In Focus: Kelsey Neff of By Design Consulting and Her Inspiring Journey
Welcoming Kelsey Neff to the Blog for Our In Focus Feature
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce Kelsey Neff, the founder of By Design Consulting, to the blog for our In Focus series. Kelsey’s story is one of courage, transformation, and purpose, and it’s an honor to share her journey with you.
With a passion for helping leaders lead more effectively and teams work more harmoniously, Kelsey’s mission is driven by her belief that everyone deserves a safe, supportive workplace. Her work through By Design Consulting is nothing short of inspiring, and I can’t wait for you to learn more about her vision and what fuels her incredible work.
You can connect with Kelsey and learn more about By Design Consulting at www.bydesignconsulting.space.
Let’s dive into her story!
No Spend Year: Why I’m Choosing Mindful Consumption in 2025
If I’m being honest, I have no idea where my money went last year—but I’m pretty sure I ate most of it. Food is definitely my love language, and I have zero regrets about indulging in it. I also gave my wardrobe a much-needed update, and let me tell you, I’m genuinely satisfied with every piece I own now. For years, I was stuck in what I call a "mom wardrobe," rarely buying anything nice for myself. Mom guilt hits hard—even now, with teenagers. But as I step into 2025, I want to approach money differently, with more intention and a lot less guilt.
The Art of Slowing Down: How Calligraphy Taught Me Patience
But beyond the strokes and flourishes, calligraphy has taught me lessons I didn’t expect.
I’ve learned to see how words look and feel. It’s strange, but when I write a word, I want it to feel like what it means. For example, the word timeless feels thin, classic, and elegant—it demands to be written in a traditional script. But the word ecstatic? It’s bold, bouncy, and full of playful loops.
Why Slow Living Isn’t Laziness: Embracing Rest and Mindful Choices in a Hustle Culture
Hustle culture has us rushing, performing, and striving—but at what cost? In 2025, I’m choosing slow living, intentional moments, and mindful consumption, including committing to a No Spend Year. It’s not about doing less; it’s about doing better. Join me as I share how slowing down has reignited my creativity, brought me peace, and redefined what success looks like.
Reflecting on 2024: How I BOSSed, Burnt Out, and Found Clarity
2024 was a year of bold moves, big manifestations, and hard lessons. I chased every goal, achieved everything I set out for—and still found myself burnt out and exhausted by year’s end. Instead of jumping into 2025 with a list of resolutions, I’m taking January to pause, reflect, and ask myself deeper questions about what I truly need. This isn’t just about achieving more; it’s about aligning with the life I want to build.
Best Friend Senior Photoshoot | Spreckels Organ Pavilion, Balboa Park
Why You Need a Professional Headshot for Your Next Hiring Event: A Fun Recap of “Hiring Our Heroes”
Vibrant Couple’s Portraits in Carlsbad: F + L's Day of Sun, Love, and Laughter
WHY YOU SHOULD PRINT YOUR PHOTOS
TBT | family portraits at halona blowhole | Honolulu, hawaii
Why you need a mood board when planning your photography session
MODEL & ACTRESS HEADSHOT & LIFESTYLE PORTRAITS
Galentine’s day at On Point boutique in folsom, california
logo design | Photography by kristy mae
R Couple with their Dogs for a Hawaiian Christmas Beach Photoshoot
Navy Homecoming at Naval Base Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Hawaii
The Importance of Professional Wedding Photography For Preserving Your Memories
Behind the Lens: Filipina on the Rise | San Diego, California
Okay, real talk - living in SoCal with zero family around can be tough sometimes. But stepping into Second Chance Brewery last weekend to photograph the Filipina on the Rise event felt like coming home in the best way possible.
This was my FIRST EVER Filipina on the Rise event, and wow! One minute I'm there as the event photographer, and the next minute I'm getting emotional because I'm surrounded by the most incredible Filipina women who just GET it. The energy was unmatched, the vendors were amazing, the food was incredible, and the connections I made? Life-changing.
This wasn't just another photography gig - it became the night I found my SoCal Filipino family...
Maternity photo shoot in auburn, ca | A Family
Mt. San jacinto college cap and gown session for m
Let’s celebrate the ladies who win!
Congratulations to this lady for graduating from college in California! We celebrated her photo shoot with a cap and gown session at a local nearby park. She’s on her way to becoming a psychologist and I am so excited to see where she goes!
Categories
- Behind-the-Scenes 7
- Brand Photography 7
- Calligraphy & Creativity 5
- Couples Photography 2
- Event Photography 2
- Food & Recipes 1
- Headshot Photography 5
- In Focus - Interviews 7
- Lifestyle 3
- Mini Sessions 1
- Photography 12
- Portrait Photography 5
- Product Recommendations & Finds 4
- Reflections & Personal Growth 3
- Senior Portraits 1
- Slow Living 4
- Travel and Lifestyle Photography 2
- Wedding Photography 1
Welcome to My Little Corner of the Internet!
Hey there! I’m so glad you’re here.
This blog is my open diary—a place where love stories come to life, where creativity blooms, and where everyday inspiration finds a home. I’m passionate about highlighting the beautiful moments I capture through my lens, sharing real stories and heartfelt interviews that celebrate love in all its forms.
But it’s not all love stories and photo sessions around here. I’ll also be sharing my creative world—from calligraphy tips and art projects to my favorite recipes and little doses of inspiration. You’ll get a peek into my day-to-day, my creative processes, and maybe even some behind-the-scenes moments from life’s adventures.
Whether you’re here for the love stories, the art, or just a bit of everyday magic, I hope you find something that makes you feel at home. Grab a cup of coffee (or maybe a glass of wine), and let’s dive in together.
With love,
Adriane Nicole