Rising Stars: Meet Leslie Reeves of Northern Colorado

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Reeves.

Hi Leslie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been a creative for as long as I can remember—one of those kids who was always rearranging the furniture, not just for fun, but to feel how a space could completely change with a little imagination. That early curiosity for transforming environments grew into a lifelong passion for design, details, and storytelling.

Interestingly, my career began in music—I was a professional bassoonist before pivoting into the world of design. Eventually, I went back to school and earned degrees in Interior Design, Architectural Drafting, and Kitchen & Bath Design. Over the years, I’ve worked with architects, custom home builders, and in residential and commercial design through a retail store representing over 500 vendors. All of that gave me a deep understanding of both the technical and artistic sides of design.

Photography came next—and it all started with a vintage Shasta camper I turned into a mobile photo booth. That quirky little booth opened the door to portraiture, and I fell in love with capturing people’s energy and stories. Now, with over 15 years behind the lens, I photograph everything from seniors and families to weddings, empowerment sessions, and business branding.

What ties it all together is my love for storytelling and my eye for the beauty in people, objects, and spaces. Whether I’m styling a room or photographing a moment, I approach every project with warmth, authenticity, and a deep commitment to honoring each client’s unique story. And I like to think I bring a little fun and flair to the process, too.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not a smooth road—but it’s been one full of growth, grit, and a lot of beautiful lessons.

My journey really began after a divorce, when I was a single mom to two very young boys. I was determined to build a stable life for them, which meant going back to school while juggling parenting, late-night studying, and learning to make crockpot meals that would be ready after long days of classes. I couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of my mother, who helped so much with childcare during those tough years.

The worlds of design and photography both demand a lot of detail, patience, and creative problem-solving. Whether it’s figuring out how to make a tricky angle or odd-shaped room functional and beautiful, or navigating construction delays and contractor schedules, I’ve learned how to stay flexible, solution-oriented, and efficient. I’m a bit of a perfectionist by nature, but I always keep the client’s vision front and center—especially when I’m working with couples or families who don’t always agree. In those moments, I become part designer, part therapist, helping everyone feel heard and guiding them toward a space that reflects everyone’s story.

Photography brings its own set of challenges—weather, lighting, and unpredictable moments—but those are often the times when the most meaningful memories are made. I once photographed a family just hours after they’d experienced a series of chaotic events—a death of a close friend, a delayed flight, a post-surgery pup, and unexpected rain. And yet, they showed up. That photo, taken in the midst of the mess, became one of their favorites. The mom told me it captured their real life, their love, and their gratitude—and honestly, it reminded me why I do what I do.

Every challenge has pushed me to be more creative, more compassionate, and more grounded in my purpose. The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s shaped me into the designer, photographer, and person I am today—and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At our studio, I blend two passions—interior design and photography—both rooted in storytelling and seeing beauty where others might not. I specialize in creating meaningful spaces that reflect the people who live in them, and capturing portraits that celebrate the real, raw, and beautiful parts of life.

In interior design, I’m known for mixing unexpected elements—thrifted treasures with high-end pieces, bold color palettes, unique textures—and making it all feel cohesive and deeply personal. I’ve worked on everything from custom residential builds to commercial design, and I love the challenge of turning tricky spaces into functional works of art. Clients often come to me when they don’t want “cookie-cutter” anything. I bring a creative, collaborative approach and help people express themselves through their spaces—even when they’re not quite sure how to put their vision into words.

As a photographer, I specialize in portraiture—seniors, families, weddings, empowerment sessions, and branding. My superpower is helping people feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera. I pride myself on capturing not just what people look like, but who they are. I love when clients tell me, “You really got me.”

What sets me apart is that everything I do is built around connection and customization. Whether I’m designing a home or photographing a milestone, I truly listen. I tune in to the little things—the quirks, the dynamics, the emotional undercurrents—and use those to shape an experience that’s completely unique to each client.

What I’m most proud of is the trust people place in me. Whether I’m helping a family find common ground on a renovation or photographing someone during a vulnerable moment in their life, I don’t take that lightly. It’s a privilege to be invited into people’s stories, and I do my best to honor that with creativity, care, and a lot of heart.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I love collaborating with people who value creativity, storytelling, and personal connection—whether that’s through design, photography, or a blend of both. The easiest way to work with me is to reach out through my website or social media. I offer consultations for interior design projects of all sizes, from full home renovations to helping people style a single room. I also offer portrait sessions that are completely tailored to the client—whether you’re celebrating a milestone, building your brand, or just want to document your real, everyday magic.

For design, I work both locally and remotely, and I enjoy teaming up with contractors, builders, and other creatives to bring unique visions to life. If you’re looking for someone who brings both artistic flair and organized execution, I’m your person.

On the photography side, I shoot on-location and occasionally in-studio, depending on the project. I love collaborating with other artists, small businesses, and brands—especially those who are passionate about authenticity and visual storytelling.

And of course, the best way to support my work is by sharing it, referring friends, or simply following along on social media. Every comment, kind word, and client referral means the world. I pour my heart into what I do, and I’m always honored when people invite me to be part of their journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.focus-and-finish.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focus_and_finish_
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579020071884
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/focus-and-finish-laporte
• Other: https://share.google/Jqmazlgks23JS3H6R