michelle lillywhite shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi michelle, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I have really been enjoying walks around our neighborhood during the summer. There is a gentle coastal breeze that comes up the hill and I love being able to walk at my 3 year old’s pace and practice the art of patience and attunement.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Michelle Lillywhite and I am joyfully married to the love of my life Spencer and we have three kiddos, ages 2 months, 3 years and 5 years old. I am a photographer and garden educator based in sunny San Diego. I currently take on a handful of local weddings a year and also photograph families! My wedding work mainly takes place in La Jolla or up in the mountains of San Diego. I have recently also dove into the world of cut flower gardening. I had some really fun spring sessions this year where I brought my very own cut flowers. I have dabbled in the past as well with a print shop and love capturing places around San Diego that add joy to my client’s homes. I take a fine art approach to all of my photography work and love shooting pictures that are timeless, romantic and editorial. I try to imagine my client hanging up art work in their home or printing an album from their session when I shoot. I have always loved wildflowers, the textures of wild grass and oak trees and the way the ocean glistens when it breaks. I love to tie in the beautiful textures of the natural world while I’m shooting and often include nature prints in my sessions. Something I’m working on is hopefully opening up a few spots a week for garden consulting. It brings my heart so much happiness to teach others how to grow beautiful things!
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed that my voice was quiet and often felt mute when I wanted to speak up most. I had a hard time saying no and wasn’t aware of my boundaries. As an adult, I realize that my words have the power of life and death and being able to use my voice to bless others is one of the best gifts! I love being able to challenge, encourage, joke and speak up for myself now as an adult. I realize how valuable I am and that my life and words can make a beautiful impact on my children, husband and friendships.
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
As a teen, I met a dear friend named Madeline who truly listened to my heart after a breakup. She was so present and was attentive to my heart and its needs. She had a wisdom beyond her years and eventually led me back to my faith. She still inspires me with the way she cares about others souls and is now in the field of counseling, which is so so perfect for her.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
I think so but I also guard the deepest parts of me for my closest friendships. The real me is silly, sensitive, honest, cares about beauty, wears her emotions on her sleeves and often contemplative. I think as I get older, I care less about performing for others but I also have gleaned wisdom that only certain people gain access into my inner heart. For those closest to me, they know how goofy I am and also how deep and thoughtful I am. As an adult, I have finally learned to embrace the more hard to love parts as part of God’s beautiful design and am less afraid to show up that way. I realize that when I do share my inner heart, it brings a sense of connection with others that no people pleasing ever could.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Definitely my investment in my children! I’ve had to make some sacrifices in my career to spend time with them. It can be challenging to my identity at times watching people succeed in ways that I used to. Some days I feel like I am tending to messes and little hearts all day and no one is noticing. Other days, I am answering existential questions and giving out hugs that fill my heart with an amazing joy. I know that these young years with my kids will be gone in the blink of an eye. The investment I am pouring into their hearts is one that is a high calling. During these beautiful years with them, I am choosing to focus on work projects that bring me joy and peace. I’ve downsized a lot and structured a business around my life with them that feels sustainable and wise.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lillywhitephotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellelillywhite/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lillywhite-photography-san-diego
