We had the good fortune of connecting with Laurenda Bennett and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laurenda, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
As a Mom of two school aged boys, I’ve had to modify my availability to be around for key moments of their childhood – such as soccer games and school productions. My business began when my kids were newborn and toddler age, leaving me with more night and weekend availability but less structured day time. The opposite feels to be true at the moment.

As seasons change and my kids age, so will my business and what I am capable of offering. It’s all about modification to ensure both family and clients are well taken care of. When one isn’t getting the full attention it needs, both may end up faltering.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I knew from the start I wanted my photos to evoke color & joy. I wanted them to stand the test of time. To be on display in frames and thumbed through in albums as memories passed down from generations. I think my timeless, light & airy style has proven to be all of the above. It took long nights at the computer, workshops and online courses, and lots of trial and error, but eventually my style was born and I’m so proud of the Laurenda Marie Photography brand.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My town of Rockford is quaint and cozy with a vacation-town vibe. Nestled right up the Rogue River and Rockford dam are some of my favorite local staples like Sweetland’s Coffee & Chocolates, the infamous Corner Bar, and boutique shops like Paperdoll and Gather’d. Custard’s by the Dam is a favorite too, offering up cool treats and candies with a gorgeous view of the dam and bridges out back. Honorable mention is the White Pine Trial, a paved but stunning wooded path running right through the heart of Rockford and taking you miles North out of town!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The true MVP of my success is the photography community! I’ve never felt so accepted, challenged, and encouraged in any other industry. From sharing referrals, locations, mentoring thoughts, and just being a solid sounding board, this community is a special one to be a part of. We are all so excited to see the other succeed, and it’s a true representation of community over competition.

Website: www.laurendamariephotography.com

Instagram: instagram.com/laurendamariephotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurendamariephotography/

Image Credits
all photos taken by me.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.