Say HELLO to the Gasper Family! Steve and Kelly, their 14-year-old twins, Ally and Hudson, and their adorable pets, Tex and Tara Del Rio (two rescue blue heeler dogs named after Texas cities), and two rescue cats (named after California cities), Pasadena, and Sonoma. This vibrant family brings boundless energy, creativity, and a deep commitment to community to their corner of Suwanee. Since 2009, they have called Edinburgh home, enriching the lives of those around them with their diverse talents and warm-hearted nature.

Originally hailing from different parts of the country, Kelly grew up in Texas and Steve grew up in Southern California. The Gaspers' journey to Suwanee is a tale of love, dreams, and family ties. Kelly, a graduate of the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a B.A. in Music/Vocal Performance, and Steve, a proud alumnus of the University of Southern California's Marshall School of Business, found each other in an unexpected encounter at a Pasadena bar; “The old-fashioned way!” - as Kelly jovially shares. "I had moved to LA to become a star," Kelly smiles, reminiscing about her early ambitions and noteworthy accomplishments as an entertainer.  "And Steve, a native of Pasadena, was destined to meet someone in his hometown," she adds with a smile.  “After chasing all my dreams, and living out every Hollywood dream I could imagine, we moved to Edinburgh to be close to our family just before the twins were born.” Tragically, they lost Kelly’s mom just seven months later when the twins were only five months old. Their friends in Edinburgh became their family, and they have loved raising their children in this heartwarming community.

Professionally, the Gaspers form a formidable team. Steve holds the position of Director of Key Accounts at Sandoz, while Kelly has always seamlessly balanced her dual career as an Executive Territory Account Manager at Novartis with her additional pursuits in the arts as an actor, singer, and songwriter. Kelly has had a noteworthy career in the entertainment industry for 25 years having landed acting roles on TV shows, and indie films. Additionally, her music, of which she made a self-titled country pop album called “Kelly Willyard” ended up in TV shows, indie films, and on the radio in Los Angeles. Kelly is a member of the Screen Actors Guild, BMI, and was a member of The Grammys/Recording Academy for 11 years. Additionally, Steve and Kelly jointly own and operate a vacation rental business in Destin, Florida, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit. 

Their dedication to the community, particularly in the realm of public education, is unmistakable. A prime example of this commitment is Steve's current candidacy for the Gwinnett County School Board. Kelly and Steve became actively involved during COVID-19, helping kids keep the in-person option and digital for those who wanted it. Steve has also been serving on multiple committees for GCPS including, curriculum review, superintendent transition and planning, discipline, and community outreach for students and parents.  His candidacy underscores their shared passion for enhancing educational opportunities within our local schools. When asked why he is running he says ”I firmly believe education is the cornerstone of our children’s future and we need to come together as a community to ensure every child gets the education they deserve. I am committed to students, parents, and teachers in Gwinnett County”.  

Their twins, Hudson and Ally, are the pride and joy of the family. Both honor roll students and accomplished actors, musicians, dancers, and artists. They bring a unique blend of talent and enthusiasm to everything they do. "They too have been in national commercials, indie films, and TV shows like Dynasty. Recently we were all four cast in an Applebee's commercial that aired every Sunday before Sunday Night Football", Kelly proudly shares. "And they're not just actors—they're musicians too. Our Ally plays guitar, while our Hudson is a skilled drummer. They joined me on stage at the Suwanee Front Porch Festival a few years ago and that was so cool. 

Balancing the demands of a public career with the realities of everyday life is a constant juggling act for the Gaspers. With acting opportunities predominantly filmed in Georgia, they've crafted a lifestyle where their children never have to sacrifice their education, and Kelly can seamlessly manage her professional commitments.  As their parents, Kelly and Steve treasure the opportunities their children have encountered in the arts but remain steadfast in their desire to shield them from the pressures of a regular in a TV series, prioritizing their childhood experiences above all else. Witnessing the twins' boundless creativity flourish has been immensely rewarding, particularly when sharing the stage with them. Through this journey, Kelly imparts invaluable lessons on time management, resilience, and the importance of embracing rejection as part of the artistic process. Family bookings have become cherished moments, blending work and play seamlessly as they navigate the intricacies of life in the limelight.

When asked about their twin chemistry, Steve says “They’re like an old married couple! When they argue it’s like listening to a couple of 70-year-olds who have been together forever! But honestly, they are the best of friends.”

The Gasper family's contributions to the community extend far beyond their achievements. Active participants in local events and social activities, the family embodies the spirit of camaraderie and giving back. "We're involved in Scouts, with Steve serving as the popcorn guy for Boy Scouts, and I lead the Girl Scout troop," Kelly explains. Steve has also volunteered and coached Hudson’s baseball team for 8 years.  "And on top of all that,  we're passionate about animal welfare, regularly donating to organizations like 'Angels Among Us' ASPCA, World Wildlife Fund, and rescuing injured animals in the neighborhood. We take them to AWARE in Atlanta for wildlife rehabilitation.”

Reflecting on their favorite memories in Edinburgh, the Gasper family recalls the heartwarming experience of rescuing a baby fawn trapped in a storm drain—an act of kindness in which the entire family participated. "But what we love most about living here," Kelly confides, "is watching our kids grow up surrounded by friends and a sense of community." Kelly shares her endearing memories of the kids playing in the neighborhood, or down by the creek and in the forest. She loves the family-friendly atmosphere and that even today although her twins are nearing high school, they still love exploring the woods along Level Creek in their backyard.

Looking ahead, the Gaspers are excited for the next chapter in their lives. With high school on the horizon for their twins, they're eager to continue fostering their children's passions and exploring new opportunities together. This family is up for anything that broadens their horizons. "The sky's the limit," Kelly says with a twinkle in her eye. "And as long as we're together, anything is possible."

Maybe we will see Ally on the North Gwinnett High School Dance Team, or even as a part of the Debate Team. Kelly smiles as she remembers that Ally fell in love with the movie “Legally Blonde”. For now, she has her sights set on becoming a lawyer and wants to go to Stanford. Steve comments, “She is destined to be a lawyer!” Hudson hopes to make the 9th grade baseball team, and both of the kids are intrigued by the Finance Club to learn about trading and investing, SPCA, Animal Charity & Welfare, and Student Council (which is perfectly appropriate as they are already involved in student government in middle school, and following in their dad’s footsteps!).

The Gasper family epitomizes the essence of Edinburgh—a place where dreams are realized, relationships are strengthened, and community prospers. The next time you see Steve, Kelly, Ally, and Hudson out and about, we hope you will spend a few minutes catching up with them. It's like spreading sunshine in your soul!