If I had to sum up 2024 in one word, it would be WOW. This year was full of incredible moments, new adventures, and a few big decisions that left me feeling ALL the feels (the good kind!). Let’s rewind and provide a 2024 Year in Review.
Shall we?
The Peak of Wedding Photography
This spring and summer, Alyssa Rachelle Photography hit new heights. I had the absolute honor of photographing some of the most luxurious, jaw-dropping weddings of my career. Picture show-stopping florals, designer gowns, and dance floors that were fire.
These weddings were truly the stuff of dreams. Knowing couples trusted me to capture their biggest day was the ultimate compliment. And while I soaked in every magical moment, I also realized something: I was at my peak.
Closing a Chapter with Gratitude
It was a bittersweet decision, but this year, I officially closed the wedding photography chapter of ARP. Walking away when you’re at your best isn’t easy, but it was the right move for my family.
You see, this year, Beckett started school. (Cue all the tears!) And wow—going from spending weekdays together to just a few precious hours after school was a wake-up call. I found myself cherishing those weekends like gold, and I knew it was time to protect that time fiercely.
While I’ll miss the glitz and glam of weddings, I’m stepping into this new season with so much peace—and a heart bursting with gratitude for every couple who trusted me over the years.
Hello, Families and ALL the Minis!
With weddings behind me, I dove headfirst into family photography this year, and let me tell you: I AM OBSESSED.
This fall, we broke records with the most Limited Edition Sessions (aka minis) I’ve ever done—and get this: 90% of the families were brand new to the ARP fam! Seeing fresh faces, capturing giggles, and meeting families who hadn’t done photos in years was the highlight of my fall.
There’s something so special about freezing those moments—messy toddler hair, sibling snuggles, the way your little one clings to you like you’re their whole world. I’m convinced family photography is where I’m meant to be.
Adventures Across the Map
2024 was also the year I hit the road (and the skies!) more than ever for photography. I was honored to photograph several out-of-state portrait sessions, while so many of my Chattanooga clients also traveled to me for their sessions.
But the biggest highlight? Photographing a bucket-list location in the Pacific Northwest during our 10-year wedding anniversary trip! Returning to my photography roots of landscape photography and capturing the natural beauty of that region was a dream come true. And as a cherry on top, I’m beyond excited to open my landscape art galleries to the public in 2025.
Empowering Mamas Everywhere
Oh, and here’s something I never thought I’d say: 2024 was the year I became a digital resource creator! (Fancy title, right?)
I poured my heart into creating guides to help mamas capture holiday magic on their own phones—and wow, did you all show up! Hearing how these tools helped you nail those twinkly-light photos and everyday moments was everything.
There’s nothing I love more than helping moms skip the guesswork and feel confident capturing their families’ stories. And guess what? This is just the beginning of the ARP Shop.
Expanding Horizons for 2025
Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to be branching out into the brand, commercial, and stock photography world. Adding variety to my portfolio and diving into new challenges feels so exciting.
On the home front, 2024 was also a huge year for Cleveland Property Solutions, our real estate investing business. We completed several profitable fix-and-flips using none of our own money—proof that strategic planning (and a little faith) can make big dreams happen.
Big Plans for 2025
As 2024 wraps up, I’m practically buzzing with excitement for what’s ahead. I’ve got SO many ideas for next year—more Limited Edition Sessions, more digital guides, and even more ways to make photography fun, easy, and magical for you.
So here’s to 2025—full of more love, more laughter, and more memories we’ll treasure forever.
Thank you for being part of my 2024 Year in Review. Your trust and support mean the world to me. Let’s make some magic next year!
Let’s Stay Friends
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to book a family session or dive into resources that help you bottle up your kiddos’ childhoods, let’s make 2025 YOUR year. I’d love to work with you, whether it’s behind my camera or helping you rock your own. Contact me here!
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