One Year of Shutter and Compass: Travel, Photography, and Adventures Around the World

It’s hard to believe that just one year ago, Shutter and Compass was nothing more than two best friends daydreaming about how we could combine our passions for travel, storytelling, and photography. Today, that dream is a thriving travel and lifestyle brand filled with blog posts, podcasts, social media content, and unforgettable adventures.

Shutter and Compass is the result of two photographers—Shelby and Megan—who wanted to share more than just pretty pictures. Megan, with a background as a travel agent, realized that her true calling wasn’t booking trips but living them, documenting them, and inspiring others to follow their wanderlust. With Shelby’s photography expertise and shared love of exploration, the path became clear: create a platform where our imagery, words, and voices could transport people into the heart of travel.

At its core, Shutter and Compass is:

• A travel blog and podcast filled with tips, stories, and insights. Have you subscribed to our YouTube Channel? If not, this is an open invitation!

• A content creation hub for businesses who want to showcase their experiences, services, or destinations with a professional and creative touch.

• A photography brand that thrives on capturing detail, emotion, and adventure.

• A community for travelers—especially women ages 25–55 who are inspired by exploration, luxury travel, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Our Facebook Group is growing to be a wealth of knowledge for newbie travelers and experienced alike.

Whether we’re highlighting a charming winery in Virginia, sailing the Caribbean with Virgin Voyages, or racing through Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, our goal is the same: to bring our imagery and storytelling to the masses and help others discover the beauty and excitement waiting for them.

October 2024

Just one year ago, at the Shutter and Compass Launch Party at The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm! Grateful for Sunshine Ridge and Maria Rafferty who graciously allowed us to celebrate there — and Maria and Sunshine were the first official video published!
Grateful for so many who came out to support and offer services, including Ofe Cox and her team at Love Wedding & Events, and Ester Malinowski, of Castle Drive Flowers. We couldn’t do what we do without support from our amazing small business family!

Local Adventures: The Best of the DMV and Northern Virginia

This past year, we leaned into our own backyard and discovered how much there is to see and do right here in the Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia area.

We’ve highlighted some of the region’s most beloved spots:

• Lark Brewing Co - A relatively new local gem that we LOVE hanging out at! Great for relaxing weekends or weeknights, and family friendly.

• Stone Tower Winery – A gorgeous backdrop for wine lovers, where rustic charm meets rolling hills.

• The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm – A hidden gem on the water with a welcoming community and a perfect sunset view. Maria and her team are fantastic, and we’ll always love our adults only time to just chill with a lake view.

• The People’s House in Washington, D.C. – A unique space blending history, architecture, and a sense of national pride. As it’s only a year old, this was a perfect way to check out some of what DC h as to offer, without the craziness.

• Alexandria Colonial Tours Ghost Tour – An after-dark adventure that revealed the spooky (and fascinating) history of Old Town Alexandria.

• Nationals Game from a rooftop — yes, please!

• We didn’t forget the winter festivities - between the Bull Run Festival of Lights and Hi Lawn’s Northern Lights Dome Experience on Union Market’s rooftop, we had it covered with unique and fun visual outings.

And that’s just to name a few amazing opportunities for local travel we’ve enjoyed. Our local content has reached tens of thousands of views and proved that people are hungry to explore what’s right outside their front door. We also had the immense honor of video hosting the opening for one of our favorite local charities, Boxes of Basics. How incredible is it to have people, friends, and groups acknowledge all that we are doing, even as a brand new business?! Truly, we love being able to support our community, and this was a fantastic opportunity to help shed light on the issue of clothing insecurity.

Besties doing what we do…for our favorite charity.

Blessed to be asked by Sarah Tyndall of Boxes of Basics to open for their Dueling Keys for a Cause event. While we were still quite new to being “public” and on video, we got out of our comfort zones and went for it! It was a blast, and using our skills for charity was an honor.

Learn more about Boxes of Basics, volunteer, or donate here: https://boxesofbasics.org

Thank you to Tammy with Sweetheart Photo Booths - so great finally connecting on this special evening!

International Travel: Cruising the Caribbean

Internationally, we spent time in the Caribbean aboard Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady, sailing to some of the most stunning islands in the world. From San Juan, Puerto Rico to Tortola, Bridgetown, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, and St. Maarten, we captured and shared a “sample size” of each destination. This particular cruise was either our 2nd (Shelby) or 3rd (Megan) cruise with Virgin, and let us say — we are fans. For adult cruising. Otherwise, I think we’d go Disney all the way!

Cruising allows us to experience beaches, local culture, and community life in quick snapshots—whether it’s soaking up the sun, tasting fresh island flavors, or wandering cobblestone streets. And the beauty is, if a place captures our hearts (and many of these islands did), we know we can always go back for a longer stay. Megan will be heading back to Jost van Dyke in February and is excited about the opportunity to bring you images and stories from our favorite island!! Truly, it’s a must-do.

Our podcasts and videos about Virgin Voyages have inspired others to consider cruising as their next vacation. It’s a lifestyle we’ve fallen in love with—relaxing, adventurous, and filled with stories to tell. We are also thrilled to share that we’ve opened up our podcasts to include guest speakers to share guidance and experiences, and you’ll want to keep listening for more!

National Travel: A Day at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe

Closer to home, we traveled to Florida to experience the newest Universal theme park: Epic Universe. Even though we had only one day, we made it count, traveling through each portal and fully immersing ourselves in the magic.

Highlights included:

• Helios Grand Hotel – Elegant and stunning, a luxurious anchor to the park. We highly recommend this amazing hotel if you can swing it. Yes, it’s expensive, and there’s no real way around that. But the ease of getting into and out of the park, plus the captivating views makes it worth it. At least once.

• Ministry of Magic (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter) – A stunningly detailed expansion that transports you straight into the magical heart of Harry Potter’s world. From intricate architecture to immersive storytelling, this new land is a must-see for fans who want to step inside the Ministry itself.

• Isle of Berk (How to Train Your Dragon) – Shelby met Toothless (a true bucket-list moment!) and we all felt like Vikings flying through the skies. From the moment you walk in to see this “Isle”…you are fully immersed. It’s not just magical, it’s transformative. You’ll walk right alongside your favorite HTTYD characters!

• Mario World (Super Nintendo World) – Our teenagers were in heaven, racing through Donkey Kong, meeting Luigi, and dining at Toadstool Café. The only thing we all wish we had more of — time in the park!

• Dark Universe – Creepy, thrilling, and a must-see for fans of Universal’s iconic monsters. Truth be told, we weren’t ‘as’ excited about this Universe. That said - it was VERY well done. Go at night. You’ll thank us.

• Celestial Park – A beautifully designed hub that ties everything together. The food, the atmosphere and the Stardust Racers Coaster are all fantastic! Again, the ONLY thing we needed at Epic was more time.

We were especially impressed with Universal’s attention to dietary needs, making it easy for allergy-conscious families to enjoy their visit. And beyond the rides and restaurants, we treasured the chance to create memories with our children—whether they’re small kids or (like ours) 19-year-old college students who still light up at the magic of theme parks.

Beyond Epic Universe, we also spent two regular park days at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. These days were packed with thrills, from riding the heart-pounding VelociCoaster to soaking in every magical detail of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Universal always delivers when it comes to immersive worlds and adrenaline-pumping attractions, and it’s a destination we never get tired of returning to.

We also dedicated a full week to Walt Disney World. While Universal is our go-to for big-kid rides and roller coasters, Disney will forever hold a special, nostalgic place in our hearts. We are, and always will be, Disney kids at heart—captivated by the magic, the storytelling, and the joy that fills every corner of the parks. From Cinderella’s Castle to EPCOT evenings, Disney remains a place where our family makes memories that last a lifetime.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Shutter and Compass

While our first year has been filled with growth, exploration, and storytelling, we’re just getting started. Behind the scenes, we’re working on some exciting projects and collaborations that we can’t wait to share with you.

And looking further ahead, we’re thrilled to announce our First Annual Shutter and Compass Group Trip to Sandals Montego Bay, Jamaica in May 2026! We’ll be partnering with our friend and travel expert, Kristen Faye Alfred (@Travel.With.Kristen), to host an unforgettable all-inclusive getaway. If you’ve been inspired by our travels and want to experience the Shutter and Compass community in person, this is your chance. Whether you join us for the full group experience or simply want an excuse to escape to Jamaica, we’d love to see you there.

Thank You for a Wonderful First Year

This journey would not be possible without all of you—our readers, listeners, collaborators, and fellow travelers. Your encouragement and support have helped Shutter and Compass grow from an idea into a brand that inspires, connects, and creates. And, in our first year, we are honored to have even won our very first award! Each year, Inside Nova hosts a competition, and we are beyond grateful to have won The Best of Prince William County - Best Blogger Award. Seriously, y’all. Pinch us!! We love what we do, and we are blessed to share it with an audience who supports and encourages our work.

Here’s to more adventures, more stories, and more memories in the year ahead. ✨

How to Cruise to the South Caribbean Stress Free

Sailing the South Caribbean with Virgin Voyages: Packing Tips, Pro Tips, and Unforgettable Moments

If you’ve ever dreamed of an adults-only cruise where luxury meets laid-back vibes, Virgin Voyages is calling your name. We—Shelby and Megan—recently set sail on an adventure through the stunning South Caribbean, with stops in Barbados, St. Lucia, Tortola, St. Maarten, Antigua, and a departure from Puerto Rico. December was the perfect time to cruise—warm breezes, turquoise waters, and just the right amount of holiday spirit on board.

So, grab a cocktail, kick back, and let us take you through our trip, plus some handy pro tips and packing must-haves to make your Virgin Voyages experience seamless!

Packing Tips: Essentials You Won’t Want to Forget

Let’s talk about packing smart. Virgin Voyages cruises are all about effortless style and comfort, so packing light (but right) is the way to go. Here are some must-haves:

• Packing Cubes – Keep your suitcase organized and easily find your outfits for every occasion. Check out our favorite set here: https://amzn.to/4jK3Vy6

• Sun Hat – The Caribbean sun doesn’t mess around. A stylish, packable sun hat is a lifesaver for beach days. We love this one – it was so easy to fold in our travel bags, yet still super accessible: https://amzn.to/3Q5qRdp

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Whether you have health issues that require medication or if you just like to be well-prepared for any illness scenario, we love this Travel Pill Organizer! https://amzn.to/3QbRXj2

• Waterproof Phone Case – Perfect for those catamaran rides and snorkeling trips. https://amzn.to/4gptPEq

• Comfortable Sandals – You’ll be doing plenty of exploring, so comfy and stylish sandals are a must.

• Portable Chargers – These are a MUST during travels! Ours came in handy numerous times (shocker – we took a lot of pictures, videos, notes and all things for this content!) https://amzn.to/40Mre1o

• Swimwear & Cover-Ups – Pack a few so you’re always ready for a spontaneous beach stop or a dip in the ship’s pool.

• Casual Chic Outfits – No need for formalwear, but having some trendy yet comfy outfits will keep you feeling great for dinner and entertainment onboard.

• Sea Sickness Bands or Ginger Chews – Just in case those waves get a little too friendly.

Pro Tips for Sailing with Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is all about breaking the mold of traditional cruising. Here’s what we learned to make the most of the experience:

• Download the Virgin Voyages App ASAP – This is your lifeline for booking restaurants, excursions, and activities. Popular spots fill up fast!

• No Buffets Here! – Unlike traditional cruises, you won’t find massive buffet lines. Instead, The Galley offers a trendy food hall experience with everything from ramen to fresh-made salads.

• Late-Night Eats Are a Thing – Craving a burger at midnight? The 24-hour diner has you covered.

• Take Advantage of the Included Fitness Classes – Whether it’s sunrise yoga or a high-energy HIIT workout, the ship’s fitness options are next level.

• Don’t Skip Scarlet Night – Pack something red and get ready for a night of fun, dancing, and surprises.

• Book Spa Time on a Port Day – You’ll get a better deal, and the ship is quieter while most passengers are off exploring.

Our Favorite South Caribbean Moments

Tortola to Jost Van Dyke: A Slice of Paradise

One of our favorite days was hopping on a catamaran from Tortola to Jost Van Dyke. The ride itself was breathtaking—crystal-clear waters, salty breezes, and an instant feeling of relaxation. Our main destination? Ivan’s Stress Free Bar.

Let’s just say, the name says it all. Picture yourself sipping on a Painkiller cocktail, toes in the sand, reggae music floating through the air, and zero worries in sight. If you’re looking for an authentic Caribbean beach bar experience, this is it.

Barbados: Shipwrecks & Stingrays

We set out on an excursion with Tranquility Cruises in search of sea turtles. While the turtles were a bit camera-shy that day, we still had an unforgettable underwater adventure. We swam alongside stingrays, schools of vibrant fish, and even explored a shipwreck! The clear, warm waters of Barbados made every second feel magical.

Antigua: Local Charm & Stunning Beaches

The glorious infinity pool view from Sheer Rocks, at Ffryes Beach in Antigua. The weather, the view, and those turquoise waters don’t get any better than this!

Antigua quickly became one of our favorite stops, thanks to our incredible taxi driver and impromptu tour guide, Chocky. He took us on a cultural tour of the island, stopping at local shopping spots and scenic viewpoints before dropping us off at Little Ffryes Beach, a perfect slice of paradise. We also made time to visit Sheer Rocks at Ffryes Beach, where we sipped cocktails and enjoyed the most spectacular ocean views from their cliffside lounge. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Antigua!

St. Maarten: Thrills & Chills

St. Maarten was all about beachside relaxation and adrenaline-pumping adventure. Watching planes land at Maho Beach was a wild experience—where else can you be sunbathing while jumbo jets fly just overhead? But the real rush came from zip lining at the world’s steepest zip line, The Flying Dutchman at Rainforest Adventures, an absolute must-do for thrill seekers!

Why Virgin Voyages is a Game-Changer for Adults

If you’re looking for a cruise that feels elevated yet fun, Virgin Voyages is a winner. From the modern, boutique-hotel vibe of the cabins to the incredible dining options (all included—no upcharges here!), this is the perfect cruise line for adults who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.

The best part? No screaming kids, no rigid schedules—just pure, unfiltered vacation bliss.

So, if you’re thinking about your next getaway, let Virgin Voyages take you on an unforgettable journey. And if you need a few essentials to make your trip even better, don’t forget to check out our packing recommendations above!

Stay tuned! Throughout February, we’ll be adding more detailed posts about our specific cruise experiences. But that’s not all—we’ll also be sharing tips on how to best enjoy travel and all things Virgin Voyages. You won’t want to miss it!

Until next time—cheers to adventure, exploration, and stress-free travel!