If you've ever tried to answer emails while a toddler climbed on your back or edited photos with Bluey playing in the background... this one's for you.

When I started my photography business in 2010 (officially in 2012), I had a 1-year-old and a 2-year-old. I was determined to make it work—and I did. But looking back? I did it in a way I would never recommend today.

I worked all the time. And somehow… I still felt like I wasn’t getting anything done.
I was exhausted. I missed out on family time. And I sacrificed way too much of myself in the process.

I'm incredibly proud of the business I've built today. But if I could go back and do it differently, here’s what I’d tell that younger version of myself—and maybe it’s exactly what you need to hear too.

1. Make a plan. Then revisit it.

I used to wake up and dive straight into chaos. If I could do it again, I’d carve out time every Sunday to plan my week. Not just a to-do list—but a real plan with space for work, family, and rest.

Then each morning, I’d take five minutes to check in with that plan. Adjust as needed, stay flexible, but always start with intention.

2. Stop giving it all away.

Let’s just say… I over-delivered a lot in those early years. 🙃

I charged too little, gave away too much, and felt burnt out often. If I could do it again, I’d raise my prices sooner—and offer upgrades and upsells to add value without giving away my time for free.

Remember: you can still be generous and run a profitable, sustainable business.

3. Say no more often.

I truly thought I had to do it all. Every inquiry. Every type of shoot. Every opportunity.
But you know what? You don’t.

I would go back and only say yes to the sessions that brought me joy, not the ones that drained me. I would stop saying yes out of guilt or fear and start saying yes because it aligned with who I wanted to be—both as a mom and a business owner.

4. Set real boundaries.

This one’s big. If I could go back, I’d draw a clearer line between work and home.

I would set hours, even if they changed day to day. I would only book sessions on my terms, not whenever it was easiest for everyone else. And most importantly—I would actually shut the laptop and be present with my family.

Be where your feet are.
It’s a lesson I learned the hard way. But it changed everything.

5. Let the dishes wait.

I used to believe a clean house meant I was “on top of it.” Now I know—a home full of love, laughter, and connection matters more.

If I could do it again, I’d be okay with the laundry pile on a Tuesday and not skip snuggles or playtime just to “get things done.”

Mama, You’re Doing More Than You Know

Running a business with little ones at home is no joke. It’s hard and beautiful and messy and meaningful all at once.

If you’re in that season now, give yourself some grace. You don’t have to do it perfectly to do it well.

And if no one’s told you lately—you’re doing an incredible job.

 I'd love to hear from you—what’s one thing you wish you had known when you started your business or became a mom?