Stepping Into Light Part I

Part I of an Editorial Celebrating the Emergence of Summer and Joyful Living. Follow along for Part II releasing tomorrow.

“She wasn’t tired. She was uninspired. She traced back the path she had taken since birth and realized it was a path laid down by others. She left the path. Stepped where there were no footprints. Learned to make choices that pleased her soul. She felt something new and wonderful grow in her chest. She came to call this feeling peace.”

–Jaiya John

From the vision of La Rue Floral comes this beautiful story of a woman living an abundantly beautiful life filled with celebration and delight. Inspired by the beautiful words of Jaiya John, a story about self worth, deservedness, and a luxurious lifestyle was brought to life with Clover Events and Productions and Carrie King Photographer.

In Chicago, a city where historical charm and futuristic vision converge, lives a woman who embraces her independence and uses her own story as inspiration. It is late spring, but summer is all around her. As she leaves work to prepare for an eventful weekend ahead, she steps out onto the rooftop at The London House to soar amongst the city’s skyline. The architecture is spectacular, graceful and confident like her.

She retreats to her most sacred space; her home is a reflection of her soul and self worth. She has spent her life understanding the beauty of masterfully designed interior spaces and the power of carefully curated art. Her home also shares stories from the past. An old charcoal factory hidden in Chicago has been transformed into a secluded private residence, and she has filled it entirely with curated artifacts and story-telling details. Designed with intention and a Japanese-inspired wabi sabi aesthetic, the cracked concrete walls, salvaged windows, reclaimed wood floors, and overall grandiose yet minimalist spirit of this space generate daily inspiration for her. She begins her practice of self-care and is reminded that, like her home, she is resilient. She is at peace, becomes quiet as she resets, and begins celebrating her week’s accomplishments in complete stillness. Deserving in every breath.

Words provided by Casey LeGalley, La Rue Floral

A note from the photographer, Carrie:

It was a tremendous honor to have been selected to photograph this lifestyle editorial. Being a part of a collaboration that was so intentional both in story and beauty. Months in the making, and three full days shooting, every member of our team poured their hearts and souls into bringing this vision to life. Thank you to Casey for your vision behind this editorial and the story you’ve presented. A story of stepping out from a long, cold winter and spring season to living in the fullness of summer warmth, light, beauty and true elegance. May we all possess the knowledge and understanding to find within our own souls these qualities and reflect just that this summer.

Photography: Carrie King Photographer 

Floral and Vision: La Rue Floral 

Planning: Clover Events and Productions

Video: New Pixel Films 

Papers and Details Styling: Sweet Zion Paperie 

Rooftop Venue: London House 

Private Residence: Charcoal Factory Loft 

Cake: Flourish Cake Design 

Silks: La Soie Colorado 

Rentals and Place Settings: The Festive Frog, Cloud Terre

Model: Chelsea Jenkins

Makeup: Francely Makeup

Hair: We Only Do Pretty

Fashion Styling: Ariana Anderson

Rooftop Gown: Goli June

Lounge Attire: Veronica Sheaffer, Knot Standard

Boat Attire: Knot Standard

Boudoir Attire: LouletteLingerie, A.B. Ellie, Honey Bridal, Department of Curiosities

Evening Gown Attire: Rara Avis, Belle BridalAtelier, A.B. Ellie, Honey Bridal

Cocktail Dinner Attire: Sophie Et Voilà, BelleBridal Atelier, Hushed Commotion, Honey Bridal