With over 25 years of hospitality experience, Jay (they/she) is an advocate and curator of connection, seeking to merge their expertise in people, operations, hospitality, and community building with a profound passion for black-and-white analog storytelling, and teaching the magic of the darkroom.

As a trained visual storyteller & educator, Jay has dedicated their craft to long-term, in-depth documentary projects & teaching the magic of the darkroom. Focusing their lens and heart on the often unseen aspects, their work delves into the underlying pulse of communities, addressing issues of discrimination, and sexual identity, and offering an empathetic perspective on marginalized individuals and communities. Their photography serves as an exploration of humanity.

Having honed their skills at the International Center of Photography's documentary photography and photojournalism program, where they were awarded The New York Times Foundation Scholarship, 

In 2016 Jay shifted away from their visual storytelling career, immersing themselves in restaurant management, they progressed to corporate executive positions and ultimately became the Director of Operations for MML Hospitality. Following their departure from MML in 2020, they transitioned into the role of the first Director of Hospitality and Culture for Preacher, an ad agency with a soul. 

In July 2022, Jay and their wife and 7-year-old daughter relocated from Austin, TX, to the Berkshires, driven by a desire for a fresh start immersed in nature, to sow seeds, establish roots, and contribute to building a community.

Over the last two years, they've embarked on a soul-searching journey, visioning WANDER, combining their experiences in the visual arts, storytelling, teaching, and hospitality industry all into one space.