Photographer Carla Ten Eyck - Building NEEP, Creating Joy, and the Power of Connection

Today, we’re thrilled to welcome the incredible Carla Ten Eyck. If you know Carla, you know she’s a force of nature in the photography world and an ambassador of community and connection. We explore Carla’s evolving photography career, her journey into branding work, her passion for creating inclusive and welcoming spaces, and how she beautifully balances the various communities she’s a part of. Whether she’s behind a camera or on the golf course, Carla’s joy and energy are undeniable. Let’s dive in!

https://carlateneyck.com/

https://www.instagram.com/c10ike/

https://newenglandeventpros.com/

Key Topics:

• The Journey to Becoming Carla Ten Eyck Photography: Carla shares how she found her passion for photography and how her career has evolved over the years, from photographing ultra-luxury weddings to her current focus on branding and connecting with people through visual storytelling.
• The Importance of Community and Connection: We discuss the many layers of community Carla cherishes—from her family and local Hartford connections to the broader networks she builds through work. She reflects on how her involvement in diverse groups like the Hartford Public Library and the West Hartford Chamber has enriched her life.
• Bringing Joy and Purpose into Work: Carla speaks about how her experiences outside the wedding industry, like her branding collaborations and creative partnerships, keep her work feeling fresh. She emphasizes the importance of being an inclusive connector, inviting others into the unique world she’s built.
• Empowering Young Creatives: Carla and Melissa discuss the challenges and opportunities for younger professionals in underappreciated trades, such as sewing and tailoring. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of traditional craftsmanship and the importance of empowering the next generation.
• Balancing Life and Business: Carla shares her approach to keeping her life diverse and dynamic, from traveling with her kids to finding joy in unexpected places like the golf course. She also talks about involving her children in her work, creating meaningful experiences, and embracing balance.

Takeaways:

• Creating Connection: Carla’s mission is to use her talents to connect people in authentic and uplifting ways. We learn that even the simplest tools, like a camera or sewing needle, can be transformative when used with passion and purpose.
• The Power of Inclusivity: Carla’s dedication to making everyone feel seen and welcomed is a powerful reminder of the impact of intentional community building.
• Finding Balance: Life isn’t just about one thing. Carla inspires us to integrate different experiences to keep our creative energy flowing.
• Inspiring the Next Generation: Whether through photography, sewing, or trades, there’s a better way to live and thrive in these crafts. Carla and Melissa both encourage us to uplift and mentor future creatives.

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/

Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story