Same-sex engagement session at Wollaston Beach in Quincy, MA – Karla + Abby

On 09/019/2012, I recieved an 960-word e-mail from an interested intern applicant.  I immediately knew I would like her, because she said things like:  So, I’m jumping feet first.  I refuse to be one of those people that looks back on their life and says, “I wish I had”.  Something else that stood out to me was: I’m excited about this new chapter in my life.  Obviously I’m nervous, but I’m so much more excited.  A few months ago, or maybe it was years ago, I read a quote that has stuck with me… “The achievement of your goal is assured the moment you  commit yourself to it”.  I’m ready to commit.

I resonated with her so much.  It brought back lots of feelings that I had when I started my business – fear, nervousness, uncertainty.

End of the story:  I didn’t hire her.   I didn’t even interview her.

Kidding.  That would be a crappy end to the story.  🙂

Unfortunately, my internship positionships were already filled, but I told her to find me again in about 6 months.  Lucky for me, she did.  I hired her instantly.  She went from intern, to 3rd shooter/assistant, to photobooth operator, to 2nd shooter, to album designer/graphic designer.  In such a short amount of time, her photography has grown immensely and I gained an incredible person on my team, and a new friend.

From our close interactions, I learned lots about her, her wife, Abby, and her dog, Klaus.  I learned that Abby will get up at 4am to pick up donuts and coffee for Karla before I pick her up at 5am for an insanely early Indian wedding. The two of them have taught me the importance of weekly date nights (Wednesdays!).  I learned that Abby makes her fruit and veggie juices each morning with a Vitamix.  Karla has reminded me about how important family is and that a 4-hour drive is worth it for her sisters and her parents.  Most of all, the two of them have taught me that if you are lucky enough to have a such a deep and special connection with someone else, nothing will be able to stop you – and your dreams.

Karla and Abby, thanks for teaching me so much.  You two are going to experience such amazing success in Hawaii.  Don’t forget about me!  🙂

Special thanks to Anita for makeup Karen for hair styling (I know – crazy!).  P.S.  I did the hair curling… and I burned off part of Abby’s ear.  (Again, I’m SO sorry).  🙂