We had the good fortune of connecting with Lorien (Holy Feather Woman) Huddleston and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lorien (Holy Feather Woman), putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
A decision I feel has been most critical to my success was a realization I had, that is now my greatest commitment to myself; serving others for the greater good of all. This is, and has always been, my answer to genuine happiness. I’ve witnessed an infinite number of blessings result from missions centered around helping others. I feel I’m able to continue working in this challenging industry due to the overwhelming fulfillment I experience as I watch clients feel supported, seen, even relieved, to have precious moments documented and turned into art that they can cherish for years to come.

The impact of working for myself has been wider than I’d predicted. Believing in my ability to create limitlessly has not only inspired me but, more importantly, those who have followed along during my journey. I’ve watched as my decision to remain determined, work hard, and choose to “trust the process”, has uplifted and encouraged others. Showing them they can do the same.

Teaching “Holistic Wellness” by way of dōTERRA Essential Oils provides me with a very similar feeling, though it reaches even further as it extends to those both behind and in front of each bottle. Every shared dōTERRA product blesses the lives of millions in countless ways; ways related to health, emotions, finances, and more. Seeing Essential Oils create miracles in other’s lives, the way they have in mine, is another dream of mine come true. For me, true success is found in using the gifts I’ve been given to serve others.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My love for art began with pure awe for the way our world looks and feels, and a fascination for painting. It’s the very thing that has led my life to feel magical and empowered. Mostly, the act of capturing and encouraging a feeling, moves me. I now lead my own creations with the intent to embrace the vastness of human emotion. Shooting “Destination Wedding and Elopement” photography, as well as equestrian portraiture, has brought me immense joy. Everybody wants to feel supported, celebrated, and at ease on their big day. I consider myself blessed to give my client’s the gift of confidence, that they have a photographer and friend who not only documents the magic in their special day but, also seeks to contribute in every way possible to a day that exceeds their greatest hopes. I carry this vision into all I do, including the way I share Holistic Wellness through dōTERRA. This is how I create beautifully and authentically.

Being a creative is rarely “easy”, but it is always, undoubtedly, worthwhile. Liberation is ours when we choose to follow our intuition and trust our creative abilities, fearlessly standing in our power and taking leaps of faith whenever necessary. In truth, those who try continuously, never fail; failure is to never try at all. Remembering this in addition to living through love, integrity, and care, has been my way of overcoming every challenge.

I received my name, Holy Feather Woman, from my people, in ceremony; this name carries great meaning to me as it is the energy of my highest self that I will always strive to embody. I live in deep gratitude to my people, the indigenous Lakota of South Dakota. The culture of whom inspires me endlessly and has taught more than I can covey. These roots keep me close to the Great Creator – Wakȟáŋ Tȟáŋka, and ultimately allow me peace and understanding. I have learned that Uŋčí Makhá – Mother Earth, is our greatest teacher and truest friend. It is our honor to love, protect, and honor her in return. She calls us to walk gently, with respect for all that is; that we may give back what has been given in order to nourish a world that will flourish for all to come. Through my art and teaching of Holistic Wellness, I honor my culture and Uŋčí Makhá, serving my people and our land in all I do. This is who Holy Feather Woman is.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love this question! Though I’ve traveled quite a bit, I currently reside in Laguna Beach, California, and it remains one of my favorite places. Should you find yourself here, I suggest taking a dip in the waters of Crescent Bay, followed by an açaí bowl from Bonzai Bowls, and hiking to “Top of The World” for a wonderful sunset view. Laguna is chock full of beauty and fun but those are my “must dos”!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
As far as recognition goes, I pay homage to my parents, Lassen Aria Phoenix and Bryan Huddleston, without whom I would not be where I am today. I’ve been immensely inspired through their examples of humility, hard  work, determination, and service to others. I watch as they continue to change countless lives, both through sharing dōTERRA Essential Oils and their general commitment to conduct life in ways that contributes to the collective. They leave a trail of light wherever they go, as they lead with integrity and compassion. They’ve taught me to believe in myself, and their love has pulled me through many of my life’s most challenging moments. We all need community and that is especially prevalent in my experience as an entrepreneur, so it is to them and all of my dear friends and family that I give my biggest thanks. It is because of the amazing humans who stand with me that I am able to create beautiful things to touch the lives of others.

As far as someone I believe deserves further exposure goes, that would be Lucie Cartier. She is an incredible entrepreneur and the owner of Lucie’s Wholesome Kitchen, a family style food delivery service based in Costa Mesa. Lucie is an incredible cook and her food is a must-try! You can find her on instagram @Lucieswholesomekitchen.

Website: https://lorienhuddlestonphotography.pic-time.com/client

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/featherwomanphoto/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Featherwomanphoto/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRxri_yTjZXvlMFQiZX7_Xg

Other: My photography website is temporarily under construction. To inquire or book a session, contact Loriensphotography@gmail.com or DM me on Instagram.

Image Credits
Family photo taken by Zack Burton.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.