Today we’d like to introduce you to Danahia Hill.
Hi Danahia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Wife and mom of three, I knew I wanted to do something special with my life. I knew that I did not want to live an ordinary life- I’m not ordinary, I have never been. I was born without my left hand and I have been different since the day I was born. Though I have always worked for someone else, I knew in my heart that I wouldn’t be truly happy until I created a company of my own, a legacy, if you will.
I have always had a passion for all things that stimulate my creativity. Art, music, singing DIYs, planning, photography, etc. Not to stop there, I am a huge people person. I make friends with anyone and everyone- sometimes random people at the park, my husband will tell you. I always want to inspire and motivate others, share my story in hopes that it will help them in some way.
I am now the owner of My Hand in Life, a full brand that includes blogging, influencing and photography, as well as co-owner of Howard and Hill, an online clothing boutique. I can proudly say that I have created a name for myself and hope to continue to grow and learn. It is a dream of mine to supplement my income from my full-time job to pursue my businesses further. Reaching 20k monthly views on some of my social media platforms, I can say that I see good things are coming.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Staying consistent, grinding, hustling to follow a dream can be hard when you’re raising three babies. My husband is a big supporter of mine and constantly steps in when I need to leave for an event or photo session. Without his help, it would be much harder so I am grateful for that.
Putting myself out there for the world to hear my story hasn’t always been smooth either. The fear of rejection or judgment has always stayed in the back of my mind. Will everyone like me? Will they think of me any different because of my limb difference? It is a scary thing to take down the guards and talk about raw content. It takes guts. The encouragement and kind words, once I finally mustered up the courage was what kept me going. It is the people that took the time to support me and share their love for me that allowed me to keep doing what I do with confidence. The thought of inspiring someone else or helping a young child like I once was to overcome fears and obstacles is all I’ve ever wanted out of this. I want others to feel beautiful in their own skin, radiant regardless of flaws, and perfect despite any differences.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I do work full-time still. I have a 9-5 job that helps support me while I pursue my dream. What I do during the other hours of the day are: Family photography, weddings, newborn sessions, birthday sessions, engagement, etc. Anything you can take pictures of, any special events, I can capture it for you. What sets me apart from other photographers is that I have the passion the love. I am the storyteller. I don’t just click to take your photos. I talk you through them I capture the love and uniqueness- I’m a sucker for good composition. I have been told by families that they are comfortable around me. I make sessions fun instead of work. Spend a hour with me in a session and you’ll see.
I run an online clothing boutique with my sister and love every minute of it. While my sister researches and shops for new items and trends and I constantly update our social media and marketing. Together, we have created an easy shopping experience with some really adorable pieces, if I do say so myself. We want women to feel beautiful, just like they deserve. We have chosen to keep our price point reasonable as well. Affordable style and we intend to keep it that way. We appeal to moms just like ourselves.
Any big plans?
Of course, growth, but more importantly, happiness. I am setting myself up now so that my future self can focus solely on my business and leave behind the 9 to 5. In my photography business, I am expanding into weddings and hope to have more experience under my belt after this year’s weddings. In our clothing store venture, we are planning to launch more mommy and me items as well as kids apparel, jewelry, accessories, etc. The sky is the limit!
My family and I have even talked about starting a YouTube channel for viewers to have a closer look into our family moments and lives. This is something we’re hoping to start soon!
Contact Info:
- Email: danahiahill@gmail.com
- Website: www.myhandinlife.com and www.howardandhill.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/danahiabaileyhill and www.instagram.com/howardandhill
- Facebook: Danahia Hill and Howard and Hill
- Youtube: My Hand in Life
(Howard + Hill)- me in the white dress with my sister
