That’s right, friends, Staley Photography is rebranding!

When I created my current website and blog, I didn’t really know what I wanted. I didn’t know what I wanted my business to look like, who my clients were going to be, or even whether it would take off and be successful. But today, I’m running full steam ahead and came to a realization – my current brand isn’t what I want it to be. To put it how a friend of mine described the issue when I talked to her about it, she said, “Yeah. Staley Photography seems a little stuffy for you.” I agree. Nothing against my wonderful husband and in-laws who brought the name “Staley” into my life… but let’s face it. There’s nothing delicate, feminine, exciting, or radiant about “Staley Photography.” When I hear the name “Staley Photography,” even I draw a blank. Who is “Staley”? What kind of photography does she do? Is it a family run company? How many Staleys are there? And on and on…

Now for the exciting part!!! On January 1, Staley Photography will be put to rest and will be replaced by Michelle Joy. Awesome, right?!?!? Even more awesome because Joy is actually my middle name (thanks Mom and Dad!) Initially, I hesitated with pursuing Michelle Joy because I felt like EVERYONE used their first and middle name, and I didn’t want to just be a trend-follower. I wanted to be different! But then I realized… Michelle Joy represents me. For all intensive purposes, it is me! It’s the name my parents gave me that I will have my whole life. As long as my brand represents me and no one else, it will always be unique and special because God created me to be that way!

“I praise you Lord, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14

Not only does Michelle Joy reflect a true version of myself, I’ve realized I have a pretty cool middle name that actually represents a huge aspect of what I want my brand to be – JOY! I want my brides to be overwhelmed with joy when they receive their Michelle Joy welcome package, all throughout their wedding day as they marry the man of their dreams, and then afterwards when they get the first glimpse of their wedding images! There’s nothing sweeter than that, and I believe that every bride deserves this time in her life to be filled with nothing but joy and laughter. I want my seniors to look through their senior portraits with joy at how AMAZING they look, and moms to flip through their family portrait portfolio with a joyful smile on their face as they gaze upon their children’s smiling faces.

For readers that own their own small businesses, I bring you this advice. Create a brand that represents YOU, one that you stand behind and can represent well, that you are proud to send people to. If you are embarrassed to send people to your website because you don’t like the way it looks, fix it! If you avoid social media sharing because you feel uncomfortable, it’s probably because you’re not connected with your brand! Do whatever you have to do to make it you. At this point in history, with so much information floating around everywhere, your potential clients are out there looking for authenticity. They are looking for someone they can connect with, someone they know they can trust. Be trustworthy, professional, and open about who you are. Success will come! Keep pushing.

Stay tuned for the big reveal on January 1! New year, new beginnings. 2016 will be an exciting year to be a #MichelleJoyBride!