I am fortunate to work with great clients, as well as great partners. Lela Wright is one of those great partners.
A hair and make-up artist in her own right, Lela and I began collaborating over five years ago. I love having her by my side, and if you haven’t already, I’d love for you to meet her so you can understand why I’m so happy that she’s part of the team.
Enjoy this Q & A and get to know why I simply adore this woman!
Question: How did you and Christi begin working together?
Answer: It all started with a photo shoot and it has evolved into both a partnership and a rather beautiful friendship.
Question: What do you do for the Grinkie models?
Answer: I will never forget the first time I set foot in front of the camera. I was excited—but DAMN I was nervous! My general personality is nurturing and kind, and I bring that to every photo shoot to help create an environment that is non-intimidating and fun. My job is to ease tension and encourage. My goal is for our models to feel at home and to see Christi and me not only as a professional team, but as two people who are also easy going and comfortable to be around.
Question: What do you like best about working with Grinkie models?
Answer: I absolutely love making a difference in people’s lives and I truly believe that is what we do. We offer people the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones in a safe environment. We create an experience that is fun and nurturing. We allow people to see themselves through someone else’s eyes.
Question: What's the most rewarding thing about working with Grinkie models?
Answer: As I mentioned previously, the most reward thing about my job is impacting people’s lives in a positive way, and I know for certain that this is true for Christi as well. I love meeting people and getting to know them and more often than not the photo session turns into a major love fest—tears, hugs and all!
Question: Where else do you work and what else do you do?
Answer: I stay very busy. When I’m not holding a make up brush or a curling iron, I’m teaching yoga, playing volleyball, gardening, cooking or visiting local breweries (most of these activities are done with my best friend and partner by my side!). My life revolves around my family. Both of my sons are in local bands and I get out as often as I can to support them. I also have one-year-old twins who add joy and adventure to each day! I am a big believer that life is what you make of it and the universe will always provide. I have a deep sense of gratitude for every single day and all the people in my life. It is truly a gift.
Question: Where are you from, and what do you like best about the Twin Cities?
Answer: I am from Madison, Wisconsin. I moved to the Twin Cities with my son nearly 21 years ago! It’s hard to believe I’ve been here for that long. Minnesota is my home. There is so much to do and see here and the communities are strong. I appreciate the diversity and the culture and though I love to travel—I will never leave. I will go off and explore often, but I will always return home.
Question: Anything else you want to add? Can we get your website and social media channels and contact information?
Answer: Though I love doing pin up/vintage/period MUAH—I also do a lot of work with brides and bridesmaids, preparing for senior photos, special events, headshots, cooperate identity photos and much, much more!
Please feel free to connect with me on my website, getstyledbylela.com, Facebook page, Get Styled by Lela, and/or Instagram, getstyledbylela. You also can call me at 651-269-9380.
