10/23/2026
Employee of the month announcement is coming a bit early- and tied to an even bigger announcement that's both sad and exciting!
Beef gave service to the Black Gem team for 14.5 years. He has been extremely dedicated to his work, never missing a moment to greet a client. He has only grown softer with age. His loud meows echo through the studio room when he's checking in, but that doesn't make them any less lovable or inviting.
Opalite (or Opal for short) served Black Gem Photography for 4.5 years. She is spunky, wags her tail with happiness when a new friend arrives and her favorite memories include ones with clients that have large dresses for her to play on. Though she was a bathroom attendant, she fulfilled all the duties of a Studio Assistant Manager and will be written in history as the very best.
Foxy joined the Black Gem Team 4 years ago and is the newest member, but one of the hardest goodbyes. She is very quiet but her big smile speaks volumes. Although her anxiety kept her from ever actually using the stairs to the studio, she was the friendliest door greeter there ever was.
✨The big and exciting news is that *we* are moving. The kiddos will be moving to a new location to live out their farm dreams and enjoy (partial) retirement. They have loved their jobs and I feel bad they will be in early retirement but I have great news- Black Gem Studio will be expanding to much more space, as well as will be rentable per hour or per night in the very near future!✨
I also can't retire the babies fully, I believe they love their job a ton and I know they live for the days that clients visit them (if you have met them, you know this is true) so I will be offering emotional support animals (not certified but very lovable) to join the session! If you want a dog or a cat during your studio session with me, you can let me know and I will bring a baby with 🖤
We will be living extremely close by and the kids will love to come see you and travel here!
So that is the sad but exciting news. If you have a memory or photo to share of the team, we would love to see it and celebrate their hard years of service into retirement 🥹🖤
As for Employee of the Month, I can't choose one team member, as they all have done amazing work and have earned the most love and respect through their service. Congrats Beef, Opal and Foxy on your service and everyone wishes you the best (partial) retirement in the world 🖤
