by Rachael Venema
Who is Rachael Venema?
Rachael Venema is a woman who radiates love, grace, and a genuine connection with others. A self- described “radiant queen,” she has embraced her life’s journey, learning to love herself while cheering others on to discover their own unique gifts. As the owner of a fine art portrait studio in Ankeny, Iowa, Rachael’s story is not just about her thriving business; it’s about a woman who grew from a quiet, shy girl into someone who empowers others with her story, her work, and her faith.
Rachael grew up as the oldest of seven children in the South Suburbs of Chicago. She describes her childhood as conservative, often feeling that children were meant to be seen, not heard. Though shy and quiet, Rachael had a unique gift—she was the girl who listened, noticed, and connected with those who were often overlooked. “I was the one who noticed those who were unnoticeable,” she reflects. This ability to connect deeply with people is a gift she carries into her work today.
It wasn’t until adulthood that Rachael began to step out of the comfort zone she had been confined to. “Only in recent years have I learned to be who I want to be,” she shares. As life took her and her family across the country—from Washington State to Indiana, Tennessee, and beyond—Rachael grew through vulnerability. She discovered the beauty of building community and the importance of letting others in, creating a network of support wherever life led her. “I’ve grown so much by learning to be vulnerable with people and learning to reach out for help,” she says.
A pivotal moment for Rachael came during a life-changing experience at a retreat, where she engaged in a powerful breathwork exercise. “It revealed to me that I was still holding in the pain of disappointing my dad after all these years,” she recalls. Through this moment, she embraced the unconditional love of her Heavenly Father and released the pain she had carried for so long. This transformative experience deepened her understanding of the lotus flower—a symbol of growth through life’s muck, ultimately blossoming into beauty.
Rachael’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. She candidly shares her struggles with anxiety, depression, and the painful loss of a miscarriage. But through these hardships, she found strength in her faith and sought help through therapy and life coaching. These experiences, while difficult, fueled her passion for helping others by holding space for them, free of judgment, allowing them to embrace who they truly are.
Her love for photography began as a young teenager, and over the years, it became her life’s work. Today, Rachael is an accomplished photographer who connects with her clients on a personal level, capturing the beauty and authenticity of their lives. Her photography business is not just about taking pictures; it’s about creating a space where her clients feel seen, valued, and celebrated.
Through it all, Rachael continues to live out her purpose—listening, connecting, and lifting others up. She encourages women to embrace their own unique journey, to step into discomfort, and to pursue their dreams despite fear. “If you want something bad enough, you will figure out a way to make it work,” she advises.
So, who is Rachael Venema? She is a radiant queen, a special child of God who embraces her purpose by connecting deeply with others and encouraging them to live out their own dreams. She’s learned that life’s trials and challenges can lead to incredible growth, and her mission is to share that wisdom, helping others to shine as their most authentic selves.
Connect with Rachael
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