Eight years ago this week I left my full-time job behind to begin my photography career. I didn’t have much of a plan, but the timing felt right. I remember calling my mom and filling her in. And while I could tell that she didn’t totally understand the decision to move from a secure 9-5 to a very unsure independence, she was my biggest supporter. I cobbled together a website, business name, and logo that I never really loved, but was the best I could come up with at the time. I had been given the nickname “AshMill” in high school when girls named Ashley ran rampant. Since my given first and last names are all too common I knew I needed something different. AshMill Photography served it’s purpose to get my business going, but I never thought it was something I would keep long term. In fact, I wasn’t even sure I’d be doing photography long-term.
Thankfully, this little business has sustained me. It started small and grew into my full-time work. As I think about how far I’ve come and where I hope to head, now feels like a good time to establish a more permanent title. The girl who impulsively left a safe career behind has grown up and so has this business. It’s time for a new name.
AshMill Photography is now operating as Redbud Photography.
One year ago today the Lord called my mother home. Her years-long battle with cancer had come to an end, leaving our family to both celebrate her life and mourn our loss. In the past few months I’ve been reminded of the last events we enjoyed together and the hard conversations we had about her health. As I’ve anticipated the anniversary of her passing I wanted a way to honor her life and keep her memory close.
Redbud was a nickname given to her by her grandparents whom she adored. With the changing of the seasons and redbuds currently in bloom, now feels like a fitting time to take the name for myself. I’m excited and nervous. She was a feisty redhead who loved people better than anyone I’ve known. She gave generously to all, served her community well, and clung to her faith with joy in every circumstance. I hope that I can carry the name with honor and do justice to the legacy she left behind.
Who I am as a photographer and what my business is about hasn’t changed. I will continue to operate in the same way clients have come to know and expect. I will continue to strive for growth on both a personal and professional level. Thank you to those who have been with me from the beginning, those of you who have joined me along the way, and those of you whom I have yet to meet. I am honored and humbled to be trusted to capture life’s most important moments.
With love,
Ashley
