Ornate oval mirror frame with intricate scrollwork in top and bottom corners, black background
A white envelope partially opened, with a note inside that says "pictures are more than photos - they are anchors to your life," and a QR code above it.

Elegant photo collection for life's meaningful moments

Smiling woman with shoulder-length hair, wearing earrings and a necklace, with a dark background.

Hi, I’m Kathy Ecke — founder of Dearest. After years of leading operations, marketing, and merchandising for incredible organizations, I finally turned the camera toward my own dream — and hit capture.

Dearest was born from two things I love most: photography and connection. Like many, I grew frustrated with digital albums that disappeared into the abyss, leaving memories scattered and forgotten. I wanted a way to relive events through every perspective — not just my own. Something tangible, heartfelt, and beautiful. So, I built it.

Professionally, I’ve spent my career growing businesses across eco-friendly retail, sales and operations, and marketing. Along the way, I’ve learned how to create meaningful customer experiences, design seamless systems, and lead teams with care and intention. Now, I’m bringing that expertise to Dearest — crafting a platform that makes collecting and preserving life’s most cherished memories effortless.

Personally, this is more than a business. It’s an honor. Every photo uploaded and every story shared is a glimpse into a love-filled moment — weddings, baby showers, birthdays, and beyond. Being trusted with those memories means the world to me, and I’ll never take it lightly.

The name Dearest came easily, because what we’re capturing aren’t just pictures — they’re the dearest moments, people, and messages that make life unforgettable.

A bride and groom are sharing a kiss outside near a car, with a scenic landscape of trees and mountains in the background.
A baby in a light-colored dress sitting on the floor surrounded by plush toys and balloons, looking up at a birthday banner on the wall that says 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY' with tissue paper balloons nearby.

WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT

  • No Apps Required – Any guest with a smartphone can participate instantly.

  • Intentionally Not Live – Galleries update every 24 hours so guests stay present.

  • Photobooks That Last – Premium, archival-quality albums printed in the U.S.

  • Complete Privacy – Your gallery is private until you choose to share it

Proudly women-founded and U.S.-based, Dearest photobooks are printed in New York City, ensuring quality and craftsmanship rooted close to home..

OUR PARTNERSHIPS

VOW for Girls – 100% of profits from our QR code design templates support ending child marriage worldwide. Your memories create meaningful change.

Logo of VOW for Girls in red and black text.

OUR DEAREST PROMISE

When you choose Dearest, you’re choosing more than a platform—you’re choosing care, trust, and lasting quality. From personal customer service and complete privacy, to guaranteed 12-month gallery access, we’re here to make sure your memories are preserved beautifully, every step of the way.

A couple at the beach on a cloudy day, dressed in white; the woman in a flowing white dress and the man in a white shirt and beige pants, standing close together.

READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR MEMORIES?

Your next celebration deserves more than scattered photos and forgotten moments. It deserves the sophisticated simplicity that only Dearest provides.