We had a vision to mark 10 years of Unlocking CT with a photoshoot that was equal parts dreamy and editorial. And as with most of our big ideas, we made it happen, with the help of some of the most talented folks we know! Here’s a peek behind the scenes and the pros who made our anniversary shoot so memorable.
📸 The Lens & the Landscape
We knew we had to shoot with Anthony Videira again after he captured our iconic Raven transformation with his now-fiancée, Tyler Green (SFX MUA!) – see this post! Anthony has such a creative eye and loves a dramatic editorial scene as much as we do. His contagious enthusiasm and patient direction brought out our best!
Topsmead State Forest gave us the most stunning backdrop: sweeping views, golden light, and classic New England beauty. A fitting tribute to our Unlocking Litchfield beginnings.
Now, let’s get ready!
💇♀️ First Stop: Hair
When we want our hair to look its absolute best, we head to Byrde + the b in Litchfield. It’s where we go every month to freshen up our color and tame our locks. For the shoot, we asked for summery highlights and loose waves, and they delivered!
Byrde + the b is part luxury hair salon, part barbershop, part wellness oasis, with a gorgeous retail section & rotating art exhibits to boot. Always a vibe. Always a treat.
💄 Next Up: Makeup Magic
We’ve loved Pilar DeMann since our early blogging days. She’s a brow queen and a master of natural, glowy makeup. We knew she’d give us just the right look for this shoot.
Pilar’s beauty journey began in L.A. at age 19, spanning film, theater, and talent management before settling in CT to focus on everyday beauty. She brings over 30 years of experience to her studio, Pilar BLLaC Beauty Studio, in Washington Depot, and makes everyone feel like their most confident self.
🌸 Crowning Glory
Truthfully, the whole shoot was built around our longtime dream to wear a Beth Fowler flower crown! Beth, a former fashion stylist, switched gears a decade ago and found her calling in floral design.
She recently launched Bloom Booth (photobooth and floral backdrop rentals) and has taken the reins at the historic Colonial Greenhouse, now Colonial Floral Design. Beth’s style is lush, luxe, and a little whimsical; just how we like it. Our custom crowns? Beyond stunning!
Because one post isn’t enough – a few more faves from the shoot!
💕 Thank You, Dream Team!
To Anthony, Tyler, Beth, Pilar, and Byrde + the b—thank you for helping us bring our vision to life. You made this milestone feel every bit as special as it is. Here’s to 10 more years of dreaming it up and making it happen!