Gritty Is The New Pretty - Seattle Woman Empowerment Photographer

This photoshoot encompassed a few of my big BIG passions. First, a female owned business. Obviously, I can relate. Second, a big love of mine -DOGS. Third, being in nature and doing my photography is my greatest calling in life. Photographing a woman’s love for her animals and creating images she can keep forever, long after they are gone, that is not something I take lightly. I’m super grateful for Krystle choosing me and trusting me, and spending this time with me.

On our way to this shoot, as Krystle says below, IT WAS POURING. And at this exact moment, my cat was under- having a major surgery. It was a little bit life or death, not to be dramatic or to make this shoot about me. For the sake of being real, I’m telling all. My cat is alive and well today, incase you are wondering:) BUT, I had to take some big deep breaths, and let go. I trusted the universe that it all would be okay. Krystle was driving from Tacoma, so the threat of her driving all this way and not being able to shoot due to this downpour, that was too much. So… deep breaths, a little heavy metal music, and onward ho.

A little about Krystle, she us an avid outdoors person, has summited Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker, Mt. Adams and Mt. Saint Helens. She is also a world traveler, having visited 23 countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa. As a writer, Krystle has been published in an academic case studies textbook and a scientific journal. She’s a dog mom, has a new baby, and an amazing supporting husband. I was lucky enough to be their wedding photographer!

This the story of the day, and I will let Krystle take it away in her own words. I will link her business at the bottom of the story, and thank you for being here from the bottom of my heart!

“This shoot was so special to me. Dawndra was kind enough to squeeze in 3 concepts for the shoot.  I really wanted to get some good photos of my dogs Memphis and Fetneh. Memphis was about 11 years old in this shoot and I knew he was aging. Although he seemed invincible, it was important to me that I had photos of him -he was magnificent, full of intelligence and athleticism.

Rest In Love Memphis.

Additionally I sold apparel for a non-profit called “Liz Rocks” - and I also wanted images for a small business I founded- Grit City Women. We did multiple outfit changes with two dogs and it was blissful chaos. On the way up to shoot it was pouring rain, yet somehow I was not worried at all. When I arrived at the location, there was a beautiful break in the rain. But we knew we had to move quick. 

The photos of me wearing the Liz Rocks gear are so meaningful to me. Liz was my best friend. She had a sparkling personality and passion for the mountains. At the peak of her career, Liz was a mountain guide and professional split boarder. In 2014, Liz died suddenly in an avalanche ding what she loved most. Words can’t express the shock and grief felt -not only by me but so many friends, family and members of the outdoor industry. We started ‘Liz Rocks’ -and raised 150k for a climbing wall in her honor. The wall to be built at Tacoma’s new YMCA in the coming years.

During the process of starting and executing Liz Rocks, I recognized a need for a community of strong like minded women like myself. Starting an organization solely with passion and not a lot of experience can be stressful and isolating. That’s why I founded Grit City Women! Grit City Women empowers female entrepreneurs and leaders through events, coaching and more recently I have begun public speaking. I took this opportunity to shoot some of our Grit City Women swag!

Life has its trials and tribulations and this last year I lost my pup Memphis. I had him for 14 years and he died at the age of 16. Yes lost another best friend, but I am so glad that I can share his memory with such stunning photos. During the shoot a rainbow came out and we were able to capture the special moment.”

I couldn’t help but wonder if Liz was the cause of that rainbow, a way to say hello to her beautiful friend.

GRIT CITY WOMAN- IS A FEMALE FORWARD ORGANIZATION THAT NURTURES A CREATIVE APPROACH TO EMPOWERING FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS, SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS, AND LEADERS IN TACOMA. Check out Krystle’s brainchild out HERE.

Taken from the website -”Krystle Edwards, South Sound Business Magazine’s 2019 “Top 40 Under 40”, is a visionary supporter of female forward businesses that distinguishes Tacoma as a mecca of grit, creativity, and progressive ideas. She brings formal education in developmental psychology and human biology and her leadership experience to the creation of Grit City Women. In addition, Krystle is the entrepreneur, founder, and president of Liz Rocks; a non-profit organization which provides opportunities for underrepresented youth to participate in mountain activities. Under her leadership, Liz Rocks raised significant funds to build a permanent rock climbing wall and provide youth scholarships. Liz Rocks was awarded the Best Community Organization of 2015 by the Greater Metro Parks Foundation. The Liz Rocks wall, slated to break ground in 2023, will provide a safe space for youth to reach new peaks in the new Scott and Sis Names Family YMCA.”

The Liz rocks Foundation is dedicated to providing opportunities for people to get outdoors and reach new peaks in honor of mountaineer and Tacoma local Liz Daley who was tragically lost in a snowboarding accident while living her dream. And PLEASE read about LIZ ROCKS HERE.

Thank you for reading my blog- Sending you all air hugs, Dawndra