We started working with Mercedes Gutierrez years ago when she first stepped into the modeling industry. Back then, on that first shoot, Mercedes was still a teenager. She must’ve been like 16 at the time. Despite her age (or in spite of it), she was super ambitious, extremely talented, full of life and energy, and was incredible to work with. Nothing has changed. She’s still the great model we met during that first shoot, and then some.

Inviting Mercedes back to the studio for this episode of The Dailies was quite a treat for us. Yeah, it was great working with her again. But that wasn’t what made this so special. The best part was seeing how she matured — as a model, an artist, and an individual.

Being able to be a part of someone’s career like this — tied to it, in a way — makes for a unique circumstance. It’s not the same as working with someone for the first time when they’re already established. It’s far different because we’re not simply a part of her professional journey, we’re a driving force.