The journey of Flora by Alexandria has always been about more than just clothing—it’s about storytelling, nostalgia, and embracing life’s vibrant moments. So, when the opportunity arose to shoot a brand video in Puerto Rico, I knew it was the perfect backdrop. With its vivid culture, stunning coastal views, and Spanish charm, Puerto Rico was the heartbeat of this photoshoot—a place that resonates deeply with me and the essence of Flora by Alexandria.
The Team Behind the Scenes
To bring this vision to life, I was lucky enough to work with an incredibly talented team. Photographer Mark Hood masterfully captured the vibe of each look, while Video Director and Producer Erick (@holasirhodge) led the creative direction with his dynamic vision. Jake, our cinematographer, brought every scene to life with stunning visuals that showcased the collection in its most authentic form.
The models were the heartbeat of this campaign. Alondra, Camila, and Veronica—three beautiful Puerto Rican women who embodied the vibrant energy and spirit of Flora by Alexandria. Their natural beauty and confident presence brought the collection to life. Later, we included Gracie from the States for the in-studio portion, tying together the collection’s story with her poise.
With less than 48 hours on the island, we had to move quickly. But that fast-paced energy only added to the excitement. The team’s camaraderie and shared creative vision made every moment unforgettable, from the early morning calls to the long nights exploring Old San Juan.
One tool that was a game-changer on this shoot was Milanote, an app recommended by Erick. I was initially reluctant to learn yet another app, but it turned out to be a lifesaver for organizing each model’s look in correspondence with the shoot locations. It kept us all on the same page and ensured that no creative idea was lost in the hustle of the day.
A moment of pure curiosity—peering into a beautifully renovated home in Old San Juan… until the owner strolled right in past us! Safe to say, we were caught in the act. 😂 No harm done, just a little friendly neighborhood nosiness!
Our team split up between an Airbnb in the heart of Old San Juan and the stunning El Convento Hotel. Staying in the Airbnb was an immersive experience—while, those at El Convento enjoyed a touch of luxury, with its breathtaking rooftop pool and sunning area offering the perfect place to unwind after a long shoot day (not that we had time for that, hypothetically speaking here). The hotel’s complimentary happy hour with wine and cheese is a welcomed treat, we didn’t have time to indulge in that either, but it’s a perk nonetheless.
El Convento, with its rich history and elegant architecture, is a true gem in Old San Juan, making it a sought-after spot for weddings and events.
As we navigated the narrow alleyways and bustling squares, we encountered Puerto Rico’s infamous 15-minute rainstorms. It felt like the island itself was reminding us to pause and take a breath—a brief, calming interlude in an otherwise hectic day. These short rain showers became a rhythm we danced to, regrouping as we anxiously waited for the skies to clear. And just like that, the sun would break through, illuminating the vibrant streets with a golden, humid glow.
The day was long, starting before sunrise and stretching into the early hours of the next morning. Yet, every moment was exhilarating. There was a palpable energy in the air, a creative buzz that kept us all going despite the heat and the occasional rainstorm.
We ended the day with an alfresco dinner at the Cannon Club, a hidden gem that perfectly matched the elegant yet relaxed vibe of the collection. The evening was filled with stories and incredible food—one of those nights where you feel fully present and alive, soaking in the positive energy and stimulation.
But the night wasn’t over yet. We made our way to La Factoría, a renowned speakeasy in Old San Juan known for its eclectic ambiance and rich cultural vibe. Each room at La Factoría has its own personality, and it’s almost tradition to visit each one, paying homage to the unique energy they bring. It was the perfect way to end an unforgettable day—a celebration of hard work, creativity, and the magic of Puerto Rico.
Photoshoots are always a whirlwind of planning, creativity, and adaptability. Things rarely go as planned, but that’s where the fun happens. This trip was no exception, with its challenges of unpredictable weather and the fast-paced schedule. Yet, looking back, it was these very moments that made the experience so special.
I write these behind-the-scenes posts because it’s important to reflect on the hard work, teamwork, and creative vision that go into every photoshoot. It’s easy to see the final product—the beautiful images and perfectly edited videos—but there’s so much more that happens behind the scenes. There’s silliness, stress, spontaneous creativity, and an immense amount of collaboration. There’s also the sheer fun of it all—the joy of working with incredibly talented people, the thrill of seeing a creative vision come to life, and the beauty of experiencing a place as picturesque as Puerto Rico.
Returning from Puerto Rico, life didn’t slow down. Between nonstop modeling gigs, the wholesale market in Atlanta, and moving into a new home, it felt like August passed in the blink of an eye.
But as I sit here reflecting on this whirlwind trip, I’m reminded of the importance of being present, of embracing the unexpected, and of making an effort to seek what it is you enjoy.
This trip wasn’t just about showcasing a new collection; it was about celebrating the spirit of Flora by Alexandria—a brand inspired by my Spanish/Caribbean roots, Southern influences, and the vibrant colors of life. It was about capturing the magic of a place that means so much to me, surrounded by a team of passionate and talented friends.
The video and imagery are now live on Flora’s instagram, and with every photo and video, I hope you feel the energy, love, and expertise that went into it. This is Flora by Alexandria—a celebration of femininity, nostalgia, and the beauty of life’s vibrant moments.
Stay inspired, stay present, and always celebrate the journey.
~ Alexandria