Ayesha Curry is Insider's May 2023 digital cover star.Lia Clay Miller for Insider
- Insider's May 2023 digital cover star is Ayesha Curry, who opened up about her business, wellness, and parenting.
- At the cover shoot, Curry was photographed against blooming backdrops.
Ayesha Curry has found her rhythm, and she's loving how it sounds.
For Insider's latest cover story, the 34-year-old entrepreneur opened up about confidently marching to the beat of her own drum as she navigates a life of fulfillment. She also spoke about creating an incubator, of sorts, for Black- and women-owned businesses with her lifestyle and wellness brand, Sweet July.
"I feel like you see a lot less of me, and you hear a lot less of me, but it's because I'm actually living my life," she told writer Muna Mire. "And it feels really good."
Curry certainly exudes tranquility in Insider's cover photos, captured by photographer Lia Clay Miller. And it comes as no surprise: When she arrived at the photo shoot, Curry had a calm aura as she modeled designer ensembles handpicked by celebrity stylist Jason Bolden.
From start to finish, the energy on set remained cheerful amid moments of collaboration, laughter, and dancing. Keep reading to go behind the scenes of Insider's cover shoot with Curry.
The photos were taken at 99 Scott Studio, a gorgeous venue in Brooklyn.
Lia Clay Miller for Insider
It might look like Curry was photographed at a tropical destination, but that's not quite the case.
The photo shoot actually took place at 99 Scott Studio in Brooklyn, New York. The stunning multipurpose venue, which includes a sizeable indoor and outdoor space, has hosted creative events, weddings, and musical release parties, among other special gatherings.
The meticulously placed flora and foliage displayed in harmony with Curry are the works of creative director Liane Radel and prop stylist Stockton Hall.
Weather forecasts said it was going to rain on the day of the shoot.
The outdoor courtyard inside 99 Scott in Brooklyn, New York. Insider
Leading up to the photo shoot, weather forecasts predicted it would rain on the big day, which was quite nerve-wracking.
But it all worked out. Mother Nature smiled upon Insider's cover shoot and gave us sunshine with periodic overcasts. A typical Spring day, the temperature — although on the chillier side — was a much better outcome than a downpour.
Curry flew into New York the morning of the photo shoot.
Lia Clay Miller for Insider
Curry arrived on set around 9:30 a.m., after flying from San Francisco to New York that morning. Despite her travels, she nailed the photo shoot.
Curry was met with audible gasps when she walked out in her first look.
Ayesha Curry is Insider's May 2023 digital cover star. Lia Clay Miller for Insider
Curry, who was styled by Bolden, kicked off the photo shoot by strutting out in a sequin Oscar de la Renta cocktail dress and Sophia Webster heels. Hardly anyone could contain their excitement at the shimmery sight.
Curry asked if someone was playing her personal playlist during the shoot.
Curry wears Alberta Ferretti's applique silk gown and the stylist's own earrings. Lia Clay Miller for Insider
Music blasted during the shoot and had several people grooving, including Curry, who recognized a lot of the songs. Between a few shots, she even jokingly asked if someone was playing her personal playlist.
But the mastermind behind the selection of tunes was Kaream Appleton, a member of the set production team. The playlist, titled "Where I'm From," features tracks with Afrobeats and Caribbean elements — an intentional curation that was informed by Appleton's Jamaican heritage.
Curry also has Jamaican roots and often celebrates the island's culture.
There were good vibes all around on set.
Lia Clay Miller for Insider
Curry's photo shoot was particularly upbeat. Hair stylist Sonia Cosey danced to the music while ensuring Curry's hair remained on point, makeup artist Ashley Bias beamed at the photo monitor as Miller snapped away, and Bolden eagerly watched Curry strike poses and create movement with his selected garments. Once the shoot wrapped, a warm round of applause erupted.
Ayesha Curry - Insider's digital cover
Lia Clay Miller for Insider
To read Insider's May 2023 digital cover, starring Ayesha Curry, click here.