Test Shoot - January 16, 2019

Two weeks ago I excitedly assembled a test shoot with the talented Matt Simpson. I knew the shoot would be interiors based but I wanted to gather some specific pieces to feature to create a more authentic shoot that also had some constraints. (And because sending me into World Market, saying ready-set-shop, would be detrimental.) So I reached out to several Louisville brands and was truly shocked at the level of enthusiasm and willingness that I received.

As a textile lover, I first searched for a local rug company and landed upon Anabel’s Oriental Rugs. Not only was the owner, Anabel, so sweet and happy to be a part of the shoot, the curation of rugs was seriously to die for. I probably spent the most time at this stop (surprise!)

Next came Gray Market Design, a hand-blocked textile company owned by my friend, Hallie. She designs a variety of home goods and apparel from scarves, quilts, napkins, coasters, to table runners and more.

I am a total mid-century modern junkie so after a few different spots I landed on Green Collar Studio who is literally a hidden gem with ridiculously good prices for their furniture that is in SUCH good shape. I used a credenza/media console, the gold bar cart, a cigar stand, and an orange velvet chair.

I also wanted to mix in a few new pieces of furniture and was beyond excited when Bliss Home agreed to partner with me. Talk about tough decisions.. From the beginning I had my eye on this pink chair which in itself is not particularly my style but I just had a feeling that I could really transform it and also that the blush velvet was just too cute not to work with!

I also worked with with mega-talented Ovmi Designs, which included the shoe rack and tripod lamp. As well as Sarabande Books for their newest season of books that were a super important layering detail throughout the shoot.

The final piece of the puzzle was of course plants and I had just the girl! Bailey of Bloomed Roots hooked me up with the most fabulous cacti, succulents, and snake plants.

Lastly I needed a [few] filler pieces that I sourced from Target, World Market, and my fav Louisville thrift store, Thrift ‘n Thrive. (Pictured: Sweet Ms. Donna)

Shoot day arrived and I loaded up my rented U-Haul (which I drove 25 MPH the whole way) and the fun began!

Matt and I were both really happy with how everything turned out but we did learn a few lessons:

• The amount of shots I intended to style should have been a 2 day shoot.

• Be sure to schedule a lunch delivery!

• When a command strip says it holds 2 pounds, it only holds 2 pounds. :0