Baby, Bump, & Business

Introduction

In this episode of Baby, Bump, and Business, host Bee Trofort-Wilson speaks with Audrey Woulard, a Chicago-based portrait photographer and Nikon USA ambassador. They discuss Audrey’s journey from a corporate job to entrepreneurship during motherhood, the challenges of balancing work and family, and the importance of setting boundaries. Audrey shares her insights on creating a structured schedule, the significance of family time, and how to navigate opportunities without sacrificing personal commitments. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-worth and the value of preserving memories in family life.

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Letting Go of Control in Motherhood & Business – Baby, Bump, & Business

Most entrepreneurs shy away from building systems that give them freedom—until motherhood forces the breakthrough. Ricci Taylor, founder of Everly Design Co., shares how she restructured her business to prioritize her family without sacrificing growth or sanity. Her story will inspire you to embrace messy boundaries, delegate confidently, and trust your instincts when it matters most. In this powerful conversation, Ricci candidly reveals how motherhood transformed her perspective on success and home design. You’ll discover how she navigated the emotional rollercoaster of IVF while running a thriving business, and the strategic shifts she made to step away and truly be present with her daughter. This episode isn’t just about business—it’s about redefining what’s possible when you lead with intention and authenticity. We break down: the importance of infrastructuring your team so you can delegate with trust, how to set boundaries that protect your energy, and the mental health lessons learned in the chaos. Ricci discusses her journey through fertility treatments, the guilt that often shadows entrepreneurship and motherhood, and her honest advice for women facing similar challenges. Her vulnerability creates a roadmap for building resilient systems that serve your growth AND your well-being. Why does this matter? Because the cost of not creating boundaries and systems is burnout, missed moments, and a diluted sense of self. The opportunity lies in transforming chaos into clarity—building a business and life that reflect your true priorities. If you’re a creative mom juggling dreams and diapers, this episode will inspire you to lean into the mess, trust your process, and build a legacy worthy of your efforts. This episode is perfect for entrepreneurial moms, creative business owners, and anyone navigating the complex layers of fertility, family, and fulfillment. Ricci Taylor offers practical insights wrapped in heartfelt vulnerability—a reminder that you don’t have to do it all alone, and your best work begins when you give yourself grace.

1. Letting Go of Control in Motherhood & Business 26:17
2. Built a Multi-Industry Business While Navigating Motherhood 49:31
3. I Left My Nike Job With Kids at Home — Now I Shoot NBA Stars 48:10
4. Building A Family Legacy In Photography 27:21
5. "Help Is NOT a Suggestion": How Joshua & His Wife Built a 16-Year Photography Empire as Partners 32:21

Key Takeaways

• Audrey transitioned from a corporate job to entrepreneurship after feeling overwhelmed as a working mom.
• She emphasizes the importance of separating emotions from business decisions.
• Setting strict boundaries is crucial for maintaining work-life balance.
• Family time should always take precedence over business opportunities.
• Moms should not feel guilty about prioritizing family over work.
• The more accessible you are, the less desirable you become in business.
• Preserving family memories is essential, especially during pregnancy and early motherhood.
• Boundaries should be established without the need for excessive explanation.

Guest Bio

Chicago-based photographer Audrey Woulard has been a driving force in the portrait world for over 20 years, gaining international recognition for her work with teens and families. Widely known for her unique style, Audrey regularly draws standing-room-only crowds at major industry events like Imaging and WPPI, where photographers are eager to learn her techniques. As a Nikon USA Ambassador, Audrey is among the elite in her field. She’s also frequently commissioned for high-profile commercial work, with her images featured in campaigns for brands like Pottery Barn and IAM’s pet food. Her work has been published in People Magazine, InStyle, Better Homes and Gardens, and on the covers of Professional Photographer Magazine and Senior Style Guide.Audrey shares her knowledge through her renowned Light Exposed Workshops, where photographers from around the world learn her approach to lighting and portraiture. In 2021, she received the Vanguard Award from Professional Photographers of America, recognizing her lasting impact on the industry.

Resources

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• Website
• Workshops

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