I met Kelli in 2010 through a fashion website I’m not sure even exists anymore. I had seen her stylist and makeup-artistry work online and asked if she wanted to collaborate with me on a shoot with a model local to her area. We didn’t even live in the same state and we had never met, but she sweetly replied she wanted to work together. Upon walking into her apartment for that first shoot, I fell in love. She was kind, beautiful, and an amazing make-up artist and personal stylist. And her tiny apartment was so chic, I could have sat in her living-room all day. I wanted to shoot with her all the time, but there was always something else that prevented us from doing so; living more than a thousand miles away was only one of them. …But then last month the stars seemed to align and we finally planned another shoot. Only this time, it was Kelli who’d be in front of the camera. I had scheduled an engagement shoot in Laguna Beach that particular Friday, but was driving from Santa Barbara, racing traffic to get there in time. Knowing I only had one hour, as long as traffic was okay, to shoot her before my other clients was nerve wracking for this girl! I’m a planner and love to have lots of time.  But let me say this: I only needed a few minutes. Not only is she stunning, but as a professional, she showed up a few minutes early, had ideas for her wardrobe entirely planned to mix with mine, and was ready for her closeup the moment after we hugged.

I’m so beyond excited for you Kelli. And to work with you again was a dream! I cannot wait to see pictures of your sweet little baby…and I’m already wishing the miles between us were lessened so I could photograph him too. Love you dearly. xx