I had the honor of photographing the second annual Joyful Life with KJ retreat in Hickory, NC. For me, this wasn’t just another gig—it was a deeply personal experience, and one that brought together years of friendship, laughter, and shared growth.

KJ and I go way back. We were coworkers for many years before she decided to take a leap of faith and pursue her dream as a full-time health coach. Over the years, I’ve witnessed her journey firsthand. KJ is a beautiful balance of support and reality—she’s genuine, hilarious, and completely authentic. Her coaching isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress, and that shines through in every aspect of her work. Whether it’s in the kitchen or in life, KJ’s approach is relatable and filled with grace.

This retreat was a reflection of her heart and passion for helping women live their most joyful, authentic lives. I spent several days leading up to the event in the "admin house" with KJ and her incredible team. The energy in that house was nothing short of electric. Between prepping trinkets, setting up lessons, and organizing delicious meals, there was no shortage of laughter, deep conversations, and of course, a few moments of controlled chaos. Watching her team pour their hearts into every detail made it clear how much this retreat means to KJ—and to the women who attend.

The weekend itself was transformative. It was a space where women could come together, shed old labels, and replace them with ones that were grounded in their faith and personal growth. From laughter-filled moments to tears of release, the retreat was overflowing with love and support. As I photographed the event, I witnessed the powerful breakthroughs these women experienced. The beauty of it all was in the vulnerability they shared with one another—creating bonds that I know will last a lifetime.

Being able to capture these moments through my lens was a gift. It reminded me how special it is to be part of something that helps others on such a deep, personal level. My hope is that through these images, others will be inspired to explore their own paths to joy and authenticity, just like the incredible women who attended this retreat.

To KJ, her team, and the women who allowed me to be part of this experience—thank you. Your stories, strength, and spirit are something I’ll carry with me always.

Wanna learn more about Joyful Life with KJ? Visit KJ's website or follow her on Facebook.