going through, while still choosing to share it in a positive and constructive way.
That being said, there are parts people do not see. The really hard days, the quiet struggles, the moments that are too personal to share publicly. But overall, I do my best to stay genuine to who I truly am. I never want to paint a picture that feels different from my real life or my real heart.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say that I genuinely tried to make a difference in this world. That if I impacted even one person’s life in a positive way, then everything I did was worth it. I want to be remembered as someone who was grateful for every small win, who worked hard, and who never stopped learning in order to better serve others.
More than anything, I hope people say that I made them feel seen, valued, and at home. That I did my best to bring people together creatively and build a community rooted in kindness, connection, and belonging.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.simplywillsonphotography.com
- Instagram: @simplywillson
- Facebook: Simply Willson Acres & Simply Willson Photography
