It all started with a couch.

While scrolling through my facebook feed I came across a photo that made me stop.  A beautiful, Victorian, red velvet couch was begging me to take a photo of it.  Well, almost.  Heather of Orange Trunk Vintage Stylist and Rentals put up some snapshots asking if anyone would be interested in involving it in a styled shoot.

Designing on the Edge owner, Lea Romanowski, and I had been talking about doing something creative for a Spring shoot.  Lea is someone I look up to in many different ways.  She raised some pretty awesome kids as a single mom and put together an amazing business.  I honestly can't keep track of all the awards she has received for her outstanding floral designs.  She has been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings and has worked on some of the most prestigious projects in Calgary (as well as having homemade banana bread for my son when we go to visit).  I sent Lea the image right away and we got to work.  We were up for hours brainstorming ideas that would accent this amazing vintage piece.  

I had already been speaking to many industry leaders I had met at different events in Calgary.  I had been waiting to work with the brilliant model, Katarina Oscar for the last six months.  Her beautiful dark hair and delicate features would work perfectly with my dramatic vision.  

Heritage Park was my first choice for a venue.  I contacted Jennifer, the Event and Sales Supervisor for the park who was delighted to host our photoshoot.  I crossed my fingers and sent my photography instructor, Tracy Elliott an email.  I was hoping he wasn't teaching at MRU and would be willing to come help me on set.  I was delighted when he responded that he would be there!

I was contacted by Create Love to provide the stationary, and called some of my favorite vendors to help with the rest.  Jessica's Mobile Beauty service provided all the make up.  Jessica was thrilled to learn Brittany's Beauty had applied eyelash extensions to the models!  Brittany does a fabulous job of my lashes and I knew she would add the perfect amount of 'wow' for the shoot.  Christine of Modern Makeovers  was our hair stylist and truly made for the final detail of my vision come to life.  

Katarina and model Victor Catrina, had been beautifully fitted by the best of Calgary.  Leslie of Durand Bridal is not only leading change in the Calgary Bridal world, but has become the go to boutique for me and many of my brides.  I can always trust Durand to treat everyone with the utmost amount of respect.  I feel very blessed to have this store on my side!

Victor and the other male models were styled by none other than Ed Williams Men's Wear.  This is not the first time I have worked with owner, Lowell and I was so excited to see what he and his team had put together for us!  Ed Williams is a warm and inviting environment that makes everyone feel welcome.  I am always amazed to see the new selection they have in the store.  They have many items in the store and can custom order items to ensure the perfect fit.  The staff is truly some of the best in the industry.

The date was set for April 3rd.  It was a perfect, overcast day and we started at the Opera House at the park.  Heritage Park had but together some beautiful baked treats for us and had ensured we had fresh coffee!  Jennifer and her team helped set up the tables and made sure everything was perfect.  The models were made very comfortable in the dressing room below the stage.  Jessica and Christina never seize to amaze me with their talent of enhancing one's natural beauty.  Tracy brought in his studio lights and helped set everything up.  Lea was running around ensuring the details were all in place-even making a last minuet stop at Bella Linens to provide every aspect of this shoot with the best the industry has to offer.  To say this was a team effort is a true understatement.

Tanya of Cake Bake Shoppe provided the dramatic 3 tier cake, perfecting capturing the venue and decor.  She even made us all mini cakes to enjoy!

After 4 hours of set up, Katarina and Victor shined during their session.  I was so spoiled in getting to work with these two models, who made the day easy, fun and full of smiles.

Heritage Park was kind enough to provide several other locations for my team and I to play with...but I'm still editing those!

Ferdi of Ferdi Flancia Films joined us for the entire day and documented everything!  This talented and dedicated videographer is someone I was thrilled to have by my side.  I am very excited to see the footage and will be sure to share with everyone once Ferdi finishes!

Here is the final product from the hard work of all of these companies.  I had so much fun working with all of you and I am honored to call each of you a friend!