Whats Trending…

The quick pace at which trends change and the unpredictability of how consumers behave make marketing more complicated.

What works today might not work tomorrow, so it’s important for marketers to be flexible and quick to adapt. The risks are greater now; a single mistake can lead to a backlash, especially since social media gives consumers a loud voice. Annoyingly, this pressure often results in unrealistic expectations without providing them the respect or pay that reflects their hard work.

While marketing is definitely tougher and more complex now than it was 15, 30, 40 years ago, it also brings exciting chances for brands that are open to change. The shift towards building more interactive relationships with consumers allows for stronger connections, which can lead to loyalty and trust.

Its so important for companies to recognize the heavy demands placed on those in marketing and to push for fair pay and respect that match the challenges of their jobs.

Total Archery Challenge 2024

Well this has been a wild & crazy 5 days!

The girls take on TOTAL ARCHERY CHALLENGE in BIG SKY, MONTANA

You know, it’s funny how life works sometimes. I remember when I was just starting out determined to RUN, knowing the right people made all the difference. It’s those heartfelt connections and shared moments that often open doors and create opportunities we couldn’t achieve on our own. But once those doors are open, it’s what you know that helps you shine and make the most of those opportunities.

At the end of the day, it’s the people in our lives who truly shape our journey and the knowledge that helps us navigate it. And DAMN HAVE I MET SO MANY THIS LAST YEAR AND A HALF!!!!!!

Imagine a group of women, connecting instantly, connecting through dept, each with a spark of ambition that lights up any room they enter. Their drive for more isn’t just a fleeting desire, but a relentless pursuit fueled by dreams and a fearless spirit. They navigate the challenges of life with a grace and determination that’s both inspiring and unwavering. No matter the obstacles, they stand together, knowing that their collective strength and fearlessness will always propel them forward, breaking barriers and redefining possibilities. Their willingness to give at all times, regardless of their own circumstances, adds a profound depth to their character and bonds them even closer. And these are those women—plus Chelsee behind the lens, capturing every moment with her own unique vision!

Sink or Swim

Navigating the job market after being unemployed for 10 weeks was an intense learning experience. Despite doing everything right—meticulously preparing for interviews, networking tirelessly, and refining my resume, investing in hours of education courses, podcasts and YouTube videos—the world just didn't seem to catch up with my efforts as quickly as I hoped. It was frustrating and disheartening at times, but it taught me even more about patience and persistence.

This journey forced me to confront my fears and step out of my comfort zone once again. I feel like I know nothing different since the age of 10. Each application and interview was a test of my resilience, pushing me to keep going even when things seemed bleak. I learned that facing challenges head-on, with grit and determination, is essential for personal growth. The setbacks and moments of doubt were tough, but they made me stronger and more adaptable once again in my life. In 2015 I knew the direction I wanted to go and did as much as I could over time to get to where I am now. This timeframe has not been easy and even in the last year and half so much has been tested to the fullest extent.

What I ultimately took away from this experience is the importance of never giving up, even when the odds seem stacked against you. Success isn't always immediate, and sometimes the world takes its time to catch up with your hard work. But by staying resilient, patient, and committed to my goals, I discovered that I could navigate life's uncertainties and come out stronger on the other side once again….even with all that said there is still so much more work ahead and it’s just now time to adjust the sails. As much as I’d wish to live a calm simple life, but for as long as I could remember it’s never been that. With this chaos it adds so much experience and value over time. These are experiences that could never be broken down in a simple resume but will always be apart of a focused and dedicated practical and professional work ethic.

NRAAM 2024

Making it to NRAAM 2024 was a deeply personal experience for me this year.

Just over a year ago, I attended an event after a three-year hiatus from professional or even hobby involvement in the firearms community. In late January 2023, I was offered my old position back, allowing me to reconnect with something I truly loved.

However, at this 2023 event I felt overwhelmed and out of place. I struggled to engage with others, feeling like a stranger in a familiar world. Doubts crept in, questioning if I still belonged in this space. Ultimately, I left early, my confidence extremely broken.

It was a true reality check, I refused to let it define me. I knew I had a vision for my future and the determination to see it through.

I took intentional steps to rebuild my confidence by staying focused in resources like YouTube videos and expanding my network through social media.

A year later, I am proud to reflect on the journey of rediscovering my passion and the intentional actions I took to get back on track. At NRAAM this year, I was amazed at the full circle moment of reconnecting with old acquaintances and making new and big connections.

To those I finally had the opportunity of meeting at the event, please know that our interactions meant the world to me for various reasons.

Attending NRAAM was not just about the event itself, but about reaffirming my identity, capabilities, and the remarkable progress I have made in just one year. While the job front may still pose challenges, the unwavering support and guidance from the people in my network have been invaluable in navigating this journey.

**I also really didn’t document too much 😂 Jamie( IG: MissGrendel) did and she has all the photos

The impact of who is in your corner…

Having a strong support system can have a huge impact on personal growth and self-discovery. Your support network serves as a safe space where you can share your feelings and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment, helping you navigate challenges and develop resilience.

Photo by: Taylor Lynn Photography/Oak Terrace Media

The supportive ones offer encouragement and motivation, inspiring you to step out of your comfort zone and take risks that lead to personal growth. Surrounding yourself with different perspectives expands your understanding of the world, sparking new ideas & encouraging personal development.

Your support system should always hold you accountable for your goals, keeping you focused and committed to your journey of self-improvement. By giving valuable feedback, guidance, and insights from those you trust, you can learn from mistakes, make informed decisions, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself.

Ultimately, they create a nurturing environment that encourages self-reflection, shares their strengths with you to overcome challenges, and guides you toward unlocking your full potential.

The wisdom, encouragement, and care of your personal and professional circle play a pivotal role in your path of self-discovery and growth.

This weekend I had probably my biggest responsibilities with a camera in my hand, second shooter for a very important wedding. This was more than pressing a button and filling a space. I was determined to take full advantage of the opportunity and respect such a personal responsibility, keep in mind, I said yes on Wednesday, and the wedding was on Friday. But because of my support, I knew I wouldn’t disappoint or become deadweight and could hold my own.

Thankfully I absolutely didn’t fail at this, but I did accidentally get some shots of the grass and my iso was occasionally too high when working with Flash for the first time but I’d rather fail while being brave than fail at being brave. I’ll make mistakes, learn, and grow. I’m in the game, pushing my limits, exploring my potential, and giving life my all. No matter what, I trust in my judgment, resilience, and strength. I’ll be okay, no matter the outcome. Per usual I learned so much walking away from an amazing opportunity and how, if the chance is given again, I’d do things a little differently.

Content Creators vs Influencers

For the last two weeks my head has been buried in my laptop. From marketing course to far too many notes of random 3 am brain dumps.

Something has always been in my mind within social media marketing, my view on the differences between influencers and content creators, the importance of “micro” influencers, rather than the high follower count, and how paramount it is to vet these individuals for brand collaborations. Companies are increasingly investing in content creators and micro-influencers for their digital marketing.

Influencers wield influence over their audience, leveraging their authority, expertise, or personality to sway opinions and drive actions. Their primary focus lies in building a loyal following to their brand and then influencing purchasing decisions. On the other hand, content creators excel in producing captivating and high-quality content across various platforms, prioritizing creativity, storytelling, and production quality.

When evaluating influencers and content creators for brand partnerships, it is important to consider their relationship with their audience. Influencers possess a dedicated following that trusts their recommendations and opinions, making them powerful advocates for brands but also remember having their primary focus still be their own brand first. They collaborate with brands to promote products or services often blindly, integrating sponsored content seamlessly into their posts to resonate with their audience. Content creators, on the other hand, thrive in creating branded content as part of their creative work but may not have the same level of influence on purchasing decisions.

Metrics and performance evaluation play a crucial role in assessing influencers and content creators. Influencers are measured based on metrics such as reach, engagement rate, conversion rates, and ROI in campaigns. Brands leverage influencers to achieve specific marketing objectives and drive brand awareness, engagement, and conversions. Content creators are evaluated based on metrics related to content quality, creativity, storytelling, and audience engagement, rather than a direct influence on purchasing behavior, however, I have noticed a shift in companies investing more in content creators and micro-influencers because of the quality and value they uphold to the brands they are personally passionate about, their followers may be less but their engagement and audience are very valuable.

When vetting influencers and content creators for social media collaborations, brands should consider their influence, content quality, audience engagement, and alignment with the brand's values and objectives. By understanding the difference between influencers and content creators and their respective roles in digital marketing, brands can make better decisions and create impactful partnerships that resonate with their target audience and drive meaningful results in the competitive landscape of social media marketing.

Photo by: Caliber.Row (Alex Row)

'Tell me and I forget…

'Tell me and I forget,
teach me and I remember,
involve me and I learn.'

Practical learning is where the magic happens. It's in the hands-on experiences, the real-world applications, and the tangible results that we learn, grow, and thrive. Theory lays the foundation, but practical learning builds the structure. What you read, watch, or listen to doesn't mean anything unless you're able to actively engage and work.

Practical learning challenges us, stretches us, and empowers us to become the best version of ourselves. It's not just about what we know, but what we can do with that knowledge.

The knowledge in real-world settings has always been the way I learn the most. Learning isn't just about memorizing facts and figures; it's about actively engaging with the material, experimenting, making mistakes, and learning from those mistakes to grow and evolve.

It's the creators, the innovators, and the problem-solvers who thrive in dynamic, hands-on environments where we can run with an idea and see the direct impact of the efforts.

Photo by: Oak Terrace Media

'But You Only Press a Button . . .'

What I see is every purposeful step and turn. A determined focus prevails within the creative storm, revealing a mental control beneath the calm exterior.

I notice the subtle shifts in light and shadows, adjusting angles to capture each moment perfectly. I watch photographers guide their clients, offering adjustments to build confidence and helping them reveal their true selves. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about authentic connections through each shot.

Each image results from hours of planning and years of experience. The meticulous adjustments to settings and positioning bring the envisioned shots to life, all witnessed from my perspective as I admire the dedication of a friend and business owner.

Taylor’s empathetic interactions create genuine human connections, transcending the task's mechanics.

Photographers and digital content creators do more than take photos; we capture stories, extending them across our platforms. Each piece speaks to the emotions and experiences of the day, hinting at deeper feelings and the session's purpose.

Now comes the intense editing—enhancing colors, and adjusting contrasts to perfect each image. This unseen labor distinguishes true professionals from mere button pressers.

I value the depth of dedication and passion that drives any art form. It’s a reminder that every stunning image is the product of skill, creativity, and profound emotional investment.

Despite nearly 80 job applications and facing rejections, I remain committed to my creative and marketing career to be a part of a team, especially from those who offer more knowledge in this area. The path is tough, often forcing me to choose between passion and practicality. Yet, each challenge brings me closer to where I can thrive. I stay hopeful, continuously learning and adapting, driven by something I never noticed my brain was naturally wired for.

Remember, a stunning photograph is more than a click. It’s art crafted with emotion, expertise, and an indefatigable spirit.

Jumping In: Why 60% Prepared Means Fully Capable

Photo by: Oak Terrace Media

Waiting until you're 100% qualified means you'll be waiting forever. DUH! Cliche, I know....

The digital space changes too quickly, and the best way to keep up is to jump right in & stay consistent in the fundamentals. That's why I live by the rule of aiming for 60% ready for…well anything in my life to be honest. It might sound daring, but here’s why it seems to work: that remaining 40% isn’t laziness or lack of initiative — it's a growth mindset opportunity. It's a chance to learn hands-on, and how I’ve noticed to excel the fastest, to adapt, and to push beyond my current limits. It's how I turn challenges into stepping stones and continue to evolve personally and professionally, leveling up every time. It’s about embracing the learning process, and recognizing that being ready isn't about being perfect, but staying true to the proven methods — it's about being open to new experiences and willing to adapt.

Yes, sometimes I post something that goes hand in hand with personal and professional and immediately think, "Was that too much? Is it dumb? Why am I doing this?” I come across a post that makes me feel embarrassed for even being on here...But these moments are actively putting me in uncomfortable growth. Each step, each shot, each post, each seemingly small decision. "Practice what you preach!" The more I am putting myself out there in uncomfortable situations, and different environments, maybe learning the absolute hard way the more I am learning, the more my mindset shifts.

I won't be one to quickly say I am an expert because I recognize there is always something more I can be doing and learning from.