We’re officially two weeks into the new year ,and be honest… who’s still sticking to their resolutions?
I’ve never really been a resolution girl. Lists and lofty promises tend to fizzle out fast for me. But I do love choosing a word of the year — something that quietly guides how I move, how I grow, and how I show up in both my life and my business.
Last year’s word was consistency.
When I look back on last year, that word did exactly what I hoped it would. I worked hard to bring consistency into my work — from how my sessions are styled, to posing, lighting, and editing. I wanted my images to feel cohesive no matter when you booked or what type of session you chose. Looking back now, I’m genuinely proud of that growth. I finally feel like my work reflects a consistent style that defines me as a Grand Rapids newborn photographer and truly represents the Honeywild brand.
This year, my word is control.
And I know when we hear that word, most of us immediately recoil. Control can sound rigid or negative, like the opposite of creativity or ease. But for me this year, control isn’t about gripping tighter or micromanaging.
It’s about building systems. It’s about intention. It’s about stepping out of constant reaction mode. I want more control over how things work across my business and my personal life, so I can be more present inside the moments that actually matter. If I’m being honest, this word feels more challenging than last year’s.
Consistency has visual proof. You can see it in the images. You can see it across my newborn sessions, my editing style, and my studio work.
Control is different. It’s mostly back-end work. Systems, processes, discipline. The kind of growth you don’t always see right away, but absolutely feel over time. One of the biggest ways I’ve already started taking control this year is by completely overhauling how sessions are booked and managed.
For a long time, booking a newborn photography session in Grand Rapids looked like this: direct messages, emails, back-and-forth conversations, waiting on replies, and manually finding times that worked for everyone. While I loved connecting that way, it wasn’t always the most efficient experience — for you or for me. So I spent a lot of time researching client management systems that could give both me and my clients a smoother experience from first inquiry to final gallery delivery.
That’s when I landed on uSession, and honestly, it’s been a dream.
The biggest change has been self booking.
If you already know what you’re looking for — whether that’s a newborn session, Fresh 48 session, maternity session, or personality portraits — you no longer have to wait for me to respond, check availability, or manually schedule your session. You can simply click the booking link on my website, see real-time availability, choose your session type, and reserve your spot.
Easy. Clean. Done.
Here’s how self booking works:
First, click the booking link on my website or social media. Next, select the session type you’re looking for. Then, choose from the available dates and times. Finally, enter your details and complete your booking.
Once you’re done, you’re officially on my calendar as your Grand Rapids newborn photographer.
And if you’re curious: self booking doesn’t mean I’m less involved in your experience.
I’m still very hands-on when it comes to planning, communication, styling guidance, and making sure your session feels calm, intentional, and personal. This system simply gives us both more control over time, expectations, and the overall flow — especially for expecting parents who want an easy, streamlined way to book their newborn photos.
If you prefer reaching out first with questions, that’s always okay. My inbox is still open, and I’m always happy to help. But if you’re someone who already knows what you want, self booking is there to make things easier.
This year is about intention. It’s about taking my dream newborn photography business in Grand Rapids to the next level experience wise. It’s about creating space to be present with my family, my clients, and my work.
Choosing control as my word of the year doesn’t mean tightening the reins. It means designing things to work better — for me and for the families who trust me to capture their baby’s first days.
And if that means fewer emails, less waiting, and a smoother way for you to book your newborn session in Grand Rapids, that feels like a win for all of us.
If the new year has you rethinking how you spend your time or simplifying where you can, you’re not alone. Sometimes it’s the smallest changes that make the biggest difference. If you’re hoping to book a session with Honeywild in 2026, self-booking is now available when you’re ready.
Frequently Asked Questions About Booking Your Session
Do I still need to message you before booking?
Nope. If you know what session you want, you can book directly through my online calendar. That said, if you have questions or aren’t sure which session type is best for you, I’m always happy to chat.
What types of sessions can I self-book?
Most session types can be booked online, including newborn sessions, Fresh 48 sessions, maternity sessions, and personality portraits. Availability is shown in real time so you can choose what works best for your schedule.
Is my session officially booked once I use the calendar?
Yes. Once you complete the booking process, your session is officially reserved on my calendar. No waiting for confirmation emails or follow-ups.
Does self-booking mean a less personal experience?
Not at all. Self-booking simply streamlines the scheduling process. I’m still very hands-on when it comes to planning, communication, styling guidance, and making sure your session feels calm, intentional, and personal from start to finish.
What if I’m pregnant and don’t have an exact date yet?
That’s completely normal. Many expecting parents book using a due date as a placeholder, especially for newborn and Fresh 48 sessions. We’ll finalize details once baby arrives.
xoxo
