Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) Matthew Banever (Bards Clothing)

Summary:

Today, we’re thrilled to welcome the incredible Carla Ten Eyck. If you know Carla, you know she’s a force of nature in the photography world and an ambassador of community and connection. We explore Carla’s evolving photography career, her journey into branding work, her passion for creating inclusive and welcoming spaces, and how she beautifully balances the various communities she’s a part of. Whether she’s behind a camera or on the golf course, Carla’s joy and energy are undeniable. Let’s dive in!

Outfits:

Carla –

• Dress – Marshalls
• Denim Jacket – Gap
• Belt – Thrifted & borrowed from her daughter
• Earrings – Kate Spade
• Shoes – Rothy’s

Melissa – 

• Shirt – Marshalls
• Skirt – No name – internet fed…
• Shoes – Versache
• Earrings – Versache – Vestiaire Collective
• Ankle Bracelet permanent jewelry – Stay True Body Piercing

Matt – 

• Shacket – Bards with American Woolen
• T-Shirt – Huckleberry
• Neckerchief – Moon Eyed Hair
• Jeans – Raleigh Denim
• Socks – Bobs Burgers
• Boots – Mezlan
• Bracelet – The Always Busy Mama

Key Topics Discussed:

• The Journey to Becoming Carla Ten Eyck Photography: Carla shares how she found her passion for photography and how her career has evolved over the years, from photographing ultra-luxury weddings to her current focus on branding and connecting with people through visual storytelling.
• The Importance of Community and Connection: We discuss the many layers of community Carla cherishes—from her family and local Hartford connections to the broader networks she builds through work. She reflects on how her involvement in diverse groups like the Hartford Public Library and the West Hartford Chamber has enriched her life.
• Bringing Joy and Purpose into Work: Carla speaks about how her experiences outside the wedding industry, like her branding collaborations and creative partnerships, keep her work feeling fresh. She emphasizes the importance of being an inclusive connector, inviting others into the unique world she’s built.
• Empowering Young Creatives: Carla and Melissa discuss the challenges and opportunities for younger professionals in under appreciated trades, such as sewing and tailoring. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of traditional craftsmanship and the importance of empowering the next generation.
• Balancing Life and Business: Carla shares her approach to keeping her life diverse and dynamic, from traveling with her kids to finding joy in unexpected places like the golf course. She also talks about involving her children in her work, creating meaningful experiences, and embracing balance.

Takeaways:

• Creating Connection: Carla’s mission is to use her talents to connect people in authentic and uplifting ways. We learn that even the simplest tools, like a camera or sewing needle, can be transformative when used with passion and purpose.
• The Power of Inclusivity: Carla’s dedication to making everyone feel seen and welcomed is a powerful reminder of the impact of intentional community building.
• Finding Balance: Life isn’t just about one thing. Carla inspires us to integrate different experiences to keep our creative energy flowing.
• Inspiring the Next Generation: Whether through photography, sewing, or trades, there’s a better way to live and thrive in these crafts. Carla and Melissa both encourage us to uplift and mentor future creatives.

Links:

• Carla Ten Eyck – Carla Ten Eyck is an inclusive wedding, event + branding photographer in Hartford, CT. Light and connection fuel her work as she joyfully documents your wedding event or branding session. Carla offers emotion-filled wedding + branding photography in Connecticut, Boston, Rhode Island, and worldwide. Eyes up, heart open.
• New England Event Professionals – A Connecticut based networking group focusing on inclusivity, education, community, and philanthropy in CT & Rhode Island.
• Kate Spade – Namesake retailer showcasing the designer’s chic, upbeat handbags, womenswear & accessories.
• Rothy’s – Comfortable, washable, stylish, sustainable.
• Vestiairie Collective – The World’s Largest Community Of Pre-Loved Fashion.
• Stay True Body Piercing – Newington, CT – premier piercing studio specializing in body piercings and fine jewelry.
• American Woolen – Stafford Springs, CT – textile mill and design lab using 100% American wool and fiber, restoring New England’s textile industry.
• Huckberry – The One Stop Men’s Shop — Curating the World’s Most Unique Clothing, Footwear, Gear & More.
• Moon-Eyed Hare – Prints, posters, pins, stickers, apparel and more featuring nature illustrations by Julia Delgado.
• Raleigh Denim – Hand Crafted By Jeansmiths — Made by non-automated jeansmiths using old-school machines and built-to-last techniques.
• The Always Busy Mama – a Connecticut-based jewelry brand by Becky Imbimbo, offering dainty handcrafted and permanent jewelry pieces for women on the go.
• Mezlan Shoes – Handcrafted in Spain — Handmade Men’s Designer Shoes with Unique Personality, European Charm and Sophistication. 
• Sarah Brehant – Sarah Brehant Events is a Wedding & Event Planning business located in Connecticut serving couples in Newport, Connecticut, and all of New England, New York & all dreamy destinations. 
• Smith Farm Gardens – Smith Farm Gardens is a family owned historic 15- acre estate featuring manicured grounds, beautiful flower gardens and an 18th century home. 
• West Hartford Chamber of Commerce – Our goal is to connect local businesses, entrepreneurs, and residents by facilitating networking, collaboration, and support. 
• Middlesex Chamber of Commerce – The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,900 members that employ over 50,000 people.  We strive to be the voice of business in Middlesex County and the surrounding area.