A Wedding Photographer's Response to Covid19
/
A Wedding Photographer’s Response to Covid-19
Feeling a little vulnerable here.... as a very small business owner, who started her business during the recession of 2008, I have learned how to live with and even accept my fear. One could say that over the past 12 years of being the sole provider for my family, I’ve had plenty of practice. Lol
Today’s climate is no exception. But unlike 2008, when I pretended everything was fine when it wasn’t, I’m here today to share that I’m not fine....
But I’M GOING TO BE… because being honest about your feelings is one of the first steps to recovery. I’m struggling with waves of fear, stress, loneliness that I can no longer hide. I also worry for my clients, as well as my family and friends. Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, I’m not sleeping very well... who is?
One thing that hasn’t changed during all of this craziness, is my belief in gratitude. I turn to gratitude many times throughout the day, especially for my wedding couples. I’m grateful they are postponing their weddings, and not canceling. They are holding on to their hopes and dreams while managing their own stresses and fears. They’re maneuvering through this crazy time, mourning the loss of memory making moments, like bridal showers and engagement sessions, in exchange for the greater good for us all. On a very real and personal note, Sam and I have been planning a vow renewal for our 25th wedding anniversary this year and we are now having to discuss the possibility of postponing it. My heart sinks every time I think of it.
“It’s a scary time for small business owners”
For us small business owners, it’s a scary time. I didn’t start my business just for the paycheck..If all I cared about was a paycheck, I wouldn’t be working for myself. I became a photographer because I believe, with every fiber of my being, that photographs can change lives. It has mine. Being able to support my family by documenting life’s milestones and creating memories is a privilege. Because of today’s circumstances, those moments are being postponed. For every postponement of a wedding, there is income that is also postponed. There’s never been a more important time to continue supporting small businesses.
Here are a few practical ways to help your small business friends during Covid-19
(credit: amanda donaho photography)
If you have a service with a small business owner scheduled, PLEASE postpone, do not cancel.
If you have the means to pay for your services as planned versus postponing that payment, please consider doing so.
If you know you want a future service, offer to purchase a gift card for yourself NOW.
If none of the above apply to you but you can say a kind word in an online review or refer a friend to that service provider, please DO IT.
I mentioned before that I am scared, but I know I’m going to be fine despite the recent headlines that the small business rescue loan program is now out of money. I am here for my clients, staying safe at home and keeping the faith. I’m staying flexible and optimistic as we keep the lines of communication open. I’m learning new skills, taking workshops, reorganizing my business so that I come out of this stronger and better than before. And I know my clients are here for me, too. Your texts, emails and calls have been a beacon of hope for me and Sam. Thank you! I truly have the best clients and the most wonderful job on earth!
I pray for all those in my industry and others who are going through this. Let’s all support each other with love and kindness. When this is all said and done, I’ll see you on the dance floor!
