Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Fitzhugh.
Hi Julie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Recently my view of life has changed and become so interconnected it’s hard to know where to start for how I got to where I am and where I am going. I have always been a creative person. Since childhood my passion and curiosity for photography have always been there. I am lucky enough to have had a mom who was always supportive of the things I wanted to explore. It’s no doubt the creativity came from her, who was a chronic hobbier. I have always been deeply spiritual. Growing up I went to private Christian schools and even went to college for youth ministry. The biggest curveball in my journey came at the end of last year. I had realized that religion wasn’t for me. It didn’t really match much of my beliefs. With the perspective of my mom dying unexpectedly two and a half years ago, my life has taken a 180. I have been learning who I am, what I stand for, and what do I want out of life. For the last 9 months, I have been leaning into my new nature-based spirituality and creativity. I am an entrepreneur with an elopement photography business. I am still getting it off the ground but I can’t wait to see where it takes me. I have been exploring what it would be like to be a watercolor painter and a writer. My journey may only be starting, but it feels like I am on the launch pad for the stars.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My mom died two and a half years ago now. That has been the hardest thing to cope with. And yet it is the biggest motivator and driving force for the change I have needed to make for myself. Seeing my mom struggle with alcoholism for about 10 years and having her life end because of it. I had to see that if I kept living my life like I was, with a ‘regular job’ and doing what you are supposed to do. I’d end up just as sad and depressed and not know how to trust myself enough to go after my dreams, just as she did. I cannot live a life like that because I was already feeling that way before she died. I had to quit my job to manage her estate. Then my family pressured me to find another job. I knew in my soul that I was meant for more than that. Learning I am worthy enough and capable enough to go after my wildest dreams despite other people’s expectations, or opinions, has made life so fun.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a photographer. I have taken portraits once in a while for friends and family since I was in high school. Last year, I found a photographer who teaches elopement photography. I realized this would blend my love for travel with capturing couples. I love creative storytelling that can happen with photographing couples. When they relax and enjoy their favorite activities together, the moments become magical. I love the look in their eyes as they gaze upon each other’s faces, the softness in their smile, the twinkle in their eye. It just makes me swoon. And the fact that I can capture those moments for them to relive for decades. To preserve art physically with film lets it be enjoyed long after we’re gone. This way, we can leave a lasting legacy of love.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I have been reading books like crazy lately. Which is a miracle in itself. With my ADHD since childhood I never liked reading.
When it comes to books for helping me with business and entrepreneurship the following books were pivotal: You are a Badass and You are a Badass at making money by Jen Sincero, Lean Learning: How to Achieve More by Learning Less By Pat Flynn, (Pat has an awesome Pokémon Youtube channel) Atomic Habits by James Clear, and Everything Is Figureoutable by Maria Forleo
Some personal books that have helped me on this spiritual journey have been: Sacred Nature by Karen Armstrong , The Green Witch: Your Complete Guide to the Natural Magic of Herbs, Flowers, Essential Oils, and More By Arin Murphy-Hiscock, Many Lives Many Masters by Brian Weiss and Heal the Witch Wound: Reclaim Your Magic and Step Into Your Power by Celeste Larsen.
I have some podcasts I have fallen in love with too. These are all over the place but give you a glimpse into my mind. The Mel Robbins Podcast, Money, Mindset & Manifestation with Marley Rose Harris, Analog Talk, Stoked – The Elopement Photographer Podcast, The Ancients and Within Reason with Alex O’Connor.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thewildreverieelopements.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewildreverieelopements/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/mysticphoenix333/
