Two weeks ago, I traveled to Las Vegas for my very first WPPI experience! I boarded a plane with expectations of learning more technical skills and “geeking out” at the Trade Show… But what I gained the most, were the friendships that I made along the way.
I roomed with two amazingly talented photographers and genuinely sweet people, Serena of Love by Serena and Kelly of Spindle Photography. We spent our first morning in Las Vegas walking to the Paris Hotel for breakfast at Mon Amie Gabie, with omelets and cappuccinos! And in the days that followed, I bonded with an amazing group of photographers that inspired, encouraged, and supported one another. I laughed, I cried, I lived more fully than I had done in so long.
On the very last night in Vegas, I sipped prickly pear margaritas and ate dinner at a table surrounded by people that I will forever cherish. I jumped a car and drove to the Iconic Las Vegas Sign. Music blaring, lights glittering all around me, I felt like I was exactly where I needed to be. The amazing friends and the incredible memories will be with me forever.
“There’s not a word yet, for old friends who’ve just met.â€
― Jim Henson
So many of my favorite images from this trip weren’t even captured on capture… Or if they were, it was in the fleeting moment on Instagram or from the screen of an iPhone! Below are a few of these phone-photographs that will forever be a reminder of this amazing experience!
I’ve loved reading everyone’s recaps of WPPI. You girls are all amazing and I’m not at all surprised to hear that you’ve become so close! I’m so glad it was an amazing experience for you and I hope that I can go one year soon 🙂
Such an amazing trip!!!
So many striped shirts!!!! And Mary’s face in the picture of her standing at the podium… priceless!
Clearly I need at least one WPPI experience. Looks like an amazing trip and that quote you have is so so so fitting!!
Oh my goodness I can’t believe it was only a couple weeks ago that we sat together and cried over our desserts at Caesars massive buffet. That night really cemented our friendship, and I’m so thankful that we all got to experience it together. I’ll never forget it! Love you!
I’ve been contemplating going to WPPI sometime in the next couple years but I always get nervous because I’m afraid I won’t know anyone. But I’m starting to think that won’t matter. 🙂
How much do I love thee? Let me count the ways!!! 🙂 Love this post!!!
kinda bummed that the year I decide to take off from WPPI is your first experience! Isn’t it crazy how friendships can form so quickly in that forum?! SO glad that you had a great time!!
Aw Natalie!! I love you!! I will remember our WPPI bonding experiences forever!!! You are so awesome!! xoxo
Somehow I’m just now seeing this post! It was such an absolute joy to meet you and I’m so grateful for you and Serena and to have made a new friend! You are such an encouraging, strong, and talented person and I’m privileged to know you!