Meet Shelby Knox

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cedar and Lace Creative.

Hi Cedar and Lace Creative, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Photography was always something I loved, specifically photojournalism. There is something about the palpable emotions that exist within those photos that honestly move me to tears more times than not. I have always been a creative soul, inspired deeply through photos, films, music, and nature. Honestly, as I approached 30, I never thought I’d be able to build my passion for photography into my reality. I was married and had 2 kids, settled into a (not so creative) career that I had spent countless years of my life perfecting through education and experience. It was safe to stay right here. But when we think we have it all figured out, life throws an unexpected curve ball that knocks the breath out of you. 

2020 was a rough year in many ways for many people. When a pandemic swept across our globe and took many of us out of work, I was wrecked when I was laid off. I felt stuck again, and in that time we all spent at home, I wasn’t so sure the career path was for me anymore. Then the worst thing imaginable happened, and I lost my big sister that November. 

The reality is, I knew that in that moment, life was far too short to just ‘exist’ in something because it’s safe, it pays the bills, it’s what you went to school for, or it’s the only thing you know how to do in your adult life. I wanted to do something creative that set fire to my soul again and gave me a new view on life. Something that challenged and inspired me every day. Something that was mine and maybe a legacy I could build and leave for my children. 

From the loss of one of the most important people in my life came an opportunity to start over in my career. I was blessed enough to inherit part of my sister’s estate. This was the push I needed to take a giant leap of faith as well as sow a piece of her legacy into my photography business. The biggest hurdle to overcome as a new business owner, especially one that requires lots and lots of expensive gear, was how was I going to foot the bill. And while I want her here with me sharing in this success, I knew the choices I made to start my business were meant to be. I wouldn’t be here as a photographer, living a life I’m in control of, one that I have created, had it not been for the beautiful, giving soul of my big sis. 

The future is a place full of excitement and adventure now. Meeting new clients every week, watching families grow and go from marriages to babies, and seeing the most amazing smiles on their faces is the thing that keeps my heart beating with that passion I always longed for. It’s the thing that drives me to be a better mom to my kids and capture the magic in their eyes, a better wife and partner to my sweetie as we work together flawlessly on wedding days, and a better entrepreneur as I build my business amongst some of the most amazing creatives here in Ohio! 

I’m truly thankful, grateful and blessed to now finally fully live life one beat at time. (Or one photo at a time, if you are corny like me). 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For the most part, photography has been fairly smooth. Getting my name out there has been the toughest part, as I’m not the biggest guru when it comes to social media. However, I have been blessed with some amazing clients who share their experiences with me to their friends and families. And from that, my business continues to flourish! 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a photographer that specializes in weddings and families. I think I’m most known for the candid interactions that I capture among my subjects. You know, those REAL smiles, giggles, and sometimes happy tears. I’d have to say the things that sets me apart beyond my lens is my interactions with clients. I treat clients like friends. We have real conversations during sessions; we laugh, I keep in touch with them beyond our session. I make things super easy and carefree while still keeping it professional. I am down for almost any suggestion and spend more time focusing on the individual family than making every session cookie-cutter. Being an authentic storyteller is about telling the unique story per individual family or couple, and not as a way to market my business. I truly, truly care about the deeper story embedded within each family and couple. I think this is why over 65% of my clients are repeaters! Which to be hired more than once is the biggest compliment! 

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I currently live in Marysville, Ohio. I love how quaint this town is, and the real community feel it has. We have only lived here since 2020, so I’m still learning, growing, and thriving here. This place will always have a super special place in my heart as it is where I started my business. Many of my beautiful clients live here and seeing them within the community not only brings me joy but makes me proud to live in a town so community oriented. 

The only thing I wish the city had is a beautiful botanical garden so I could stay more local for photography sessions rather than traveling to neighboring cities. While there are beautiful parks here, I think the community would really thrive with something more nature-forward, like open pastures/meadows, wildflower fields, ponds for fishing, etc. However, the city is working on a Metro Park and to say I’m excited is an understatement! 

Pricing:

• Weddings (3hrs – 10hrs): $1200- $3000
• Couples: starting at $295
• Families: starting at $325
• Maternity: starting at $295
• In-Home Newborn: starting at $450

Contact Info:

• Website: https://cedarandlacecreative.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cedarandlacecreative/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cedarandlacecreative/

Image Credits
Cedar & Lace Creative
Family of 4  by Sara Bee Photography