06/01/2026
Today I'm pausing the business talk for something way more important. 🎂
My son James turns 15 today, and I couldn't let it pass without saying something.
He has sat patiently while I tested every new lens, every new light setup, and every half-baked creative idea I've had over the years. Early on he was my real estate shoot sidekick, opening blinds, flipping on lights, and making sure every room was ready before I walked in. He even had opinions about the drone footage, and honestly? He wasn't wrong. The boy has been my headshot model, my lighting dummy, and my "just stand right there for one second" victim more times than either of us can count. Does he complain a little? Absolutely. Does he show up anyway? Every time.
Then he figured out he could charge more and promptly priced himself right out of a job. 😂
I built these businesses with a lot of people in mind, but honestly? A big part of it has always been him. I want him to grow up knowing that building something of your own is possible. That hard work is worth it. That you don't have to wait for permission to create the life you want.
What I don't take for granted is that it costs something too. Time. Presence. A mom who is sometimes mentally in the studio even when she's physically in the room. James has given me grace for all of it, and I don't miss that.
To my favorite test subject, my right-hand man, and the absolute best reason I do any of this:
Happy 15th birthday, James. Being your mom is the best thing I've ever done.
Love you to the moon, Bruh-Momma 🖤
