FABULOUS : PART TWO

You know how it is when you’ve envisaged something for so long, imagined how great it’s going to be, that there’s a small part of you that panics, fearing it’s not going to live up to your expectations. That’s how it was with me.  I was petrified of meeting Jasmine Star. Not because I was scared of her, but because I wanted her to be everything she appeared to be – I didn’t want to walk away from her workshop feeling let down.  I didn’t want a reason to not make her blog the first thing I check every morning.  What else would I read whilst drinking my Milo and having a few quiet moments to myself while the kids ate their breakfast.  But without going all Jasmine this, and Jasmine that on you I HAVE to say she was the least scary person ever, well apart from the fact that, like, she’s Jasmine, and I’m Narrelle, and there’s a big world of difference between us.  But the magical thing is she made me, and probably each person in that room, feel the complete opposite.  What thrilled me the most about the workshop was discovering just how normal, in a Jasmine kind of way, she is.  And because of that I was so much more open to taking in what she had to say, what she had to teach because, really, there wasn’t anything she said that I couldn’t apply to my own life, and my own business.  And that in itself is a good kick up the bum – a shot of inspiration.  And I took a lot of that away with me.

I’m super excited to think about applying the things that stood out to me most, and to watching myself grow as much as the business. In a way I feel like I already have.  I’m certainly a lot clearer about where I want to take things – and that is enough for me really. So everything else was a bonus. The incredible food, the awesome coffee machine, the three days to myself, and the wonderful friendships I’ve walked away with.  I certainly didn’t bargain so much for that last bit, so I’m especially grateful for that.

Another highlight of the workshop, of course, was getting to watch Jasmine shoot.  We had some totally gorgeous models lined up for the day, so we got to practice on them as Jasmine shared with us how she worked, and showed how she engages with her clients to get those beautiful connections she’s known for.  Please forgive me for the overload of images here, but I love each one of them.

And this one below is probably my favourite shot of the lot…

To cut a long post short – I’m incredibly glad I attended Jasmine’s workshop (though I came stupidly close to chickening out).  It really was an absolute pleasure to mee her, and JD (they are even more adorable together in real life than they are in cyberspace).  And of course it was Wonderful (notice the capital W) to meet the other participants and fellow photographers, each one of as excited to be there as the next.  I really, really did get much more out if it than I expected – though I’m not sure what that was if I’m being honest. 🙂

And big thanks to Cathy for putting all the harding work into arranging things from this end.  You’re a legend, Cathy.  It was so great to finally meet you too.  🙂

Also, big thanks to everyone who donated their time and services for the workshop.
Models: Lacy and Evan, and Kristie Jane
Flowers: Daisy Chain Florist
Dresses: Catherine Colubriale 
Hair and make: Elle Vierboom.

All that’s left for me to say now is, if you’ve got this far, if you ever have the chance to go to one of Jasmine’s workshops – do it!  She really is fabulous. 

You totally are, Jasmine!  🙂