Hey, hey, heyyyyy! My name is Jessica (aka Wayfaring Wanderer) and I am a free-spirited photographer who loves working with couples, individuals, and families who are committed to travel, adventure, and laid-back lifestyles. I've lived in the Boone, NC area since 2005 and I'm known for capturing the spirit of the folks I photograph—the expressions, gestures, and details that are outward expressions of our innermost selves. While I'm primarily a wedding + elopement photographer, I also love working w/ individuals/couples/families that are traveling to the High Country area to getaway to the mountains. I absolutely love what I do and am so grateful to work with some of the most amazing people in one of the most beautiful places EVAR. Let’s go on an adventure!
Laura doesn’t just make people look good with Niadele’s natural makeup, she makes them feel good, too. “You are beautiful,” she assured me after I was finished pointing out all the flaws and imperfections on my face. I’ve had problems with acne since I was a teenager, it’s something that I’m super self-conscious about, but she put me at ease.
Greeting me with a smile and a hug, Laura invited me into her home here in Boone, NC to have a makeover so she could introduce me to her handcrafted cosmetics. It was rainy and foggy that day in the mountains but Laura beamed like a ray of sunshine as she enthusiastically shared her journey with me. The more time that I spent getting pampered by Laura, it became abundantly apparent that she likes to love on people. She was so sweet and kind. And so was her lovely sidekick, Lucy.
The name Niadele is a combination of her daughters’ names, Nia + Vivian Adele, and the company came to be out of a personal need. Laura used to struggle to find makeup that didn’t irritate her skin, so she began formulating her own non-toxic, chemical-free beauty products. Niadele’s natural makeup products are made with high-quality ingredients that are gentle on your skin. She uses natural preservatives and steers clear of harsh chemicals. Their products aren’t tested on animals either.
You’ll love how light the Tinted Face Balm & Loose Mineral Powder feel on your face, it gives a good amount of coverage without feeling heavy. A makeup that is actually good for your skin can be hard to find but these products are worth giving a try! After Laura introduced me to her awesome line of products, I have been using them ever since specifically the tinted lip balms and cheek powder. The shades available are soft and beautiful and I love the hints of color for a more natural look.
If you’d like to give Niadele makeup a try, Laura has generously shared a coupon code with Wayfaring Wanderer readers! Use: niadelelove2u when ordering through her Etsy shop. Minimum purchase of $8.
The little details make all the difference and Laura puts her heart into the finished product. I’m excited to share this behind-the-scenes interview about how and why Niadele got started.
I want to showcase passionate professionals in the wedding industry that help bring the day of your dreams to life. There are real people behind these businesses and I want you to get a glimpse of how they got started and why they do what they do. I hope you enjoy this behind-the-scenes interview series. I’m so excited to spotlight these High Country Creators.
How did you get your start here in the High Country?
My husband Doug Kaufman moved to Boone from Ohio when we were just dating and I followed him here and fell in love with the mountains! Boone has been our home now for 13 years! He is a composer for Samaritan’s Purse in the broadcast department and such an amazing support to me in creating Niadele. We have two beautiful little girls Nia and Vivian Adele, we love embracing creativity as a family. 🙂
What inspired you to start your business?
I have always had very sensitive skin, and in 2014, I began formulating my own products and discovered a sense of empowerment and a deep joy in the artistry of creating natural cosmetics! I love knowing exactly what ingredients are in my cosmetics and helping people on their self-care journey. I love to give makeovers and share my products with the community. The relationships that come out of Niadele touch my heart!
Why did you decide to get involved with the wedding industry?
I’ve enjoyed getting to take Niadele to weddings this past year, whether it was through applying the makeup for the brides and bridesmaids, or putting sweet gift sets together for the bridal party. I love offering chemical free products that are gentle and nourishing. Weddings just seemed like an extension of what I was already doing with the makeovers and sharing our journey.
What is your favorite part of the whole process?
I would have to say that my favorite part of the whole process is the connections I make with the folks that I get to care for. It is such a joy to give that personal touch, and help people find their perfect shade. I love to encourage and empower folks in their own natural beauty that is radiant and lovely!
I just want everyone to know that you don’t need makeup to be beautiful! You are beautiful, friends! I love that the mineral makeup I create helps people feel lovely and is also nourishing. When I can pamper someone and make them feel special, that is my favorite part of this journey!
A real close second favorite is the creating process, I’m always learning and have my brain focused on product development. I’ll probably be in product development for a long, long time and I love that!
What is your biggest challenge in preparing for a wedding day?
Whew! There is a lot more to it than I realized because everyone has different skin needs, and so I just like to make sure that my demo kit is full of all the supplies I will need. I also like to make sure that I’m rested and focused so I can help the bride and bridesmaids feel at ease. Each wedding that I’ve done so far has been a true treasure and I’m grateful!
How did you tell your story through your wedding?
I remember that I walked down the aisle barefoot and had wildflowers as my centerpieces. I just love that carefree feeling you get when you are in nature. There is beauty all around you, and you own your place in it. : )
If you had it to do all over again, would there be anything you’d change about your wedding day? Why or why not?
I don’t think I would change a thing, I loved my wedding day. I still can’t believe that I get to journey through life with Doug, he is my best friend and I count that blessing over and over again.
What one piece of advice would you give to a couple getting married?
I would say, take it in stride and simple is better. hehe
If you could have written a letter to your future bride-self to read on your wedding day, what would the note have said?
“You got this, babe. “
What do you like about working with Wayfaring Wanderer?
I had a ball working with Wayfaring Wanderer. Jessica is a talented and gifted photographer! I loved watching her in action, her passion is contagious. I’m excited to work with her in the future and learn from her 🙂
If you’d like to give Niadele makeup a try, Laura has generously shared a coupon code with Wayfaring Wanderer readers! Use: niadelelove2u when ordering through herEtsy shop. Minimum purchase of $8.
My name is Jessica and I’m a wedding, engagement and lifestyle photographer based in Boone, NC. I’m known for capturing the spirit of the folks I photograph–the expressions, gestures, and details that are outward expressions of our innermost selves. I love working with couples, individuals and families who are committed to travel, adventure, and laid-back lifestyles. If you think we might be kindreds, I invite you to connect with me!
I can't wait TO CONNECT WITH YOU ANd hear more about your special day!
the mountains are calling...
A note about availability: I currently book dates up to 9 months in advance. If your date is more than 9 months away, I’m not yet booking that far out.
Thank you so much for taking the time to contact me. I'm truly grateful to do what I love and I appreciate your time and consideration in advance! My response time is 24-hours for all wedding, engagement, and family photography inquiries. I look forward to connecting with you soon! In the meantime, let's be friends on Instagram. I love sharing a behind-the-scenes look at life in Boone, NC as a wedding photographer!