It all began a couple of months ago with a message I received through my Facebook page from a local lady with a penchant for all things Gatsby; she asked would I be interested in collaborating on a calendar project - all for a worthy cause.

After meeting Pearl and being bowled over by her passion for the roaring 20’s I simply had to get onboard.

Some six months on and the shoots are pretty much all in the bag; as the editing begins - the excitement grows.

We’ve had romantic couples photographed in local beauty spots, multiple castle locations; indulgent high teas in grand houses, big bands, Charleston dancers with enough sequins to make Jay Gatsby blush and much, much more.

The models have been brilliant and come from all walks of life; matched with Pearl’s superb styling and an eye for detail, the calendar will surely sell out.

For me the huge commitment of multiple shoots in multiple locations meant taking on a second shooter was essential; lucky for me local award winning photographer Janet Redmond happily agreed to come on board.

The launch night for the calendar is scheduled for September (I’ll be sharing more details closer to the time). Meanwhile please watch this video featuring the charity all this is in aid of; the International Orphanage Development Programme, founded by local man, Tom McEnaney 20 years ago.