Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexis Mann.
Hi Alexis, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, let’s briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Hello, I’m Alexis Mann, and I’m thrilled to share my journey with you. My entry into the business world began alongside my brother, Jerry, who opened Nature’s Table Cafe next to Orlando International Airport in 2002. Throughout my college days at Valencia College, I worked at the cafe on my off days, gaining practical insights into business while studying business. After graduation, I joined my brother as a partner at the cafe, taking on a managerial role. Working closely with my brother and now-husband Danny, we weathered the challenges of the 2008 recession. Our time at the cafe became more than just a job—it was where Danny and I fell in love. The cafe, nestled in an office building, allowed us to build a close-knit community with our daily customers, making it feel like the iconic show Cheers.
Amid our cafe responsibilities, Danny and I discovered a shared passion for storytelling through visuals. Leveraging Danny’s background as a cinematographer and director, we ventured into wedding photography. Our company, Celebration Weddings, was born out of our love for the town of Celebration, our home since 2001, and our admiration for the magic of Disney in the community. Balancing our work at the cafe and capturing weddings across Central Florida, we hustled and thrived in our dual roles as videographer (Danny) and photographer (myself). Our ability to work seamlessly together reinforced our belief that we were business partners and life-long companions. Personal milestones marked our journey—marriage in 2012, the excitement of our first pregnancy in 2016, and the subsequent heartbreak of losing my brother in early 2017. Despite the challenges, we persevered, keeping our businesses afloat and finding unexpected joy in the arrival of our first child. The following year, our daughter joined our family, a poignant reminder of life’s cycle amidst the grief of loss as she was born one year after losing my brother.
In 2018, I learned that my son was a unique soul and was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This new reality shifted my focus, and I dedicated myself to ensuring he had a strong community for support. I initiated a Meetup and Facebook group called MOMS of Celebration, organizing playdates to connect with like-minded friends and build a supportive network for families seeking a space free of judgment. While my family was a rock throughout this journey, I found immense comfort in the shared experiences of fellow moms who accepted and supported us as we faced this new reality. As my kids grew older and entered school, I rekindled my passion for photography. By 2022, I decided to leap and opened Upon a Dream Photography LLC in March 2022. This marked a full-force commitment to share my love and passion for photography. The journey, though challenging, has been enriching, and I look forward to continuing to capture and celebrate life’s beautiful moments. Since committing myself to my photography business in 2022, I’ve woven in many aspects of what I’ve learned along my journey as a business person. Drawing from my experiences in the hospitality industry at the cafe, I’ve infused that same warm and welcoming spirit into Upon a Dream Photography LLC.
In my photography business, I’ve embraced the ethos of hospitality by learning about my clients. Understanding their stories, preferences, and desires allows me to tailor each session to reflect their unique personalities and capture moments that resonate with them. To further enhance the client experience, I’ve established a VIP community, offering exclusive opportunities for early access to mini-sessions and keeping them updated on all my latest offerings. As I embark on this entrepreneurial venture, I carry the indomitable spirit my brother Jerry instilled. His teachings continue to guide me, and I sense his presence as a guardian angel watching over me as I navigate my career. Unfortunately, the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a significant pivot for many of us. We decided to close the cafe, igniting a renewed commitment to embrace photography as my full-time pursuit. The shift was not without its challenges, but it became a pivotal moment that allowed me to focus entirely on my passion for photography.
My heightened awareness of sensory and special needs is another facet of my journey that shapes my approach. Understanding that each client has unique requirements, I strive to create bespoke and comfortable sessions. This ensures that we capture beautiful moments and make the overall experience enjoyable and stress-free for everyone involved. Being a photographer is not just a profession; it’s a passion. I cherish the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, to understand their stories, and to capture them in a way that makes them proud to display those moments throughout their homes. My clients are not just clients but an extension of my family. I feel blessed to showcase the beauty of my hometown, Celebration, through my lens and to be entrusted with capturing the special moments of my incredible clients. This journey is not just about photography; it’s about creating lasting connections, celebrating life, and sharing the joy of each unique story unfolding before my camera.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The challenges I’ve faced, such as the profound loss of my brother and best friend, Jerry, coupled with the diagnosis of my son with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), have been formidable obstacles in my life’s journey. However, rather than allowing these challenges to define me negatively, I view them as transformative experiences that have sculpted me into the resilient individual I am today and applied them to my photography business. The profound loss of Jerry has been a monumental turning point, teaching me the immeasurable value of cherishing every moment. His absence is a constant reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of embracing each day with gratitude and purpose. Through this loss, I’ve cultivated a deep appreciation for the fleeting nature of time, recognizing that tomorrow is never guaranteed. On another front, being an advocate for my son diagnosed with ASD has instilled in me tenacity and determination like no other. This journey has taught me the significance of advocating for those who may not have a voice and creating a world that accommodates and understands diverse needs. I’ve become a warrior for my son, advocating for the support and resources he requires to thrive in a world that may not always comprehend his unique perspective. These life-altering experiences collectively shape my outlook, infusing me with an unwavering determination. I’ve learned that setbacks and challenges, though profound, can serve as catalysts for personal growth and resilience. An indomitable spirit marks my approach to life—never giving up and persisting until I achieve what I envision. I refuse to accept a “no” when pursuing my goals, as I’ve internalized the belief that I can overcome any obstacle with determination and a clear vision. The adversities I’ve faced have not defined me in defeat but empowered me to embrace life’s uncertainties with courage and fortitude. They’ve forged a warrior spirit within me that propels me forward, reminding me to savor each moment and relentlessly pursue my dreams.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a dedicated photographer with a penchant for a bright and bold style, I find immense joy in the vibrant art of capturing moments. My photography philosophy revolves around the perfect blend—an artful mix of poised elegance and spontaneous, candid fun. Influenced by the nostalgia of classic JC PENNY photos from childhood, I’ve cultivated a love for freezing, meticulously posed moments and those spontaneous, genuine bursts of laughter and joy. I aim to make the experience memorable and fun during my photo sessions. Engaging my clients in interactive games, I strive to elicit natural reactions that result in authentic and lively photographs. It’s not just about creating images; it’s about crafting an enjoyable and memorable atmosphere that brings out the essence of those I photograph. My attention to detail extends to capturing the subtle nuances of connection. One of them is the size of a child’s hands nestled within those of their parents—a timeless gesture that holds profound significance and will be cherished for generations. Specializing in family, engagement, and wedding photography, I’ve recently ventured into the captivating realm of vacation photography and have had the privilege of working with clients from various walks of life, including reality stars and individuals hailing from around the globe; my experiences have been as diverse as the stories I’ve had the honor to capture. I fondly recall a session with a client visiting from France, where we utilized a translator throughout, adding an international flair to the entire photographic experience. My love for photography extends to showcasing the beauty of my hometown, Celebration, FL. With its picturesque landscapes and diverse settings, it serves as an exquisite backdrop for capturing the unique stories of my clients. There’s a particular joy in getting someone in front of my camera who may start a bit shy, only to witness them transform by the end of the photoshoot. Many clients, discovering a newfound confidence or rekindling a side of themselves they may have lost along the way, express a desire to book another session. This outcome truly fuels my passion for this art form. Each photoshoot is an opportunity to capture moments, unlock hidden potentials, and create lasting memories that resonate for a lifetime.
What’s next?
Looking ahead, my primary aspiration involves establishing a dedicated studio space—an endeavor I am actively and passionately working to transform into reality. The vision of having a studio is rooted in my desire to delve deeper into the realm of studio photography and expand its creative possibilities. As I diligently pursue the realization of this dream, my enthusiasm for studio work continues to grow. The prospect of having a dedicated space opens up exciting avenues for experimenting with lighting, backdrops, and various setups, providing a controlled environment to craft visually stunning and meticulously composed photographs. This studio venture is not merely a professional ambition but a commitment to elevate the quality and diversity of my photography portfolio. It represents a significant step in my career journey, creating a space where artistic ideas can flourish and clients can experience a unique and tailored photoshoot experience. Additionally, a studio will enable me to offer a broader range of services, catering to diverse client needs, whether family portraits, professional headshots, or creative conceptual projects. The versatility of a studio setting allows for unparalleled flexibility and the ability to capture a broad spectrum of visual stories. This venture also aligns with my commitment to providing my clients with an immersive and enjoyable experience. A well-equipped studio enhances the overall professionalism and efficiency of the creative process, ensuring that every photoshoot is conducted precisely and creatively. The anticipation and excitement fuel my determination as I navigate the journey of turning this vision into reality. I envision a space where creativity knows no bounds and clients can enter a world of possibilities. The studio, once established, will not only be a physical space but a testament to the continuous evolution and expansion of my photographic capabilities. In essence, the goal of creating a studio is a multifaceted endeavor—blending professional growth, artistic exploration, and enhanced client experiences. I eagerly anticipate the day when this dream materializes. I can open the doors to a studio that reflects my passion for photography and serves as a hub for capturing moments in a dynamic and creatively charged environment.
Pricing:
- Mini Sessions: start at $199
- Weddings start at $699
Contact Info:
- Website: www.uponadreamphoto.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/uponadreamphoto
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/uponadreamphoto
Image Credits
All images are taken by Alexis Mann Upon a Dream Photography LLC
