7 years of paint & palettes: 7 lessons from my journey as an Atlanta professional wedding artist

Lately, I’ve been finding myself in a reflective mood. Maybe it’s the "Dry January" clarity or just the start of a new wedding season, but I’ve been thinking about this "little journey" I’ve been on. A lot. What started as a small creative spark in Marietta has grown into a full-time passion for capturing your most cherished moments.

Whether you’re a fellow creative or a bride-to-be curious about the person behind the easel, here are seven things I’ve learned about this process as an artist:

1. Embrace the Unexpected Path // In other words, you do not know where this little journey will take you. You might have a vision in mind when you take that first step, but that won’t always be where you wind up. One minute you’re thrilled to get even a single commission for a pet portrait; the next, you’re traveling across Georgia to paint at a luxury wedding. Stay open to where the journey takes you and embrace the things that get you excited. The best parts of this job are the ones I never saw coming.

2. Art is "Heart Work"—and Hard Work // People often think painting is just "soothing." And it is! But it’s also laborious, tedious even. It’s hours of hunching over a table (hello, lower back pain!) and obsessive attention to detail. It’s not scrapbooking; it’s a craft that requires every bit of my focus.

3. Your People Will Find You // It doesn’t matter if you are classically trained or self-taught, opportunities WILL appear out of nowhere. If you put yourself out there, someone will fall in love with what you’re creating and/or your message. I love that my "whimsical yet refined" style has connected with so many Atlanta couples.

4. The Power of "No" // No will be a big part of your journey, if you’re doing it right (in my humble opinion). Not just hearing no from others, which will be disheartening at times. Hearing no is hard, but saying no to the wrong opportunities is what allows you to grow. And I’m still honing this skill.. It can feel very strange or scary to turn down work or opportunities. Seven years in, I believe it’s necessary for good growth, and I look back with fondness on things I’ve said no to. I’ve learned that saying no to what doesn't fit is the only way to say "yes" to the weddings that truly light me up.

5. Small Wins are Big Wins // The little steps add up. Every sketch, every shared post, and every coffee shop meeting in Marietta Square is a brick in the foundation of the Fig and Font I’m building. It may feel small at the time, but do or share it anyway.

6. Evolution is Essential // I think I’m reiterating point number one here, but you will probably not be doing what you thought you’d be doing when you first started out.. What excited me in Year 2 isn't necessarily what excites me today. It’s okay to adjust your sails and pursue other priorities. The most rewarding part of this career is discovering new passions—like the move from studio portraits to live event painting—that I never expected to love so much. (Check out the photos below to see a little of my own evolution.) Go with the flow and see where your passion and efforts lead you!

7. You’ll Be Glad You Did // Through the back pain and the "scary" business decisions, I wouldn't trade this journey for anything. And I’m so glad I didn’t wait to start. Take action now towards creating the life, business, or wedding you dream of, you won’t regret it!

I don’t know why I’m getting so deep lately! I might delete this later, but for now, it felt right to share the "behind the scenes" of this girl’s life and evolution as a solopreneur and artist. If you’re planning a 2026 or 2027 wedding, I’d love to be a part of your journey. Let's connect and see if we're a perfect fit. Learn more here.