Today we’d like to introduce you to Briana Fernandez
Hi Briana, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My story is rooted in family, faith, and finding beauty in both the joyful and challenging moments of life. I’m a stay-at-home mama to four amazing kiddos (6-year old girl, 3-year old boy, and 4-month old twin boys) , a photographer, a marketing professional, and a singer.
A huge part of who I am today is shaped by my brother, who battled Batten Disease. Walking through that journey with him taught me about resilience, the depth of unconditional love, and the importance of savoring every moment. His joyful spirit and strength inspires me daily, reminding me to approach life with gratitude and purpose.
My husband, Luke, has been my absolute rock through it all. His unwavering support and love give me the confidence to pursue my passions while balancing the beautiful chaos of raising our kiddos. Our four children have brought an entirely new dimension to my life – they’re my greatest joy, showing me how to see the world with wonder, patience, and creativity.
Photography has been a passion of mine since 2012, allowing me to freeze time and capture the raw, authentic beauty in everyday life. My marketing background helps me share these stories in meaningful ways, whether through my own work or by supporting other small businesses. Singing has always been my personal outlet for expression and connection – my way of spreading joy to others.
At the heart of it all is a deep love for my family and a desire to live a life rooted in faith, creativity, and community. Whether it’s through my work, our “homestead” adventures, or just being present with my family, I’m grateful for the journey that’s brought me here and excited for all that’s still to come.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I truly believe every trial has shaped me into the person I am today. Growing up, my brother’s battle with Batten Disease meant my parents’ focus was naturally on his care. I had to grow up quickly, learning independence and resilience from a young age. While it wasn’t always easy, that experience gave me a deep sense of compassion and a unique perspective on what really matters in life.
As a teenager, I struggled with endometriosis, which brought its own set of challenges—physically, emotionally, and mentally. At 15, I was told I’d likely never have children, and carrying that weight through my teenage years into my mid-twenties was incredibly difficult. But it also fueled a deep appreciation for the unexpected blessings that came later when I became a mother to my four beautiful children.
One of the most memorable moments of my life was when I lost my brother, just seven months after my son was born. I was at our cabin, four hours away from home, on a lake with no road access. I had been FaceTiming my mom for six hours, trying to be present as much as I could from afar. Just four minutes after I hung up the phone, he passed away. The moment is something I carry with me every day, the peace that washed over me knowing that he was finally free from this bondage, but it also taught me the importance of being fully present with the people I love.
Every struggle, every heartbreak, and every challenge has shaped me. They’ve taught me resilience, deepened my faith, and given me an appreciation for the simple, beautiful moments life offers. While the road has been anything but smooth, it’s led me to where I am today – full of joy, knowing to live intentionally, and showing love to everyone.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My work is a reflection of my passions – I love creating, connecting, and telling stories, whether through music, photography, or marketing.
I sing in an acoustic trio called Riverside Unplugged, performing throughout the Twin Cities. We focus on intimate, stripped-down versions of songs that really let the music and emotion shine through. I’m also part of Riverside All-Stars, a high-energy cover band that plays weddings, corporate events, and galas. We’ve been honored to win Best Of on WeddingWire five years in a row, which I’m incredibly proud of because it reflects how much joy we bring to people on some of the most important days of their lives.
As a photographer, I specialize in couples, families, and business showcases. My style focuses on capturing authentic, lifestyle moments—the real smiles, the quiet glances, and the beautiful, unposed snippets of life that tell a deeper story. I believe in making people feel comfortable in front of the camera so their true personalities can shine through.
On top of that, I have a deep love for marketing, especially when it comes to working with companies I genuinely believe in. Helping businesses share their story in a way that resonates with their audience is something that lights me up. I’m passionate about crafting meaningful content and strategies that not only attract attention but build real connections.
What sets me apart is the heart I pour into everything I do. Whether I’m singing at a wedding, photographing a family, or helping a business grow, I’m all about authenticity and connection. I want the people I work with to feel seen, supported, and celebrated in whatever journey they’re on. At the end of the day, I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built and the joy I get to share through my work.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to be my authentic self. Life has thrown its share of challenges my way, from personal struggles to professional growth, and through it all, I’ve realized that staying true to who I am is what brings the most fulfillment. Whether it’s in my work, my relationships, or how I show up for my family, embracing authenticity has allowed me to connect more deeply with others and live a life rooted in purpose and passion. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://BrianaFernandez.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/brianailesefernandez
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/brianafernandezphotography
