Story & Lesson Highlights with Alyssa Bain

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Alyssa Bain. Check out our conversation below.

Alyssa, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I absolutely LOVE to read, and have been devouring books in my spare time! I was an avid reader as a kid and teen but life took over in my adulthood, and I would read maybe 2 or 3 a year for a while there. I’ve been diving back into books in a big way for the past year. It’s such a great escape when I manage to get some time away from editing!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi there! My name is Alyssa Bain, and I have been a professional photographer for 9 years. I started a photo/video company with my sister in January of 2017 back in Denver, Colorado. In 2021, I moved to Phoenix, Arizona and built my current company, Alyssa Bain Photography. I am a three-time winner of The Knot’s “Best Of Weddings” award and have had my work published in multiple magazines. As a female small business owner, I am extremely passionate about what I do! I care deeply about all of my clients and take great pride in my ability to navigate a tough and sometimes-stressful day with the highest level of compassion, professionalism, and skill.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I always pictured myself as an “adult” by the time I reached my mid-twenties: successful, financially stable, self-assured, and having it all together. I’m in my 30’s now, and I’m happy to report that none of us feel like we have it all together, and that’s okay!! We’re all figuring it out as we go, and despite the success I’m fortunate to have had and will hopefully continue having, I’m always going to be growing and learning and that’s a good thing.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
This is such a great question. I’d tell my younger self to listen to my intuition when it’s speaking to me, and not let the opinions of others be the guiding light by which I travel. It can be so hard to navigate life when you are a people-pleaser and feel responsible for the happiness of others; always make sure it’s not at your own expense!

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think the wedding industry in general really pushes this feeling of needing to spend $40,000 or more on your wedding for it to be an amazing day. Some of my favorite weddings that I’ve ever photographed were elopements on top of a mountain, or small family gatherings in the woods. The most important thing is that you are doing what works best for you and your partner, and that you feel amazing on your wedding day. And of course, personally, I’d say photography is an absolute must – you want someone there who can capture your day and bring your memories to life through amazing photos!

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I think I’m doing what feels exactly, intuitively right for me at this time in my life. I don’t know that anyone is “born” to do one specific thing, but I think we’re all capable of doing things that align with who we are and where we are, and I’m so lucky to have found that in photography. Certainly no one told me to do it – in fact, a few people warned me not to! I’m glad I didn’t listen to them!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.alyssabainphotography.com
• Instagram: alyssabainphotography_

Image Credits
Alyssa Bain Photography