We had the good fortune of connecting with Kay-Dee Lane and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kay-Dee, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for your children?
My daughter is only a toddler but I can already see how much of an impact my actions as a parent have on her. I’d have to say the most important thing I’ve done this far as a parent is taking the time to truly understand my daughter and tailor my parenting style to her versus non specific parenting styles I’ve read in books or articles. Because I’ve taken this approach I’ve been able to appreciate her weaknesses as much as her strengths and I am able to encourage her to use her weaknesses as strengths even at her young age. For me as a parent I don’t feel it is my job to change her but rather simply inspire her to be the best version of herself. Something I’ve done now that I hope will have a huge impact on my daughter in the future is finally taking the leap to work as a full time creative. I hope this will inspire her to never think she has to settle for the typical 9-5 if that’s not what she wants. There is so much freedom in loving what you do and I am grateful everyday for my career!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m most proud of sharing a story that others can relate to. I love a pretty photo as much as the next person but the story I am able to tell through images and words is the most important thing to me. It definitely hasn’t been easy to me as I am a naturally introverted person. Sharing my deepest vulnerabilities and thoughts is just plain scary but I’ve learned that the positive impact of making someone feel like they belong has a much greater impact on the soul than any negative feedback I could ever receive. I want the world to know that I am just a typical mom. Most of my days are filled with mundane tasks like laundry and dishes but I aim to find the beauty in every day and would love to inspire others to do the same.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Ooh this is such a fun one! And one that I hope I can make come true when my friend comes to town to visit! I’d definitely plan one major hotspot for each day of the week. The zoo, Balboa Park, Torrey Pines Reserve and Gaslamp would all make the list. Plus I would make a point to visit at LEAST 3 beaches. My favorites are La Jolla, Encinitas and Carlsbad–they all have something unique to offer. I’d fill in the days with my favorite restaurants, coffee shops and bars. Some must visits for me are Communal Coffee, Holy Matcha, Polite Provisions The Smoking Goat and Extraordinary Desserts. Last but not least I’d reserve some time to shop. The North Park Street Fair, Pigment and the Carlsbad boutiques downtown offer the best low key shopping in the city!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This one is hard. I truly believe I am where I am today because of every person I’ve come across. every book I’ve read, every place I’ve visited and every song I’ve listened to. It has all led me to where I am today. The past few years is where it all really came together and I became brave enough to take the leap to a full time creative. I have to especially thank my partner, Evan, as he has never wavered in his support of my craft. He is the one who edits my work, helps me with projects and is there to compliment my work when I am unsure. His confidence in me is what has made me believe in myself more than ever.

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