Mellow Yellow + The Jackson Pearl +Ocean Springs, MS

I have always thought that what is most special about a vintage wedding dress, besides its unique style and grace, is the incredible history and love story that accompanies it. Whilst some can only be imagined – where might it have been worn? adorning what bride? designed and created with love by whom? It is nice to seek answers in a new time and create a story for it through a stylized shoot.

Enjoy the images below, channeled through inspiration from a time none of us lived through but all feel connected to. They were brought to life via many talented vendors and are set at The Jackson Pearl, a self proclaimed and verified

“historic artisan and VERY cool event #loftvenue built for the sophisticated Bohemians, the artists, the lovers, and the original beauty seekers”

aka the following people:

Photographer: Heather Rafferty @ejr_photo

Venue: The Jackson Pearl @houseofthejacksonpearl

Specialty Floral Design: Rachel @pinehillsfloral

MakeUp Artistry: Crissy Cox @Crissycoxmua

Hair Artistry: Maylin Faye @Styled_by_Maylin

TableScape Design: Kristen Crane @smith.crane.designs

Ceremony Design: Chari @wolffeatherhoney

Bride Model: Gracie Danee @succulentface

Groom Model: Stephen Sablich @stephensablich

ABC Rental, David Delk

We hope you enjoy the creative magic we produced and share and spread love today!

Josh + Rachel, Bywater + Hot Tin, New Orleans, LA

“When are you going to let me take dope photos of you and Josh, man?”

That was pretty much how this shoot began. I was over my gorgeous, newly engaged, best friend hoarding her perfect muse qualities. Beyond that, these two just really love each other and.. she gets me.

I’ve decided THAT is the trifecta for my creativity to flow.

Someone who values art + love + trusting me.

Ha, yea right, as if I could label what makes anything creative happen. But on this day, it surely was!

We’ve all glamorized the whole idea of “living your dreams” but its really so much bigger than that, isn’t it? Rachel and I met at the very first wedding that I shot. After that, we became friends and she would come along on my out of town weddings as my assistant. We would spend road trips discussing what life would look like for us one day and dream of the future. I wish I could say that having the dream was enough. Don’t get me wrong, the dreaming part is crucial, but it doesn’t work without a lot of blood, sweat, and tears. Things we have both given endlessly, side by side. I’d do anything for this chick, and when I say to her, hey- I have this vision for your engagement shoot, even if my dress criteria was oddly specific, haha she goes with it, because she gets it and she’d do anything for me, too. I prayed for a friend like Rachel my entire life. I didn’t find her until I was nearing 30 but she was worth the wait. Once I knew and loved her, I prayed for a man like Josh for her, and look at us now! I mean, Josh went right along with what I wanted because he loves Rachel (and is a low key model, obviously) and I am beyond grateful for him, for her, for this life I have found myself in, constantly surrounded by the most talented, amazing people. Its relentless really, the way creative types can just feed off of one another.

Before I get into more about these lovebirds, let me shout out the glam squad that brought her look to life.

Mallory at http://www.malloryfitzgerald.com/ gave her the perfect glowing, glamorous look that was both timeless and unique, just like Rachel.

Mallory at http://www.malloryfitzgerald.com/ gave her the perfect glowing, glamorous look that was both timeless and unique, just like Rachel.

Maylin at https://www.styledbymaylin.com/ made all of her boho dreams come true with her incredible textured updo.

Maylin at https://www.styledbymaylin.com/ made all of her boho dreams come true with her incredible textured updo.

ok, ok, and here’s the fun part- His loving Fiance’ is his hair sylist! SWOON, right???

ok, ok, and here’s the fun part- His loving Fiance’ is his hair sylist! SWOON, right???

Ok, now that you have the wealth of knowledge of who can make you look this good (you’re welcome) we can move on. I was three hours early for this shoot, ha ha WHY??? One, because it was totally my concept and I felt completely responsible for the way it would turn out. Two, because even after all of these years, I get so nervous when I shoot that I could vomit and being early helps. While there, I walked and looked and routed our path. There was a story I wanted to tell and I knew the city of New Orleans could help.

*This is where I dive into my weird process so hang in there* We began in the Bywater at Hotel Peter and Paul, which is the result of a four-year restoration of the former St. Peter and Paul Catholic church and school. If you know Rachel, you know that she’s a big fan of Jesus and so I wanted to incorporate that foundation as our beginning, too.

With the foundation set, we were off on our little stroll. I wanted to spend some time appreciating the quaint nature of the area but adding an edge. Rachel is a free spirit, her ability to love a million things at once is like a super power, and truly, I was used to her easily being distracted by details so i wanted to keep things simple, but man! She has her eyes on one thing: JOSH. If you know him, you know that he is steadfast and constant. I can see the way he cherishes her just in the way he looks at and speaks to her. He can be quiet, but he is no dud. He was 100 percent down for thumb wrestling and a Birdman imitation (check it out in black and white) which gave us ALL the laughs. It was fun to play with light and shadows and things I usually steer clear of and these two just soaked it all up and never knew I was a nervous wreck the entire time. Oooooo eeeee the imposter syndrome is REAL, ya’ll.

Ok, so this is when it gets sentimental and weird and personal.. You are free to scroll beyond the words of my heart and look at the pretty pictures, but it’s where my mind goes for inspo and this is my blog and I can do what I want.

Rachel is no stranger to tragedy. Most people who know her, know of all she’s endured and how much loss has been in her life. This is because she is very open and honest. Hers is not my story to tell, but the Marigny Opera House was one of the locations I wanted to use because of the history behind it. Blessed back in 1848 (so says the plaque outside its doors) it was Holy Trinity Church and was sadly destroyed by a fire in 1851. From then it was rebuilt and damaged by the Hurricane Betsy and then Katrina, hit after hit. But today, the space sees celebrity weddings and performances of all kinds and is a place full of art and joy and love and inclusiveness and so many glorious things that brings people together. I guess you can say it’s made it, just like Rachel. And seeing the way God worked in her life and brought she and Josh together is beyond my realm of comprehension. But if any one person deserves to be spoiled with comfort and thoughtfulness and kindness, its her.

I hope we can all come out of our darkest days and find the time to laugh and dance and rejoice and be grateful for the journey, just as she has. It’s no wonder Josh looks at her like she is magic- SHE IS!

Last, but certainly not least, I took these kids to Hot Tin to kick back and enjoy one another and the adventure they just set out on and conquered. Rachel says she would have chosen me to shoot this monumental time even if I wasn’t her best friend, we will never know if that is true. But, I do know that I am lucky to have her in my life and to have been a small part of something as big as their love is.

Tess + James, Greenhouse on Porter, Walter Anderson Museum of Art

I had not spoken a word to Tess prior to her warm welcome on her wedding day. But it didn’t take long to feel like I was right at home with she and her wedding party. I am still not sure if it was the Elvis themed suite or the big hugs hello, or just being there with my dear friend and fellow photographer, Danin Drahos, but everything just felt refreshing and new.

Her dress was beyond words. I have never shot something so delicate yet adventurous. I quickly knew that it was a representation of Tess.

I laughed and cried through a first look with her unbelievably proud father.

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Walked in to Outkast blaring with the groom and was interrupted by a LaCroix delivery. After that, I knew the day was mine for the taking.

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And we were off… to an old stomping ground of sorts, The Greenhouse on Porter. Where the couple shared an (almost) private first look.

The ceremony was held at The Walter Anderson Museum of Art. The vows and beautiful readings were lead by an Officiant holding Harry Potter to read from, the colorful, whimsical decor added to the playful vibe of all of those there, I heard some of the most heartfelt toasts of my career (one of which was performed) and was surrounded by art..so much art- just LOOK at the cake!

This wedding was from the stars, ya’ll. THE. STARS.

I could share every image, but then delivery day would not hold any surprises. So, I hope you enjoy the few I have selected.

And thank you to my partner in photography, Danin Drahos, for bringing me in on this one. It was hard to be patient and quietly work on making this happen, but we did it.. and it was so worth it. And to Tess: Thank you for taking a chance on us. Although, from what I heard, this isn’t the first time you took a chance, and I am sure that life will continue to bless a spirit like yours.

Cody + Jillian, The Henry Smith House, Picayune, MS,

When I first met Jillian and Cody, I knew that I would enjoy their wedding. They were both super laid back. Even with rain predicted, Jillian was calm and collected and knew everything was going to be perfect. And, it truly was. Jackie Merlau Hall worked her make up magic (although Jillian is one of the lucky ones with flawless skin and perfect brows) and The French Potager provided the gorgeous bouquets and boutonnieres. The distant storms gave us moody, beautiful light to work with and the Henry Smith House provided so many wonderful places to shoot! So thankful for vendors and venues like these (they make my job easy)!

There were so many little heartwarming moments during their day. From a super proud and weepy mother of the groom and his wearing his late Grandma’s photo on his lapel, to oh so happy for them friends, it was easy to snag some epic, emotional moments and giant smiles.

And can we talk about the Tupac socks? Even this #biggieforever fan appreciated them!

The ceremony began with a violinist and ended with a walk down one of THE MOST GORGEOUS aisles I have ever shot. The grounds of The Henry Smith House are UNREAL, YA’ll! All the lush green and florals and care they take is top notch!

Meaningful dances and gorgeous cake tables and more, the reception was quaint and fun! My favorite part was sneaking them away for a couple of photos in neat areas tucked away from guests sight!

Chloe +Patrick, Engagement Session, Long Beach, MS

When Chloe reached out wanting to book a session, my brain was truly scrambling. I have seen the type of work she puts out and the talented photographers she has worked with and everything about her just exudes creativity. This wasn’t a shoot I could just go through the motions with. And I immediately started brainstorming. A few weeks passed before I decided to try and vibe with her and I should have done it sooner because it was so comforting! Once we spoke about what inspires us and what she was wanting, we were on the same page. I don’t know why I psych myself out. I guess there WAS a reason she chose me, after all. Will I ever feel worthy of the gifts of praise I receive? Probably not. Do i love every minute of trying to feel that way, working hard to keep my ideas fresh, crying over post processing, trashing work to just build it back up again and just the over all process of evolving and pushing myself to try something new? Also no.

But, sometimes….sometimes I really get lucky and the day is beautiful, the couple walks up in simple, laid back clothing, the setting is a combination of eerie and magical and I get to watch lovers dance and embrace in an overgrowth of greenery I have watched transform over the years.

These two seem like old friends. Their love is playful and sweet, they are tender and funny and patient and it all shows in Bronte (the true star of the beginning of this session) we could have ended it there, but we didn’t. We still had a lot to capture! Like….. Patricks strength and ability to build a fire, with no kindling, on a windy beach, while we were losing light, with a bic lighter (which I am STILL impressed by).

Alas, I will let the photos speak for themselves.

Enjoy!

Welcome Home Isla, Newborn Session, Hattiesburg, MS

Zach and Kerri welcomed their newest little princess into the world and let me come over and document a tiny piece of their heaven on earth. In home newborn sessions are the only type of newborn session that I do. I wish I had the patience and know how to shoot those intricate, gorgeous, studio-style newborn photos but man, I am just NOT good at it. But this? This is my jam.

Big sister, Zoe was beyond excited to have me there and to show me around and show off her baby sister, just as any big sister would do. I would be lying if I said that my visit didn’t cause my ovaries to ache a little. You could just feel the love and admiration between all of them through all of the chaos that is occurring during those first weeks home. And it was a flood of nostalgia. Although, I don’t think I was ever as put together as Kerri that close to coming home. Or ever.

Thank you, Zach and Kerri for trusting me during this precious time to capture the big moments in your real life.

Miles and Tori, First Presbyterian Church of Ocean Springs + White Pillars, Biloxi

Tori had my heart from the moment we met. This bride was DRIVEN! Tori, with the help of the ladies over at Magnolia Bride, planned her wedding amidst the chaos and workload of med school, during boards, while working 12 hour days in rotation on top of that. I vibe well with powerful women, what can I say? Beyond her obvious drive, Tori is so kind. Her warm smile and lighthearted humor carried me through my afternoon with she and her loving bridesmaids. Just look at the way she is loved. Their reaction to her was out of this world!

Tori’s dress matched her timeless look (does anyone else get Audrey Hepburn vibes?) and added to her natural elegance.

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One of the latest trends that I am swooning over is a first look with Dad. After all, they are the first man we love. We chose to do this out of sight and utilized the adorable chapel. It’s obvious where Tori gets her humor and I am a sucker for father/daughter moments. Ok, I am a sucker for moments in general, but that’s my business!

Miles and Co. were in a classic tuxedos, and although we were running out of light and time, they hung in there with me to get it done! The wedding party and their attire added to the classic/timeless feel and provided the perfect backdrop of laughter that makes long days great days.

Tradition was alive and well with Miles not seeing Tori until the altar and my only being able to shoot from behind once the ceremony began but there was still plenty to capture. I especially love the smile on Miles’ face as Tori’s father gives her away.

After the wedding, we were off to White Pillars in Biloxi where people dined, danced and enjoyed the celebration until it was time to send them on their way with the fanfare of a sparkler exit.

Thank you, Tori and Miles. You and your family and friends were a joy to capture! Until we meet again.

Awaiting Isla, Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Zach and Kerri are the type of people that just make you stoked to be raising children in a world where they are doing that, too. They have already produced a stellar little chick, Zoe, who led the shoot and set the tone for the day. I admired how they just let her be. Doing so gave everything we shot the natural/organic feel I am constantly seeking. Being that I shot their maternity photos (when little Zoe was the one we were anticipating) Kerri reaching out to ME for round two was super exciting! And even though we had to reschedule once due to the weather not cooperating for the light and look Kerri was after, it was all worth it: we were gifted with a gorgeous evening built for the adventure we had and helped produce a collection I feel captures the essence of their family. Kerri and Zach are so humble and down to earth on their own, as individuals, but when you put them in a frame together, you really see how they bring each other to life. It’s exciting to capture families I have earned a little trust with and seeing what that looks like. Spoiler alert: it looks pretty freaking sweet.

Robin + Melissa's White House Hotel Wedding, Biloxi, MS

Bride reaches out months in advance to book her destination wedding in Biloxi.

We speak occasionally over the next few months.

The day arrives for us to meet.

AND THIS ANGEL OPENS THE DOOR.

It took everything I had not to squeal in delight but I kept my cool and we made one heck of a day of it. Ok, Ok.. I did not keep my cool. But we DID have the best time that day. Keep scrolling to see one of the BEST first look reactions I have ever seen. Take notes, grooms!

Robin and Melissa were married on a beautiful November day along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The STUNNING and semi-newly renovated White House Hotel, in Biloxi, MS was their venue. I personally love the vibe at the White House. It’s really the best of both worlds. You get that comfortable, familiar, “Old Biloxi” feel with the modern-eclectic design that makes sure we all know we are in the 21st Century. The chill in the air may not have given Melissa the terrace ceremony she originally wanted, but we still made it up there to catch the GLORIOUS sunset. In addition, the grounds provided the perfect backdrop to this beautiful couple and their first look. Many thanks to Robin and Melissa. Its not often that I get to share a room with a gown by J.Lo’s designer, or shoot a green velvet suit. And that surprise recessional to “Walk It Out” ???!! (ya’ll know I was vibin’ so hard to THAT)

Happy New Year to all of my loyal clients, friends and family and cheers to hoping that I blog more.


Danin and Tracey, East Beach, Ocean Springs, MS

When Danin asked me if I would trade photo sessions with he and his wife Tracey, I wanted to throw up.   I think I even told him that.  The nerves that surrounded the idea of shooting a photographer whom I completely respect and whose work I am often enamored by just.. well... made me want to vomit.  It isn't the first time a photographer has asked me to shoot them, but I do believe it is the first time that I have agreed and actually did it.  

Shooting on new territory is often intimidating, I even feel like I get stagnant because I choose to shoot at the same places, at the same times, in the same soft light.  I shy away from change or what's new because its not comfortable and I don't KNOW i will kill it.  With Danin, I had complete faith/trust in the locale because he knows what he is doing, and so I didn't necessarily feel intimidated by it, and when I arrived, I was actually inspired by all things new. And if the 30 minutes or so that I was there taking in the sights and sounds wasn't enough inspiration, this guy and his beautiful wife show up and are just perfect.  PERFECT. 

Danin brought a playlist (i'm going to bug him for it and insert it in this blog) and Tracey brought her infectious, genuine smile and honest personality and the weather, well-it all just set me on fire. I heard their story, their pet names for one another, their jokes, that Danin was once in a rap duo, saw his dance moves, fulfilled his heel-click dreams, watched Tracey love on dead fish, wander into the Gulf without fear during a lightening storm and so much more.  They joke about how they can't be serious, but there is one thing they are serious about, and that is their love for each other.  I can't manipulate people to look at one another the way that they do, or react in perfect, genuine ways to the banter between us all. I can try my hardest to capture their love, which I did and I only hope that they are as happy with their photos as I am of the ones Danin shot for me.  Thank you both for trusting me with your story. Here are some of my favorites.

Rachel and Taylor Lorio's Wedding, New Orleans, Louisiana

When girls in the South plan a "winter wedding", we just mean that we don't want it to be humid. Our winter has a majority of 50 degree nights.  As much as we think we would enjoy the white winter that snow could bring us, we could really never stand it, or prepare for it.  Still, we plan our January events and hope for cooler temps.  Well, Rachel and Taylor had the lowest temps of the year!  There were bridges icing over, road closures, and it was below freezing in The Big Easy and yet the show went off without a hitch! 

We began with classic New Orleans elegance at Hotel Monteleone, where the inability to utilize the rooftop, double booked ballroom and PACKED lobby sent us to the Riverview Room (it was sort of a don't ask permission and just see if we have to ask for forgiveness moment) where we had out short but sweet first look and the night began! Check out some of my favorites in the gallery below.  I LOVED the classic style she and Taylor shared with their attire and the pops of deep red in her bouquet as well as lip stain. ((SWOON))

We were swept away to St Theresa of Avila Catholic Church and it was love at first sight for me.  Upon entering, I was taken in with the combination of architectural beauty, old New Orleans charm, and that warm, fuzzy feeling I get when when I know that I am about to witness something special.  Rachel is known for her great personal style and I wasn't surprised to see that she did just enough to an already stunning church with greenery (eucalyptus, too- my personal fav) and candles to set a romantic mood. 

I have always shared how much I enjoy shooting small, intimate weddings.  And this wedding only reminded me of that and why.  There was so much love to be shared, so many tender moments, so many caring looks in their direction or at one another, you could tell that every single person there was there because they supported Rachel and Taylor (and Thomas).  And if there has ever been photographic evidence that a "first look " doesn't kill the aisle moment, its here, in this gallery, with that grin Rachel flashes Taylor while walking arm in arm with her father.

Another small wedding perk?  Kicking everyone out of the shots and far enough away for a "just the two of us" mini session to occur.  It really only takes ten minutes. Make. it. happen.  I don't care if you are using someone other than me, make it happen.  You guys NEED that time to connect and enjoy and relive the vows you just took, to giggle and laugh and be giddy, and to breathe..all before you'll be off again to a whirlwind reception. Love isn't something these two lack.  It was evident in their happy son (that he comes from a happy home) but I just had to get them to show it off a little for me ;)

If you're in New Orleans, on the coldest night of the decade, there is one place to go:  The Bevolo Gas and Lighting Museum.  Seriously, just tuck that information away, because the lanterns pump OUT some heat.  And so do King James and the Special Men (look them up, NOW and go see them on Monday's at the Saturn Bar).  I am not going to blab about every detail of this reception and let the photos do the talking but just note that the groom is a talented chef and did ALL of their food and the entire thing was a DIY labor of... you guessed it.. LOVE. CHEERS to you both, Rachel and Taylor.  Your balloon said it all! 

Piper and some time tested toddler photography advice.

Planning for photos of a toddler can only go so far.  You can plan their outfits, make arrangements for a location, set up a backdrop of sorts, schedule around their nap, snack, seemingly “best" time of day and then what?  All you are left with is the hope that their sock seams won’t bother them, or their skirt won’t be “too tight” or that they’ll actually wear their shoes.  If you have a two year old, or have had a two year old, you know that it is a roll of the dice as to if they stay on schedule or if they melt down because you don’t want the banana they’re offering you.  A backdrop or set?  ha! I literally set them up and have zero expectation to actually use it, just more hope that for a brief moment we could POSSIBLY heard he/she in the basic direction of it.  Toddlers are fast, determined and on their own mission that has ZERO regard for the expectations of their parents on picture day. And guess what?  That is ok.  In fact, it’s better than ok. Why try to put them into a boring “look at Miss Heather and say cheese” box when you can just let them be two and let ME do my job and capture all of their wild, wonderful ways!

Parents- don’t be obsessed with eye contact.  This is an age where energy and personality are what you want to capture.  I will follow the movement and maybe I will get a shot, but it won’t be when you expect it, and rarely does demanding it help.  I promise you that your frustration will subside with lowered expectations. And happy/funloving/in-the-moment mom and dad = the true-to-life, full of personality shots of your child.  You love these shots.  You cherish these shots.  You hire me for THESE shots. And we are a team in making them happen.

Paula and Sidney have been clients for a couple of years now.  We took it back to where we shot their maternity photos for some spur-of-the-moment fun with their (now two year old) daughter, Piper and the results were pure magic!  I know that Sidney was worn out from playing a “silly daddy” game of chase so that her energy was directed back and forth in front of the camera and Paula was so great about directing her attention to little details so that I could catch a few of her brief moments of stillness.  We shot with an overcast sunset-ish sky and it gave the area beneath the tree and all around this super soft glow.   A few of my favorites are featured in this blog and below.  As always, any questions about my settings/strategies behind the session are welcome, we are in this together. 

Francie and Kerby and a promise to myself

Of course I am sitting down to write my January “new year, new me” blog post on the 19th of January.  I try so hard to adult and run a business and mother three busy children in an organized manner and well.. lets just say that it is a good thing I am talented because my amateur juggling skills (aka life management) would surely have buried me if I weren’t.  

As much as I want to begin the year with the wedding I shot last week, I cannot let 2017 begin without shedding some light on where 2016 ended and THAT was with stacks on stacks on stacks of gorgeous weddings surrounding a very busy holiday season.  I am going to dedicate myself to posting some of these and my work more regularly this year. Boom. There it is. 

You guys remember Francie and Kerby, right? How could you not?  Well, they were married on a Sunday at one of my favorite venues (The Chimney's).  When planning for this wedding, Francie didn’t take into account that daylight savings would occur and their start time would ultimately mean DARK.  This didn’t stop them, or me from capturing some stellar ceremony shots thanks to my favorite lens (50 1.2) and some creative lighting giving me just enough to capture Kerby’s tears and Francie’s infectious smile.  We had an impromptu first look, and I must say I am so thankful for her nerves and those first few moments we shared alone. 

The outpouring of love and fellowship at this union was huge, y’all. I could post 50 images and still not feel like I did it justice. I hope you enjoy a few of my favorites of the joining of these two families and all of the style that surrounded it.

And as always, a huge thank you to the couple for trusting me,  for sharing their families with me (especially the Grandmothers of both the bride and the groom who were two of the most loving women I have ever met) and for their kind words and gracious hearts. 

Krissy and Michael, Downtown Ocean Springs Engagement Session

(Read this in your best Don Lafontaine voice) And then the clouds break away and down from the Heavens comes this bad ass bride who decides to book me (of ALL the photographers on this Coast) and I am beyond humbled by it and grateful, and NERVOUS. (Lose the voice) Yes, nervous, ya'll... I still get butterflies before I shoot and it's been a decade. Krissy, however, is as cool as she looks.  She is so easy to work with and converse with, and she understands my random brainstorming/all over the place textathons, even has her own ideas and thoughts and they don't have me rolling my eyes into the back of my head or throwing my phone. I may have been nervous, but it all subsided when I met Michael and saw the two of them and we starting having a little fun.  I laughed A LOT on their session and was thrilled with their laid back vibe and how that came across in the photos.  We lucked out with a gorgeous December day in Ocean Springs and I have so many freaking favorites but wanted to post a few.  We didn't have a record store, like we originally had hoped, but we had something even better- true love. Its evident that these two are meant for each other and I am the lucky bitch who gets to capture that. What up, world, I sure do appreciate this gift! 

 

Boho Zoie, Celebrates One, downtown Bay St. Louis

Zoie is the most charming little wildflower and her parents exude all that I know will keep her passionate spirit safe.  Families like this one are so rare and so priceless and yet they continually find their way to me.  The trust Zach and Kerri have in my ability and direction is evident in how little they tried to micromanage the session.  I don't think I ever heard them tell Zoie to smile and say cheese.  She was obviously born free, and they seem to know that letting her run free means they'll never lose her.  It's refreshing to see this, and their love was beyond charming. 

Conceptually, we wanted to ditch the typical smash cake or tutu and do something a little more OG.  I, of course, wanted to take Zoie to the streets of Compton, but, since THAT was out of the question, we settled on the streets of Bay St Louis, where we shot their maternity session.  The fall weather here in South Mississippi is hit or miss, but they lucked out with a beautiful evening. After making a short block, the birthday girl decided she was ready to choose a little tucked away corner and play with some of the fun things I had for her and well, the rest is the beautifully documented history below.  

Thank you, Zach and Kerri.  I am beyond grateful for the time that I get to spend with the both of you and your little darling.  I hope that these photos are cherished for all of the years to come. 

Francie and Kerby, Gulfport, Mississippi Engagement Session

Francie had me at first e-mail, when she introduced herself and her fiance', Kerby.  I don't think I have ever booked a more adorable pair of names.  And that is really all couples are, in the beginning, a duo of letters, formed by their mothers, to represent some sort of soul I have to try to capture love between.  Well, I have not been inspired to post a blog about a couple in a very long time, until now.  This picture perfect pair lived up to every ounce of anticipation their names gave me. 

I discount engagement sessions so that people are more inclined to meet with me, work together, laugh and talk and just feel one another out.  I want to be a good fit for a couple just as much as I want the business, if not more.  I realize that I have an eclectic personality of thug life mom swag that not all people will understand.  The only way I know how to shoot is out of love and it's hard for me to do my best when I don't feel like I mesh well with someone, or I feel like they don't trust me and it makes it difficult. I don't like difficult.  (Obviously, being that I chose the career that leads me to working the fewest amount of hours in a day) Shooting these two was so above and beyond enjoyable for me, I could have done it every day for a week.  Yes, just a week, let's be real. 

I am grateful for every single client that I have.  I learn a little more about myself with each personality that I come across and that is a powerful part of this business that I am in.  Francie and Kerby cast wind into the sails of my purpose, and people like them don't come around often.  They resonate love and laughter and are so genuine in every tiny whisper or when laughing out loud.  I cannot say enough about how great it has been to get to know them, or how much I am looking forward to their upcoming wedding.  I hope that these photos do their love justice and as always, thank you both for trusting me to capture you during this exciting time.