Each one of these lovely ladies made our first photo shoot beautiful, encouraging, fun, a-safe-place, special!

These ladies made our first ever Skhert brand photo shoot this summer in downtown Little Rock special. They were encouraging, helpful in every way and it was an honor to share that time and space with them.

Early on a Sunday summer morning in 2025, we had our first brand photo shoot. The evening before, S'cie, the photographer, had participated in a fashion show where she'd been working as front of house director for several weeks. The show was a success, and she was likely (and rightfully) exhausted when we showed up at her office, but she persevered, having gotten just a few hours rest before heading to the streets. Oh, and did I mention that she provided the shoes, accessories and a few of the clothing items to style the models. Pros make it seem easy.

Two of the four women at the shoot were experienced models and two had no experience modeling. In the end, all of the photos had personality, uniqueness, and beauty. Moreso, the women were a joy to be around. Each lady. They were encouraging, they followed the photographer's instructions, they carried items, shared purses for photos, and supported the assignment. Even the youngster on the left helped with lighting and outfit suggestions. In the end, the shoot was the culmination of the efforts of a few beautiful, easygoing, kind women (and a sweet child!) coming together to help a sister out. Their kindness and professionalism created a safe place for a new brand owner trying something big and bold.

When moments like this happen, I am reminded that none of us are entitled to have things simply come together for us. Things don't have to come together. People don't have to encourage us or show up for us. But it's heartwarming when they do. We must thank them, remember them, speak well of them. And if we ever get an opportunity to help them and we can do it, do it.

We live in a world that is so visually curated that we miss authentically beautiful people and moments. That Sunday morning, I knew we were sharing a special moment. One of the ladies even said to me. 'Marie, I really needed this.' I don't know what she got out of it, but I think it meant something different for each of us. Looking back on the photo now, I was truly blessed to have shared that time and space with them. Thank you.