We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Podesta and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
I allowed myself to be a beginner. I worked for free without charging clients until I could afford my liability insurance. I made mistakes, but have yet to failed because I have learned something from each experience..

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Adventure Elopements are my passion. Having the opportunity to capture love, connection, the commitments people are making to one another is a honor and a privilege.. At times I am the only witness to these incredible intimate moments where two people vow to love and care for one another, special doesn’t even begin to describe it. It doesn’t hurt that I have the opportunity to work in some of the most beautiful places in America, miles away from other people and civilization. Starting a business is never easy, finding your groove and making mistakes are a part of that, almost like paying dues. I just kept putting myself out there and working hard, working for free or even losing money at times, and it’s still been very rewarding. Even in the trying times. My brand is all about love in the wild and capturing those memories. My main focus is all on the client experience and customer service.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh my gosh! We live in the most amazing area of Colorado! My number one place to start would be the Mount Princeton Hot Springs! Probably Ski Monarch, rent bikes and hit up some trails between Salida and Buena Vista! If it were summer we’d definitely do some river rafting, hiking (maybe summit a 14’er or two), and fishing! Places to eat!! Our little town has so many amazing establishments! House Rock is our go-to for allergy friendly, and the Buena Vista Viking during food truck season (May-October). Simple Eatery and Sporelle are also favorites. For a fancy night out we would enjoy the Wesley and Rose at the Surf Hotel. Deerhammer Distillery is our absolute favorite place for drinks in town. Hands down. And the Buena Vista Roastery is our favorite coffee spot.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Definitely my good friend and mentor, Victoria Taylor of Vee Taylor Photo.

Website: www.amandapodestaphotography.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/amandapodestaphotography

Facebook: Facebook.com/amandapodestaphotography

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