Transforming Old Family Photos into Heirloom Art: A New Way to Remember
I’ve long cherished the belief that my family who’ve gone before me are now my guardian angels—walking beside me on this journey through life. Maybe that’s why I keep coming back to them in my thoughts. And that, in turn, comes through in my art.
In the past several years, I’ve lost all four of my grandparents. It’s a surreal feeling, knowing that for the rest of my life here on earth, they won’t be with me. But I hold onto the hope that one day I’ll see them again—that there will be a joyful reunion, full of tears and warm embraces.
Even so, I want to remember them now. I treasure old stories, pore over faded photographs, and find comfort in visiting the places they once knew and loved.
Remembering our ancestors helps us understand who we are and where we come from. It reminds us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. In the grand story of the world, our individual lives are just tiny brushstrokes—but even the smallest mark can carry meaning. It’s both humbling and deeply comforting to imagine those who came before us still cheering us on.
Now that I’m raising and teaching the next generation of my family, I love sharing those stories with my children. Though my grandparents are gone, their memory lives on in our conversations, in our laughter, and in the way we celebrate their legacy together.
One of my goals this year is to create an ancestor wall in our home—a space where we can gather family photos and honor those who came before. I want my kids to see their faces, learn their stories, and find themselves in the tapestry of our family.
One way I’m doing this is through art. I love bringing old photographs to life with hand-drawn embellishments. Sometimes I add specific elements that remind me of someone—like roses for my Grandma Marcia, whose front door was framed by blooming bushes, or poppies for my uncle who died in military service. For others, where the stories are still unfolding, I choose something beautiful and symbolic.
Now, I’m offering this kind of artwork to others who want to remember and celebrate their family in a meaningful way.
Each custom illustration is thoughtfully designed to reflect your family’s story in a soft, whimsical style. The floral embellishments add color and warmth to classic black-and-white or faded photos—breathing life into old memories. They might represent a beloved garden, a favorite family vacation spot, or simply a spirit of beauty and remembrance.
These portraits make thoughtful gifts to share with loved ones. They’re especially meaningful on birthdays of those who’ve passed, at family gatherings, or even sent through the mail as a heartfelt surprise.
In a world that so often tells us to focus inward—to chase self-care and keeping our heads down—I think there’s something revolutionary about looking up and remembering. Remembering where we come from. Remembering who we love. Remembering the people who made us who we are.
If you’re interested in honoring your family through artwork, I’d love to help bring your memories to life.
Click here to start the conversation.
💐 Features of the Custom Embellished Photographs:
I hand draw these pieces digitally on my iPad. I use textured brushes that mimic traditional media—pencil, watercolor, and paint—giving the piece a naturally drawn look.
In each piece, I draw the flowers that will highlight the photograph best. That may be a cluster of flowers in a corner, wildflowers growing to one side, or a floral boarder or frame. We can discuss all of these options through our conversation process before I begin.
If your order includes multiple photos, I can coordinate flowers so the photos are all cohesive, or I can do different flowers that are meaningful to each person in the photos.
All orders include a digital file. You can choose to print your design on your own, or order prints with your purchase.
If you order prints from me, standard printing for this product size is 5x7. Feel free to inquire about other sizes (6x8 and 8x10 are other common options).
Prints do NOT include framing.
I am unable to improve old photographs - I will use the photograph as you give it to me, so please ensure the scan is clear, straight, and good quality. Higher resolutions are recommended.
Because each piece is custom-made, I’m unable to accept returns. I will, however, make corrections and adjustments throughout the process before the work is finalized. Thanks for understanding!
💐 Ordering Process:
Fill out the contact form with your details.
I will reach out within 2 business days, via email, with a response and any clarifying questions. This communication is to confirm expectations. We may send a couple emails back and forth before finalization. This is where you will submit photos for embellishing.
Once we agree on the project, I will send a Paypal Invoice.
Once the invoice is paid, you will be added to the queue. I work on a “first come, first served” basis. Each custom photo takes 3-5 business days. You will be informed of your wait time and will be notified when I begin your piece.
When the artwork is complete, you will receive a proof image for you to approve before it is sent to print. I will make any slight adjustments needed.
Once you are happy with your piece, I will email you the digital copy and send your print. Printing takes 2-3 days and the shipping time will depend on your location.
If you have any questions about ordering, please let me know! Filling out the contact form does NOT confirm an order, it is simply for you to reach out and begin the conversation. Even if you are mildly interested, don’t hesitate to fill out the form.
Pricing for your Embellished Family Photographs
One Embellished Photograph
Digital Copy Only – $35
Printed Copy – $45
Includes:Digital copy
One 5x7" Giclée print on heavyweight, matte paper
Shipping included
Additional 5x7" prints – $1 each
Multiple Embellished Photographs:
2-3 Photographs (Digital Only) - $30 each
Printed Copy - add $1 per print and $10 shipping
4+ Photographs (Digital Only) - $25 each
Printed Copy - add $1 per print and $10 shipping
Multiple prints for each design are excepted and make wonderful family gifts.
💐 Ready to create your own wall of ancestors?
Click below to reach out—I’d love to create something special for you.
