Old Sames is a passion project I created in memory of my best friend, Ceilidh, who passed away in 2021. We were inseparable for 22 years—she was my soulmate.

While writing the speech for her celebration of life, I searched for a word or phrase that could capture the joy and depth of having a female best friend so close, it feels as if your souls are forever linked. That’s when I discovered laotong—a Chinese term that translates to “Old Sames.” It describes a deep, lifelong bond between two women: a kindred sisterhood, an eternal friendship. That’s exactly what Ceilidh was to me.

Each label features a photo from a meaningful moment we shared, treated to resemble a cyanotype—a photographic style that feels both beautiful and haunting.

Ceilidh and I loved drinking wine together in her backyard. I would give anything to share one more glass with her today.