Hanging out at the water-cooler until January 31st

One of the things that I miss most about having a "real" job is the water-cooler. I miss running into friends in the kitchen, asking how their weekends were, laughing about an episode of American Idol or commiserating about how terrible our current project is....For me,- on a daily basis- having people to relate to and bounce ideas, thoughts, and emotions off of is so important and sometimes working for myself feels very lonely! I have to work to create a network of people who I can trust- who understand my business and understand my need for socializing! I have to take time to pass by the water-cooler and not close my office door and subsequently cut myself off from the rest of my "company." That is why, I'm taking the next few days and heading out of town with a bunch of really amazing female photographers (and friends) to regroup, refresh, plan,  dream, giggle, create, sleep, play in the snow... etc. etc. I'll have my computer and will definitely still be working (lightly) and e-mailing but just in case you find things running a little slower than normal .. look for me by the water-cooler.

I was testing light for a portrait shoot I did today and I took this self-portrait. I look messy and tired but I like it.

Breathless, we flung us on a windy hill, Laughed in the sun and kissed the lovely grass. - Rupert Brooke

Claire Pettibone : Kristene : For Sale - $1,750

UPDATE : THIS DRESS HAS SOLD Hi Kiddos!

I don't usually use my blog for this kind of stuff but I thought this would be a good way to reach more people that might be interested in this beautiful gown! If you read my blog regularly you know that I bought the dress of my dreams.... then decided it wasn't exactly right on me and ended up wearing a different one! While I am not ready to part with the gorgeous Carolina Herrera I ended up floating down the aisle in I can safely let go of Miss Kristene. I was tempted to hack off the lower part and dye it into a cocktail number but I just couldn't do it. It's too beautiful to change.

It's never been worn, except for a few times around my house- recently been tailored and needs cleaning and would fit 0-6. The price is a steal as the dress retails for over $4,000. I just want it off my hands and into someone who will love her! :) If you are local I'd be happy to have you over to try it on .... obviously no returns and payment either cash or we can arrange a credit card payment for a small transaction fee. All pretty standard on that end!

Here are some pictures- let me know if she speaks to you :) meg {at} megperotti.com

Back/Front

Back/Front

The back of the neck actually lays flat across your shoulders- no sag like in the photo below.

All of those little dot like lace pieces dangle and move when you walk.

The train lays about a foot and a half behind you and is sort of rounded to be shaped like a heart- goes back into a V shape to mimic the detailing on the lace that goes down your spine.

It's just hanging in the closet all wrapped up waiting for a home!

ALSO! One of my brides, Siri is selling her vintage 1940s gown- check that auction out here.

LANE : Summer Days shoot

So- I hate popularity contests. Hate 'em. But I think we're the best- considering Yelena and I created this entire summer themed shoot for the Australian fashion magazine The LANE in the pouring rain! Props to our model, and my best friend, Aubrey for not only walking around in wet grass but for laying in it... while rain fell into her face, and for looking positively gorgeous while doing it! If you feel like donating 30 seconds to little ol' me ... click on the image below and vote for #3? Pretty please with a cherry on top? More pretty images and some inside info on the headband from this shoot below!

If you like Aubrey's headband, make one! I used an old headband I had lying around, fresh flowers, and a glue gun. It made the most lovely crown- I wish I would have made one for our wedding!

This "crown" fell off of the bottom of a vase Yelena had and, remembering the always amazing Elizabeth Messina's crown portraits, I snagged it and did a quick one of Aubs. I think she looks positively regal. :)

At work : 2010

Hope you all are having a wonderful New Years and are starting it out on the right foot! We're sleeping in, sipping coffee, reading reading the paper and reflecting on our goals for 2011. XoXo!

All in a days work - as you'll see, I braved all kinds of weather conditions this year! ;) -2010

Shots taken by various associate shooters.

Costa Rica :)

This is a fav.... Heather took this one... just like me to assume I'm in focus ;)

Pina Coladas with my clients at Villa Caletas!

The London