Building a Life That Feels Like Home with James Witty

There’s a kind of magic that happens when you create a life and career that truly feels like home. A place where success isn’t defined by just a paycheck, but by the relationships you nurture and the joy you find in the journey.

I recently had the chance to sit down with my good friend James Witty, an entrepreneur who exemplifies this philosophy in everything he does. James and his wife Jess have been professional destination wedding photographers for over a decade, photographing over 600 couples worldwide. But when I asked him about his career highs, what stood out wasn’t just about the number of weddings or the milestones of his business—it was about the relationships he’s built and the growth he’s experienced along the way.

James’ story is a reminder that entrepreneurship isn’t just about hustle. It’s about finding balance, staying grounded, and constantly evolving to ensure that your career supports the life you truly want to live.

Here are some key takeaways from my conversation with James:

1. Relationships Are the Foundation of Success
At the core of James' success, both personally and professionally, are the relationships he's cultivated over the years. He shared how his wedding career hit a milestone during a vow renewal ceremony, where he got to look around and see the people who have supported him along the way—his family, his friends, and business partners. These weren't just attendees at a wedding, they were the people who helped him get to where he is today.

For James, that moment was a high, but it was also a reminder of why he does what he does: to create meaningful, lasting connections in both business and life.

2. The Highs and Lows of Entrepreneurial Life
James spoke about how business can often feel like an emotional rollercoaster. It's easy to celebrate the highs, but it's the lows that offer the most room for growth. His reflection on a low period in his career, where he felt physically and emotionally drained despite outward success, is a powerful reminder that business isn't just about the numbers—it's about alignment. 

The key takeaway? No matter how high you rise, it's essential to stay grounded and self-aware, because success that doesn't align with who you are won't bring true fulfillment.

3. The Power of Small Shifts
One of the most unexpected insights from our conversation was how small changes can create big results. For James, a turning point came when he decided to take control of his physical health—starting with something as simple as walking into a CrossFit gym.

It wasn't just about fitness; it became a "catalyst habit"—a small decision that changed his approach to business, relationships, and even his personal growth. Fitness, in this case, didn't just help him physically—it shifted his mindset and fueled his drive to achieve more, both personally and professionally. 

4. The Importance of Vulnerability in Business
Throughout our chat, James emphasized the importance of being vulnerable—not just in personal relationships, but in business as well. He explained that, especially on platforms like Instagram, it's easy to showcase the highlights, but true connection happens when we're real about the struggles.

By sharing his own low points, James encourages other entrepreneurs to lean into vulnerability. This transparency, he believes, can actually drive business growth and deepen client relationships. It's about showing up authentically, no matter where you're at.

Want to listen to our full conversation?
[Check out the episode on High, Low, and Unexpected 🎙]