Today we’d like to introduce you to Mandi Lucarelli-Thomas.
Hi Mandi, We are so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised in the small town of Moncks Corner, SC. As an entrepreneur’s daughter, I always wanted to “be my boss.” I graduated from the College of Charleston with a degree in Business Administration and started a career with Palmetto Primary Corporate. After having my first baby, I left my work family to stay home with her. I used my last paycheck to invest in a camera and lens to capture her milestones. This hobby brought out a deep passion that I didn’t know existed. I’ve always loved babies, and I knew I wanted to share the gift of these captured moments with others. I purchased online education, learned how to use the camera, and how to post-process professionally. By the time my second baby came along 17 months later, I had mastered my skills and started Charleston Magnolia Photography. Being self-employed allowed me to work around my husband’s work schedule and have our babies at home with us until they recently started school. Which was the best of both worlds: running my own business and doing something I am truly passionate about while also being a stay-at-home mom.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve certainly struggled, juggling our horseboarding business, photography & motherhood. Still, anyone can accomplish their goals if they are willing to work hard for them.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might need to become more familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
As a family photographer, my heart lies in capturing the essence of newborns and the joy of their first birthdays. Nestled on our 45-acre horse farm, my family and I call a little cottage studio our home. I create natural, cozy, lifestyle newborn sessions and clean, crisp, baby-focused one-year-old birthday sessions here. Each session is a celebration of life and love, a testament to the joy I find in my work.
We’d like to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you.
When it comes to success, I firmly believe that luck plays a minor role. It’s the combination of hard work, dedication, and a deep faith in God’s blessings that has paved my path. I hope my journey inspires others to believe in their dreams and work tirelessly to achieve them.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.charlestonmagnoliaphotography.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/charlestonmagnoliaphotography
- Facebook: Www.facebook.com/charlestonmagnoliaphotography
Image Credits
I took all the images. Mandi L Thomas CMP owns the rights to these images but has also received permission from the parents of all models pictured.
