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Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Mahily Santamaria

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mahily Santamaria. Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Mahily, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
If I had values the way people do, I’d probably say: integrity matters most.

Here’s why:
• Intelligence helps solve problems.
• Energy helps get things done.
• But integrity guides how and why you do any of it.

So if I had to “choose,” I’d want to help people use their intelligence and energy in a way that reflects integrity.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m the proud owner of Full PhotoBooth , a photobooth company that’s all about capturing memories in the most fun and stylish way possible.

We specialize in creating unforgettable photo experiences for weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and everything in between. What makes us unique is our attention to detail, modern setups, and personalized touches that make every event feel one-of-a-kind.

I started this business with a simple goal: to help people celebrate life’s best moments and walk away with lasting memories—literally in their hands. Right now, we’re working on adding even more features and backdrops to give our clients an elevated and interactive experience.

We’re not just a photo booth—we’re a memory maker, a vibe creator, and a fun essential at every celebration!

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself is my relationship with God. Through my faith in Christ, I’ve come to understand my identity not based on the world’s standards, but as someone who is deeply loved, chosen, and created with purpose.

This relationship reminds me daily that my worth isn’t tied to achievements, appearance, or approval—but to who I am in Him.

Knowing that I am a child of God gives me strength and peace in ways nothing else can.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there was a time I almost gave up. Running a business—and just life in general—can bring moments of exhaustion, doubt, and discouragement. I’ve had seasons where things felt too heavy, where doors didn’t open, and I questioned if I was really on the right path.

But in those moments, my faith kept me going. I remembered that God doesn’t call us to an easy journey, but to a faithful one. Prayer, scripture, and the quiet assurance of His presence reminded me that even when I couldn’t see a way, He was still making one.

Romans 8:28 says that “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him,” and that verse became my anchor. I may have felt like giving up, but God never gave up on me.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
One cultural value I protect at all costs is faith-centered family unity.

As a Hispanic mother and a Christian, I believe the home is sacred—it’s where values are taught, love is lived out, and God’s presence is welcomed daily. In our culture, family isn’t just important—it’s everything. We gather, we pray, we support one another, and we pass down our faith through generations.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope the story people tell about me when I’m gone is simple, but eternal:
That I was a woman who loved God above all, who served Him faithfully as a daughter of the King, a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a courageous entrepreneur.

I want them to say that I lived with purpose, that I poured love into my home, my family, and my work—that I didn’t just chase success, but that I built something that blessed others.

I hope they remember my faith, not just in words, but in action. That I prayed boldly, forgave freely, and trusted God even in the valleys.

And most of all, I want them to say:
“She left a legacy of love, faith, and strength. She walked with God

Image Credits
@fullphotobooth

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