My name is Tara Thatcher. I met Paul officially when I shot with him for the first time at the 2014 Arnold Classic in Ohio. It was something I had aspired to do for a long time, and I am so glad I finally made it happen. Hair and makeup with Two Chicks & Some Lipstick, Valeria Nova and Lori Fabrizio, was a big highlight. They are so fun and talented, and make you feel your most beautiful, which is the perfect set up for the shoot. Paul is professional, and so fun to shoot with. He brings out a side of his clients that really showcases how beautiful they feel. We got some really incredible shots.
After shooting we chatted a bit about his new magazine, STRONG, and the movement and vision he had. He spoke with great passion about his message through the magazine and the camps. I was so inspired just listening to him. You could feel his passion, and how fully he believes in what he is doing. The STRONGCAMP sounded like something perfect for me. I have my own business, Perfectly Prepared LLC, and my clients are my priority. After exchanging some emails with Paul, we agreed that going to STRONGCAMP would be just what I needed to make myself a priority again.
I signed up for the STRONGCAMP in San Diego. I needed to go somewhere warm. Being from Minnesota, San Diego sounded perfect. I arrived a day early, to spend some time by myself and explore the area. I was so excited (and a little nervous) to meet everyone on Friday. Jessie had set up a meet and greet at a local sushi restaurant. I was so shocked at how nice everyone was and how well everyone got along. Jessie was the perfect choice to head up the camps. I knew right then that I was in for a really special weekend.
We met up again the next morning and started with a partner workout. It was challenging, and Jessie was super motivating throughout the whole thing. We learned so much that day, about nutrition, workouts, and got to know each other a bit as well. It was so much fun learning about the ladies that attended, about their lives and why they were there at the camp. I realized I was at the camp because I needed to make myself a priority in my life again. Attending STRONGCAMP was the first step towards towards that. I choose to share some of my story during some reflective time we spent together at camp. I didn’t even realize I was thinking some of the things that came out of my mouth. I was scared, but I am so glad I did. Many of the women came to me afterwards to express how they could relate to my story and that they were glad that I shared. We had a relatively small camp, where everyone really bonded with each other. The positive, upbeat attitude that Jessie led the group with was truly inspiring and motivating. Everything we did that weekend was handled with care, well thought-out and coordinated. I am so glad I met each and every one of the ladies who attended the camp. We all keep in touch.
STRONGCAMP was an AMAZING weekend, because of the vision of empowering women, wherever they are at in their lives and fitness journeys. Because of Jessie Hilgenberg’s amazing story, her strength, passion for helping others. And because of the women who attended. Who are all STRONG in their own way. Who have been through so much, but keep their heads held high and moving forward through life. I am so thankful, and so incredibly lucky that I was able to attend. That was my first experience with STRONGCAMP, and it won’t be my last.
So if you are reading this, and you are trying to decide whether or not to go, PLEASE GO! This is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself!
Tara Thatcher
Owner/Founder: Perfectly Prepared LLC