Our first big photo shoot! (Behind the Scenes)

Here are some behind the scenes shots of the photo shoot that led to us building this wonderful website.

Planning the shoot was slightly nerve-wracking as I had to list every shot I thought we'd need. That meant detailing the garments, model, pose, use of the pic and the desired 'look'. I thought I'd left my accounting days behind me, but no. Out came the spreadsheet (an A3 version no less) and every set up were meticulously planned.

After a lot of research and soul searching I took a deep breath and decided not to hire professional models. This went against the advice of many and I ummed and ahhed about it for a while.

If you’ve never looked online for a model, it usually starts with a search based on the stats of the type of model you’re looking for. Height, size, age etc. My searches all came up blank.

Apparently modelling agencies don’t represent Gen X women who are size 18-22 and between 5’4” and 5’9”. Well, not the major agencies.

I'm aware one of the big criticisms of brands who use only tall size 16 models is that their intended customers have trouble visualising how the garments will look on their own body.

(I know have big doubts about whether or not pants will fit over my thighs, or which size top will sit best on my hips.)

And what's the point of having your own business if you're just going to follow the crowd and do everything the same way as big brands?

In the end, I hired a friend and my sister; and they did an amazing job! Lizzie looks great in size 14, and my sister, Lissy, rocks an 18. Neither of them is super tall and they are both in their forties - and beautiful. I’m so proud of them both!

(And yes, there was some confusion between the names Lissy and Lizzie at the shoot!)

After a nearly sleepless night before the shoot, I actually had more fun than I expected on the day. It was a HUGE learning experience for me and after all that worry, I can't wait for our next one!

A big thank you to my models, assistant Cloe and to Hannah Marshall for hair and makeup, and Prue Aja for the photography and studio.

Head to our shop to see the full range of garments from this shoot.