One day the trees are bare, and the next, everywhere you look Western North Carolina is bursting alive with color — dogwoods blooming, purple, pink, red and white wildflowers appearing almost overnight. And then, just as quickly, some of them disappear again.
And the forests? It's as if Mother Nature has pulled all her cute outfits and accessories out of the closet and put them all on at the same time!
Truly, Spring reminds me to pay attention.
Some blossoms only last a week or two before they fade. If we move too quickly, distracted by the noise of life, we miss them entirely. I'm lucky that there's less of that noise here in the mountains.
I think there’s a lesson in that for us as women — how fleeting joy can be when we don’t pause long enough to witness ourselves fully.
This season has me reflecting deeply on rebirth, becoming, and the importance of allowing ourselves to bloom exactly where we are planted.
✨True Stories✨
I am an Intimate Portrait Artist.
I create transformational, celebratory, and honorable portrait experiences.
I’ve recently shared several new stories and reflections on the True Stories section of my website — all rooted in the art of being seen, celebrating womanhood, and embracing the beauty of this season of life.
and on the boudoir side…..
Whether you are celebrating turning 30 or turning 80,
a photoshoot can help tell your story with an emotional depth, authenticity and a soulful honesty that speaks to who you are, and not just what you look like.
I know you are going to have a hard time believing this, but BOTH of these fabulous ladies are celebrating their 80th Birthdays with Boudoir Portraits!
One photoshoot happened in Atlanta, GA and the other right here in Murphy, NC.
It is not uncommon for busy clients to have me travel to ATL for their session. Even more common is for clients all throughout Georgia to travel to Murphy for their sessions.
And, of course, our very own Western North Carolina friends take these gorgeous mountain roads to the studio all the time.
Special Thanks to this Beauty who traveled all the way from
Savannah, Georgia to celebrate her 30th Birthday with a photoshoot!
If you travel to Murphy for a photoshoot, I'm happy to be your Travel Concierge and help you create the perfect itinerary and help with lodging, restaurant and experience recommendations. Just reach out and let's dream together!
✨Life in the Mountains✨
The world-renowned John C. Campbell Folk School celebrates its
30th Annual Maypole Parade & Dance.
Brasstown, NC
Photos by Graciela Laurent Photography
One of the things that continues to surprise and inspire me about far western North Carolina is just how culturally vibrant this region truly is.
Over the past several weeks, I’ve found myself immersed in the joyful rhythm of Appalachian spring — attending Murphy’s amazing Spring Festival and listening to some incredible bands, watching live artist demonstrations such as basket weaving, iron forging and wood turning; gathering for the magical Maypole Parade & Dance at the John C. Campbell Folk School, and witnessing firsthand the deep creativity and traditions woven into the fabric of these mountains.
There’s something incredibly special happening here. I keep saying that I think we have more artists per capita than anywhere else I've ever been! I love festivals and I am always blown away at all the local and newly transplanted artists we have.
This region is not only beautiful — it is alive with art, music, storytelling, craftsmanship, and community traditions that feel deeply rooted and wonderfully alive. Spring and early summer, especially, are extraordinary times to visit Cherokee County and, truly, the entire far western North Carolina region.
If you’ve been dreaming of a mountain getaway, these seasonal festivals, art events, and gatherings are part of what makes this place feel so meaningful.
Murphy's Spring Festival
Spring 2026
Photos by Nathan Baerris Photography
I’m honored to share that earlier this year, I joined the Board of the Cherokee County Arts Council — a local organization doing incredible work to support and grow the arts in our region.
Recently, we proudly hosted Shards of Hope, an extraordinary event weaving the poetry of Mary Ricketson and soulful clarinet performance of Denise Gainey, featuring internationally recognized musicians and composers whose work brought world-class artistry into the heart of our mountain community. It was a powerful reminder that meaningful art can flourish anywhere when people come together to support it - it isn't limited to just “the big city.”
Graciela Laurent Photography is proud to sponsor the upcoming June exhibit
[[[Holding Pattern]]]
a fascinating and thought-provoking exhibition by artist Kyle Cottier, exploring movement, pause, transition, and reflection through contemporary artistic expression.
I hope you'll join us for Opening Night!
Opening Reception: Friday, June 5, 5:30 p.m. Location: Cherokee County Arts Council, 33 Valley River Avenue, Murphy, NC Admission: Free and open to the public
The arts matter deeply in rural communities.
They preserve culture. They spark dialogue. They connect people across generations and backgrounds.
Memberships and donations directly help sustain exhibitions, educational programming, performances, and opportunities for artists throughout Cherokee County. As a board member, I’m always happy to answer questions about supporting the Arts Council through membership, sponsorship, or donations.
✨Body & Soul Ministries✨
A New Chapter in Murphy, NC
As my family and business continue to root more deeply into the landscape and culture of Appalachia, I’ve felt called to create something more intentionally local — a gathering space designed specifically for this region and the incredible people who call these mountains home.
While we are very much connected to the greater Body & Soul Ministries organization, this new local branch allows me to create offerings uniquely shaped by the rhythm, beauty, and spirit of this community.
I want to say thank you.
To everyone who has attended an event, welcomed me into conversations, shared stories, invited friends, or trusted me to hold space — your warmth and generosity have meant more than I can express.
Many recent gatherings have completely sold out, and because I’m intentionally keeping events intimate and offering most experiences only once per month, space is becoming very limited.
And honestly… I love that.
The smaller circles allow for deeper conversations, more authentic connection, and the kind of meaningful experiences that can’t happen in rushed or crowded spaces.
Here's what's coming up. To register, we are keeping it simple, literally just text me directly. (828)214-5787. Easy.
✨5th Horizon Inspiration Cards✨
The Collection is Now Complete
After much creation, reflection, writing, and intention, I’m incredibly proud to share that the full 5th Horizon Inspirational Card Collection is now complete with the release of the fourth and final deck.
What began as channeled messages evolved into a deeply personal body of work — designed to inspire reflection, intuition, encouragement, and connection through words.
Each deck is filled with affirming messages intended to help guide moments of contemplation, journaling, meditation, or daily inspiration.
✨ Available now: • $33 online • $25 local in-person pickup
Thank you to everyone who supported this journey from the very beginning. Holding the completed collection in my hands feels both surreal and deeply meaningful.
I'm a multi-passionate professional. I love keeping my life full of fun and variety (apparently this extends to newsletters too) . I realize boudoir and soul work may sound like different endeavors, but, in truth, they both fall under the same umbrella:
THE ART OF BEING SEEN
It is really something to create the container and hold the space for someone to evolve and discover their authentic selves, to celebrate themselves, to mourn, to laugh, to cry. What an honor it is to do the work I do!
If you are ready to experience your own Boudoir Photoshoot in the lush springtime of these gorgeous mountains, don't hesitate! Summer is right around the corner!
If you feel like you need a reset and a break from the every day, let's connect over some Body & Soul work.
Just wanna take a break and come have some tea under the trees? Let's do it.
