Oh my, I have been sitting at my computer for a long time now, wondering where to begin. This is so, so hard for me to write. It’s so hard because I’m still struggling with whether I’m making the right decision. But I’m trusting my heart this time. I am writing this note to let you know that I will be closing Sweet Things Photography.

When I started this business 4 years ago, I was a brand new stay at home mom. I had left my corporate marketing job at The Nielsen Company so that I could enjoy my son and watch him grow. And perhaps one day open a photography business. Little did I know that being a stay at home mom was much MUCH harder than I ever thought it could be and that the photography business I dreamed of needed to become a reality, if nothing else but for my own sanity.

I started shooting for friends and family and the referrals quickly came in. This business became a learning opportunity for me, provided me with a break from motherhood, allowed me to have something for myself, and introduced me to so many amazing families who became my friends.

Over the last 4 years, though, a lot of things have happened personally. I became a mom to another sweet baby boy, I faced some serious health concerns, my kids have grown and their schedules have become more demanding, and my husband has taken on much more responsibility in his career. All of these things have caused stress in balancing my business and family life.

I am no longer finding it easy to edit photos during nap times, schedule shoots around my kid’s and husband’s schedule, giving up weekends to shoots instead of soccer games and swim lessons, skipping the family dinner to edit and email. I know these are struggles that every mom can relate to. I always wanted to keep my photography affordable and accessible. However, with the cut that Uncle Sam takes from me each year, the financial benefit that I get from this business is not enough to make up for what I’m giving up. Because of this, recently my heart just hasn’t been in it.

I have worked hard over the years to build my clientele and my skills. I know how much effort went into building this business. Therefore, there is a chance that I may regret this decision one day. However, I know that I won’t regret for a second having more time for myself and my family. Maybe I’ll even pick up the camera for myself for a change. The bottom line is that right now I am needed elsewhere. But this doesn’t mean it’s forever. Perhaps one day down the road I will find myself with more time on my hands and I’ll be able to start again. I have loved this job so very much and am hopeful that I will be able to pick it up again one day in the future. Only time will tell.

I want to thank each and every one of you who has trusted me to capture precious memories of your sweet families. I’ve watched your babies grow from tiny newborns to spunky toddlers to little adults, big brothers and sisters. I’ve seen you go from two expectant parents to families of three, four, and five. Many of you have become friends and like family to me. The thing I will miss the most is all of you. Without question, that is the hardest part. I hope that our paths will cross again. For everything you have done for me and my business, thank you.