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

Alyssa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?

First of all, I think success can look different for everyone. For some it is reaching a specific dollar amount, some it is running a business that provides flexibility and time with family, and for others it is simply waking up and doing something that they love every day. Success isn’t always something you can measure. For me, success in my photography business has looked like making enough to surpass my 9-5 income, building a business that allows me the flexibility to take time off and travel, and finding something that truly brings me so much joy!

However, I know that these things don’t just “happen”. It has taken a lot of time and effort to get to this place in my business. Some things that I can attribute to my success are 1) investing time and money in workshops, internships, and mentorships 2) being willing to hustle and work two jobs so that I could build the business I dreamed of and 3) asking for help both in my personal and professional life. I am also extremely grateful for my support system (spouse, family, friends, and colleagues) who have offered encouragement, support, advice, and so much more! So I also believe community plays a huge roll in your success as well.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I started my business in the spring of 2019 and I officially became a full-time photographer in the spring of 2022. I have always been a creative person, so when my husband bought me my first “professional” camera for my birthday many years ago, my gears started turning. Once I realized that I could turn this hobby into a career, it was all I could think about! Ultimately, I became a photographer because I love to be creative and I love connecting with and serving people. Jesus is the center of my life and I truly believe He has called me to share meaningful stories while also showing His love to those I encounter.

I enjoy photographing people through all of their stages of life, but I specialize in documenting couples on their wedding day. My desire is to be a photographer who is more than just another vendor on their wedding day… I want to be a friend! I also believe photography is about so much more than just snapping a good photo. It is an experience! Every couple deserves a thoughtful, personalized experience tailored to their relationship and priorities. It is my job to not only photograph all of the joy and beauty that their wedding day holds, but also bring a sense of peace to the entire experience.

When I’m not out taking pictures or sipping coffee in my editing cave, you will most likely find me hanging out with my husband, TJ, and our dog, Willow. We love to be outdoors – hiking, kayaking, boating, camping, and enjoying all that Minnesota has to offer! I am a homebody at heart, yet I absolutely love exploring new places. I am always ready to catch the next flight for a photography adventure!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I absolutely love the art of photography and one of my favorite parts is seeing the final product once the editing is complete. However, I think the most rewarding aspect of being a photographer is when I receive kind words from clients after delivering their gallery. I want to give my clients the best experience possible, so when they love the final product it means the world to me!

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

Yes, my mission is to capture my clients’ life, personality, and relationships in an authentic and genuine way. I want everyone who steps in front of my camera to know that they are beautifully and wonderfully made, and that their story deserves to be documented.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.alyssaashleyphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssaashley_photography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssaashleyphotography19/