03/17/2026
For most people, March 17th is an excuse to wear green and maybe drink some green beer.
In my world, March 17th is the day I officially began my business. It’s the day I made it legal.
Today is Marinda Fowler Studios’ golden birthday.
We’re turning 17 on the 17th.
And in today’s world, that feels worthy of celebration.
So many businesses don’t make it past the first three years. So to be able to say I’m celebrating 17 years in business… I’m so damn proud.
I can honestly say that I’ve been profitable every single one of those 17 years. Some years more than others, of course. But never not profitable. And that’s something I don’t take lightly.
There have been a lot of moments over the years where I thought about calling it quits. Closing my doors. Walking away.
But deep down, I’ve always known this is what I’m supposed to be doing.
In late summer of 2024, I hit what felt like rock bottom in my business. I didn’t know if I was going to be able to keep up with my overhead. I remember sitting in my therapist’s office, sobbing, fully convinced I was going to have to shut everything down.
And if I’m being honest, I think I lost myself long before that.
When my studio burned in late 2022, a huge part of my identity burned with it. It has taken me this long to feel like I’ve found that version of myself again.
I was mentally over everything. I pulled away from my business. I neglected it. And I think a big part of that was resentment.
I was angry.
Why would the Universe let me land my dream space, feel like I finally had everything I had worked for… only to take it away like that?
I had a very real plan to walk away and go back into the workforce. Not entirely sure what I would’ve done since it’s been over 20 years… but I was ready to figure it out.
Instead, I picked up a small part time job just to get out of the house and out of my head.
And that little detour showed me two things.
One, I absolutely could go work somewhere else if I wanted to.
But more importantly… I didn’t want to.
I just needed space to breathe so I could see clearly again.
And I’m so glad I didn’t close my doors.
Because I’m still here. And honestly, I feel like I’m stepping into a version of this business that’s even better than before.
I don’t know exactly how long I’ll keep doing professional photography, but I can tell you this… I’m not done yet. Not even close.
I have ideas. I have plans. And for the first time in a long time, it feels like I’m building again with fresh eyes.
If you’re still here reading this… thank you.
If you’ve supported my business at any point over the last 17 years… whether you’ve stepped in front of my camera, referred a friend, liked a post, or simply cheered me on… thank you.
The trust you’ve given me to document your lives, your milestones, your memories… it means more to me than I could ever fully put into words.
Happy golden birthday, Marinda Fowler Studios.
17 years in… and I’ve reclaimed my throne. 👑
