Jan 29, 2011

2011: LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO PLAY SMALL

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2011 is off to a flying start! I just finished a week of Making Things Happen. Tampa, Atlanta, Charlotte and New York rocked my world.  If you haven’t been keeping up with my personal Tumblr and the Making Things Happen Tumblr, jump on it!  2011 is already the best year of my life.



My personal process for 2011 Goal Setting and my 2011 Vision Board:

1. Evaluate what didn’t work in 2010

2. Define what did work

3. Get clear and write out your fears

4. Evaluate the people you surround yourself with, cultivate vision and create an inspiring environment to flourish in.

5. Define your driving purpose.

6. Making things happen: Act.

Vision is everything.  As a creative person, you have to see where you want to go clearly in order to step into the life you want.  Every image has significant meaning to me – they make me feel something and clarify the vision I have for this year.   I have been researching scripture to support each goal and, as I do this, my goals become more clarified.  Vision isn’t achieved in just 6 steps.  This is just the beginning.  I’m committed to doing the hard work every day to uncover my full potential.  2011, I am filling you with all the love, peace and joy my heart can muster.  I am listening.  I am leaping.  I am creating.  I am standing up for my heart.  I am giving till it hurts.  I am using my gifts to serve.  I am taking the narrow road.  I choose Love.  My mission in 2011: love God, serve people.



images: I’ve been collecting these for a while, so let me know if one of these is yours and I’ll link it.  The ones I remember: bridesmaids (Stacy Reeves), the redhead (Max Wanger), couple on the blanked (Erin Hearts Court) and the woman in the desert (Dewey Nicks).

The year ahead holds a lot of mystery for me.  I have been working to clear my calendar as much as possible to make room for more family, rest, focus on my marriage, friendships and further-solidifying our brands. This year I am committed to working hard on life, giving as much as possible and walking the walk.



The SOLD OUT Making Things Happen 2011 Tour with Natalie Norton and Gina Zeidler (and the very pregnant Emily Ley just on the Tampa stop) was a powerful catapult into 2011. We’re working on adding just one more city to accommodate our huge waiting list. More info.



In a couple weeks, we’re off to Vegas for WPPI where I have several fun things lined up including Making Things Happen Vegas



The black-tie Airplanes and Blazers party …



Harmony Walton and I have teamed up for the ultimate business, branding and marketing intensive, The Total Package.  There are only a few seats left, so jump on it and get ready to rock your business in 2011!



March 18th of this year marks our five year wedding anniversary.  We actually got married in Vegas. Yes, Vegas. Ari and I still trying to decide what to do to celebrate.



At the end of May, I’ll be speaking at Engage!11 :: Grand Del Mar with Harmony and Jasmine Star.



I’m so honored to be asked to speak again – especially with these remarkable women.



Ari is speaking at a big radiology conference in DC in June.  I’m so proud of him and I’ll be joining him there to cheer him on.  I don’t know if people cheer at radiology conferences, but I’m going to give it a whirl!   June, July and August will be photo shoot and layout madness time for V4 (Volume 4 of Southern Weddings), which drops in September.  We’ll be taking on two new full time employees this summer, too! We’re growing and I’m so excited about adding to our wonderful team.



All of this may seem like a lot, but it’s almost a tenth of the travel I had in 2010.  Yes, there’s more to be planned, but that’s all for now. Learning how to say no and work hard to clear my schedule has been incredibly powerful for my life.  I’m so excited about what’s ahead and very happy with right now.  You can stay up to date with my 2011 Travel Calendar here and find me every day on my personal Tumblr and the Making Things Happen Tumblr.



OK, lots of winners to announce…  Congrats to the business book winners, Amy Worthington, Pam Parker and April Walker!  Email me your mailing address and I’ll get your books to you ASAP!



Big congrats to the Making Brands Happen winner, Kelly SauerEmail me and Emily and I will get your mini sessions scheduled.  Everyone else who entered… we had the HARDEST time picking just one person for this.  You all could make huge things happen with more powerful branding!  SO, if you reserve your brand with us by this Friday, we’re giving you a $200 credit toward your new brand!  Every single entry was deserving, so we want to help make this happen for you.  Our schedule is getting packed to the max, so book ASAP if you want your brand completed quickly.  Due to high demand and the great success of this for our clients, we’ve expanded to offer three levels of service to fit your needs.  Just email me for all the details.  We can’t wait to help take your business to the next level! The process and results from this work fire Emily and I up to no end!



Oh you know I can’t do a post without another giveaway.  The fine folks at Adorama, who I love and adore, have given me a FujiFilm Instax Mini to give away!  We’ve had so much fun with Instax on the Making Things Happen TourAND!  BONUS! Harmony and I are giving away ONE SEAT to The Total Package. A rad camera + the best marketing, branding, PR and business insight = Happy 2011! If you aren’t able to come to The Total Package, we’ll split this prize into two. So, just tell me if you are only interested in the camera prize.



Leave a comment here telling me about your goals for 2011 AND Tweet, Blog or post on facebook about this giveaway and link to it. Just leave a note in your comment that you posted about it and you’re all set!  Giveaway ends next Friday.  What are you making happen this year?

UPDATED: Congrats to Total Package winner Meg Perotti and camera winner Josh Ulmer!

64 Comments

  1. Melissa Abeyta on January 30, 2011 at 12:36 pm

    ‎2011 is the year I thrive! I am physically fit & healthy! I have a strong relationship with Gabe! I am focused, motivated and inspired! I have a flourishing business. -I have set up weekly & biweekly mini target goals so that I can work towards the bigger picture! And I have an accountability partner who I email my monthly goals to at the start of the month & she randomly checks on me – huge help! Xoxo.

  2. Heather Gardner on January 30, 2011 at 1:09 pm

    What a great post Lara. So motivated and I’m happy to see you continue to grow and experience your life to the fullest.

    My goals are somewhat more practical this year:

    Embark on a new partnership with a fab new company

    Rebrand the entire business so it’s a direct reflection of me.

    Personal clarity – time to make difficult decisions to declutter the distractions in my life.

    Grow my business so it’s sustainable on its own.

    Great job Lara – so proud of you. 🙂

  3. Cindy Mills on January 30, 2011 at 2:57 pm

    This is the year I get it together.
    Since I attended MTH in Dallas last Jan. I have been focused on rebranding our business and getting organized. I feel like it is getting there, but it is still a long way from being complete. 2011 is the year.
    I also want to work hard on creating an amazing client experience. I just sent in my scholarship application for Engage!11. It was scary, but I pressed send. That was one of my action steps for my goal. It wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be. Thanks for the inspiration to give it a shot!
    Lastly, I want to work on slowing down and calming down. Making time for myself and my family and not working every waking moment.

  4. Dana Laymon on January 30, 2011 at 7:28 pm

    To just not feel lost. I know what I want to do with my life and I’m patiently trying to wait for God’s timing or to even figure out if he wants the same thing for me life. I want to sow plentifully and reap plentifully. I don’t want my life to be about sowing sparingly, in any aspect of my life. I want to dedicate more time to my husband and make time to pray and read the Word daily. You’ve been such an inspiration and i love reading from a like-minded successful female. So all in all I want to be more God-centered this year and grow my photography business. somehow!

  5. aileen on January 30, 2011 at 7:48 pm

    wow. what a great post. what a great giveaway. i would LOVE to win this one. what am i making happen this year? well, i’m running a 10 miler in April. i’m bringing family prayer and family scripture reading to my family. i’m moving forward with a big business idea of mine and hoping to have a product to launch with that idea by June. i am getting my business organized but not letting it overwhelm me. perhaps most importantly, i am not going to let myself talk myself out of anything i dream of as possible. i am going to stop thinking of all the reasons why i can’t do something and start thinking of all the HOW to do something. and that should keep 2011 pretty busy. 🙂 xoxo A

  6. Mary Saou on January 30, 2011 at 8:01 pm

    What am I making happen this year… to focus on what matters. Spending just ten minutes in silence each day, centering myself. And counting my blessings, which gives such a more positive attitude towards all the otherwise-mundane tasks that appear in a day!

  7. Kayleen T. on January 31, 2011 at 2:56 am

    My goal this year is to focus. Focus and truly harness the abilities and talents in myself, my children and my husband. Sort of a lofty goal that breaks up into smaller and more manageable goals.

  8. ellie on January 31, 2011 at 8:29 am

    now that i quit my full time job to become a photographer, which was part making things happen in 2011, part two is making my business my business successful, my clients happy and be the best i can be.

  9. Erin Davenport on January 31, 2011 at 8:44 am

    Sounds like plans for an awesome year! This year I’m making happen: new relationships with awesome people (can’t wait to meet you and the MTH2011 crew in Vegas!), stepping out of my comfort zone so I can grow in business and life, I’m making my business happen (this is my year 1!), making networking happen (so psyched to be going to WPPI/MTH), growing in my faith, growing more and more in love with my hubby, growing as a photographer . . . it’s a year of growth. See you in three weeks Lara! 🙂

  10. Kelly Cummings on January 31, 2011 at 8:50 am

    This year is my year! I feel pumped up about the strides I’ve made in my business this year and I’ve been able to enjoy meeting new people for the sake of meeting them as opposed to stressing about networking. I love it! This year I’m leaning on like minds to help me get things accomplished and I want to help encourage them as well!

    I want an instax camera so badly and I’m so excited you’ll be at WPPI. What a boost for my morning!

  11. Amanda on January 31, 2011 at 8:51 am

    This year I want to step outside of myself. I want to get over the fear of making a business happen, and just do it!

  12. Alicia Rohan on January 31, 2011 at 8:53 am

    2011 is going to be my year! I am so super excited for this year. Two huge things, I am making my business happen and I am making myself happen!  I am focusing on becoming a better Alicia everyday and allowing Christ to lead me on this amazing beautiful path he has set for me. I am going to find so much clarity its going to be amazing. I am focusing on my business and taking it to an even higher level. I am going FULL TIME this year and I am so amazingly stoked about it. I am going to rebrand and possibly change my name or make an umbrella company – not sure yet. I am going to branch into wholesale, develop a kickbutt letterpress line and provide wholesale letterpress printing to other designers. I would love one of those amazing camera’s to capture my progress as I grow as an individual and business woman. I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to sit down with you and talk about some of my ideas.. lots of love – alicia

  13. Sarah Trotter on January 31, 2011 at 9:09 am

    Lara, Great Post. I love to hear about your journey and your never ending motivation. My goals for 2011 is to work smarter, not harder. The last 5 years I have spent my time building my business, sacrificing my life and my family to make sure that I suceeded and I created a great business. Throughout the process I feel like I have given up and missed certain parts of my life such as Travel, time with my husband and weekends with my friends and family. I know I can have it all!! I just have to stay on the right track and make things happen!!!

  14. T.J. on January 31, 2011 at 9:21 am

    Goals for 2011-Open a full time retail location for walk in love. clothing

  15. Amy Lustig on January 31, 2011 at 9:53 am

    Love your blog! My goals are to continue planning my wedding and keeping my cool 🙂 I also want to cook more, eat healthy and work out so that I feel my best! I want to keep the important things in sight at all times…

  16. Debbie @ Bridalhood on January 31, 2011 at 9:57 am

    I always love your posts and the inspiration they provide. Your vision board is amazing and actually inspired one of my own that I posted recently on my blog. https://bridalhood.blogspot.com/2011/01/2011-vision-board.html
    All of the goals on my board are things I want to make happen this year but I think #1 for me is the most important and will actually help lead to the others. Speak less; listen more. Thanks!

  17. Jen on January 31, 2011 at 10:18 am

    Lara! You are such an inspiring and encouraging person. I found you either through Lisa Lefkowitz or Jasmine Star and now I’m hooked on your blogs!

    This year I am making things happen for myself. I am not accepting ‘no’ or ‘I don’t know how’. I am starting a wedding photography business and so far I have already booked 3 out of my goal of 5 weddings for the year. I am doing some major reflections on who I am and what I want to represent as a personal brand. I’m pushing myself everyday to really think about what I want and what that means. I’m reading, reading, reading – there is so much to know! My husband and I are buying a house soon and planning a baby. This year I will do more than I ever have and I can’t wait to see how this year skyrockets me into the years to come!

    Man, those instax cameras are awesome! 🙂

  18. Emily Foster on January 31, 2011 at 11:05 am

    “If I speak in the tongues of men or angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”( 1 Cor. 13:1 – 3) …My goal for this year is to learn ‘this’ kind of love. The kind that never fails, is ever growing and can do the impossible. I want it to come first in every aspect of my life, from family and friends, to the start of a new business. I want the Lord to take me wherever his purposes lie, with clarity, vision and the passion to love.

  19. Michelle on January 31, 2011 at 12:46 pm

    2011 goals: stay true to myself & listen to my gut. Be more healthy… mind, body & spirit. Trust my artistic self in developing my style. Keep growing my biz towards being my sole source of income.

  20. Chelsea Patricia on January 31, 2011 at 3:14 pm

    Become more disciplined–in all areas of life including deadlines and work, eating, working out.

    Open a studio location.

    Buy a home.

  21. Isaac on January 31, 2011 at 3:48 pm

    First I would like to thank you, with everything in me, thank you. John 15:13 says “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” Now I know a lot of people take this literally meaning to “die” for someone, which I’m sure thats part of the truth, but I also choose to believe that it means more. It means leaving your husband, your job, everything your comfortable with and “laying down your life” in city after city for your “friends” You see the reason I am so thankful is one of these “friends” was my wife, Karen, and seeing how much she changed when she got home was amazing. So, thank you from the bottom of my heart for “laying down your life.” My goal for 2011 sounds simple but I know walking it out will be anything but. It can be found in Daniel 11:32 ….”The people that know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” Thats it, to be know my God, to be strong, and to carry out great exploits. So I’m starting here by entering this contest not for myself but for my wife, Karen. You see God’s character is to always put others first and thats why I’m writing, because I know this opportunity would absolutely revolutionize her business and truly take it to the next level. (and another reason is because she will be at WPPI and I will be home watching the kiddos:)Thanks for letting me share and I pray favor, blessing, and anointing on you and Ari in 2011, wherever it may take you.

  22. Kaylie Poplin on January 31, 2011 at 4:41 pm

    2011 is a revolutionary year for me. I am a Junior in college and still have not known what I wanted to do. I have prayed about it for years and not felt like God was answering. In Summer 2010, my boss at work told me that they felt I need to jump out in faith and invest in a nice camera. I did. Since last summer, I have shot one wedding, assisted for another wedding, and have had two more people ask if I would take their wedding and engagement pictures. All within 6 months! So, I am jumping and I am praying that God would use this gift He has given me to glorify Him in return. In 2011, I am fully exercising a gift God has given me and giving it back to Him with the best of my ability.

  23. shannon kelley on January 31, 2011 at 6:15 pm

    2011 goals….start on some big giant dreams that include lots of changes, decisions, and gumption. Fear is not an option anymore! The total package would make that start not just a small step but a big ol’ leap! I’m SO ready to leap!

  24. April Foster on February 1, 2011 at 5:53 pm

    2011 is the first year I am officially running my business without the obligation of another job or school. I am scared to death! Scared that I will not have enough clients to sustain my business, scared that I will have to find a secondary source of income, and scared of failure. My goal is to get rid of the fear and embrace the opportunities. Ultimately, my hope is that my excitement will outshine any negative thoughts that try to enter my mind.

    Personally, my goal is to run my first mini marathon in May. Super excited for that!

  25. Em Scott on February 2, 2011 at 8:23 am

    my 2011 goals can be summarized like this: Accountability, Reliability, Integrity, Transparency, Faith, Action.
    https://ohemgem.tumblr.com/post/3063894537/spent-2-days-in-palm-springs-trying-to-do-this

  26. Christina B. on February 2, 2011 at 12:08 pm

    2011 is all about re-birth for me. In my personal life, it’s a fresh start. With my business, it’s about applying everything we learned from the madness in 2010 and applying that in 2011. We were on fire last year, and I can’t wait to grow from that this year. I’m giddy about 2011!

  27. JESSICA@DOSSIE-A on February 2, 2011 at 12:22 pm

    I am so excited for my 2011! My mission for this year is to find my authentic self, both professionally and in business.
    I began that mission full force at MTH NY, where I made major breakthroughs personally, owned feelings and spoke truth into my life. I also made the decision to move forward and become the most amazing photographer. EVER. capturing the truth in raw, human emotion.
    After a week in prayer, thanking God for that opportunity and praying for direction, God laid on my heart that I don’t need to put my graphic design and wedding invitation business down in order to do photography – that that was my own, human requirement. That through Him, all things are possible. He is faithful and will give me the desires of my heart. LOVES IT 🙂
    Winning this seat for The Total Package would be an amazing follow up to MTH. I now have the skill set to make things happen in my life, along with action plans to get me there and an amazing support system to keep me accountable. This opportunity would allow further growth of that skill set – learning how to create an amazing customer experience, a brand that speaks truth, is authentic and provides a sense of trust among my clients and peers. This knowledge will harness a confidence to walk over apprehension, indecisiveness and fear to dig out a place for my business(es) that allows me to stand out, be a leader, not a follower. It will help me sort through the clutter and the ever wondering eye to realize my vision and create an authentic brand presence – one that is strong, unique and cohesive (marrying, or not, both the invitation and photography initiatives).
    This is amazing and I’m so excited for this possible opportunity!
    {tweeted this giveaway – https://bit.ly/gGokUQ}

  28. Christina B. on February 2, 2011 at 1:26 pm

    tweeted! paperzest

  29. Monica Brown on February 2, 2011 at 3:07 pm

    2011. Hmmm. 2010 was better than 2009, and thus far this year is rocking out. I did not make resolutions. I have learned to create GOALS this year. First being to be more present with my family. It seems there is always something to distract me from actually being in the moment with them. I am learning to ignore the distractions and focus. The biggest change in my life this year is taking care of my health and mental well being. I have begun training for a mini-triathlon and am already seeing results. Not only physically, but in my energy levels. Which in turn helps me to attain all of the other goals I have set. I am VERY excited to attend MTH in Vegas. It seems it was meant to be. I look forward to assessing my business and personal goals so that they align, and create JOY for me and my family. I know I can…I know I can…

    (I posted on my business fb page. I really hope my friends read it!)

  30. Chris on February 3, 2011 at 9:45 am

    2011 is all about two things for me: Clarity and Organization. MTH2010 set a lot of things in motion, and I really feel like 2011 is going to be a great building year.

    We are in the process of defining our business as clearly as we can, ans striving to execute that vision. And as I said, organization is a huge priority. I’m even learning Quickbooks, so you know I must be focused! 🙂

    Of course I would love to win an instax camera – I’ve been eying them for a while. And I would also LOVE to win a seat to the Total Package, even though I’m sure there are others who deserve it more than I. But I will be in Vegas that Monday… 🙂

    Thanks for everything you do Lara!

  31. Liz on February 3, 2011 at 10:35 am

    Lara – you are AMAZING! Thank you for your continuous inspiration and positive energy!… and for the opportunity to win this FABULOUS prize! 🙂 Our goals for 2011 involve (not only) dreaming BIG, but DOING “BIG and BIG Things!” We have a lot of exciting things that we have set out to accomplish this year and our biggest realization has been to Just Do It! Our goals… live the lives we dream of with the purpose of making a difference in the lives of others along the way!

  32. Ulmer Studios on February 4, 2011 at 8:21 am

    Made the leap at the beginning of this year and at home full-time with our photography passion! No more having this as a full-time job plus a full-time day job! Looking forward to spending more time in His word, investing in my relationship with my wife and spending lots of time in play forts with my 2 year old daughter! My wife and I played our hand at a huge opportunity that could be a huge deal and totally geeking out over the possibilities!

    I wish I could say I could be at WPPI but I won’t 🙁 So for me would just love to get that instax for some rad photos of fort/tent time with my lil girl and wife!!!

  33. Jessica Horton on February 4, 2011 at 8:21 am

    My goals for 2011 include having amazing paper goods created. I want a super, awesome wedding info guide & a super, awesome “thanks for hiring me, your wedding is going to be awesome” guide. I also want to cross the border from being a part time photographer to being a full time photographer. I know I can do these things!

  34. Nancy Mitchell on February 4, 2011 at 8:28 am

    My Goals and Dreams are:

    * I will blog more. More about my life, my business, or whatever my heart tells me to!
    * I will set a schedule to shoot. I need work days so that I can spend more time with my family.
    * I will work out more. I need to get my cardio back, go elliptical! (My friend Velma will hold me to this!)
    * I will get me some custom packaging!
    * I will set up SHOOTQ.
    * I will read the BIBLE.
    * I will have more dinner parties with my friends and their kids.
    * I will make time for more date nights with Brint. Who wants to watch my kids?
    * I will get my office more organized. (Files, taxes, etc.)
    * I will get me some WESTCOTT lighting equipment and learn how to use with hopefully attending Zach & Jody Grays Workshop!
    * I would LOVE to add to my lens collection.
    * I will redo our kitchen and bathrooms. It will be a lot of work because I have to take down some wallpaper, and paint! We need a new refrigerator, microwave, stove, and dishwasher! Hoping we can do all this and stay out of debt!
    * I will fall in LOVE with my husband all over again.
    * I want to attend more photography/business workshops.
    * I will create my own photography workshop. I want to help and teach others.
    * I will get a promo video from 2Duce2Video!
    * I will hire some help. (An intern and an associate so I can grow)
    * I want some financial freedom. Pay off our debt (cars/pool/home)! My CPA husband will LOVE this one!
    * I want to take my family on vacation somewhere warm.
    * I want to make more vacations with my husband!
    * I will read more. My current reads: Crazy Love by Francis Chan and It’s Your Time by Joel Osteen!
    * I want to play more with my kids.
    * Take our 10 year anniversary trip with my grandparents and my sister and brother in law! I missed my 10 year due to pregnancy so it will be a 13 year for us but hey it works! Hawaii or St. Lucia?
    * I want to get to know some of the areas vendors personally!
    * I will find a better workflow.
    * I will update my website/blog with SHOWIT!
    * I will meet my dear far away photography friend in person Keary Dee Cheney!
    * I will have a monthly promotion.
    * I will find my niche!

    My list of Goals and Dreams isn’t finished yet, I have so much more to add, but there is just a few of what I want to happen this year!

    “So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit.” ~Galatians 6:9

    Posted on my blog… https://www.nancymitchellblog.com/blog

    And I am only in it for the camera d/t not attending WPPI this year, bummer! Unless you can do this via SKYPE? Hey, it is worth asking, huh?

  35. Lindsay H on February 4, 2011 at 9:02 am

    my goal is, in short, to not be scared. I can be a better pbotographer but only if i’m behind myself pushing, and that’s what i’m doing. i’m going out at shooting as much as possible and talking to strangers left & right and i couldn’t be happier, I just need that final push & direction that the total package can provide.

  36. Adrienne on February 4, 2011 at 9:26 am

    My goals for 2011 are to work smarter, not harder. I want to be more efficient. Spend more time with family, travel, and have more “me” time. I will blog more, and do more fun shoots just for me. I want 2011 to be a banner year, but with smarter effort. (I’ll be posting to FB and twitter)

  37. Liz on February 4, 2011 at 10:30 am

    You inspired us to blog about our “Big and Big Things”! The post (by Ryan 😉 ) can be found here: https://www.elizabethryanblog.com/?p=1379
    Happy Friday!

  38. Catie Ronquillo on February 4, 2011 at 11:26 am

    2010 was a huge year of personal growth – leaps and bounds beyond what I could stretch myself. In 2011, I want my business to grow. Ever since MTH2010 in Dallas, I’ve been praying on my purpose and the life I want to live, and I believe that I have found it. It seems that it was buried a little deeper than I thought. Something that has been on my heart for a long time now has been to help others see how beautiful they are and how precious their love for each other is. I’ve been doing Beloved sessions (inspired by Jesh de Rox last year at WPPI) and it has been a tremendous experience not only for my couples, but for myself as well. These sessions really move to me to see relationships on a whole new level, as well as examine my relationship with my husband. In 2011, I want to bring these sessions to be a complement to my wedding business. For clients who are looking for more than “just” photos. I’m also creating a boudoir division – separate from weddings, to help women see their beauty and worth in a whole new light. I showed one of my very first clients the back of my camera during her session and she started to cry tears of joy – she had never seen or believed herself to be so beautiful. It was life changing, for us both. It’s that reason I want to build this division, to help women see that they are gorgeous. In 2011, I will procrastinate less, act more, share more, love more, laugh more, LIVE MORE. I hope I see you at WPPI! 🙂

  39. Amber Housley on February 4, 2011 at 12:37 pm

    I am making MYSELF happen this year. I’m putting myself first so I can lay the foundation for making big things happen for my current business – and starting a new one! I wish I could attend The Total Package but I have more important things to attend to – my son’s 2nd birthday! 😉 I would love it if you would consider offering a similar seminar at Engage? For now though the camera would be great. Thanks as always for the inspiration Lara!

  40. Ashley Scobey on February 4, 2011 at 8:16 pm

    Business Goals: Give more through our company, Be published in National print, Inspire other photographers to take chances, Wow every single one of our clients, Create lasting and meaningful relationships with people, Blog 3 times a week, Don’t get caught up in the competition, Be Us

    Personal Goals: Document our lives more often, Move towards more balance, Take a family vacation, Take time to be spouses MORE than business partners, Give more, Serve more

    I tweeted about the giveaway @ScobeyPhotog – See you at WPPI 🙂

  41. Claire Strebeck on February 4, 2011 at 8:25 pm

    My goals for this year are:
    fall in love with myself and my life again…Check.
    organize my life so that I can have more time to actually enjoy my family…Check (in progress).
    Book more weddings…Check (and in progress).
    Be fearlessly conquering my own life…Check.
    Travel across the globe: somewhere, anywhere.
    Whiten my teeth.
    Annnnd…Get help with Branding for my amazing photography company because it is such a great little company, but you’d never know it based off of what my branding looks like!
    (and I tweeted…twat? twaut? twote?…with a link to this post!)

  42. Jen K. on February 5, 2011 at 12:20 am

    Lara! You are such an inspiring and encouraging person. I found you either through Lisa Lefkowitz or Jasmine Star and now I’m hooked on your blogs!

    This year I am making things happen for myself. I am not accepting ‘no’ or ‘I don’t know how’. I am starting a wedding photography business and so far I have already booked 3 out of my goal of 5 weddings for the year. I am doing some major reflections on who I am and what I want to represent as a personal brand. I’m pushing myself everyday to really think about what I want and what that means. I’m reading, reading, reading – there is so much to know! My husband and I are buying a house soon and planning a baby. This year I will do more than I ever have and I can’t wait to see how this year skyrockets me into the years to come!

    Man, those instax cameras are awesome! 🙂 I posted this on Facebook and I forgot to say that when I first posted this comment in case you wonder why you’ve seen this same girl twice!

  43. Lizzi B. on February 7, 2011 at 10:53 pm

    Gosh! I don’t know where to begin. I’ve read a few comments and feel so inspired… And a little overwhelmed! This year, I’m going to make ‘me’ happen. I’m going to aim high and hope… Work hard – on myself, my business, and the relationships I am making. I will make me happen because at the end if the day that’s who I have to hold accountable. Sounds a little cheesy, but there it is.

  44. Lisa on February 8, 2011 at 12:30 am

    I am trying to learn more about myself, photography and our Savior everyday. I don’t want it to be December and say – where did this year go? I want to look back and smile at what I’ve accomplished, who I’ve made feel loved and what smiles I captured. I want to overcome my simple fears and have the confidence in knowing that I can succeed when I set my mind & heart on something important. Whether it’s updating my blog more often or photographing more weddings, I am looking forward to what 2011 has in store for this California girl! (I tweeted about the giveaway @livelovesurf)

  45. Kelli Taylor/Daniel Taylor Photography on February 8, 2011 at 11:11 am

    Thanks for the inspiration, Lara! In 2011, we are analyzing what kinds of brides are the best fit for Daniel Taylor Photography and we’re working hard to refine everything we can do to best serve them.

  46. Jen May on February 9, 2011 at 10:00 pm

    2011 Goal: live to love. A goal that requires passion and focus. If your selection lands on me I’d love the rad camera. 🙂 Also, I tweeted about this great post!

  47. christina moodie on February 11, 2011 at 8:15 am

    Wow this week’s post from MTH has been so great for me and my goal setting this year. I have big BIG goals for this year. 1. finish and launch my new branding. 2.build up my photography skills even more this year. 3. I have a few new ways that I am expanding my business that are still under wraps but coming out this year. I am so excited for this year. Thanks to you and MTH I am dreaming bigger than before and taking action!

  48. Michelle on February 11, 2011 at 9:03 am

    my goals for 2011 are to get my name out there as a wedding craft/decorations designer and even book a few weddings. Camera Please!

    Tweeted it: @heybabestudio

  49. Meg on February 11, 2011 at 9:26 am

    My goal for 2011, among many, is to take my life back from my business. I actually just blogged about this yesterday because I recently allowed myself a trip to big bear for inspiration and relaxing only which was really hard for me to’do. I am a work a holic- there is no better way to put it and its caused me to lose sight of the important things in life. Experiencing my own wedding day last year made me crave more authentic moments and I am doing all in my power to remove the ball and chain of running my own business and take some risks and adventure in my personal life. I have a feeling it might severely effect my business in a more positive way than working non stop will! 2011- year or meg Perotti not meg Perotti, photographer

  50. Darla Sutton on February 11, 2011 at 9:35 am

    It’s nice to be challenged by our goals. Sometimes, it nice to be challenged my others goals. I’ve enjoyed reading the goals others have posted here. Thank you, Lara for your blog and giving us an opportunity to comment. You are so inspiring and lovely. My goals 1. Make more business friends and build relationships 2. find learning opportunities 3. don’t just learn about it- do it! 3. dream big 4. lose more contest (which means I’ve entered more contest) 5. tell better jokes

  51. Eboné Smiley on February 11, 2011 at 10:13 am

    This is the 1st time I am writing them down because I like to keep my thought “safe” in my head for other reasons that are too long to discuss, but MY GOALS FOR 2011 ARE (In no particular order): To achieve Financial Freedom from Major Debt, Build a stronger relationship with Jehovah God, Launch The Smiley Effect, Continue to give back with Girl Talk, Inc., Mentor more young women, Kick my depression in the a**, Get my own place after 4 years, Travel to New York City for business and pleasure, Build a stronger relationship with my younger sister and brother, Get more sleep, Continue to learn from my experieinces and to try to do something I love/enjoy every day of the year! A lot, right?!

  52. Lyndsi Marie Metz on February 11, 2011 at 10:16 am

    2011 is the year that I am going to Make Things Happen! Thanks to everyone at MTH in Atlanta because I am now more inspired than ever! Just this week I have put in notice to quit my day job so I can pursue my dream of being a full-time wedding and portrait photographer. I am incorporating daily action steps to complete my goals and staying positive about my future happiness! My goals for 2011 are to make more friends that are in the wedding business and build new relationships with those friends and future clients, attend more conferences because they always pump me up and by the end of the year I would like to plan to grow my family. Thanks Lara!

  53. Lyndsi Marie Metz on February 11, 2011 at 10:23 am

    I forgot to mention that I just tweeted about this giveaway!

  54. Marcy Jordan on February 11, 2011 at 11:55 am

    I am a terrible blogger, so I’m making 2011 the year where I make my blog fierce! I am so neglectful of social media, so this year I’m stepping it up.

    I retweeted the giveaway!

  55. Chante on February 11, 2011 at 11:58 am

    THIS is the year I go full-time w/ my photography business! All efforts to build my wedding and lifestyle photo business are happening THIS year!
    I have no more restrictions…I graduated w/ my Bachelor’s in Communication, I saved up for this risky time, I’m 22 and have the passion!
    Living by this quote…”Don’t ever let anyone tell you can’t do something. You got a dream… You gotta protect it. People can’t do somethin’ themselves, they wanna tell you you can’t do it. If you want somethin’, go get it. Period.”
    -Chris Gardner
    Twitter: chantelmphoto

  56. Charity Hall on February 11, 2011 at 2:57 pm

    This year I’m taking time to “download” every night as well as making things happen with my photography dream. I already have my first wedding and family sessions planned!! I feel like God is leading me into action, and has used you to guide me. My favorite quote has always been “dream like you’ll live forever, live like you’ll die today. _James Dean” and in 2011 I’m determined to live that out!! I’m blogging about this giveaway on my blog and also on tumblr.

  57. Charity Hall on February 11, 2011 at 2:59 pm

    oops! Forgot to mention, I would love to be entered in the TOtal Package prize give-away but can’t make the dates!! So just the camera for me

  58. Shelley on February 11, 2011 at 3:04 pm

    2011 is my break out year. I’ve been in business for 6 years and have seen llittle growth. This year I have decided to go full steam ahead. I want to progress professionally and personally. I want to face fears that restrict the blooming process. I need to declutter my life but to do this I must learn to selectively surround myself with those that can enrich me emotionally and help me along my journey. Tall order, but I need to make this happen!

  59. Julie Anna on February 11, 2011 at 3:28 pm

    Hi there! Thank you for this opportunity! In 2011 I hope to style and decorate our new home, making it a nice, cozy place we can always come to for relaxation. I also hope to build an even stronger, deeper relationship with the mister, and keep our little Terrier girl full of happiness and good health. My New Years Resolution was to take more pictures of my daily life, this care would be perfect for that! Thanks again, I’ll be tweeting about this giveaway!

  60. Ulmer Studios on February 14, 2011 at 5:21 pm

    I can’t believe I won the fuji-instax mini!!!! So rad!!!
    Thank you so much Lara!!!

  61. Tim on September 17, 2012 at 6:59 am

    Love your site…

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