“The currency of real networking is not greed, but generosity. ”
I have known Whitney for a few years, but it's only recently that we have grown closer. I always admired her confidence and grace. She is the type of person who always sees the best in people and situations. It always blows my mind to see her in action. She is talented, artistic, compassionate, fair, and brilliant. I didn't know it, but when we started working together two years ago, I found a life long friend.
Whitney has shown me faith where others question. She takes chances on my ideas, gives me creative control, trusts my instincts, and I'm sure theres a million things she's done on my behalf that I have no idea about. She can see the things in me that even I am not always sure exist. She goes to bat for me and values my contribution. She encourages me to try new things and cheers me on as I stumble through it. She is patient and she is literally one of the kindest people I have ever known. If you have ever had someone like this in your corner, you know how valuable and rare these qualities are.
Whitney's gifts are numerous and I am lucky to bear witness to her in action as my boss, but also as a contractor. On the side she started a photography business, Whitney Gustafson Photography, and from one creative to another, she was born to do this. She has a way of pulling light and beauty out of people. Her images not only capture the likeness of her subjects, but she has a way of pulling their personalities through as well.
I have an ongoing project with a favorite client and we needed images for her site. Not just any images, but the kind of images that make you see the true beauty in someone. I immediately suggested Whitney for this project, and am so glad it worked out.
As a marketer and networker, it's important to me to introduce clients to people who can truly bring value and substance to their business. Julia with Julia Lacy Enterprises is an expert in her industry and has something that sets her apart. Her clients are spectacular and we both agreed that we wouldn't need to look any further than her current clients as models for her site. All that was needed it a photographer who understands Julia and her vision and I knew Whitney would be perfect.
Whitney is a professional through and through. She blends into the situation and makes people comfortable with her gentle assertiveness. These qualities bring out the best of the people she photographs and it's so much fun to watch and later see the results. Not only am I grateful that she wanted to do this project, but I am grateful to have her in my little black book. She is a person I will never regret referring to someone. Her integrity and work are solid and I appreciate everything she brings to the table.
Whitney, if you read this, thank you for all you have done for me professionally and personally. I know I have told you that I appreciate you and that I am grateful for your time and support, but I want you to know that you also have my support. If there's ever anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate. I know that's not your style, but I hope someday to return an ounce of what you have given to me. Thank you.