Meet Natalie Forsythe | Photographer & Accountant

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

Hi Natalie, why did you pursue a creative career?
Fun fact: Photography is not my primary career. I pursued accounting at Stephen F. Austin State University and am currently serving in a finance management role at Martin Marietta.

In 2017 my nephew was born and soon after I discovered a passion for photography. (He’s quite the handsome little man.) For me, photography lets me utilize the artistic side of my brain, along with creative thinking versus the critical thinking and analyzation that consumes the accounting world.

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.
While I have always enjoyed taking photos it did not develop into a passion until after my nephew was born , which was about four years ago. I had recently switched from a high paced public accounting position in the Houston area to a local oil and gas company in my hometown of Carthage, Texas. I found myself experiencing a true work life balance and was able to start pursuing other hobbies and interests that did not revolve around accounting.

In photography and accounting there have been (and will continue to be) many lessons I have learned along the way. One lesson however has remained strong – faith in Christ. Time and time again I have found myself in situations where I’m not sure what’s coming next. From family to finances, to my next career move, I know without a doubt that if I keep my faith God will carry me through the turmoil, the unknown, and the decisions.

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.
A week in East Texas would consist of visiting a different town every day! In Carthage, the day would start with a trip to 903 Bakery for the best white chocolate mocha in town and the largest cinnamon roll I have ever seen. We would then venture down town to shop at the local boutiques (Revival Threads & Co. is my favorite!), visit the Old Jail Museum and eat lunch at Texas Tea Room. After lunch, we would stop by Sunflower Mercantile to get a scoop of Texas’s own Blue Bell ice cream in the old fashion soda shop before heading to the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The day would end by picking up a Kountry Fresh pizza and heading home to enjoy the evening before heading out to my absolute favorite town in the Pineywoods of East Texas, Nacogdoches.

Nacogdoches is old town charm mixed with modern day amenities. The town is home to my Alma Mater, Stephen F. Austin State University (Axe’em Jacks!) and also the most beautiful azalea gardens in the area (they’re a photographers dream!). The day would start with brunch at 1st City Cafe in The Fredonia Hotel, followed by shopping in the downtown area and a quick caffeine pick me up at Java Jacks. We would then drive through the SFA campus, stop for mani/pedi’s at Nails 2000, and end the day at The Cottage enjoying a glass of wine and savory charcuterie board in their wine garden. If you prefer a cold beer, a local brewery neighbors The Cottage and offers live music on the weekends and is another great option to top off your deep east Texas experience.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My sister is the driving force behind me pursuing my photography business. She has been my number one supporter, not only with my business journey, but with life in general. She’s my built in best friend, my road trip duet partner, the Thelma to my Louise.

Website: www.nataliemaedesigns.mypixieset.com

Instagram: @nataliemaedesigns

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-forsythe-aa993581/

Facebook: @nataliemaedesigns

Image Credits
Kimberley Maxey Photography Natalie Mae Designs