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That Thing I’ve Been Wanting To Tell You

April 5, 2016

I owe you this post.

Because if you’re here, if you’re reading, this probably isn’t the first time you’ve visited. You guys are my people. You’ve invested your time (on of the most precious resources) and chosen to meet me here in this space for the last three years.

It’s been quiet, but that doesn’t mean still. Not by any means. Some things have been in the works behind the scenes. Big things, God things. Dreams-Coming-To-Fruition kinds of things.

I have failed at times. Loading film correctly on the first attempt. Remembering all 12 of our nieces and nephew’s birthdays. That Crockpot lettuce wrap recipe from Pinterest (ask Matt about that one sometime…maybe it tasted like cat food and maybe we went to Chik-Fil-A instead. Major Pinterest Fail). For a while, I wouldn’t have put “balancing teaching, life, and the business” on this list because for a while, I thought I had mastered the art of compartmentalizing my life. But in recent months, it’s felt like I could barely keep my head above water, like I was gasping for air but always just barely missing the surface.

Something had to give.

As of April 29th, I will officially be leaving my classroom, saying goodbye to my families and beloved co-workers, and choosing to pursue my business fiercely for however long God will allow.

So, what does this mean?

This means after three years, I’m tossing fear in a bucket, burying them deep with my insecurities about my ability to thrive at this business, and not looking back. It means handing over the reigns in my classroom to someone who may not love my kids the same as I do, but trusting that they are the better person for the job because they will be 100% committed to them and only them. It means having the time to serve my clients the way I’ve always envisioned. It means having consistent office hours so I can be a better wife to my husband. For this year at least, it means travel that I’ve dreamed of and 20 weddings I never thought I would have the opportunity to photograph.

I’ve waited a long time to write these words to you. I can’t promise the story is going to end beautifully, because He’s still writing it, but I trust that His plan is better than my own. It’s a new beginning, but that’s just it. It’s only the beginning. 

For the mothers who have trusted me with your babies for the last seven years…thank you. I know it’s not easy to hand them over while they cling to you in the mornings, but I promise you if nothing else, I have loved them. Thank you for allowing me their daylight hours. The joy has been mine.

For the clients who have chosen me over the other amazing options you have in this wedding photography industry…thank you. Choosing me is one decision you make in this process, but it is literally changing my life. Thank you for allowing me to serve you and create heirlooms for your family for generations to come. The joy is mine.

Nikki Santerre Photography_Virginia Fine Art Film Wedding Photographer_Going Full Time_0002

Photo taken by my dear Shannon Moffit (edited by myself)

  1. Morgan Leigh says:

    Nikki, I couldn’t be happier for you! Congratulations! I know how hard it is to go to work when you want to improve yourself and your business. You are already doing great things and I know you will continue to! I can’t wait to see where this journey takes you!!!

  2. NIKKI!!!!!!!! I’m SO excited for you!!!!! <3 I have been waiting for this news from you for so long! You deserve it my friend! XOXO!!! Congrats!

  3. NIKKI!!!! I am SO proud of you and excited for you. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes you & your business. 🙂

  4. Amy Webber says:

    Oh, Nikki! I’m so happy to read this!! I know this has been a long time coming for you and while I know the transition will have its ups and downs, I’m thrilled you get to take this gift God has given you full time. Praying for you as you transition!!

  5. Lauren Swann says:

    I am just SO DANG proud of you!!!! ❤️

  6. Tamika says:

    Congrats Nikki, I will be praying for your continued success. Balancing all of that is tough- I’m teaching as well and it’s definitely the kind of job that consumes a lot of your time. I know your decision wasn’t easy but I have no doubt that you have many more wonderful adventures ahead! xoxo

  7. Nikki!!!!! I’m really excited for your new journey and i can’t wait to see what you can do! SO proud of you for following your heart!

  8. CONGRATULATIONSS!!! I know you’re going to do such amazing things!! 🙂

  9. Mindy says:

    Oh, my dear Nikki! I have learned so much from you, and am so excited for you to begin the next chapter of your adventure. Love love love to you and Matt <3

  10. Emily Gerald says:

    Oh Nikki! This news is music to my ears, I am so beyond thrilled for you and your business! I know you have loved and cared for all of those babies like they were your own, and that you will miss them tremendously but I am overjoyed for you and this next step in your business and life! Congrats my friend!

  11. Angie Fink says:

    Nikki I am so proud of you! You are going to do amazing. Love you.

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