Ashley and I first met back when we both lived in NYC. Both fresh out of college, I can still remember the day I met Ashley — I walked over to her cubicle at work and Ashley simply radiated with her gorgeous smile and impeccable work fashion. We bonded over work, and most importantly J.Crew and Anthropologie.

In face, did you know that Ashley was reason why I found the name “Samba to the Sea”? Yes, that’s right — it all happened during one of our quick lunch breaks browsing at Anthropologie around the corner from where we worked. I was ready (but not really) to head back to work, and I found Ashley looking at some tea towels at Anthro. I walked over to her and boom, there it was. A tea towel that said “Samba with me to the sea.” I knew right then and there “Samba to the Sea” was perfect for the name of the blog I was starting — which then of course evolved into Samba to the Sea Photography!

Fast forward a couple of months later, both Ash and I left our jobs – Ash to attend law school and myself to Costa Rica. And even though we now don’t see each other every work day, I cherish every time I’m able to catch up with Ashley while visiting my brother in Miami. Thanks to the ‘Rona (COVID 19), my trip to Miami in April (and subsequently to see Ashley) was cancelled. But, thanks to the ‘Rona and quarantining back in the US, my mom and I road tripped down to Miami over Memorial Day weekend to visit my brother and his family.

Of course I just had to see mi amiga Ash, her husband Jordan, AND her precious new addition, her baby girl Jori. Well, all from a distance thanks to the ‘Rona! With a face mask and standing 10+ feet apart, I was so thankful to be able (from afar) to take baby Jori’s first photos in Coral Gables, a lush + beautiful neighborhood in Miami. AND I can’t wait until next time when it’s safe to snuggle with Señorita Jori!

XOXO,
Kristen

P.S. Love baby Jori’s first photos in Coral Gables? Check out my Family Photography portfolio!

P.P.S. You’re ready to chat? YESSSS!!! – – I’m so stoked 😁😎🙌🏻!! Fill out the form below & my assistant Gidget the Chihuahua will let me know it’s time to catch a wave in from surfing!