As a soon-to-be-mom myself who owns two companies (www.SimplyBhealthy.com and www.TestimonialsInternational.com) under which many successful ventures fall, I love to see what other moms are doing for inspiration and passion outside of being a wonderful mom. Can we really juggle a million balls and not let them drop? While there will always be some compromise, I truly believe doing something you love or creating a business from the ground up can be extremely rewarding without sacrificing being #1 to your little one(s). As women we need an outlet, "me time" and something that gratifies us outside of the home. It's when our entire identity is "mom" that we find ourselves disatisfied, lonely or lost once our kids grow up. I'm not saying every woman needs a career, but I am suggesting we all need activities that help us keep our spark. Whether it's a hobby, talent, new friendships, partime or full time career - we need to maintain a sense of self. Each month I will be featuring an inspiring Baby Belly Fit Mompreneur to help us support one another and get inspired. It is with great pleasure that I introduce our first inductee!
It takes a special eye and talent to make a pregnant woman feel comfortable taking photos when she is at her most vulnerable. When you feel stretched beyond possibility, swollen like a puffer fish and hormonally challenged like a 13 year old. To be able to capture the beauty that is a woman creating a life is a precious art. Kristine Freed of Kristine Freed Photography does just that. She is this month's "Baby Belly Fit Mompreneur"
What is your occupation?
Were you a photograpther before you had kids?
Before my boys I was an elementary school teacher. Once pregnant with them I knew I couldn't be the teacher AND the wife/mom I'd want to be. Luckily I was able to stay home with them. I found myself with a camera in my hands ALL the time, wanting to capture each moment of their lives. Through them I grew a deeper love for photography and wanted to capture other's moments as well!
Why did you choose a business in photography?
I have always loved kids and always loved taking pictures, so this gives me the best of both worlds. I love capturing the many faces of people- whether it be a smile, serious/curious/intense look, or even a silly face! Nothing is better than when my clients see their pictures for the first time and are in LOVE with what I have captured for them!
What message you hope being a self-employed mom will send to your kids?
I hope my boys grow to love photography as much as I do. I think it's so important to document life and have those memories forever. It thrills me every time they ask to use the camera and walk around taking pictures. I hope they see that hard work pays off and I hope I inspire them to always follow their dreams.
How does it feel to contribute to the family income?
I don't contribute to the family income much- most of my income has gone back into my business, but it is nice to have a few extra dollars to spend on myself here and there ;).
Was it ever a question of if you would work?
What's nice is that my job doesn't feel like work. I love doing it so much that it's just so much fun for me! I knew I didn't want to go back to teaching and I'm so grateful that I was able to pursue a dream and do something I just enjoy.
How do you balance working for yourself and family time?
What is your business website? Contact info
www.kristinefreed.com
www.facebook.com/kristinefreedphotography
mail@kristinefreed.com
Any specials, event or contests you are offering?
I am currently offering a Senior Portrait Promotion and looking for Class of 2013 Senior Spokesmodels! I will also be posting Holiday Session info soon! THANKS! ;)
