We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Abby Bertram. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Abby below.

Alright, Abby thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

I am very blessed to have had amazing parents who raised me in the countryside of Missouri. My parents were big on teaching my siblings and I that life isn’t free. It’s hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. From an early age, good work ethic was instilled in me through these lessons, farm chores, and honoring God. We learned to earn what you keep! You want a baby goat? You have to take care of it before and after school. You want some money? You have to mow Grandma’s lawn. You want a car? You need to get a job.

I am also the middle child, which some could argue is the most independent and determined, haha.

In my business, my upbringing has helped me keep the courage in the unknown, stay determined, and serve my clients with excellency. I am proud of my hard work, and I am blessed by the result of it.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am an elopement photographer specializing in Oregon and Arkansas, though I am always down to adventure anywhere your love may take us. I find a lot of pride in how I run my business and care for each of my couples. I don’t only photograph elopements, but I also help plan your personalized elopement experience from start to finish, making sure no details are left out and you get to be free from the stress of planning logistics. My planning process includes: timeline, locations, weather preperation, hiking information, Plan B, packing list, marriage license information, permit information (including communication with NPS), vendor recommendations, and any other special considerations. I seek to go above and beyond while serving my clients with love, creativity, integrity, and excellency because I believe this is what I’m called to do as a Christian. I also seek to serve my clients with this kind of excellency because although I didn’t elope, I wish that I had! I was a victim of family drama tainting my wedding day, and I don’t want any other person to have to go through that. Your wedding day is so sacred, and the only thing that matters is you and your covenants to one another. Not the production. You!

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

My dream was NOT to become a photographer. My dream was to become a Marine. After I earned my Associate’s degree, I shipped to Parris Island to become a Marine. I did this even though I had a convictional gut feeling from the Lord that this was wrong. God was leading me towards ministry, I was engaged, and deep down I knew that I was being disobedient to the Lord’s clear direction for me. But… I went anyways! And boy, did God wreck that ship. Long story short, I came home from bootcamp early. And low and behold, I bought my first ever camera with my bootcamp money. The rest is history!

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I truly want people to see the beauty and sanctity of creation and connection. And I want them to see that all of this points to the Creator who loves them! I pivoted towards adventure elopements because I felt that marriage covenants made in the majesty of creation best painted that picture in my photography. I vow to serve each of my couples with excellency, love, integrity, and creativity. I want them to feel loved and celebrated. Because marriage isn’t a production – it’s a promise.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.abbyreephotography.com
• Instagram: @abbyreephotography
• Facebook: Abby Ree Photography
• Other: TikTok: @abbyreephotography
  Pinterest: Abby Ree Photography

Image Credits

Me! Abby Ree Photography