Introducing Heirloom Home Portraits

The Story Behind the Keepsakes

The idea for watercolor-style home portraits came after publishing my children’s book, Nibbles: A Fodor Tree Farm Tale, where I digitally transformed photographs of a family farm into watercolor and pen-sketch illustrations.

Readers loved the artwork, but not all were looking for a children’s book. As a photojournalist and creative, I'm always searching for meaningful ways to preserve and tell personal stories.

As the holidays approached, I noticed how deeply people treasure personalized keepsakes. Their joy and pride moved me. Then one morning, it clicked: why not bring the same artistry from my book into people’s homes? When I began casually sharing the idea, folks lit up.

I enjoy creating these portraits and hearing the history behind each house. The connections formed along the way have turned this venture into a beautiful tapestry I feel called to weave.

I hope you find delight and inspiration here.

Monica

Frequently Asked Questions

Hahnemühle Paper is produced by the historic German paper mill known for its museum-quality fine art paper.
Material: 100% cotton rag (free of wood pulp, acid, and lignin).
Surface & Texture: Features a signature lightly defined felt structure that gives printed images a painterly, organic quality and three-dimensional depth.
No. I use digital tools and brushes in Photoshop to capture the delicate quality of traditional watercolor.
Once we receive your photo, you will receive a proof by email within 48 hours. If no adjustments are needed, we will send digital orders within 24 hours of approval.
Shipments and local pickup are typically about a week after final approval, depending on the shipping method chosen at checkout.
Rush shipments are available. Please email me directly so I can be sure to coordinate carefully with you.
Monica@SmallStoriesBigHearts.com
Absolutely! To ensure the best results, be sure to:
- Make sure your lens is clean and free from smudge marks.
- Stand directly in front/center of your home.
- Raise your arms to get the best angle. Avoid using a tight or wide angle. Move closer or further back to balance both sides of the home.
- Try to include some of the landscaping and any greenery around the home.
If you're in doubt, I am happy to look at your photo before you place your order. Feel free to send to the email address below along with a short note.
Monica@SmallStoriesBigHearts.com
You will have a chance to approve the image before receiving the final product. Your price includes two revisions, so there’s room to work with.
We’re confident you will love your portrait, but we understand that this is an important decision. If at any time within five days of the proofing process you are not completely satisfied, we are happy to issue a no-questions-asked refund.
Given the digital nature and print costs, we are unable to issue a refund once your proof has been approved.
Digital purchases will be sent in high resolution and can be printed at a lab of your choice up to 24”x36”.
Print products are available in standard frame sizes. You will choose your size during check out.
Controversial question! I like you!
If you mean, " Do you run my photo through ChatGPT and hope for the best?” No.
That said, AI is everywhere these days, including in my editing software and digital paintbrushes. I’ve spent over five years learning techniques from master painters and watching tutorials to develop my own tools and style.
Artists use many mediums to create; Photoshop is mine, and I am so proud of how far I’ve come.
Once you have your favorite house photo ready, follow the link below or click on the ORDER NOW button to get started.

Ready to Order?

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