We had the good fortune of connecting with Crissy Escalera and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Crissy, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
Success can be defined to many as achievements, milestones, etc that have been reached but personally, I define success as achieving at the absolute bestest potential I for myself. As long as I know I’ve given it my best and not withheld back or given up from my own achievements and goals, then I know I’ve succeeded. It’s not giving up but if and when you fall, getting up, shaking it off and keep going.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In regard to my photography, it all began many, many years ago…. about 10+ years. (Whew! That is a long time! ) It all began with a small compact camera that I carried around everywhere to document moments while my husband was deployed overseas (so he wouldn’t miss out!) then I started getting creative & people started asking me to take their photos. I took the leap of faith and did so. It wasn’t long after that my husband upgraded my camera and then I was asked to photograph a wedding! After I lost the fear and saw the trust people had in me and my work, it just took off into successful sessions and clients becoming friends.
With my wedding coordinating, it was one day that my brother in law (Josh- DJ Kurve) needed a wedding timeline put together and I offered to help. It was then that I realized I already do the coordination “unofficially” at weddings… as a photographer, I follow a tentative timeline but also found myself zipping bride’s gowns, talking to vendors to coordinate day of events, etc… so I decided to accept my brother in law’s suggestion to help him out to coordinate weddings the day of. Within a few months, I found myself coordinating about 4 weddings!!! After the 1st wedding, I knew it was what I wanted to do & meant to do.
In regards to obstacles, there is always obstacles but it’s overcoming that makes it much more rewarding. I am currently trying to figure out which direction to keep pursuing my creativity… photography or coordination? But life is short, so meanwhile, why not both?!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Haha! Humm, I’d say let’s go wherever the day takes us. I know as a coordinator and photographer, itineraries are a staple, but I’ve had the bestest times just going out to eat, then if I hear some Salsa/Bachata songs playing at a nearby bar, you know I will drag you in there to dance the night away and then more food, oh and lots of coffee and/or wine!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost I’d have to thank God for blessing me with talent, creativity and courage to keep pursuing my dreams. Secondly, I’d like to thank family/friends and my clients for having love & faith in my dreams and helping me to achieve my successes. My clients are to thank so much for trusting my to capture their memories, milestones. My clients trust me with their big day to make it memorable for years to come. I’d also like to thank my fellow creatives for also pushing me to keep going when I’ve felt like giving up. Thank you!
Website: https://crissyescalera.mypixieset.com/
Instagram: Crissyescaleraphoto
Facebook: Crissy Escalera Photography