Some sessions are special because of the work.
Some are special because of the person.
And every once in a while, you get both.
As an Orlando branding photographer, getting to document creative businesses with heart is one of my favorite parts of what I do.
This quarter’s boss babe is someone incredibly close to my heart — one of my best friends, my constant encourager, and living proof that the friendships meant for you don’t always arrive early… they arrive right on time.
We found each other in our 40s, oddly enough, at a kid’s birthday party and have been inseparable ever since — building businesses, supporting big dreams, and showing up for each other through every season of life.
While this wasn’t a traditional, styled branding session, documenting her journey has happened naturally over time. I’ve tagged along to markets and events with a camera in hand, capturing moments as they unfolded. More recently, we spent time together in my studio photographing a beautiful collection of her newest pieces.
Photographing her and her artwork has always felt personal in the best way. Not just because she’s one of my favorite humans, but because her business carries so much meaning. What she creates comes from a place of love, remembrance, healing, and purpose — and you can feel that in every single piece.
Today I’m sharing a little of her story in her own words.
The Heart Behind a Woman-Owned Creative Business
Can you tell us a little about yourself and the story behind your business?
Coastal Vibes by Stephanie was never supposed to be a business. It began as a way to carry on something my best friend had started. After she passed away, creating oyster art became a way to feel close to her. I would craft with her two daughters as a way for us to stay connected, and what started as something healing slowly grew into something more. What began as grief turned into purpose. Turning it into a business felt like the most meaningful way to honor her — not just by continuing what she started, but by growing it. Now every oyster I create carries love, memory, and intention behind it.
From Shell to Story
What does your creative process look like—from raw shell to finished piece?
Every piece starts with selecting the perfect shell — shape, texture, and character all matter because each one is completely unique. From there, I use decoupage to layer on delicate patterns with napkins or carefully pressed flowers, building the design by hand. Once the design is in place, I add finishing touches like gold edges or personalized details, making sure each piece feels balanced and intentional. I love that no two oysters are ever the same — my job is to enhance their natural beauty and transform them into meaningful, lasting keepsakes.
Growing with Intention as a Creative Business Owner
How has your style evolved since you first started?
When I first started, it was very organic and simple — I was just creating for connection and healing. I wasn’t thinking about branding, collections, or even selling. It was more about the process than the product. Over time, my style has become more refined and intentional. I’ve leaned into elevated coastal details, personalization, and creating pieces that feel gift-worthy and meaningful for celebrations and special moments. What started as something deeply personal has grown into a brand that still carries heart, but with more polish and purpose behind every design.
Dream Collaborations & What’s Ahead
What’s next for you or your business? Are there any dream projects or collaborations you’d love to explore?
Weddings are at the top of my collaboration list, and stepping into that space is something I’m actively working toward. I would love to create custom oyster pieces for bridal showers, wedding mornings, and meaningful guest favors — pieces that become keepsakes long after the day is over. What’s next for me is expanding more into events and collaborations while continuing to grow Coastal Vibes by Stephanie in a way that feels elevated and intentional. I’m focused on refining my collections, offering more personalization, and aligning with creatives who value thoughtful, detail-driven design.
Moments That Matter Most
What’s been one of the most rewarding moments so far?
One of the most rewarding moments has been seeing the excitement and joy that my pieces bring to others. Whether it’s a friend unwrapping a gift, someone discovering an oyster for the first time, or the messages I get from people who love them, those reactions make all the effort feel meaningful. Creating something that sparks happiness and connection is what keeps me going.
Advice for Creative Women
If you could give advice to another woman thinking about starting a creative business, what would you say?
Creating has always been my outlet — for fear, grief, joy, and even anxiety. It’s a way to process life and stay grounded. My advice to any woman thinking about starting a creative business is this: if something is healthy and meaningful for you, pursue it. Turning it into a business is just an added bonus — the real reward is in the process itself and what it brings to your life.
Follow the Journey
If someone is reading this and already obsessed, where can they find your pieces and follow along?
You can find my pieces on my Etsy shop here https://www.etsy.com/shop/CoastalVibesbySteph and follow along on Instagram @coastalvibesbystephanie for new designs, behind-the-scenes looks, and a little bit of oyster magic in your feed.
See Coastal Vibes by Stephanie In Person
Stephanie has a full lineup of beautiful markets and creative events coming up. If you want to see her work in person (highly recommend), you can find the full event list on Instagram — but here are a few upcoming dates:
• March 21 — Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival at Taylor James Salon | 12–6 PM
• March 28 — Howey Artisan Market at Mission Resort & Club | 9 AM–2 PM
• March 29 — Tea Time by the Tide Oyster Art Workshop at 7th Owl Tea & Co. | 1 PM
• April 4 — Farm Nine | 11 AM–4 PM
The Heart Behind It All
Her work is a reminder that creativity can heal, and that the things we make with love carry meaning far beyond the moment.
What began as grief became purpose. What started as something deeply personal grew into something beautiful and lasting.
I’m so proud of the business she’s building and endlessly grateful for the friendship we share. Proof that it’s never too late to find your people and create something meaningful.
This is why I love branding photography for creatives — celebrating the humans behind the work and the stories that make it matter.
Photography: https://ashleyjaneboudoir.com/