07/20/2026
I don't even know where to begin.
Being voted Best Photographer in Tattnall County for the fifth year in a row is something I'll never take for granted. But this year... it doesn't feel like the other four.
This has been the hardest year of my life.
As most of you know, I lost Tracy. He wasn't just my husband. Melissa Sands Photography wasn't just my business—it was ours. He carried equipment, fixed things, made me laugh when I was stressed, and was always the first one to remind me everything would work out. There isn't a session that goes by that I don't miss him.
There were days I couldn't imagine picking up my camera again.
So... thank you.
Thank you to the ones who waited until I was ready.
Thank you to the ones who trusted me enough to book a session, even though neither of us knew what this new version of me would look like.
Thank you to the people who quietly carried my gear without me ever having to ask.
Thank you to the ones who took those wild behind-the-scenes pictures because you knew that was Trace's favorite part. 🫣
Thank you for the hugs. The prayers. The messages. The check-ins. The love. The encouragement. Thank you for giving me grace on the hard days. ❤️🩹
I know Melissa Sands Photography will never be what it was because the person who helped build it isn't standing beside me anymore.
But because of all of you who stayed, who waited, and who believed in me... Melissa Sands Photography is still here, and I get the chance to rebuild what Trace and I started.
I'll never be able to thank you enough.
Five years. One grateful heart. Thank you, Tattnall County. ❤️
