If you follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and/or Instagram, you may remember seeing a few of these images from early October when I and 140 other Christian women photographers/creatives met up at the Winshape Retreat Center in Mt. Berry Georgia for the 2nd annual Pursuit 31 Conference. What followed were the 3 most influential days of my life. I really don’t want to go into detail about the conference because I want to keep it a surprise for those who plan on attending next year for the first time. Also, I can’t possibly write out all there is to know about the conference… it’s simply too much! Highlights it is!
My friend Makenzie, of Makenzie Lynn Photography, and I drove the 5+ hours from Paducah to Mt Berry on Tuesday, arriving at the Winshape Retreat Center in time to check in, unpack, and hang out a little before dinner. During check in everyone’s small group leaders gifted each of us with a tote full of goodies. The tote itself was embroidered with the week’s Bible verse and theme We have this Hope as an Anchor to our souls, firm and secure, and which enters the presence behind the veil – Hebrews 6:19. I’ve carried it so much since receiving it that it’s broken! Nothing I can’t fix with a sewing machine!! The following, among many other, items were found in the tote…
A lovely handwritten note from one of the conference leaders… I just love how she penned my first name! and the 5th volume of Southern Weddings magazine!
At each place setting on the dinner table at every meal was a card, on one side was the P31 logo, and the other side had an inspirational verse that tied into the week’s theme. Everyone received a small notebook to write in during our sessions throughout the week. This VERY MUCH came in handy! Not pictured here but found in the tote bag were several coupons for various items and services that any photographer would love to have. I’ve used about half of mine already!
Myself and Makenzie, right before the first evening meeting and the backdrop for the week.
Wednesday, our first speaker was Bob Goff, author of Love Does. If you haven’t read the book, read it. If you ever get the chance to hear him speak, take that chance. You will NOT be disappointed! Our second speaker was the beautiful and super talented Promise Tangeman! I kind of really have a girl crush on her <3
Our third speaker(s) was Lara Casey, creator and editor of Southern Weddings magazine, and Emily Ley, designer and owner of Emily Ley Paper. These two ladies are incredibly inspiring and just so happen to be best friends! On Thursday, Lara and Emily teamed up with Gina, their friend and photographer, for a teaching session. I also got to spend time with Gina during the special small group time. Makenzie and several others joined us to chat about infertility.
Every night, Stephen & Gabrielle von Heyking and their band provided us with worship… I sang my ever loving heart out!
Mary Marantz taught a session on posing and shooting couples on Wednesday and then held a teaching session on Thursday . She literally BLEW my mind! Another mind blowing experience happened on Wednesday when Hannah Brencher of The World Needs More Love Letters spoke! Never have I ever heard a more eloquent speaker!!
Katelyn James Alsop taught a session on shooting details on Thursday right after speaking to all of us about asking God to run our business for us. Amazing and eye opening!
Thursday night, I remember telling Makenzie that I didn’t think I could possibly cry any more. And then Jane Johnson spoke. And I cried again. Some people might think that a week full of tears is not something they would look forward to. However, I seriously cannot wait to have another week just like it!
Our small group… miss these ladies so much!
Makenzie and I made a few really great friends… friends we still keep in contact with every day! Left to right: Amanda, me, Makenzie, Sabrina, and Sarah.
Friday morning, before we all left to return back to the real world, we through our faithful leader Karen a surprise mini baby shower. She was sooooo thankful!
On thursday morning, Makenzie, Amanda, Sarah, and I did head shots for each other. So much fun!! First off is Amanda!
Next up, Sarah!
And last but definitely not least! Makenzie!
Think you might be interested in growing your personal life and creative business with God at the head?? Click here to learn more about Pursuit 31!
