In this short and heartfelt holiday episode, Valerie and Adeline from Hey Love Studio reflect on a year that tested them personally, creatively, and professionally—and ultimately reminded them why community, chosen family, and queer joy matter so much.
They open up about the slow and discouraging start to 2025, the fear of closing their business, and how support from their community helped them keep going. From navigating international family visits and missed marketing momentum to witnessing the real-world impact of political uncertainty on queer couples, this conversation captures the emotional highs and lows behind the scenes of Hey Love Studio.
The duo also shares their favorite moments from the year, including the honor of documenting queer love in all its forms—whether that meant centering queer couples, supporting queer family members at weddings, or being chosen specifically because they provide a safe and affirming space. They reflect on how their work has evolved, the growing role of video in their offerings, new gear investments, creative growth, and the lessons learned from not receiving a hoped-for grant.
As the conversation turns toward the holidays, Valerie and Adeline speak directly to listeners who may be navigating complicated family dynamics or celebrating outside traditional norms. They offer gentle encouragement to honor chosen family, create your own traditions, and prioritize what actually brings comfort and joy.
The episode closes with gratitude for the couples and community who continue to choose Hey Love Studio—and with hopeful, grounded goals for 2026, including expanding their team, deepening their video work, achieving greater financial stability, and documenting even more milestones in queer families’ lives.
Whether you’re celebrating loudly, quietly, or not at all this season, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone—and that joy, resistance, and love can coexist.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from Hey Love Studio.
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