Florida to California - Reliving a Revolutionary Retreat
As I walked into a trendy all-white Palm Springs, California house, I was overwhelmed with a deep profound gut feeling of gratitude and the surrounding presence of all the individuals that have come before. As I physically open the sliding door for my feet to emerge into this room buzzing with chatter and goosing with joyful vibes, I was moved with emotions. This room boldly held the presence of beautifully successful (in their own ways), professional photographers, individuals, partners, friends, mentors, business owners and so much more. The sheer fact that I, Marlo Moody, a girl from a tiny town in Florida would have the opportunity to be in this same room, still astonishes me after a month of attending the most revolutionary Mastermind Retreat by Elena S. Blair! As I stood breathing in this rush of feelings, I was forcing myself to lean into an unspoken fear that I’m not equipped with a quarter of the photography knowledge that is standing in this room but completely open to this self-awareness and the acknowledgment that I am here for a reason. Willing. Open. and Ready to absorb all of it! A reason that I am still defining and will continue to evolve with and without my camera.
Palm Springs, California - Marlo Moody Photography
Now that I am back home in Tallahassee, Florida I am still processing and reliving the retreat. Reflecting, I remember it was this time last year that I approached my groom about applying for a photography Mastermind. I honestly, had already done an interview but it wasn’t the right time to start it the year before. I remember the kids had just left for school and I asked Mike if he would reconsider this class one more time with me. I proceeded to dive into the positive side that I noticed would bring to my photography business. I had been researching and watching Elena S. Blair for two years ever since I took a class of hers online. I connected with her voice and her passion for empowering other photographers. Mike and I understood the investment it would be for us both to say yes. It was not just a commitment financially but also time. After a good hour’s conversation, we both agreed to say Yes! It will forever be a pivotal shift in my life by saying yes to Elena S. Blair’s Mastermind Cohort.
Five months of multiple weekly zoom calls plus dedication to lean into the fears and unknown. I truly listen, grew, and continue to act on all the knowledge that was provided to me. I kept singing the song “I’m on the edge of glory” by Lady Gaga over and over in my head. This Mastermind adventure with Elena is packed full of believing in yourself, creating a foundation for success, and developing a plan that works for you. Elena’s gift of seeing YOU and graciously giving her all in the class was refreshing, motiving, and inspiring. I quickly realized that the Mastermind was impacting my personal life just as much as my professional. At the end of the Mastermind experience, Elena host a retreat for all to attend and open to alumni as well. Unsure if I could personally afford the trip but knowing that I would definitely regret not going catapulted me into continuing to work hard each day.
Have you ever experienced a “God Wink”? Or as my mom used to say “God cracks me up”! It was the beginning of December and like most of us working hard to finish up the 2022 year and wrapping gifts like crazy at night to be prepared for Christmas. I get a call from Mike (hubby) all excited about something…”bebe you will never believe this but I just signed a new client that is from Palm Springs”. We both realized that this dream of going to the retreat turned into reality! I’m still laughing at how God truly works the details out for us.
Elena S. Blair’s Mastermind Retreat surpassed all expectations and continues to impact my life. From around the world incredible photographers, Bridget Wood and Brooke Schultz gave us insight into their successful photography business. Guest Speaker on “how to balance life” time management by the talented Neyssa Lee Photography. Her insight on balancing your weekly goals into a tangible Top 3 list has changed my day-to-day workflow with Marlo Moody Photography and my laundry! The amazing Canon Team allowed us to test out an array of new camera bodies and lenses. Thank you to each of you! Your time, energy, and love for photography and business ownership are inspiring.
By far the most influential was strengthening the community that was created. Deepening lifelong friendships and solidifying the passion within me. The retreat gave me the personal touch that I didn’t know I desperately needed. The joy of meeting up with these beautiful photographers made me feel like I was a child on Christmas morning.
I showed up to the retreat as me, unapologetic just as I am, and left two days later changed forever. My “Why” behind my photography passion is more refined which purposely carries me in my daily accountability. The photography business can be lonely (and some days they still are); however, now I have Elena’s Mastermind Cohort community on my side. A community that’s foundation is empowering, uplifting, and encouraging!
A pivotal YES a year ago that will continue to allow me to slide open doors! Thank you Elena from the bottom of my heart for who YOU are! You have gone before me in so many aspects of this business (and life). I will forever be grateful for the gift that you so graciously give to this community.
The most amazing Mastermind Retreat by Elena S. Blair Photography. I am still on a creative cloud and don’t want to get off. Loved having the opportunity to capture a few beautiful photographers along the way.
