The Magic of Planning a Year in Advance
Boulder Colorado Family Portrait
I want to share a little story with you.
About three years ago, a mentor of mine gave me a piece of advice that felt impossible at the time. She said, “You need to open your calendar to clients a full year in advance.”
At that moment, I honestly couldn’t imagine it. The thought of mapping out my entire next year, including work, family, travel, and life, felt overwhelming. Especially with two kiddos who split time between households, plus two in college, and yes, even our house full of pets with needs I can’t always anticipate. It seemed like a pipe dream to plan that far ahead with any confidence.
But here I am, heading into my third November of sitting down to plan my year in advance, and I can say without hesitation it has been life-changing. I actually look forward to it!
I start with a pen and paper planner, the same kind every year, and the only thing I change is the color. This year’s is a rich forest green. Not gonna lie, I get super excited to choose the new color each year. I like to think it sets the tone for the months ahead.
My first year was rose gold, when I was channeling the soft launch of my business and success. Last year was blue, focused on calm and continuity, a reminder to stay the course. This year, I’m channeling evergreen, creating life practices that can withstand the test of time, through both the ups and the downs.
I’ve already marked our annual Tahoe trip, school holidays, and as many family events as I can predict. Instead of feeling boxed in, I feel grounded. There’s a sense of calm knowing the biggest parts of my life, both work and family, are aligned. It helps me create a game plan for balance in the year ahead, making sure all my goals align, family, church, yoga, gym, work, and romance.
Of course, things shift. Dates move. Life happens. But the major moments are there, intentionally set and protected.
An unexpected joy has been hearing from my clients who started booking me a year in advance. They love it too! It gives them first pick of dates, more time to dream about their session, and the peace of knowing they’re already on my calendar for the season they want most.
PRO TIP: One of my clients this year chose the most perfect fall evening, and I asked her, “How did you plan such a beautiful night?” She said she had researched the best fall dates for weather and color and booked accordingly. I love that kind of intentional planning, and we truly had the most stunning session.
What started as something that felt impossible has become one of the most freeing and empowering parts of running both my life and my business. It’s not just about organization for me, it’s about creating space for what matters most.
If you’re already dreaming of your 2026 family or senior session, now’s the perfect time to reach out and get on VIP email list. My calendar will be opening soon!
