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

Hi Catie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I honestly didn’t have one. Life is crazy and throws you curve balls constantly. My husband and I fly by the seat of our pants and with his support, I did it. I went to college for business, so the financials didn’t scare me. The people did. I was terrified of failing someone and what they would think of me. I just reminded myself that everyone starts somewhere. My first set of clients were the absolute best and many of them are still with me today. For that, I am grateful. Running a business is definitely a learning curve, but with so much support and the help of Google & YouTube, the opportunities are endless.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I capture all things. I specialize in Seniors, Maternity, Families, Styled Shoots, Business Branding, Couples/Engagements, and Weddings. I also do the occasional lifestyle Newborn session. I’m known for my style of warm, western, and country vibes as well as making my clients fell super comfortable in front of my lens. My style has also been described as carefree and touching with a bit of whimsy and depth. I love capturing authentic smiles and laughs during golden hour and telling my clients story. All of these factor into what sets me apart from everyone else. I am so excited about all the upcoming fall shoots and the cooler weather that comes with them this year. And maybe Christmas minis. I haven’t done them in about 5 years, so it’ll be exciting to jump back into them. Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows and neither is running a business. There are always obstacles and ups and downs to overcome. Hard work, determination, and the support of my family have gotten me where I am today professionally. If I’ve learned anything on this journey, it’s to trust yourself. People will love your art, trust your gut.

What do I want the world to know about my brand and story?

This is a tough question for me. I’ve always been the crazy horse girl. I still am and you can see that in my brand and story, but I’m learning to find joy in the little things and that’s something I want to leave with the world. Be present in the moment because you never know how many more of those moments you’ll get.

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.
If I’m being honest, I don’t visit the city much. I stay in my little corner of the country most of the time. If you want to come to Corsicana, Tx for the day though…We’d most definitely visit my favorite coffee shop, Timbers and do some downtown shopping at my favorite boutiques. The Turquoise Pistol, Timbers, Feed Shack, The Red Brumby, and Prayers From Heaven! If you stay for a week, we would make our way up to the Fort Worth Stockyards to do some more shopping, dancing, watch the rodeo, and many more activities. We’d spend probably a couple days and nights in the roping pen on their visit because that’s where my family and I love to be. I’d make my husband cook, he makes the best gumbo, hands down. Lol

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are several people I’d like to shout, but first I 100% wouldn’t be here without my husband. He has always supported me every way that he can. He’s driven me to sessions, dealt with my constant editing and working on the computer, and had to hear the words “Look at this picture” more times than I can count. He’s helped make some sessions possible with horses and cows and he’s also taken a couple of my headshots. He’s been there after 10 hour wedding days and rubbed my feet and my hands until they felt better. He does whatever I ask of him.

I’d also like to give a shoutout to our Moms. Their support, love, and babysitting has helped make me available to shoot on weekdays and weekends. I promise it does not go unnoticed.

My mentor Sarah, she has all the confidence in me and I’m so grateful to her for answering my random questions and supporting me.

And last, my clients/friends! This was all made possible by their trust and faith in me!

Website: https://simplycatephoto.showit.site/

Instagram: https://simplycatephoto.showit.site/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplycatephoto

Image Credits
All images credits: Simply Cate Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.