Why Salt and Stems?
Welcome Friends...
I started photography when I was just 8 years old, taking photos to enter in our county and state fairs. Those early opportunities sparked a desire to keep learning and developing my skills throughout my years in 4-H. After attending junior college in Kansas and later transferring to Iowa State University, I met the love of my life while competing on the livestock judging team.
After getting married, I completed one final year of college, earning both my Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and my Master of Business Administration. Then came the thing that scared me most: moving to Illinois with no background there, very few friends, and almost no connections.
Even through all the change, my passion for photography never faded. I always knew I wanted to pursue it in a more professional setting, but after moving, I struggled to figure out what path that would take. Starting a business in a new place without deep community ties was intimidating. Still, I trusted that if photography was part of God’s plan for my life, He would provide the opportunities and tools to make it possible.
Out of that passion and calling, Salt and Stems Creative was born. When I moved to Illinois, I felt strongly that God was calling me to be “salt” in my community. In the book of Matthew, we are called to be the salt of the earth: to shine His light, spread His love, and glorify Him through the way we live. That passage has always held a special place in my heart.
“You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world... let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:13-16
Salt and Stems Creative was named as a reflection of that mission: to serve others well and be a light within the community. Paired with my love of gardening and my growing passion for cultivating and selling cut flowers and bouquets, the name Salt and Stems Creative came to life.
Today, Salt and Stems Creative is more than photography to me. It is a way to tell stories, preserve meaningful moments, and serve people through creativity, connection, and purpose.
