ABOUT

I was born into a family of artists on my maternal side, and from an early age, I was drawn to creative expression. At the age of 12, I taught myself photography, building my own in-house darkroom to develop my work. My passion for art led me to further my studies in art history and photography in Austin, Texas, and later, I attended the Art Institute of Houston, where I earned a degree in fine art photography. My dream was to become a nature photographer, traveling the world and capturing its beauty.

However, I was once told that, as a woman, I could never be a National Geographic photographer, a lifelong aspiration of mine. Rather than being discouraged, I shifted gears and immersed myself in the vibrant music scenes of Austin and Houston, capturing the essence of musicians and performers. Eventually, I moved to Los Angeles, where I worked in the music business, photographing well-known musicians and celebrities of the '90s and early 2000s. My career in LA also included working at Fox Television, where I photographed behind the scenes, stills, and branding for popular TV shows and movies.

After leaving Los Angeles and the entertainment industry, I spent time living in England and Ireland, where I worked independently, photographing the rich history and stories of the areas I traveled. This period allowed me to explore new perspectives and deepen my love for storytelling through photography.

I eventually settled in the Florida Keys for 15 years, where I opened a thriving wedding and lifestyle photography studio. But in 2017, Hurricane Irma hit the islands, and with the chain shut down, I decided to explore a new creative medium. Metalsmithing had always intrigued me, so I enrolled in online courses with the London Jewelry School, and that's when my love for silversmithing and jewelry making began to blossom.

In early 2021, my family and I relocated to Costa Rica, where I’ve come full circle in my photography career. Here, I’ve finally realized my dream of photographing the wildlife and nature that I’ve always been so passionate about. I hope to publish some of this work in the near future. I also recently opened an art gallery with local artists in Uvita, where I showcase both my jewelry and photography. 

If you are in the area or would like more information about Galeria 1084, click here. 

Check out my photography here at Costa Vida Photography. 

 As a self-proclaimed student of life, I see my art as a way to share the stories I've experienced throughout my journey and travels. Whether it's through photography or jewelry, each piece I create is unique and tells its own story. My work reflects moments in time, places I’ve been, or places I hope to go, and it brings me great joy to share these stories with others.

All of my designs are handcrafted from start to finish using recycled fine and sterling silver, 14k gold-filled, solid gold, gold vermeil, and semi-precious gemstones. I work with recycled materials whenever possible.

Currently, I live and run a B&B at Pacific Edge Eco Lodge with my husband, daughter Kaiya, and our furry family: Otis, Ozzie, Owen, and cats Stevie, Grey, Fluffy, and Tigey. Our jungle backyard is also home to monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, and a variety of other adorable critters. Come visit! We have 4 cabins over looking the Pacific Ocean! 

Philosophy: To create something modern, feminine and functional. To design a piece that will withstand everyday use and will remain beautiful and timeless for many years to come.