Her little niece helping put on her shoes!
First looks with their dad is always special!
Hannah & Dustin chose to have a "first look" with each other prior to the ceremony. Oh my goodness, THIS is why I highly recommend stepping outside of the traditional "meet you on the isle" first look. Look at these priceless images, so pretty as Dustin saw her for the first time!
Let there be dancing...
Hannah & Dustin, thank you so much for letting me be a part of your wedding day. I'll be in touch soon with the rest of your images!
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This vintage hankie and pearls wrapped around her bouquet, were her grandmother's.
Getting ready...
Meanwhile, Lane has arrived and ready to meet his bride.
While getting ready, Alicia, got this shot of the two mothers. Mother of the bride and mother of the groom!
Father/daughter first look.
How cute is this of Lane with his new "little" bro-in-law and his own little brother?!
Love this next candid moment of Lane and his mom. No, it's not the best angle, not a great view of faces but just a quick minute with mother and her son that sealed the moment in time.
Praying together before the ceremony.
Thought this was sweet. At this venue, the pathway to the ceremony site is pretty long. Shelby has four brothers. Each brother walked her a quarter of the way down the path and would hand her off to the other brother, until she reached her dad. This shot was just before her dad walked her down the isle.
Mr. & Mrs. Mullis!
Love this next shot my second shooter got. As I was in of the bride and groom, Alicia grabbed this cool shot from behind!
Time for dinner!
Lane's brother and cousin will never be forgotten!
Somebody is already learning all about duck lips. ;)
This guy was thoroughly enjoying his homemade ice cream!
Loved her cake made by her cousin, Abbey
The girl in blue meant business! ;)
But the guy who caught the garter, well, he stole the show! ;)
And there you have it, a brief summery of their day. Lane and Shelby, thank you for letting me capture these for you. I wish you both many years together through both good times and bad. I'll be in touch soon with your whole gallery.
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Hayden, hanging out in the groom's room.
Maleah & her dad's first look
Hayden with all his brother's prior to the ceremony
So pretty!
Ceremony time!
Maleah's family!
Hayden's family!
See what I mean about the rain, so beauitful!
With all their nieces and nephews!
And here they're off to their honeymoon in the sunny state of Florida. They drove away in this vintage truck that belonged to Hayden's grandfather.
Maleah and Hayden, thank for letting us capture your wedding, I wish you both many years of happiness together!
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This wring was Taryn's "something old". It was her grandmother's wedding band. The pictures make this ring look larger than it was. I used my macro lens to show up the engraving on the inside because I couldn't see it with my eyes. The engraving are the initials of her grandfather and grandmother.
Littles in the bridals sweet!
Meanwhile, the groom has arrived.
The was neat, the dress Taryn was baptized in now lying on the train of her wedding gown.
Exchanging of letters
Taryn surprised Wriston with a song she sang for him.
And just like that, they're married! Thank you both for letting me be a part of your wedding day. I hope you are enjoying your honeymoon in Jamaica!
*Thank you to Linden with Linden Claire Photography for second shooting this wedding for me!
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Without an arial view, it's hard to see so I'll try to explain. On either side of this patio, there are two beautiful streams where the water flows over the river rocks. These two streams meet together and become one as it flows into the pond that you see in the distance. When I first met with Jasmine, she told me that her dad said it reminded him of how when husband and wife are married, they become one. Genesis 2:24 "Therefore shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."
This is a back view, looking from the pond end back toward the patio.
Love, love this candid shot my second shooter got of Jasmine's dad greeting his soon-to-be son-in-law.
Jasmine, you look beautiful!
Love this shot of Drea looking out the window at the guest!
Time for the daddy/daughter first look!
Jacob waiting at the alter.
Jasmine was sooo excited to see Jacob.
Mr. & Mrs. Broadway!
Jacob & Jasmine, I wish you both many years together through good times and bad! Thank you for letting me be a part of your wedding!
Oh, how pretty this line up is!
A gift to Savannah from her friends...
Meanwhile, Hayden has arrived and is getting ready!
Savannah with her mom
Sa
Time to slip on her dress...
T
Love, love this picture so much of these two pretty women! It's a beautiful picture of a mother and her daughter but also, if you know Buffy, you know she is one of the most genuine and kindest ladies you'll ever meet. Savannah, you hit the jackpot with Buffy being your mom.
Gift exchanges...
Here, her bouquet was wrapped in a hankie given to her by her Aunt Lynn and was fastened with her grant grandmother's brooch and grandmother's ring.
With her siblings...
Hayden with all his guys.
Savannah on her way to see her dad for the first time on her wedding day.
Her daddy, Davis, waiting to see her.
Parents being seated, it's ceremony time!
Here comes the bride.
Mr. & Mrs. Connell!
Reception time!
Savannah & Hayden made all of their gorgeous flower boxes on the tables!
They also lit and released these beautiful fire lanterns just before their exit!
And there you have it, Savannah & Hayden's first day as husband and wife! Thank you so much for letting me be a part of their day, I hope you two have had a great week in Jamaica!
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****Note: we captured many more images than what my hosting site allows to be posted, this is just a brief example of their photography****
Almost time to get ready
This groom was just chillin' before the ceremony with his buddies.
The pearls Lainey wore were her great-grand mother's pearls.
Time to step in her dress!
With her mom!
Lovely ladies!
Luke lookin' mighty sharp!
Lainey opted for a first look with her dad. Always love these!
This might have been my favorite moment from their wedding day. Lainey and Luke wanted some quiet time for a prayer between just the two of them prior to the ceremony. They didn't want to see each other either until ceremony time so we had them stand here in this stairway with their backs against the wall. It was truly a sweet, raw and real moment. They both were overcome with emotion.
Here comes the bride...
Love this shot by my second shooter, Alicia!
The new "Mr. & Mrs."
Reception time!
Cake cutting!
Bouquet/Garter toss!
Love these girls, they were in it to win!
The night continued with dancing and lots of good fellowship!
And there you have it, a recap of Lainey & Luke's beautiful wedding day! Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your new beginning together. May you both share many years together through good times and bad!
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Oh my, there is a story that goes along with this shot. But, we'll save that for another day, all that matters is that horse in the background made for a pretty backdrop.
Opening the gift from her soon-to-be-husband
Jacob's note to Kristen
Meanwhile, Bobbie with Bobbie Brown Photography was my second shooter and was with Jacob Here, he and his buddys were hanging out for a while.
Jacob's sister pinning his boutonniere
Jacob with his main man, his nephew. ;)
With all his siblings
Time to get ready
Here, her mom is helping her with her shoes. Couldn't help but think, she's been there through it all. Helping Kristen all the way back to when she put on her first baby booties to now helping her with her wedding day shoes.
Ceremony time
Jacob seeing his bride for the first time
With all of her friends
This next shot was requested by the groom
Reception time
Mr. & Mrs. Eudy
Cake cutting
And they finished their night with a fun sparkler get away!
Thank you Kristen & Jacob for letting Bobbie and I capture your wedding. I wish you both many years of happiness together!
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Lots of good energy in this room, time to get ready.
Meanwhile, Ellis is looking mighty sharp.
Momma getting hugs from her boy!
Autumn wanted a "first look" with her dad.
The first look turned into to mom and sisters also watching. I turned to my right and got this candid shot of them watching Autumn and her dad.
Ceremony
Making it official!
Mr. & Mrs. Baucom!
Mr
Autumn's little sister twirling!
Parents of the bride and groom
Reception time!
Cake cutting
Cake
I LOVE this next picture. Autumn's little cousin signed the Polaroid guest book, loved how she wrote "iH" under her picture!
Bouquet/garter toss
And here's the farewell off to forever!
Congratulations Autumn & Ellis, I wish you many years together through the good times and bad! Thank you all for letting me capture your day in pictures! I'll leave you with my favorite from there wedding day.
Although it was 60 degrees outside, I like for my pictures to tell a story. In 30 years from now, when they tell their kids about their wedding day, I'm sure they'll remember the snow that was on the ground leftover from a snow storm just a couple of days before their wedding.
Those shoes!
Her dress was gorgeous, look at that detail the sunlight has displayed perfectly!
Several of her family and friends!
I kinda squealed inside when I saw she had a touch of Peonies in her wedding!
Time to put on her dress!
While Summer was still getting ready, this handsome groom has arrived! Stole him away for a few pictures!
Paul with all his siblings and soon-to-be sister-in-law!
Heading outside to meet her dad. His first time seeing her in her wedding gown...
Love this next image, that's the kind of hug a girl wants from her dad!
Paul ready to meet her at the alter.
The new "Mr. & Mrs."
Lollipops from their candy bar!
Reception time!
I have a sneaky suspicion these next two "littles" had found the candy bar! ;)
Love this next picture, too sweet!
Cake cutting!
Bouquet/garter Toss...
We snuck away from the crowd for a bit to get a few more pictures of just the bride and groom.
And they finished the night with their sparkler exit...
Thank you so much, Summer & Paul (and your families too), for letting me be a part of your wedding. I wish you both many years together through all that life has to offer you!
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Taylor wore her grandmother's ring as her something old.
Most relaxed, beautiful bride
Meanwhile, this fella has arrived and was outside with his parents and brothers.
Up until this point, her dad had not seen her in her wedding dress.
Prior to the ceremony, she had gifts for her mom and mother-in-law.
Time to head to the alter.
Reception
Mr. & Mrs. Huntley
Bouquet/garter toss!
Congratulations Channing and Taylor! Your journey is just beginning, I wish you both a many years together through good times and bad!
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Instead of shoes, Bethany opted to wear foot jewelry which made for a pretty backdrop for her rings!
Their family Bible
Had to grab a picture of the flower girl flipping through the pages...
The youngest family member attended the wedding also! Bethany's mom was getting her "holding" time in while in the bridal suite! ;)
A couple from Bethany's bridals...
Here they are, the newly married couple!
After the toast, the crowd joined in dancing!
During the recption
Father/daughter and Mother/son dances...
The crowd enjoying the dance floor again...
Bouquet/garter toss
Check out this kid in the blue shirt. This guy helped him grab the "prize" picking him up and lunging across to catch the garter! Score!
A few more of this couple as the night went on...
Cake cutting
How beautiful is this bubble exit?! I love it!
Thank you Andrew and Bethany, for letting Alicia (Mona Alicia Photography) and I capture these pictures for you! I wish you both a lifetime of happiness together!
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Love this beautiful art work her cousin painted as a keepsake for them. As guest arrived, they stamped their thumbprint in green and added the "leaves" with their names on the tree. By the end of the night, the tree was "full and lush".
All her details...
The train of her dress was beautiful. Needless to say, it was the inspiration for several of her shots.
Shoes one her delicate train...
As something old, her grandmother let her pin her "Pawpaw Rick and Mamaw Carol's" wedding bands to the bouquet.
A gift from her sisters...
And this gift is from her mom. A hankie that tugged at everyone's heart strings!
While the star of the show was opening her gifts, this little cutie was quite entertained by the styrofoam the gift was wrapped in!
Meanwhile, Hunter has arrived and is currently awaiting the ceremony hour in the groom's suite.
His mom pinning his boutonniere.
Brook, you look stunning! Add some beautiful light...that's a great combo!
Her father/daughter first look
Here comes the bride...
This little cutie is Brook's youngest sister, she was quite the active little one!
Beautiful reception details...
Sisters gladly displayed this fun detail from the candy bar...
Lovely cake by Alden...
Announcing Mr. & Mrs. McGee...
Kudos to my second shooter for this awesome picture of this cute little guest!
Another great shot by Linden, big sister and little sister!
A few more of my favorites of this bride and groom...
The celebration is wrapping up at this beautiful venue...
And that's a wrap, congratulations Brooke and Hunter! Enjoy your week in Jackson Hole, Wyoming...To say I'm jealous is an understatement! On a more serious note, thank you so much for letting me capture these for you. I wish you many, many years together through all seasons that life will bring the two of you!
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Here are the pictures to help tell the story...
Sonya's mom bought her this robe to wear...
Her bouquet and shoes. Notice the six pence she glued into her shoes with the year she was born.
Guest came in to see her while she was getting ready...
Her bouquet was pretty special. The flowers and ribbon were arranged on her mother's Bible!
Sisters!
The groom has arrived!
With her sisters and mother...
Pinning the corsage
Sonya, you looked beautiful...Your happiness was so very evident!
Frankie's daughter brought his mother back to see Sonya...
Sonya and Frankie planned to walk each other down the isle. But just before the ceremony, they chose to have a "first look" with each other. Always love these images!
Sonya's sister and her nieces sang The Lord's Prayer during the ceremony.
The "Mr. and Mrs."
Littles came up to congratulate
With all Sonya's nieces and nephews...
Reception time!
Sonya told me she wanted lots of pictures of their friends and family. I was happy to do so!
This beautiful cake was made by Sonya's niece, Alden!
If I remember correctly, Sonya said these glasses were a wedding gift to her own mother many years ago.
Life long friends!
Bouquet toss!
Loved, LOVED her exit...A ribbon wand exit!!!
And there you have it, a recap of their day! Sonya and Frankie, thank you for letting me be a part of your wedding. I wish you both many happy years together through the good times and bad!
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Letter and gift from Tristan...
Meanwhile, this guy is here and getting ready!
This when Reagan delivered a gift from Jamie to Tristan...
How cute is "See you at 4:30"!
This little ring bearer pillow was a gift to Tristan from his kindergarten teachers. This little pillow had been sealed up and never opened until his May 27th, 2017...His wedding day!
Love that Jamie included her mom and mother-in-law in this shot!
This is Reagan, Jamie's step daughter. She had a special gift for her, so sweet!
I love this so much!
Oh, I love this next shot of Jamie and her mom!
Father/Daughter first look!
Jamie's mom and dad surprised Jamie, their new granddaughter and Jamie's sister with gifts...
Ceremony time!
Tristan's reaction to seeing his bride...
Really love how his dad is watching his son! Kudos to Alicia with Mona Alicia Photography for catching these shots of Tristan...
The day of their wedding, I remember capturing this next shot...It's just one of those that stuck with me since the moment I took it! It says it so much about marriage in just one picture!
Some of my favorite first dances... Father/daughter and mother/son.
And that's a wrap, Jamie, Tristan and little Reagan! Congrats to you both, I wish you all and wonderful life ahead through the good times and bad! Thank you for letting me be a part of this journey with you!
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Time to slip on her dress...
Here, her nieces were part of the crew with her while she was getting ready...
I imagine her momma helped her put on her shoes many times over the years. However, this day is a little different!
The handsome groom has arrived and is ready to meet his bride...
Oh, I love her ring shot!
Waiting on her dad to see her for the first time...
Didn't realize we were doing a father/daughter first look but these are my favorite...the candid...the ones I don't prepare for!
Here, her mom surprised her with her grandmother's engagement ring. She wanted her to wear it as she said her vows.
It got to Courtney a little...
Guest are arriving...
Courtney told me she wanted me to focus on Hunter as she walked down the isle. His reaction was pretty sweet!
Mr. & Mrs. Small...
Oh, how I love bride and groom pictures!
Reception time!
This lady out did herself. Debbie, Courtney's aunt was the one who helped so much with the planning. She did a great job, it was beautiful!
Courtney's grandmother asked for this picture of them them with their children...
Bouquet toss!
Well, now, I this this girl in the far right corner came to win...She wasn't letting that bouquet get away from her! ;)
After this guy caught the garter, one of his buddies seemed happier than his own girlfriend! :)
And I'll leave you with a couple of my favorites. So long, newlyweds, hope you had a great week at the beach! Thanks for letting me be a part of your wedding. I wish you both many years together, through the good times and bad!
Her dress was gorgeous!
Oh, and how I love a beautiful ring shot!
The bling!
Time to get ready!
Hair jewelry...
Meanwhile, Alex is getting ready next door...
How sweet is this shot of him and his dad?!
Sisters have a special bond.
And mom helping her slip into her dress...
It's ceremony time. Here, Alex is waiting for his bride.
This kiss that seals the deal.
Oh, Shyann, this is so pretty of you!
One of my favorite wedding photos to date. The rain is just magical with this beautiful couple as the main subject!
Oh, how I love them of him spinning his bride around!
Oh, this next shot...look at that light! I think they thought I was a little crazy when I was taking these. Needless to say, I was a little excited as I'd look at the back of my screen.
A few family formals...
Reception time!
The "stars" of the show...
Thank you, Alex & Shyann for letting me be a part of your day. I'll now leave you with a few of my favorites!
This next shot also ranked up there with my all time favorite! Love everything about it!
Love this next dress/shoe shot.
The dress!
Loved her shoes, the sole on the bottom was her "something blue".
The beautiful, delicate lace hankie was a family heirloom from her grandmother, Flora.
Oh, the hustle and bustle of the bridal suite...
Pre-wedding sister selfie!
Slipping into the dress
Oh Katelyn, you look beautiful!
Her dad comes in to see his girl...
All these girls are sisters except for one and you might as well claim her too! ;) She's the sister-in-law!
Meanwhile Rhett is now here, looking wedding day sharp!
A couple of her nephews have arrived. One, who reallllllllyyy like her bouquet...In fact, he meant to have at least one flower. ;)
The groom and his siblings
Momma getting a hug from her first born...
Waiting at the alter...
Mr. & Mrs. Hallman!
Well wishers...
Reception time!
This was such a beautiful wedding keepsake painted by Katelyn's sister. As the guest arrived, they added a green thumb print "leaf" and name to the Hallman wreath.
Oh, you know, sometimes wedding photographers have to nearly hang from the ceiling to get "the shot"! ;)
This beautiful cake was made by two of Katelyn's sisters...
Candy bars are always a big hit!
Rhett's uncle and cousins surprised them with a couple of heartfelt songs they sung.
No matter the age, boys will be boys! This man was photobombing his sisters!
No better picture to describe "hanging onto momma's skirt tail". I kinda love it! ;)
Dinner time...
Cake cutting
Men always win out with this game...their arms are longer!
As Katelyn was trying to get away, I lost her behind the cake!
But at least he help clean her up!
Bouquet/garter toss...
Sparkler exit!
And I'll leave you with my favorite image from their wedding. To me, it couldn't signify the meaning of God's plan for marriage any better...Keep Christ at the center.
Thank you Rhett & Katelyn, for letting me be a part of your day!
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Hopewell Baptist Church
Loved ones, their memory table
The dress!
Her invitations were gorgeous!
These beautiful Bibles are family Bibles. The black Bible was Blake's Great-Grandmother's and the white Bible was Becky's mom's. It was a gift to her from her Great-Grandmother.
Becky with her sister and her mom.
Meanwhile, the guys are busy preparing...
I walked in just as Becky was opening a gift from Blake. His letter to her brought her to tears.
This little flower girl, how sweet is she?!
Becky and her mom!
Time to step into her dress...
Seriously Becky, you are such a beautiful bride!
And this groom, well, he's pretty handsome!
All these fellas look pretty suave!
We hadn't really talked about a first look with her dad but it just worked out perfectly. I love these shots and the fact that her mom just happened to be there also, makes it even more special.
My FAVORITE of you!
She and her sister!
Beautiful girls!
Just a candid shot right before the ceremony of Blake with his mom and brother.
Becky has arrived at the church...
My blog post alerted me that I had way too many images to post so I wasn't able to post the whole bridal party coming down the isle. But, I wanted to share these of the ring bearer and flower girl. This little fella was walking down the isle until he saw me, then stopped. From what I hear, daddy was next the the groom bribing him with a pack of Smarties to continue walking.
The next few are Blake seeing his bride for the first time.
Assembling the unity cross..
Mr & Mrs. Price!
Wowzers!
Reception time!
This table 4 was extra special. You see, Becky and Blake will share the same anniversary of her aunt and deceased uncle. Becky had set this table with her grandma's china and the very cake topper that Aunt Lindie & Uncle John used on their own wedding cake.
Introduction!
First dance as husband and wife!
Dinner is served!
Father/daughter dance
Mother/son dance
The shoe game made for some laughs from the guest...
Cake cutting and toast...
Becky's sister giving her speech...
...And I really love this candid shot. As Becky's sister was giving her maid-of-honor speech, I looked over at Becky's mom and dad. I like how she reached for his hand.
And this fella, Blake's brother, well, he's just a good guy!
Dancing continued through the evening...
Love the sass these two twin sisters gave me!
Bouquet toss
Garter toss
And the end to a beautiful day but only the start to a beautiful life!
Congratulations Blake & Becky, I wish you a lifetime of Christ centered happiness together! Thank you for letting me capture this time in your lives. You two and your families have been a pleasure to work for.
Dresses - David's Bridal
Catering - Lina Huntley
Tuxes - Simpson's Bridal
Florist - Abbey Rose Florist
DJ - Soto's Entertainment
Photography - MTH Photography by Molly Davis; Second Shooter - Mona Alicia Photography
Venue - Hopewell Baptist Church, Rolling Hills Farm
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Here her dress with her maid of honor and her own Christianing gown...
Her something old were hat pins from her grandmother who is no longer with them. I love details like these...with so much meaning!
Again, another special touch. Her something blue is a tiny little ring box from her new in-laws.
Bling, bling!
Her grandmother...
Last minute touches
Mom helping her slip on the dress
She and her sister are very close. This was such a sweet, candid moment. Her sister had bought her a sweet gift with a letter that brought Haley to beautiful tears. I love these next few!
Almost time, the groom has arrived!
Ceremony underway
Here comes the bride...
How cute id this flower girl!
Reception Time!
Mr. & Mrs. Clanton!
Reception details of their fall wedding
Love, love, love this piece of art below. This wedding keepsake tree was drawn by Haley's sister-in-law, Julie. The frame was made from barn wood from their soon-to-be home which is an old barn they are renovating and will soon call their home! The frame it's self, was built by Trevor's cousin. How special is that?!
Congratulations Haley and Trevor, thank you for letting me be a part of your day! I wish you many, many happy years together!
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The Dress!
Time to get ready...
Oh, her something blue...
All her bridesmaids wore these tennis shoes with fun shoe laces and matching jewelry, we had to get some cute photos of this!
The rings!
Her "crew"...
May be my candid shot of the day!
Emily, you are beautiful! Love this shot of you just after you stepped in your dress.
Alicia with Mona Alicia Photography was my second shooter for this wedding. Ahhhh, love this shot by Alicia!
Her grandmothers joined her in the bridal suite...
Meanwhile this handsome groom has arrived!
Another great candid capture from Alicia...
Love this next shot. Completely unplanned but one of her girls requested they have a prayer. This was just minutes before she walked down the isle..
This moment is here...
Here comes the bride...
Leon's reaction to seeing his bride...
Unity Cross...
Mr. & Mrs. Rock
Reception time!
These smores were such a cute idea at each place setting!
First dance..
Time for toasting...
At some point during the evening, I went outside to capture this shot of the venue. So pretty!
And the night continued with such fun group of dancing. Love this next few candids.
Bouquet toss...
Leon surprised Emily with the best garter removal dance I've seen to date! Awesome job Leon!
Thank you Leon & Emily for letting me capture your wedding in pictures. I wish you many years together through the many ups & downs that life may offer. I'll be in touch soon when I have your wedding complete!
Her wedding gown
A borrowed hankie her sister was pinning to the inside of her dress.
Such beautiful color
Getting ready
A sister shot before she slips into her dress
One of my favorite mother/daughter shots to date!
Looks at this handsome groom who has arrived!
Melody, you are so pretty in your wedding dress!
Wow!
Melody opted for a father/daughter first look...always love these!
It's time!
Family welcoming hugs...
Oh, how I love some sun flare!!!
Reception time, the tables!!!!
Friends!
One of the prettiest cake tables I've seen!
Guest enjoying the evening!
Cake cutting
Garter/bouquet toss
And I'll leave you with some of my favorites from their day. Congrats Wilson & Melody, I wish you many years years together. Thank you so much for letting me capture your wedding for you... I'll be in touch once your complete wedding collections is complete!
Time to get ready!
That dress! Her dress was so stunning...Gorgeous!
Her mom brought in this sweet bracelet. It was Paige's bracelet from when she was a baby and guess what? It still fits so guess what she wore on her wedding day? Yep, this string of pearls.
Friends with their own camera!
I thought this was so sweet. Joy, Paige's mother-in-law, brought in this "Be happy" pin for Paige to carry. It was a gift from Joy's father from when she was young. So she let her pin in to Paige's bouquet to keep him a part of his grandson's wedding!
While Paige was getting ready, this handsome guy has arrived and is waiting to meet her at the alter!
Here, her dad had just walked in. This was the look on his face when he saw her in her wedding dress!
Here are some of Paige from her beautiful bridal session!
It's ceremony time!
Here come the bride...
Robbie's reaction to seeing his bride...
Mr. & Mrs. Watson!
It's reception time!
Thank you Robbie and Paige for letting me capture your new start together. I wish many strong years together through the good times and bad! And I'll leave you with one last image from my list of favorites!
The day of their wedding, we had a tremendous amount of rain. Thankfully, there were breaks and they were able to continue with their outdoor ceremony. Here is a recap of their day.
Her something old and something blue was her mom's garter she wore many years ago.
Time to get ready...
Meanwhile, this handsome groom has arrived so I went out to capture a few shot of him.
He seems mighty cool, calm and collected.
Stepping into her dress...
Love this next shot of her sisters watching as her mom was tying her sash.
Almost time...
Such a beautiful picture of her...
My personal favorite of this bride...
with her sisters...
We had a few minutes before the ceremony and I was capturing a few shots of Alexis with her sisters. In this next shot of Alexis with her youngest sister, Aniston, was one of my favorites. I don't know, maybe Aniston was just not "feeling" pictures at the time but I was trying to get her to smile for the shot. In an attempt to get her to smile and knowing how little girls think boys are gross, I asked "do you think Alexis and Kelton are going to kiss?" to which she replied with no laugh but a big ol' eye roll instead! They whole room cracked up! Me - 0, Aniston - 1...Photographer fail but I still love the eye roll, it was just too funny!
Here, somehow we caught a happy face!
Outside, Kelton is waiting...
Here comes the bride...
At this point, the rain had just started again but Kelton didn't look away from his soon-to-be bride...
Love these next two...my view and...
His view!
Love this next shot but think it's unbelievable how much Alexis looks like her Aunt Carey in this shot.
Reception time!
I love some dramatic light so I played around with her cake pictures a bit. Kinda love the final images!
How cute is this little fella?!
Her little cousin being pushed in the swing by his daddy...
Time to cut the cake...
Bouquet/garter toss...
They chose old fashioned bird seed for their exit, they were covered!!!!!
So long, Alexis and Kelton, thank you letting me be a part of your day. I wish you many years together through the good times and bad!
And I'll leave you with my top three pics from their day, look at their shadow in that umbrella! Until next time...
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This ring shot was one that Erika requested. Add a little bokeh and it turns out to be quite magical!
Peonies...so lovely!
Matt had written a letter for Erika to read prior to their wedding, here she was taking a few minutes to read this love letter.
These rings are sitting atop a Bible that was her Great-Grandfather's, Lawrence Hallman.
One of the flower girls, Lila.
"Lawrence Hallman Sept. 8, 1917"
The necklace she wore, was made from her grandmother's diamond ring.
Her something old was this beautiful brooch from her Grandmother Bonce. In fact, all of her attendants had one of her brooches on their bouquets. Wanted to picture them but was over my limit that my hosting site allows for me to post.
In
Her dad gave her this sweet letter, talk about tear jerker...
Matt had given her a gift to open...the gift, a pair of diamond stud earrings!!!
Time to step into the dress...
Love this next shot, her mom on one side and sister on the other...
One of my favorites from her bridal shoot
This next location was at property that her grandfather owned many years ago. In fact, he planted those Crape Myrtle tree you see in the background.
Erika & her dad have a very close relationship. She opted for a first look with him. Until this day, he had not even seen a picture of her dress until she came out to meet him...
Meanwhile, this handsome groom has arrived!
Matt gives true meaning to the phrase "a sharp dressed man"!
The groom's parents!
One last shot before she walks down the isle...
Prior to the ceremony, she had the most beautiful music playing...
Here comes the bride...
Matt was completely overtaken by emotions...
Prayer
The two families together!
Meet Mr. & Mrs. Riggi!
The couple's first dance!
Erika & her dad's first dance was a very emotional dance for both of them. Their song, "Sweet Child o' Mine"
The two flower girls...
Cake cutting
Best Man and Maid of Honor
They had a photobooth...
This was so cute. While waiting for the bride & groom to go through their bubble exit, Matt's grandfather was at the head of the line dancing while blowing bubbles. It just makes you feel good to see others enjoying themselves!
And I'll end with one of my favorites shots...so candid, so real! May the two of you always have this much laughter together!
Erika & Matt, thank you so much for letting me spend this time with you two. You had a beautiful wedding and I wish you a beautiful life together!
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Somebody didn't give her the memo that the bride is the only one who wears white on the wedding day! ;)
Bling! Bling! Bling!
Love some pretty bokeh to be thrown in a few shots!
Time to get ready
Friends by her side
With her grandmothers
Amanda had bought a gift for both her mom and her soon-to-be Mother-in-law
Landon has arrived and is looking mighty sharp!
Here he is opening a gift from Amanda
Love this shot. It reminded that Tim, Landon's dad, had just told me that it was just a few days shy of being 23 years since they brought him home from the hospital.
Amanda coming out for her daddy to see her for the first time...
And this was just a candid moment before the ceremony. Landon and all his 8 brothers!
Here comes the bride...
Love, love love this shot!
Marriage is so sacred and I always love to not only shoot the ceremony but to hear what is said. Landon's grandfather read the most humbling words, "Christ is to be the head of the home, the unseen guest at every meal, the silent listener in every conversation..." That has stuck with me since I heard it and I know that can be the most helpful piece of advise that could be given to a newly married couple. In fact, it's a great reminder for marriages of all ages.
Married!
Here are some of my favorites of their pictures together!
I had to post this out take. It was sunny almost the entire time during their pictures but at one point, there was this tiny little dark cloud that passed by. It started raining and the old trusty reflector worked double duty that day...a make shift shelter! Know my fellow photogs will appreciate this next picture.
This next shot might be one of my favorites. These aren't Landon's groomsmen, they are his bothers...all 8 of them!
Reception time!
Look to the left of this next picture, that's Amanda's shoes she wore when she was a baby!
And a close up!
Candy bar!
Mr & Mrs. Huntley!
Photobooth!
Landon with his daddy and grandmother!
Seriously, look at her eyes!
The cake!
Bouquet/Garter toss!
Congratulations Landon and Amanda, I wish many, many wonderful years together through the good times and bad. Thank you so much for letting me spend the last few months with you!
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Love how the vantage lace from the curtains is almost an ombre' into her wedding dress...
This necklace was a Christmas gift from Trent this past year...
The most valuable attribute is a beautiful heart. More on this sweet detail below...
Time to get ready...
Wedding dress details...
Love her mom's reaction to seeing her daughter getting in her dress...
Oh, how I LOVE this shot!
Meanwhile, my second shooter with Mallory McCall Photography, was working with Trent while he was preparing to meet his bride...
Love this shot that she got of Heather's brother helping her dad get ready.
The Handsome groom, awesome shot by Mallory McCall!
This was one of the details that I remember Heather talking to me about months ago. She had a surprise for her grandfather during their "First look"...
Inside of her dress, she had a piece of her grandmother's shirt in the shape of a heart, sewn into the lining as her something old. And what a special "something old" it was. She also had the same heart sewn on a hankerchief as a gift from her to her grandfather.
Heather, you were a stunning bride!
With her dad, just before walking down the isle...
Guest have arrived!
This is why a second shooter is so important. Here, Mallory was able to focus on Heather and I was....
...I was able to focus on Trent. He had his back turned to her until she arrived on the carriage. Here is a play by play as he saw her for the first time...
Look at his dad, looking at his son!
Heather & Trent wanted to put Christ at the center of their marriage, right from the beginning. So, part of their ceremony included taking communion together...
Again, these next two are from both of us photographers. First up, my view...
And second shot is Mallory's view...
Another really special part of their wedding was that both Trent & Heather each one washed one another's feet to demonstrate the humility of the heart and character by kneeling before their new spouse.
Mr. & Mrs. Yow!
Outtakes are the best sometimes, even if they are imperfect!
Wow, you two look amazing!
I know, I'm repeating myself but again, this is why a second shooter is so important. It's reception time and they have just been formally introduced. Here's my capture of their reaction....
And here is Mallory's capture of their reaction! I love both!
The lights were gorgeous!
Cute candid moments holding part of the wedding party!
Bouquet toss...
Garter toss...
And I'll leave you with one of my favorites. Whoa, I love this next shot! Thanks you so much, Heather & Trent, for letting me be a part of your wedding day. I wish many years of happiness together!
Guest starting to arrive....
Mom & her son...
Walking to meet Erin...
Here comes the bride...
During the ceremony, this little fella kept peeking around at me...
The new Mr. & Mrs.!
Erin, you are stunning!
And your groom, well, he's mighty handsome!
This sweet girl had her eyes on a couple of little fellas. She kept peeking out around her momma's chair to see what they were up to.
...and here they are, doing what little boys do best!
These next two of these sweet brothers are very similar. Couldn't decide which to post, so I'm posting both! How precious are they!?
Congratulations Erin & Brock, it was a pleasure photographing your wedding. I wish the two of you a lifetime of happiness together!
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The calm...
Love her ring shot against the chippy wood.
Wedding dress detail
A gift from Lauren's mom...
Lauren's grandmother
Love these next few shots. When Lauren put on her dress, I assume it all started to sink in that the time was here...she's officially in her wedding dress getting ready to meet her groom at the alter. Needless to say, the moment was a bit overwhelming. This was so sweet, the groom's grandmother stepped in and just laid her hands on Lauren until her dress was on to offer a sense of stability and calming.
Meanwhile, this handsome fella has arrived and is getting ready in the groom's room.
Lauren and Sherwin requested this shot. Just minutes before ceremony time they're so close but can't see each other...
Waiting for his bride...
Signed, sealed and delivered!
Linden's view...
Beautiful bride
Let me just say, these next three images is why I highly recommend a second shooter. I was getting shot one and off to the side, Linden with Linden Claire Photography, my second shooter, was capturing shot two & three (pictured in both color and B&W).
Love the dreamy, soft light in these shots...
~ Reception Time ~
Coffee bar
This beautiful cake was made by Lauren's new sister-in-law and the cake topper was atop Sherwin's grandmother's wedding cake almost 57 years ago!
And Linden's view of the cake cutting in these next few...
Bouquet toss
Garter toss
The two that caught the garter & bouquet...
Again, these next two images by my second shooter, Linden. No doubt, I wouldn't have been able to capture the excitement of the crowd's faces without her help...I focused on the bride & groom while her focus was on the energy of the guest' faces.
Thank you Lauren & Sherwin, for letting me and Linden be a part of your wedding. I wish you both many years of happiness together!
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In my line of work, it's exciting to work with so many couples as they start their new lives as Mr. & Mrs. On a wedding day, my job is to capture all of their planning they've put into their wedding over past few months, in all the beautiful details. So much effort goes into making it special to insure every detail is perfect. But I feel, true perfection is learning to live with the one who stole your heart all those years ago and realizing that in fact, life isn't prefect at all. Building a marriage that last 50 years means learning to forgive all of their im"perfect"ions as Christ did for us. When the rush of new love may fade a bit due to everyday demands of raising a family, paying bills, job changes, or even the loss of dear loved ones and etc that happens over the years. As the marriage cultivates, I believe you'll cross both moments of joy and heartache over the years, the key is to stand strong together as life unfolds, whatever may come. There's no price that can be put on the security of that kind of love. Reaching the 50 year mark is quite a milestone that makes it worthy of being called the "Golden year"...Congratulations Ben & Pat!
At Ben & Pat's anniversary party, I love how they bridged the past with the present with momentos from their own wedding as you'll see though out this post. Here is a recap from their day.
Their Church...
The bride and groom...50 years ago!
...and today!
Look what I see in the far left side of this picture...
Her dress!
Friends helping with her jewelry.
Guest starting to arrive...
The handsome groom!
Loved these beautiful cookies celebrating 50 years of marriage!
The grandbaby's sneaking a snack...
Original wedding invitation...
At one point through out their day, this popped up on their slideshow. How fitting!
Their sons...
Guest of all ages...
Loved all of the details they put into their party.
Pat and her daughter-in-law, Jamie...another talented photographer!
I love shots like this next one...
Handsome grandson!
Here, their whole family!
Their wedding album.
Thank you Ben & Pat for asking me to capture these for you. I wish many more years of happiness together and thanks for being a positive example to others!
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The dress!
The bouquet, Clark made for Jenna to carry!
The ring!
Detail...
Prepping is underway...
With her mom...
The earrings she chose to wear...
Time to slip on her dress with the help of her mom...
Ta-daaaa...
Jenna surprised her mom with a gift...
I think she liked it!
Time to head to the venue...
Meanwhile Clark is waiting...
Just before Jenna arrived...
Clark, here comes your bride!
Exchanging of rings...
Littles watching...
The new Mr. & Mrs.
After a few pictures of the bride and groom, grandma was there with her arms open...
And mother-in-law also...
Signing the marriage certificate...
Reception!
After lunch there was dancing...
These three went in for the slide...
Cake cutting and doughnuts!
Thank you Jenna & Clark for letting me captures these for you. I wish many happy years together!
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This next shot is always a given for me at every wedding, there's just something that gets me about the "calm" prior to the day unfolding...
Shoe detail...
The bling between the bling, simply because it's beautiful!
All of their rings atop her bouquet.
The hankie, a gift from a friend...
Earrings...
Time to get ready...
The "littles" came to join in, Ashley's nieces...
And sisters too...
Here are a few from her bridal session, so gorgeous!!!
Ashley, you look beautiful!
Meanwhile, this handsome fella has arrived...
Little guest...
Mr. & Mrs. Mullis!
Welcoming hugs from her mother-in-law...
Not only brothers but twins!
And their little brother...well, he didn't want his pictures taken.
Here's the beautiful couple!
Celebration time...
A cake time!
Time to cut the cake...
Bouquet/Garter toss
Ashley's expression is priceless here! Haha! A woman on a mission!
The isle of bubbles....
Congratulations Ashley & Travis on your wedding, I wish you many happy years together! Thanks so much for letting me capture this time for you!
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Here are some of my favorites from their day as a recap.
Time to get ready....
Momma grabbing a hug...
Best friends since childhood...
This crew helped her get ready...
Meanwhile Drew has arrived...
Momma's boy
It's time to walk down the isle...
MARRIED!
She turned to give her dad a hug...
Then momma...
After family formals, now time for a few of the new bride and groom...
Now it's time to celebrate with family and friends...
I love this next shot so much. My aunt Wanda had gotten a new phone and was trying to take pictures of Katie and her parents. Obviously, she was being schooled on how to use it. She got the shot and so did I. See below...
The end result...
This little fella was so cute. Stretching to reach the prize, almost have it....
Aha! Got it!!!
Oh yeah, he's happy!!!
Bouquet/garter toss time...
And all the ones who caught the bouquet and garter.
And I'll leave you with my favorite shot from their wedding. Katie & Drew, I wish you many wonderful years together through the good times and bad! Thank you so much for letting capture these for you. I will be in contact soon when your wedding pictures are complete!
When I first met with Jennifer and her mom back in January, I remember being super excited when they were talking about her colors for this wedding. Of course, PINK is perfect! ;) Actually, when I see the colors of her wedding, immediately I see "Blush & Bashful" from the movie Steel Magnolias.
THE D R E S S!!!!!
Blingy detail...
Back view...
Her bouquet was made by her sister-in-law out of beautiful brooches...
Up close of one of the brooches..
This special pin is one of her deceased grandfather's pins..
Becoming Mrs. Batson requires a "B" ;)
And THE S H O E S Oh, dear goodness! Need I say more, I love them as much as the dress! She had them custom made. She was able to choose her own design, colors and crystals!
Side detail of the shoes..
And up close of the bow. Not only do I love this bow shot for the beautiful shoes that they are but to all my photog loving friends...The Bokeh!
Her earrings...
This beautiful Bible has a story...You'll see below!
Grandma's hankie Jennifer carried...
The rings...
This Bible was part of how Brad proposed to Jennifer. To me, that takes a real man to keep God at the center of their beginning...He highlighted this well known passage in Corinthians when he asked for her hand in marriage so it just felt fitting to include it with their rings.
The beautiful bride herself, starting to get ready...
Sweet mints lying on the bathroom counter...
Jennifer and her mom!
Sherry stepping in her beautiful gown...
Meanwhile, this handsome fella was waiting for moment to say "I DO"...
Just slipped into her dress...
Oh. my. word! Jennifer, you were a gorgeous bride!
This next shot was a request by her mother. Jennifer looking to our Saviour.
Their daddy/daughter first look was one of the sweetest ever. Her dad obviously had not seen her in her dress, up until this point. We brought him out with his eyes closed and back against her. Jennifer walked toward her dad, tapped him on the shoulder and then they both cried the most humble, quiet tears. But what made this so special to me was the respect that they seem to have for one another. I remember distinctly what Jennifer said to her dad...She thanked him for all the years he had worked hard and the years he had put in at his currant place of employment. To me, that showed a daughter who understands just what her dad has done for her.
Ceremony time...
She's seeing Brad waiting for her at the alter...
And this shot, so raw and unplanned. Her daddy their to wipe her happy tears...
Exchanging of rings...
Brad sealing the deal...
I think he's proud of his new bride...
Reception time - Monroe Country Club
But before the party started, we spent some quiet time capturing a few pictures of the new bride and groom...
This one = Giant size canvas!
This candid shot walking to the green is one of my favorites...
Inside the country club, the tables were beautifully adorned as a surprise to Jennifer and Brad by Jennifer's mother. Sherry, you did a fabulous job! Absolutely gorgeous!
"Mr. & Mrs. Brad Batson"
Daddy/daughter first dance
With momma look on...
Mother/Son first dance...
with dad watching from afar...
She opted to have a photo booth, they're always so much fun!
Dinner Time...
I just love this shot of Brad...
And guest throughout the night...
Time for the cake cutting...
Dancing followed...
Stole Jennifer away for a bit to catch this shot...I love!
A sparkler exit wrapped up their night but it was only the beginning of what I hope is many years of happiness for these two. I've enjoyed so much being able to capture your wedding and even your engagement over the past few months!
Jennifer & Brad (and Sherry also), I want to thank you for being so wonderful to work with. You truly have been a pleasure! I wish the two of you the very happiest life together. Know you're enjoying your honeymoon in the Dominican Republic!
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Time to get ready!
As the time draws nearer, the anticipation grows...
I love this next shot for the candid moment that it was. Danielle was getting her dress laced up as she's watching her grandmother have her corsage pinned by a friend. The look on her face is priceless!
From Danielle's bridals. So gorgeous!
And just because I love this shot so much...
Her dad seeing her in her dress for the first time...
Their baby boy, Brighton.
Here comes the bride...
Jake watching his bride walk down the isle...
It's official!
Another shot from Danielle's bridal session.
Their first dance...
The evening continued within these walls of fun, food, fellowship & dancing...
And even a few silverware wars with the littles... (Thanks Alicia with Mona Alicia Photography for this next shot!)
And more dancing...
Love this of Jake showing off his moves...
Bouquet toss! Oh, who shall catch it?
It's gone!
Dashing through their sparkler exit...
So much fun and such a great ending to their night but yet, only the beginning of their journey. Danielle & Jake, thanks so much for letting me be a part of your day. I wish the both of you many, many years together through the good times and bad!
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Mean while, this handsome groom is preparing also!
The garter!
Finally stepping into the dress!
Seeing his little girl for the first time in her dress.
Mika's as she's meeting her dad...
Just as he saw her...
Best reaction ever!
She had a special gift for her mom and dad...
One last picture with mom & dad before the ceremony...
Here comes the bride...
Eric seeing her for the first time...
Mr. & Mrs. Callahan!
Reception time...
First dance...
Love this next shot my second shooter, (Alicia) got. Her focus, the bride's parents! Love!
Daddy/daughter dance...
Alicia and I must have had a similar thought...During their dance, I caught the bride's mom video-ing her hubby and their daughter dancing.
Mother/son dance
Well, well, well, look who caught the garter and bouquet....
Thank you, Mika & Eric for letting me capture this day for you! I wish you many, many happy years together!
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The handsome groom!
One last shot of momma and her boy before he's a married man.
Signing the dotted line...
These next two are almost just alike...I love them both so I'm including both of them! That is the prettiest cross I've seen!
Oh, that light! And a beautiful couple...
So elegant and classy!
Clint & Stephanie, you have a beautiful venue! (Side note: Could that moon have been in any better place? Love!)
Look at this cute lil' fella...
A dad and all his boys...
Congratulations Elizabeth & Tyler, I've enjoyed being a part of your engagement and wedding day. I wish you many years of happiness together!
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All her life, she's been waiting for this moment and the time is now.
And now one of my favorite moments of a wedding. Not every bride chooses a "first look" with her dad but when they do...
This beautiful handkerchief is a gift from Casie to her mom.
First dance as husband and wife...
As grandma watched
Now the party begins...
Casie and her grandfather
One more shot of Casie with her grandpa... That light!
Bouquet toss...
See that little dot at the top of your screen...We caught that quick little passing flower in the air! ;)
The night is winding down, last dance on their wedding day...
Sparkler exit..
Congratulations Casie & Andrew on your wedding! I wish the two of you a wonderful married life through good times and bad! Thank you for letting me and my second shooter, Linden Claire Photography, capture these for you!
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Love this next one of you, Amanda!
Her mom & dad
Beautiul bride!
These next few of Lee as he sees his bride for the first time!
Wishing you two a wonderful time away and many years of happiness as you start your new life together!
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Jessica, you were a beautiful bride!
I love this next series, here's why. Today, in photography, a big trend that I often encourage brides to do is have a "first look" with their dad. You capture the dad's expression as he sees his daughter for the first time in her wedding dress. The emotions are always priceless as he sees his "little girl" just before he gives her away to another man. Well, this is basically the same thing except for this was not a planned moment...It was all candid and I didn't expect to capture this going into their wedding day but here, Jessica's mother-in-law is seeing her son's soon-to-be-wife prior to the ceremony for the first time. Their reaction is raw and priceless...what a "welcome into the family" this would be!
Love how happy they both are in this next shot!
Brian taking care of his last minute touches while getting ready...
A little wedding loves from his niece!
You did mighty well on that ring, Brian! ;)
Just before her dad gives her away...
Brian's reaction to seeing her for the first time...
Jessica & her dad!
Love a silhouette shot!
Thank you Brian & Jessica for letting me be a part of your day. I wish you many years of happiness together!
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The calm...
Preparations have begun
Friends join in Ava's day
Such beautiful details, everything was thought out!
Such a cute surprise picture by her Made of Honor that made these cute signs!
What a beautiful group of women!
These next few might be my personal favorites from the day!
Ava and her mom...
This Daddy/daughter first look was one of the sweetest I've seen. Both Ava and her Dad were so overcome with such emotion...It was beautiful!
The Bridal party "wall".
Ava, you are just gorgeous!
Kyle, you aren't too bad either! ;)
I always love the quiet details like the one in this next picture.
Gift exchange/first touch! (No peeking) Kyle's expression is priceless!
The NINJA aka Ring Bearer!
"S" - Strawn
Guest starting to arrive
Classic music playing while the guest were seated
See what I mean about how sweet this wedding was? This is Kyle's mom as she walked in the church.
And now his Dad.
Here comes the bride...
I think he likes what he sees...
Awe...
The bride dad...
Meet Mr. & Mrs. Strawn!
Happy times!
Kyle as he's watching his men having fun with Ava's pictures!
Monroe Country Club - Time to party!
First dance as Mr. & Mrs. Strawn!
Mother/son first dance
This bride and her dad had in their dance together but they had a surprise for us....
These two have moves!!! What a great show for all of us!
Garter toss
Surely looks like some eager faces ready to catch the garter to me!
Bouquet toss!
These two caught the bouquet and garter!
They danced the night away!
There you have it, happy for both of you!
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Time to get ready...
I always love this next shot, the calm just before the wedding.
Kara, you look so radiant in this next shot.
Waiting...
Here she comes...
Seeing her groom for the first time.
Always love the little ones at wedding, they're so honest!
This next shot, perfection!
Truly, such a sweet moment between father and son.
I LOVE this sisters shot!
Oh! You two...love this next one!
Kara...wow!
And I'll leave you with my favorite of the day!
Thanks again for letting me capture your wedding and spend the day with you. I wish the both of you many years of happiness together!
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Saturday, I had a sunrise shoot downtown Charlotte. So when I finished, it was still early in the day and obviously coming home from work, I didn't have my kids with me. I decided to take advantage of this down time and try to capture "Abandonment" (this week's cotw challenge). I've always admired abandoned houses. To me, there is an untold story in the empty spaces of a vacant old home place. You know, what was once a vibrant home with kids, and laundry and suppers...otherwise, all the daily activities that make a house a home, now is only a reminder of what it once was with it's fragile shell. The 'remains' of this house I photographed is no exception.
For years, I've past by this house while driving back and forth to work and admired this old, falling down structure. Wondering what "life" must have looked like when there was truly "life" within the walls of that old home place. No doubt, this would be the perfect time to take a closer look and try to capture it through the lens of my camera for our "Abandonment" challenge. Recently, the property has been put up for sale and when I started to pull in the driveway, I noticed it was chained off with 'no trespassing' signs. After realizing this, I drove on to the next two neighboring houses, the first one, no one was home but the second I lucked out. (Yeah, I'm nerdy like that. lol) Greeted by an Old Timer in the driveway, I introduced myself, told him what I was wanting to do and asked if he knew who the owner of the property was. He seemed tickled so to speak, to tell me that it was his nieces property and that he and his 93 year old sister (who he was visiting at the the time), actually grew up in that old run down house! They invited me in to visit and while I was talking with them, I was taken aback a little when I recognized an old heirloom photograph of a couple that was obviously taken many, many years ago. After inquiring a little more, I learned that these two, the brother and sister pair, were actually related to many of my own family members! Ended up, this kind gentlemen rode with me over to the property and before I left, I asked if I could take a picture of him to include with this story/images. He concurred and we decided the perfect place...was no other than in front of his "home".
In the backyard of a friend’s home in Wingate, N.C., Hanna took “Mrs. Sammons” as her new last name. Saturday, Aug. 30th. 2014, Josh and Hanna joined their life together before friends and family just beyond the graceful, ground sweeping branches from a beautiful Weeping Willow tree. Reflections from the evening sky danced across a beautiful pond on the farm as the ceremony turned into an evening of loved ones mingling in celebration of their wedding. Hanna & Josh were one of the most relaxed couples that I’ve worked with and truly enjoyed the fellowship of their new beginning. It was a hot and humid summer day but that only added the southern feel of this country wedding. Every detail was beautifully covered. Here is a recap of their day…In pictures. Enjoy!
Hanna chose a familiar place to enjoy preparing for her wedding. The home of a special lady in her life...Her grandma!
The time is drawing nearer...
Evidence that it is their day was all around the house.
The rings
friends by her side
Even though her grandmother wasn't able to be at the wedding, her presence was evident. This was her cane and rocking chair. I'm sure it rocked her a time or to when Hanna was young.
Loved these next two but couldn't decide which I liked best, b&w or color so I'm posting both. This is another shot to honor her grandmother. Taken in her grandmother's room, one her bed.
Josh pre-wedding looking all tough!
Just before the guest arrived.
Love the look on Josh's face as he saw his bride for the first time. And then the best man looking at the groom's reaction...
Weddings can be tough on daddy watching his little girl.
Love this picture of the mother of the bride!
My view from afar...
Congrats, Josh & Hanna! Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your wedding over the last few months. Wishing you many years of happiness together!
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Here's my final(s)
Until next time...
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Happy August y'all...hope you enjoy the rest of your summer!
]]>So here it is, an architectural pattern that I think is really pretty.
Wonder how many little ones have crawled all over these benches over the years?
This church, well, it is one of my favorite places on this little piece of ground that we call home. It's so beautiful, I never drive through Unionville without admiring this beautiful building! Maybe one day I'll get to photograph a wedding there, how cool would that be!?
Until next time...
]]>One night after a shoot, I stopped by my mom's house to pick up my girls. She was outside planting flowers and I captured her hands doing what she's always enjoyed...Gardening!
This next image is a picture I happened to find on an old memory card a couple of months ago. It was my baby when she was just a couple of months old. What a gem to find these two years later!
Arlie had to get her hands in the dirt helping Mamaw!
And another of my baby's pudgy fingers!
Here is that same baby's fingers...This time 2 1/2 years later picking some flowers for me.
This shot was from another COTW episode from a few months ago. These hands are of two very special people, my aunt and uncle, Wade & Boots. An older couple's hands that have stood the test of time enduring the trials of this life together as husband and wife!
So, moving on...Here is the image I chose to feature on COTW. It's one from a simpler time...one of yesteryear. Front Porch Sittin' in a old wooden rocking chair is kinda nostalgic and timeless.
My beach picture from few years ago.
And now the others that were worth mentioning.
This next image was my second choice for this weeks challenge. I wavered back and forth over this one and the rocking chair but in the end the Front Porch Sittin' won out.
From a wedding I shot a few months ago.
And this next image, well, I'm not sure that it qualifies as a "chair" but kinda thought it went with the theme so decided to post it too.
There you have it, those are some of my favorites for this focus!
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Back in April, we met up at the coast for her bridal shoot. The exact location, Huntington Beach State Park, where she met her high school sweet heart, Adam. It was a perfect and fun girls weekend spent with her mom, sister, grandmother and two of her closest aunts. Preparations started early with this beautiful bride and the pictures show just how excited she is to beginning this new stage of her life.
Hold on for a long blog post full of tons of pictures, I had a hard time narrowing down which images to post...many, many favorites!
Here's the newlyweds...
And a few from their wedding.
Now onto Staci's bridals...
With Adam's bow
Thanks again Staci and Adam for letting capture this journey with you! Check back soon for a full "Wedding" blog post!
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So there you have it, here is my examples of bokeh!
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This beautiful arbor was built by Trey!!!
Loved this on her night stand
Favorite ring shot ever! The shadow hearts, the fifth verse...all of it!
It's time to get ready!
Love the sweet text messages between the two of them from earlier last week.
Momma helping with the last minute touches.
Sisters are the best!
Watching the rain...
Hugs from her momma.
Kelsey reading a card just given to her from her grandparents.
Last minute sister support!
Kelsy heading out to meet her dad for his "first look".
Moment...Priceless!
Her dad and grandfather watching the rain.
Last minute radar checks...
No peeking!
Body language says a lot!
Trey's first look! (But check out Momma's too!)
Parents of the groom
She and her sisters are just so much fun!
I think her brothers have her back!
Thanks so much Mr. & Mrs. Welch for letting me be a part of your day! Wishing you man, many years for happiness together!
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And now the rest that were in the running!
And this last image, well, I took it one day last week when had to go uptown for my day job. Just kinda thought it was cool although I think that cab driver thought I had lost my mind when I asked him for his permission to grab this shot. See ya next time!
You see, when I think of this phrase, my first thought is of a specific couple. These two people are salt of the earth people, as in the real deal! Who are they you might ask? Boots and Wade, my aunt and uncle. This loving couple is truly one of a kind, unlike any other. They are the epitome of southern charm and gentleness.
This day and time, it's rare to see marriages work; two people that stay together through thick and thin. But these two high school sweethearts have endured with true loyalty, and will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on December 11th. I share my birthday with their anniversary and when I was a child, we would invite them for supper, but many times they had plans and couldn't come. At the time, I didn't understand, but now as an adult I imagine that's why they've made it 65 years...They've put each other first, truly enjoying one another's company for as far back as I can remember.
Through the years when growing up, we celebrated Christmas and the love of our family in the living room of their home. Crystal glasses, and fine flatware adorned the tables where we enjoyed our annual Christmas dinner. Upon arriving, we were greeted with a warmth that will always be some of my fondest memories. They had a beautifully decorated home with all the traditional reminders of the season. Not a end table or wall was untouched. Christmas holly and silver bells were the embellishments throughout the walls of their classic 1920's home. During this this time of year, aunt Boots replaced every picture in her home with ones that matched the season. But even with all the glittery accents that was so welcoming, the warmth in their hugs are what I remember the most. Truly, the contentment of their smiles as they out stretched their arms in love, was a comfort that has been unmatched.
Entering the kitchen, you would find Aunt Boots adding crackers to the fruit and cheese table and Uncle Wade filling ice in the glasses. A German Chocolate cake would be displayed beautifully just waiting to be eaten by all the Helms kin. The Potato stuffing was certain to be "the best this year" acclaimed by specific family members that sincerely enjoyed our family's traditional Christmas meal. Then Uncle Wade would gather all of us around the kitchen to say grace. Grace...a prayer that truly came from his heart, one that sticks with me even until this very day. The humbleness in his words still touch me. Never a prayer was said without him asking our Lord to help us serve Him better through the nourishment we were getting ready to partake of. His words were real and sincere, not for show...Just a humble plea as a Christian man striving to do His will each and every day. I can remember at times, he would be so moved, that his voice would quiver with emotions of his plea. And that's who he is, a man of character, not ashamed to live with Christ leading his life.
Here is my final choice...These images truly represent their love and devotion!
I had a hard time choosing which image to post for COTW, but these next few pictures were in the running as well.
Oh, that golden band...
There you have, two of the most genuine people you'll ever meet! Love you both!
]]>The Dress!!!
Love this text between the two of them from earlier in the week!
Katie, y0ou are radient.
Here is Katie on her grandmother's chairs, she may have gone on but still a part of this day.
Before the guest arrived!
Cameron seeing his bride for the first time...
Even the littles showing her respect during prayer...
I LOVE this next picture of this pretty little girl who was checking out what I was doing.
Watching their boy begin his new life with Katie.
It's official!!!
It
These next two kept me entertained while I was waiting on "Mr. & Mrs. Cameron Simpson" to greet the crowd!
This beautiful cake was made by her sister, Tasha!
Mingling with the guest!
Wow!
Katie receiving some love from two of her closest friends.
Which soon turned to this...lol
Happy wedding to the both of you, Katie & Cameron!!! Thank you so much for letting be part of your day...Wishing a lifetime of happiness!!!
]]>When I heard what our focus would be for this weeks challenge, I had an idea of the perfect example of how I interpret "love" and the way I view it through my eyes. Truth is, love, like the tried and true, real deal is serious business. And what I had planned to capture was the real thing but unfortunately, the timing just didn't allow me to achieve that image, so instead I decided to take this down a much lighter path. Here are pictures that were in the running for this weeks challenge.
Heart shaped PB & J topped with candy sprinkles for my girls. Sprinkles make anything better, it's like jewelry for your food. ;) Told ya I was gonna see things a little rosy.
Little Debbie, what's not to love about her???
See what I mean, little love letters on sweet candy hearts. Happy Tuesday, folks. It's February, go out and spread some love. In the mean time, go check out how my other photogs interpret love. There's some good stuff over at COTW this week.
And that's my feel good, fun way of showing love on a much lighter note!
]]>This first image is the one I chose to go with in the end. On this particular day, we got to the rink a little early which allowed us to watch some of the more advanced skaters on Ithe ice as they were practicing. Truly, it is amazing to see some of the talent that some of these kids have. They are so graceful gliding across the ice and they make spinning in the air look as easy as tying their shoes. To me, this picture says so much with her facial expressions alone...I can tell what she is thinking just by what was captured in this candid moment.
Lacing up!
One night after work, it was actually warm enough for us to head outside for a little while and let the kids play.
Watching "sissy"!
The school bell just rang out!
And we'll bring an end to this post like the sun going down behind the trees in this picture. Here, my girl in one of her many cartwheels that she's done while we were out enjoying this past Sunday afternoon!
"This Moment" focus phrase/word belongs to Bobbie this go round, wonder what our next challenge will be...We shall see!
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I nearly panicked! (Ok, so maybe that is a little bit of an exaggeration but the above picture truly does express how I feel about being on the front side of the camera...I'm much more comfortable on the back side, shooting! This shot was a completely candid moment captured by Bobbie at our last Nerd Night. Even though, at the time, I didn't know what our next focus word would be, I thought this shot totally went with how I felt.)
On a more serious note (pun intended), these next few shots were in the finals for today's focus. Ultimately though, I ended up going with the first B&W image for COTW. Reason being, like most people I like to laugh, have a good time and usually try to keep things "light". But at the end of the day, when all is said and done, and it's just me and the four walls of my home, I'm a thinker. And this first image seems to represent how I view "me" outside of Facebook and away from the rest of the world. So yes, as hard as it is to admit, I tend to over think things, pondering all the "what ifs" ...Did I get on my kids too harshly? Did I get on them hard enough? Did I show them by example what grace is? Am I teaching them enough the importance of prayer? AM I praying enough??? Why did I lose my cool over the 2nd box of cereal being spilled? How can I be a positive influence for my girls?
Without going into too much detail, most of you know this past year has been quite a ride for me. It's no secret, it's been one that hasn't been easiest. But even while saying that, I truly believe there is good in almost every situation, you just have to look for it. And sometimes, the curve balls that life throws at us, makes it a little harder than what we like, pushing us to an uncomfortable level to find the positives. But I believe this is where the tide breaks...Simply put, good people always rise! Even in really bad situations, much worse than what I've ever had to experience, if you look around you will see the 'good' in other people through the compassion they have for others...It's expressions of our Saviour through the works of their hands and the kindness in their hearts. And I think that folks, is the 'good' that He has intended for us to exhibit all the way along! Witnessing so many blessings from so many good hearted people recently, is humbling to say the least.
While believing in staying humble, over the past few months, I have purposely been learning how to truly 'like' myself again...As in finding and doing things that I enjoy and not just trying to please other people. Because, I've realized one thing, that can be exhausting and let's face it, some people you just can't please. Have I arrived? No, not yet, and I'll even go on to say, I don't think "arriving" is necessarily a destination, it is more about the journey. Traveling the road to a happier place takes being conscience of our own existence and conscience of the decisions we make. Ultimately, if we do this, we play a big part in defining the outcome of our own happiness. Ground breaking, huh? ha! All kidding aside, that sounds so simple but I think sometimes we get so caught up in living day to day, that life leads us instead of us leading life. Another part of this growth has also been learning to like not only what's on the inside but also like what I see in the mirror. I love everything about photography, even the nerdy, geeky, technical stuff but hated to see my own self in pictures. So recently, I've even pushed myself to be in more of my own photographs in some form or another, both alone and with my girls.
With all that being said, when I was given the focus word of "self" for this weeks COTW increment, I thought about how it pertained to where I am in my life right now. I tried to capture who I am...Molly. So here she is, both the relaxed, "real me" side and also the more serious side that is ever so present. No, these pictures aren't the best because they were taken in about a span of fifteen minutes but they will have to work!
Whew! That was a heavy mouth full ...during this process, I've learned something else, it's hard to be your own photographer!!! Ha! Thanks to the timer mode on my camera, I've been able to complete this weeks challenge. ;)
This next image is what I like to refer to as my "safe haven" shot. My safe haven is winding down after a busy week on a Friday night with the sound of my girls playing behind me, a cup of coffee lying on the floor with a fire keeping my feet warm. Perfection! (The only thing missing is my phone...You know, got to check out what's happening on social media! lol)
One last picture...
So, there you have it. That's all my "Self" shots. Sure hope our next "focus" word is easier than this weeks challenge. Alicia, that was a tough one!
]]>That's when I stumbled on this next image...literally! So, after I nearly dropped my other love, me and my camera captured this weeks focus...PINK! Not my favorite but it's real life...where I am right now and that feels right!
Pink crochet...Timeless!
And well, Lucy, she's my best friend every morning for the simple fact that she holds my drink of choice...coffee!
Today is Arlie's first ice skating lesson...Her birthday gift! We're a little excited! (Yes, that is a Christmas tree in the back ground. Don't judge...It's not March yet!)
We like PINK around here! Even bring out my handy tool kit quite often, honestly, bet that I use this little thing weekly.
So there you have it. A look into my life might find you a good bit of pink...hey, what can I say, I'm a girl! See ya next time!
]]>They had a quiet ceremony with their closest family and friends in the church Robert grew up in. Then and outdoor reception followed at their family river house. Their was dancing, laughter and many well wishers to help them enjoy their day. Here is look at their new beginning!
A few last minute chats...
Garters made by the grooms grandmother.
Harper needed some last minute snuggles from grandmomma!
The groom and his best man
Kara, you are beautiful!!!
Harper knows how to party! He was very animated dancing to the music.
This little guy tripped me out watching them as they cut the cake!
Wishing you both many, many years of happiness together!
Thank you both so much for letting me be a part of your day. Leaving a wedding and seeing two people so happy is what I love so much about this job...Thank you!
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This image was my next to number 1 shot. Not only because I love the church steeple against the beautiful sunset but this is a Christmas gift to my aunt. This is her church and one night I was on my way home from a shoot near there and the sun was absolutely gorgeous as it was setting. At that moment it hit me, 'give her a silhouette picture of her church with God's artwork as the backdrop'. I love the end result...I hope she does just as much! Not only that, at Christmas time each year, from the time I was just a little child, my mom, sisters and I would always go to their church bazaar. It was simple with just everyday folk but it was a tradition that gave me many warm memories. Or maybe it was simply the love they showed that gave me that warm and fuzzy feeling...either way, it was one that I will always cherish!
Main street at Christmas time is a favorite of mine. In fact, I posted a picture last year of main street from the other end!
Have always admired this church!
Another shot of "The Clock"
This little boy, well, I love him, nuff said! Those little hands...
But after trying to decide which to post, ultimately I chose this next one. Not sure why but it just spoke to me!
Merry Christmas folks!
]]>Let me just say, this couple made my day so much fun. They were happy and up for anything I suggested (even sitting in the wet grass, still sorry about that!). To say the least, they were just an all around happy bunch of folks! Courtney, thanks to you and your family again for letting me spend the morning with you all!
Christmas Season 2012
Hello pretty girl
These two were awesome!
Courtney, you look beautiful!
And yes, I know it is almost March but this next picture is just too cute not to include!
Thanks again, Lewis Family. Next time don't wait so long to get family pictures made again! ;)
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This next image was a tough one for me not to use. I love the old wooden shed, the cotton field and of course that warm sun peeking around the corner! Truly, if I'm being honest, this picture was a tie to the first image...the one I chose.
And these last few were also in the running...
That's it folks...there you have it!
]]>Meet Charli, John Mark & Baby Moore
Will they add Guns or Glitter???
Will "it" play with tractors or dress up as a princess?
Cutest baby bump around!
Oh, what will it be...Boy or girl???
Love the emotion in this next picture!
Charli & her Sister
It was a happy day of waiting...
Love this yummy light!
The time has arrived!
Oh, look what they will be welcoming in March!
Big sister Calli sporting her new necklace! ;)
Best of luck, Charli & John Mark...So happy you let me capture this time for you in pictures!!! Know you can't wait to meet baby Lincoln Brooks!!!
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I think Adam was trying to play Patrick Swayze in this next shot! ;)
She will soon be taking his last name!
Love the fun and care free feeling in this next shot!
Holla!
Thanks again, Adam and Staci! I enjoyed your shoot and look forward to your upcoming wedding!
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This image came to me one afternoon shortly after I got home from work. And after a few shots, the is what I came up with...The Cross with His light and the 23rd Psalm.
However, over the last couple of weeks, I have played around with my camera trying out other techniques and subjects with different forms of light. Here are some of the others that were in the running.
My big girl with her own little bit of light!
r
Okay, so this next image was taken last Christmas but I have always loved it and thought of it as soon as I found out what our Focus was for this weeks challenge.
O
Sometimes, as a photographer we tend to think of all these elaborate places that we'd like to shoot. Then, there are times like this when we find a jackpot right in our backyard. This next image is a local church and on this night, it was perfect. After celebrating my birthday dinner with just my immediate family, we walked around downtown Monroe and I played around with my camera, shooting out of my comfort zone...night photography! It was wonderful!
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With each wedding that I get to be a part of, I realize just how much I love photographing these moments. It's an excitement that is truly once in a lifetime. Most brides, if not all, have probably dreamed of this day for a long, long time. Even rehearsing this day, while they played make-believe as a child. So, to witness these two and their families as they mesh into one big family, is pretty awesome to say the least! Here is a recap of Dan and Sarah's special day! Enjoy!
Home prepared for the wedding...
In the picture above, you'll notice a swing on the far left side. I couldn't help but wonder how many times Sarah must have played on that over the years.
The day is here!!!!
Anxiously preparing to meet her groom! Love that Sarah chose to wear one of Dan's shirts instead of a robe as she got dressed!
This next shot was a request of her Momma's...Sarah's wedding gown side by side to her Christening gown.
Beautiful shoes!
A mother's last minute touches!
Sister's getting ready...
Handsome men!
He is too cute for words!
The handsome groom!
I love this next image. The mother of the groom needed her own father's love at this moment.
Here comes the bride!
Sarah you are radiant in this next picture!
Momma and her boy!
This next image makes you just feel good!
Now time to celebrate!
Candy bar!
Love this memory board!
One last goodbye!
Congrats Sarah & Dan...Wishing many years of happiness as you both spread your own wings together!
Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your wedding!
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After months of hashing out the details, me and several of my fellow photog friends have gone live with a project that pushes us outside of our comfort zone as photographers. Each of us are assigned the challenge with a new "focus" on our Click Of The Wild blog. Go check out the details and see how each of us interpret this weeks current "focus" word!
Here is the "morning" shot I chose because this is a daily ritual that happens at our home. As we are scurrying around our kitchen trying to grab breakfast before the day begins, this little fellow watches through the window of the back door anxiously awaiting his food. I'm also posting a couple others that I shot and contemplated using but eventually decided on Fluffly because this happens every. single. day.
Scattered morning school books on the teacher's executive desk. aka the dining room table! lol
Lighting is terrible in this shot but this is how I survive mornings around here! lol
And here is my girl getting started early on her school! Again, bad lighting cause it was still dark outside.
Here is a link to the Click of the Wild blog...Go see more about us here!
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Pretty Momma, pretty baby!
Be still my heart!!!!
Love the freshness of her newborn skin in the next shot!
Perfection!
Daddy steeling kisses from his big girl! 
Look at those little baby moves captured with Sadie's tiny hands...
These next few are very similar but I posted several because I love big sister's body language. You can feel her excitement.
Awe!!!To me, one word sums up this next image..."Gentle"!
Now Daddy showing his pride for the newest addition to his family.
Thanks Again, Linden and Matt for letting me capture these for you. Truly, there is no greater compliment then having another photographer choose your work!
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Mackenzie, you are beautiful inside and out!
Such a pretty couple!
Holla! Matt, you're mighty handsome yourself!
Mackenzie and Matt, thank you so much for letting me capture these for you!
I love this picture, he looks like he's thinking. 
I think he has some proud siblings!
Oh, I love this next one!
And this next picture just makes me laugh partly because of their expressions but also because I know what it took to get this shot! India looks as if she may be a little sad she's not the baby anymore! ;) Four kids 3 and under, Jennifer, my hats off to you, you have your hands full with these cute kiddos but I think you're doing a great job!
Thanks so much for letting me take these for you!]]>
Well, this is one of my sister and her husband's cows. When I did their family's Christmas pictures last December, I snapped this picture while out on the farm. At the time, It was a favorite of mine and Sheila's. So, fast forward to May...Billy celebrated his birthday and as a gift to him, Sheila chose to have this made into a large canvas. But when Mica over at Mona Boutique (My other sister) saw this print, she had the awesome idea of talking it a step further and creating this beautiful old barn wood and rustic tin frame. I love, love, love seeing this finished product and this picture did not disappoint! Needless to say, this piece is near and dear to my heart...My photography, Sheila's cow and Mica's frame art! This is just one of Mona Boutiques pieces but stayed tuned, Mona Boutique may have the perfect accent piece for your next MTH Photography portrait! Plans are in the works, folks...
And now this moo cow is hanging in Sheila's back hallway.
empty the dustpan, poison the moth,
hang out the washing and butter the bread,
sew on a button and make up a bed.
Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?
She’s up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.
Oh, I’ve grown shiftless as Little Boy Blue
(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).
Dishes are waiting and bills are past due
(pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo).
The shopping’s not done and there’s nothing for stew
and out in the yard there’s a hullabaloo
but I’m playing Kanga and this is my Roo.
Look! Aren’t her eyes the most wonderful hue?
(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).
The cleaning and scrubbing will wait till tomorrow,
for children grow up, as I’ve learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep.
I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep.
With every newborn I get the pleasure of photographing, the miracle of a new life never ceases to amaze me. A common phrase people often use is 'There's nothing like a new baby' and oh, how true that is! The freshness of a newborn gives hope to a seemingly cold and harsh world. All their innocence consumed in just a few pounds gives a sense of responsibility that as a mother, makes you want to protect that new baby cub with every ounce of your being! It was obvious, Megan realizes the gift she's been given with her new little one...Meet baby Emery! Here are some of my favorites from her session.
Momma and her sweet little bundle of pink!
I work with the best people...This little antique bed was is baby Emery's grandmother's! When Megan told her she was having her newborn pictures made, she offered to let her use it. Baby Emery's newborn wrinkles are perfect lying atop this miniature bed! :)
Peaceful dreams sweet one!
Thanks so much Megan for trusting me to capture this time for you!
This next image is a favorite of mine because when Jodi pulled out these boots and hat for me to incorporate in the this shot, she told me that these are the very boots that Alan (his daddy) wore when we invaded Iraq. If you'll notice, Baby Joseph is also sitting in his daddy's hat.
This next picture is so sweet to me. As I was photographing his little piggies, I captured Jodi giving her baby gentle kisses on his forehead. So yeah, I think he's loved just a little. ;) Look at the size of his feet in comparison with his daddy's dog tags. 
Thanks again Alan and Jodi for letting me spend a Saturday afternoon with you and capture these sweet images!
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Anyway, meet Baby Braxton celebrating his first six months!
Peek-a-boo!
I've decided that piggies are a necessity in every shoot! :)
Oh! His eyes!
Thanks so much Carey for letting me captures these for you!
I think he was laughing at us here...
He must have been dreaming peaceful dreams!
First up, one of my favorites! He's ready to go set down right in the middle of all that hay with his little cowboy hat and boots his Momma had made for him!
Ahhh, newborn yawn!
Sweet dream baby boy...
Perfect little hands!
Thanks so much Paulette for letting me capture his pictures for you!
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Well, here is her little baby who is now 6 months old. This was one wanted little boy! So needless to say, he isn't lacking for love, he gets lots of smooches!!!
Meet Cooper! He was so sweet the afternoon when we got together for pictures, he was just chill all afternoon!
This first one might be my favorite from the day...
I love babies when they play with their feet...So innocent!
I love his little hat his Momma brought along! He owns it well!
Look at those eyes, so sweet!
Thanks again Stacy, for letting me capture your little one at his half year birthday!
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Before the ceremony.
I loved her shoes!
Watching the clouds...
Wow, Kristen you are beautiful!
Good luck kiss from daddy.
And the groom looking all handsome!
Love how genuine this next picture feels.
Ahhh, the ring!
In this next picture, Kristen carried her Uncle David's guitar pick in her bouquet and on her right hand she wore her grandmother's ring as something old.
The guest have arrived...
Here comes the bride...
Walking down the isle...
Look at the rain on Russell's shoulder...They were troopers!
Now time to celebrate!
There's always a fun time to be had with these sisters!
The wedding supper, burger bar!
And this picture, well, she just makes you feels good!
These two were fighting over who caught the bouquet! ;)
And the couple who ended up with the bridal bouquet and garter toss.
These three sisters just gained another!
Congratulations again Russell & Kristen...Hope you have many happy years together!
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And then in this next picture is my personal favorite, Momma's Angels painted in this distressed blue!
These vintage bird houses are the perfect accent to any space. All are different, no two are alike...Some are adorned with crystal door knobs others with chippy hinges and iron birds!
Here are some "Large" bird houses ready for a new home...
Love how welcoming this display is atop another creation shes made, the distressed blue table!
Ahhh, I want them all! 
It's the details, I tell ya! 
Large, Medium, Small and Extra Small
Outdoor living room, I think yes!
Love this embossing of this tin.
You can find out more information about Mona Boutique (Making Old New Again) by clicking here or calling Mica at 704-363-2297.
I never knew I could love so much,
until the day I felt your touch.
I softly kissed your tiny cheek,
and from under your lashes I saw you peek.
Your beautiful eyes so small and blue,
my sweet little baby just brand new.
I cannot wait to watch you grow,
from your little head to your tiny toes.
My daughter my love, my little joy,
my little angel, my baby doll toy.
I promise to love you with all my heart,
I'm here for you from the very start.
I'll comfort you when you cry,
I'll answer true when you ask me, Why?
While you grow be sweet and kind,
and show all others how much you shine.
by: Martha L. Sheridan
Here's another sweet little bundle that I've had the pleasure of working with recently. This little one was wide awake for most of her session but we did manage to get some sleepy shots as well. She seemed most peaceful in the safe haven of her Momma's arms. Love these of this little one!
Classic picture...newborn baby feet! I love how fresh her skin is!
She looks as if it's hard to open her little eyes!
So when Emily called me about scheduling a Baxley's newborn session, I was beyond thrilled. While it takes time and patience, newborn photography has become a favorite interest of mine. It is so rewarding to see the end result after a newborn session...The freshness of their skin, their pouty milk stained lips, and the added advantage of their newborn scent as I place them for pictures, makes it all the more enjoyable. ;) This time passes so swiftly and to be able to capture all their sweetness, makes it so special.
Teensy, weensy baby hands...Looking at this picture, can't you just feel the grasp of a newborn hand around your index finger??? Nothing like a newborn!
These next three are very similar. I couldn't choose a favorite so I'm posting all of them. Hello bright eyes!
Black & White or color...which is your favorite?
Dainty baby lace for a dainty baby girl.
Love how profound her lips are in this next shot. 
Cotton candy toes...
Thanks again Emily, know you're enjoying every minute with your new baby girl!
Meet the Asberry Family!
Hello blue eyes, you are beautiful!
Mackenzie
Justin
Mom & Dad
I love this picture of Shana and her youngest!
Mmmm, toes...Yum, Yum!
And I'll leave you with one of my favorites from the day! Miss Lakyn, the sweetest little flower around!
Thanks again, Mike & Shana for letting me capture your family in pictures!
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Hoppin' down the bunny trail,
Hippity hoppity,
Happy Easter day."
Recently I teamed up with Linda's Childrens Shoppe and we were able to offer a live bunny for pictures with the littles. Here are some of my favorites from our day together!
In Jesus time, the dogwood grew
To a stately size and a lovely hue.
‘Twas strong & firm it’s branches interwoven
For the cross of Christ its timbers were chosen.
Seeing the distress at this use of their wood
Christ made a promise which still holds good:
“Never again shall the dogwood grow
Large enough to be used so
Slender & twisted, it shall be
With blossoms like the cross for all to see.
As blood stains the petals marked in brown
The blossom’s center wears a thorny crown.
All who see it will remember me
Crucified on a cross from the dogwood tree.
Cherished and protected this tree shall be
A reminder to all of my agony.”
- Unknown
Look at all that dark hair...Love!
Let me just say, kudos to these new parents. The day we scheduled her session, it was a cold, foggy and misty January day outside. Jessica and Evan kept their sweet little bundle wrapped tightly against their warm bodies only breaking for a brief moment to capture a few by herself. Miss Hadley snoozed and never flinched as we placed her for pictures. Now, that's a good baby folks!
I think Evan's a happy daddy.......
Let me tell you something extra special about this next picture. Jessica works at a local egg farm and Evan is a dairy farmer, he actually has his own dairy cows so you know we had to incorporate a little of their lively hood in with her shoot. Now, to even make a it a little more special, the egg crate that baby Hadley is sleeping in, well, it was actually her great-grandmother's old egg crate. That's right Evan's grandmother actually used this little basket many, many years ago. And the milk bottle, Jessica & Evan used it as part of their wedding when they married. You know I love a story to match the moment, so when Jessica came in bringing her own special treasures to complete baby Hadley's shoot, I fell in love!
This next one may be my favorite "Mommy and Me" picture! Jessica, you and your baby are just beautiful!
Oh, how I love fresh baby piggies. All her little creases along her foot reminds us of just how new she is.
This sweet little cow hat was made by the ever talented Monica over at Lil' Twigs. If you have a specific design in mind, give her a call, she can create just about anything your heart desires.
I bet she'll be milking cows before you know it! ;)
She might have him wrapped already, whatcha think???
Hello beautiful baby, this beautiful blanket came from Linda's.
I absolutely love this sweet picture of a mother's love!
This next picture, I couldn't decide between color and b&w so I'm posting both. Makes me wonder which one you like best?
Sweet dreams, little one. 
Thanks so much, Jessica and Evan, for trusting me to capture this time for you!
]]>Someone showed me a graph recently, the graph was very generic. Just an 8x11 piece of paper with a line starting at the bottom of the left hand corner. The line showed many ups & downs and dips along the way. But on the other side of that piece of paper, the right side, the line had reached the top of the page. He couldn't draw any further, it had reached the top. And that my friend, was the proof that "rising" will happen. Pen to paper, routine to Monday morning, rising is happening right now, even if I can't feel it yet. There will be dips along the way but we will get to a place of happiness. It will come again but until then, we will be thankful for this Monday morning.
And I'll leave you with a song that has become one of my favorites recently. I think it can pertain to so many of us for many different reasons. Maybe it sounds selfish but I know when I forgive, truly forgive, it will set me free. That's comforting.
Happy Monday morning to all of you!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1Lu5udXEZI
With this being said, I know that good always rises. And I know, we will rise! During this time, I may not always say and do everything that everyone agrees with but I will turn my head to the Creator and He will give me strength to rise and to be a better and stronger person on the other side of all this turmoil. In the mean time, I ask that you keep our family in your prayers and check back in the weeks and months to come because I have lots to share with you. The aspect of blogging just may not be as consistent as what it has been in the past.
Thank you,
Molly
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Milk anyone???
But on a more serious note, embracing the traditions of each season is what makes my world go round, it's something that I truly enjoy! And being able to capture the moment of little people witnessing the magic through their childlike eyes, makes it all the more enjoyable. So with this in mind, I've been pondering another mini's event. Originally, I had envisioned an awesome vintage Valentine display but then I also had some really special ideas for a Spring setup as well. This got me to thinking, what you thought...Is there is any interest for a Valentine or Spring Mini's?
If you're interested, leave me a comment, shoot me an email or private message me on Facebook telling me which would be your favorite. Enough interest means I'll get to bring out my inner child once again!
And because every post is better with a picture, here is a few from my Vintage Lemonade Stand Mini's from this past summer.
How about that for all you summer lovers, maybe this will tease you a little more! ;)
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This little fella, Krew, has such beautiful chocolate brown eyes and like most toddlers his age, he was full of curiosity! We let his curiosity lead us all across the farm on this November afternoon. Although, his Momma is expecting baby #2, she didn't let that stop her from following in his path. Bless her heart, she was a trooper and went along with whatever I suggested and wherever Krew led us! Here are some of what we captured during their shoot. 
This next one is a my personal favorite!
Look at all the color in this next image! I love fall, such a beautiful time of year...and Krew, well, he was the perfect addition to this gorgeous backdrop!
"Are you sure I can play up here, mom?" 
This next one is another one of my favorites. No words necessary.
Thanks so much, Emily, for asking me to photograph these for you! Before long, Krew will have a wagon hitched up to the back of his tricycle, pulling baby #2! ;)
None the less, here is one of my families I had the privilege of photographing this year. Meet Kevin, Marcia, Erika, Lance & Chloe! It was quite cool the afternoon we took their pictures but, kept at it and ended up with some beautiful pictures. Needless to say, this family made my job quite easy with their fun dispositions, sense of humor and good looks. But enough of my ramblings, here are the pictures to show for it!
Lance, you just fit the part in this next image!
What a beautiful girl you are, Chloe!
Love this next candid moment of Marcia & Kevin!
And the "after" shot...a little more composed in this image.
Erika, you are gorgeous! 
Thanks so much, Marcia & Kevin, for letting me capture your family this year!
For children grow up, as I’ve learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep.
I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep."
Recently, I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with baby Liam. At just 11 days new, he was perfect with his half squinted newborn eyes to his beautiful fresh blond, baby hair atop his head. A true American baby boy...Blond haired, blue eyed! Take a look at some of my favorites from his newborn shoot.
See what I mean about blond hair? It's beautiful!
He looks as if he's working so hard to open his newborn eyes. Bless!
Love the comparison of his tiny feet against his Momma & Daddy's wedding rings! 
A tad on the vintage side but it works for me! 
This next image is a favorite of mine, however, I couldn't choose between b&w or color so I'm posting both!
I think I love how dramatic the lighting is in the color image...Wondering which is your favorite?
Thanks again Bishop & James for letting me document this age for you!
Now I get to relive that excitement with my own kids. 'tis the season to celebrate all that we hold so near and dear to our hearts. Christmas...It's here, the "frosting-on-the-cake"! A time that families come together, strangers seem jollier, and streets are lined with lights in every color. Babies run through the house in footed snowman jammies and big sisters shake the packages under the tree. As I type this post, the house is a wreck, my bar stools are used as a make shift clothes line, there's a sink full of dishes and to be honest, right now Cambria's driving her bus the tree needles that need to be vacuumed off the floor! But this morning, I don't care, we're laying around in our pj's and waiting an extra hour or so before we get started with day. Have no fear, the hussle and bussle will come soon, but for now, on this Saturday morning before Christmas, we're enjoying the sounds of home!
Silo at the Billy Graham Library
Wintery reindeer
The true meaning with the Holy Family
Little maters digging in Christmas traditions
Christmas cousins
Main street in lights
Great aunts welcoming the littles
Four!
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Stay tuned for a full blog post soon!
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Mica and her boys build hand crafted bird houses with barn wood from old barns in and around the area. Each piece is intricately designed with beveled rusty tin and vintage hardware from days gone by. No two pieces are alike, so as you decorate your home, provide a home for the peeps of nature or give this as gift, know that you will have a one-of-kind piece unlike any other. Maybe your choice will be "The Key to my Heart", "Deer to Me", "Welcome Home" or "Handle Me Gently". "Deer to Me" is a popular favorite this season with rustic reindeer hardware embellishing both front and back on this birdhouse. Here are a few pictures of what she has available. Should you want to purchase one, you can find them on display at Ace Door Servicing or Daphne's Simply Southern Bakery in Mint Hill, NC. Or contact Mica @ 704-363-2297.
These next two pictures are some of her creations in the store front window at Ace Door Servicing in Mint Hill, NC.
And I'll leave you with one of the "people behind the scene"... Meet Mica and her boys, Britt, Kohl, Collin & Banks! These are the folks who makes these gorgeous creations.
Merry Christmas everyone!
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When Heather contacted me about doing her little man's 1 year shoot, I was beyond excited when she told me she wanted a "smash the cake" session. But not only a smash the cake, little Ellis is having a sock monkey birthday party and she wanted wanted pictures to match for his invitations as well as to document his first year!
The day of our session, Ellis was the perfect subject. He has the most beautiful baby blue eyes, creamy cotton skin and an auburn carrot top little head. Before we got to his favorite part, Heather wanted some pictures of him in his birthday outfit while they were still clean. ha! Anyway, here is Ellis who's turning ONE! Happy early birthday sweet boy, glad you enjoyed your cake!
I love this next shot as he leaned over to hug the horsy his Grandma use to play on when she was a little girl herself! Such a sweet candid moment of both past and present. 
His momma made him this sock monkey...She's got skills y'all!
See what I mean about baby blues?
He wasn't too fond of his birthday hat but it sure made for a sweet picture!
Yummy, he's got cake!
Piggies and birthday cake = a great combination! 
Yeah, I think he liked it! ;)
And this last image was baby Ellis all cleaned up! 
Happy first birthday, buddy! Hope you enjoy your day! (And thanks so much Heather, for asking me to do these for you!)
]]>This is Trisha, Tom, Banner, Tate and Enya. This family couldn't have been more pleasant to be around...their kids were constantly giggling. But as the saying goes, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Trisha and Tom are pretty fun to be around as well. In fact, a time or two I had to take a break to keep my camera from shaking over something Tom had said! So, even with all the laughter, we ended up with some beautiful pictures...
Not much cuter than this next picture of Enya!
These next two are some handsome boys! 
I'll leave you with a perfectly imperfect picture. Priceless.
Thanks so much Trisha for getting me to take your families pictures!
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Love these little toppings handmade by Lil' Twigs! Lil' Twigs is owned by a good friend of mine who is very talented and creates beautiful baby hats, blankets and many other special gifts for the little ones. She is local right here in Monroe, NC and has a quick turn around time for delivery. In fact, I called her about 3-4 days before a shoot and asked if she had anything for a baby boy. Next thing I know, she had turned out four beautiful little props for me to choose from. I couldn't turn any of them down! Should you want one of these for your littles, here's a link to her Etsy site. http://www.etsy.com/shop/Liltwigs
Basking in the beautiful sunlight snuggled up in this gorgeous baby blue blanket that was made especially for him by his great-grandmother!
This next image, well, the nape of newborn baby's neck is the the sweetest. place. ever.!
Peaceful dreams, Buddy!
Such a beautiful little one you are!
Thanks so much Nikki, for letting me capture his "newness"!
]]>My favorite of the day!
You are a beautiful young girl!
Thanks Renee' for asking me to do these for you!
When we met up recently to capture this time for them in pictures, you could tell how excited they both are just based on our conversation. In fact, Michael even brought along a photo album to show me the pictures of her baby nursery. They both took on the task of painting a mural on her walls to welcome her into this big world. From what I saw, much time, effort and love went into preparing her own little space!
Now onto their pictures!
I see lots of "pink" in your future!
This may be one of my favorite images of Megan.
First family photo ;)
Michael & Megan, thanks for asking me to document this time for you both!
]]>You may remember Morgan and Brandon from their engagement session back in July. Well, recently they celebrated their special day and you couldn't have asked for more beautiful weather on their wedding day! As guest began to arrive, the music was playing and when I made my way into the "dressing room", you could feel the excitement as Morgan prepared for her soon-to-be husband. She was so calm but the feeling of love was ever so present as anticipation grew with each passing minute. By her side, were her closest friends who wanted to make this day all that it could be for this beautiful bride as she took on a new last name.
The ceremony was followed by elegantly adorned tables with shades of taupe, coral petaled center pieces and candles floating in water filled glass vases. Table skirts of white welcomed an evening of celebration for this couple from family, friends and well-wishers. It was an afternoon that I'm sure will be held in the most sacred part of their memory banks for many years to come. Morgan and Brandon, thank you for letting me capture this special time for you and allowing me to be part of your special day! May you have a beautiful life together!
Get ready for a lot of pictures. I had a hard time narrowing down which ones to post.
Such beautiful detail.
Getting ready...
Best friends helping with her dress
Adding the veil...
Then I had to check in on the groom.
Looking mighty handsome
Morgan, you are beautiful!
Just before the ceremony
Daddy preparing to give his daughter away...
Brandon looking all calm before the ceremony...
Ready for the walk down the isle...
Here comes the bride...
Shabby bird houses made by my sister, Mica. If you're interested, you can find her here.
Love this next one! I think it's canvas worthy!
Wow, such a pretty couple!
Brandon with his buddys
The smiles continued until the last minute!
And I'll leave you with another favorite of mine! Happy wedding day, Morgan & Brandon!
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Recently, we got together and were able to use my kids as the "models" so-to-speak, to preview the Fall clothing line that is now available. Here are some of what she has to offer. Better yet, treat yourself to an afternoon of visiting the shoppes in downtown Matthews and see what other goodies you can find hanging on her racks! Linda's is located at 163-A South Trade St., Matthews, North Carolina.
Now the best part!!! MTH Photography will be giving away a $50.00 gift certificate for Linda's Childrens Shoppe to one random winner. The rules are as follows: "Like" our (MTH Photography by Molly Davis) facebook page then get everyone you know to "like" our pages. Even if they don't have children, they can pass along the gift certificate to you. To double your chances of winning, you can also "Like" Linda's Childrens Shoppe page. After the contest ends, we will combine all of you that have liked our Facebook pages and draw a winner for the gift certificate! Contest begins now and will end at 11:59pm on 10/25/12. Winner will be announced on 10/26/12. Good luck winning!!! PS, rumor has it that Linda's just received in a big shipment of new trends! Happy shopping!
She has a whole wall of beautiful hair bows to choose from.
This crocheted line is a timeless favorite! (Even this beautiful baby cradle is available)
Next up, this dress has a baby doll with a matching dress available. 
Look at this next pretty hair flower. Love!
Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers anybody???
Suzanne and her husband, Brian, are high school sweethearts. Actually, maybe I should say elementary school sweethearts. Honestly, I told Suzanne recently that I can remember them being a couple when we still wore teddy bears and balloons on our clothing, if that sheds some light on how long ago it was. Ha! So yeah, they've been together for pretty much their whole lives. Now 25 years later (give or take), they have a beautiful family of five! Take a look at some of my favorite pictures from their session.
This next one is pretty close to being my favorite family shot!
I do love this next picture! :)
Sisters! :)
And this next picture, well, this is just so Suzanne!
The sun light is so beautiful in this next picture!
Thanks again, for letting take your families pictures!
]]>While planning their shoot, I asked Kelly if she had a location she would like to have their pictures made at. I offered a couple of places to go, but then in talking with her, she told me they are avid football fans. Her husband actually played football for the Bulldogs when in college at Wingate University. In fact, that is where she and Brandon met. They both were attending college there when they started dating, fell in love and were eventually married. Now Kelly and Brandon are celebrating Noah, their little boy's, 1st birthday! So deciding to go back to the campus, where it all started to document his first year, just felt right! Here are some of my favorites from our afternoon together.
Love lil' Noah's chocolate eyes!
This sweet little onesie was made by his aunt. I think he sports "1" real well!!!
This little guy came up and we had to include him! ;)
Brandon came straight from work so I had already started with Noah and his mom. When he arrived, this is the expression we got when Noah saw his dad, I think he might like him just a little! ;)
Kelly brought along Brandon's helmet that he wore while playing for the Bulldogs. Love this next shot of Noah, it puts his size into perspective seeing him next to his dad's helmet! 
This next picture is too cute, he looks like he's saying "hmmm, I think I have them wrapped".
I think football might be in his future! 
Kelly told me this was one of her favorite pictures because it was so true to them. It was toward the end of out session and Noah was not "feeling" the camera anymore. He was done but Kelly and Brandon made this best of it and laughed off. I love this candid moment too because as a mom, some times the out takes are what we treasure the most...It captures what is real! 
And last but not least is my favorite from the night...
Thanks Kelly and Brandon, I loved working with you all!
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Morgan and Brandon, thanks for letting me be a part of your day! Enjoy your honeymoon!
]]>Recently, we got together and were able to use my kids as the "models" so-to-speak, to preview the Fall clothing line that is now available. Here are some of what she has to offer. Better yet, treat yourself to an afternoon of visiting the shoppes in downtown Matthews and see what other goodies you can find hanging on her racks! Linda's is located at 163-A South Trade St., Matthews, North Carolina.
Now the best part!!! MTH Photography will be giving away a $50.00 gift certificate for Linda's Childrens Shoppe to one random winner. The rules are as follows: "Like" our (MTH Photography by Molly Davis) facebook page then get everyone you know to "like" our pages. Even if they don't have children, they can pass along the gift certificate to you. To double your chances of winning, you can also "Like" Linda's Childrens Shoppe page. After the contest ends, we will combine all of you that have liked our Facebook pages and draw a winner for the gift certificate! Contest begins now and will end at 11:59pm on 10/25/12. Winner will be announced on 10/26/12. Good luck winning!!! PS, rumor has it that Linda's just received in a big shipment of new trends! Happy shopping!
She has a whole wall of beautiful hair bows to choose from.
This crocheted line is a timeless favorite! (Even this beautiful baby cradle is available)
Next up, this dress has a baby doll with a matching dress available.
Look at this next pretty hair flower. Love!
Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers anybody???
Oh, this first image... No words necessary.
Lil' Faith sporting her pride for "Old Glory"!
Daddy helping her down the steps. :)
Oh my gracious, could she be any cuter?
This was a completely candid moment but one of my favorites. We had walked up on the porch of one of the buildings to get some pictures when I glanced over and noticed Alan straightening his badge in his refection on the window. To me, even though there are no words in this image, it speaks volumes about his pride for our country. I love it!
This is another favorite of mine.
This next shot is too cute. Alan had picked this rose for Faith and when she went to "smell it", this was the expression we got!
Something about this next picture just gets to me.
In talking with this family, they were telling me about where all this lighter had been with him. Right by his side, this lighter has been to more that 14 countries, with him during Operation Iraq Freedom from 2003-2006 and then again in his pocket while in training at Fort Bragg when the towers came down on September 11th, 2001.
And now a close up.
I'll leave you with this picture... It was funny, I looked over at one of the picnic tables just before we left and saw this little creature sitting atop sporting his pride too! I'm not sure which one of them dressed him like this, but I thought it was too cute not to share.
Thanks again Alan and Jodi for asking me to capture this time with your family!
]]>Here are a few of my favorite pictures of her. Some from a few years ago, others were taken recently.
I think she's ready for class, she came walking in the kitchen Saturday morning and said "Mom, take a picture and post it on facebook so everybody will know I'm gonna be there Monday".
Happy birthday, Arlie! Hope this day (and year) is all that you want it to be!
Today, my baby girl is celebrating her 1st birthday. I wonder in amazement at how fast this past year has gone by? It feels as if I was just preparing my suit case to take with me to the hospital last week! Really, how is this be possible?!
But, what a year it has been! This 7lb. 9oz baby has brought us more love, joy and happiness than we could ever imagine! Here are some of my favorite pictures and snapshots throughout Cambria's first year. I.love.her!
Fresh little feet!
This was one of my favorite gowns she had! Thank you again, Haley!
Big sister is proud!
Love this next picture...Sweet cousins and tired Mama's! :)
First trip to the pumpkin patch!
Could she have any sweeter expression on her face? 
I think she wanted Arlie's blue Ring Pop!
Christmas Baby
Favorite dress ever!
Love these two girls!
What a sweet pouty lips!
Weeeeeeeee!
Sweet moments!
Banana's on her chubby cheeks!
This next pictures I took of her last week is sooo Cambria! She's always so happy!!!
And I'll leave you with my two favorite pictures of Cambria's first year. Her 6th month portrait (MTH Photography by Molly Davis)
This next picture is another favorite of mine, courtesy of Mona Alicia Photography
Happy Birthday Baby Girl, we're so thankful to call you our own. :) I love you and wish you much, much happiness!!!
]]>While I was photographing this family, they made it super easy to get their pictures. Both Jax and baby Genevieve just went with whatever we suggested, making my job super easy! However, Ginny & Kyle played played a big part in helping out as well. In the end, we ended up with some pretty sweet pictures, no matter how we achieved the expressions. Here are some of my favorites from our afternoon together.
Meet Kyle, Ginny, Jax & Genevieve
Look at that lil' tongue...Too cute!!!
These next two are very similar but because I couldn't choose a favorite, I posted both!
Silly boy!
And last but not least, are a couple of favorites I posted on Facebook last week!
Now on to the best part! This was one of my favorites from their session!
Love this next shot!
I wanted to get this next shot in age order, love the "stair stepped" effect!
Such a pretty girl!
And "cousin" came along for the afternoon so we included her in a few pictures!
Tammy, you look beautiful!
And Trent, your not too bad yourself! ;)
This next picture felt "vintage" to me so I went with it!
Next up is one that I posted last night on Facebook...I think it's canvas worthy! ;)
Look out boys, you may like the subjects when I post this full session. ;)
And well, this one...he's just a cutie!
See y'all soon!
]]>Small dimpled fingers that take things apart,
Noses that wrinkle at spinach and such,
Eyes filled with wonder for they see so much.
Blessed be questions with no easy answers,
Bubble-bath swimmers and mud-puddle dancers,
Climbers and diggers and builders and bakers,
Dreamers and gigglers and up-at-dawn wakers.
Hearts that are gentle, wills that are strong,
Minds learning left from right and right from wrong
Blessed be hugs that wrap around your knees,
Sweet angel voices that sigh "Once more, Please?"
Blessed be, "Read me a story" and then,
Blessed be each whispered, "Bless me...Amen."
Blessed be sleepy eyes, each little yawn...
Blessed be childhood before it is gone.
If we had actually taken these pictures when they were originally scheduled, then I would have been able to post them forever ago. ;) Hahaha, all kidding aside, honestly, I think we rescheduled this session no less than 6 times due to the extreme amount of rain showers we've had this summer. And of course, the afternoon when we were finally able to get together, we couldn't escape the rain completely, a brief shower gathered overhead just as we were finishing up. However, we ended up with some pretty sweet expressions from these little people before the rain rolled in. lol
On a side note, let me just say, my hats off to this Momma. She has her hands full with these three little ones, ages two and under. For those of you who don't know this family, Siler and Sweden are twin brothers who will be three in December. Their little sister, India just turned one in may. So needless to say, they kept me on my toes during our night together and I was reminded just how fast 2 year olds really are! ;)
Now onto the best part, pictures!
Siler at the River of rocks!
Hello happy boy!
Love the light in this next shot!
The curious expressions on their faces in this next picture is just too cute!
Off on adventure with our little trio of three, wonder what's waiting ahead for us to see?
Wonder what he was thinking here?
At the end of the night, their parents had promised them some candy. Love the candid shot of them all enjoying their "sweets"!
Thanks again for letting spend the evening with you!
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Nevertheless, the next three months are icing-on-the-cake in the grand scheme of life! (Hang on folks, here I go again. That dreamer within tends to show up with a little extra punch, around this time of year!)
With each new holiday season, we make deposits into our own memory banks with traditions that stick with us and our children for years to come, even when our kids have families of their own. Everything about this time of year makes me happy. Hayrides in the cool crisp air, fireside marshmallow roast, hot apple cider, pumpkin carving which is soon followed by large dining tables surrounded with family enjoying the traditions that bring back the warmest of memories.
Before long, store fronts on Main Street are decorated in twinkling lights while the sounds of Silent Night echo through the doorways as we listen to the chorus about that holy night.
A simple pleasure about this upcoming season is a daily visit to the mailbox. Opening envelopes and finding the true meaning of Christmas with greetings that celebrate our Savior's birth. Some with a bright Star in the East and others with the Babe lying in a manger reminding us of His unending love.
Amongst these Christmas cards are pictures of families dressed in shades of red and green to match the season, sending us the merriest of wishes. Over the years, I've kept my photo cards and each season I pull them out so that I can see how our friends and family have grown from the years before. The crafty side of me wants to create a wreath constructed with photo cards that I've collected from the past. Who knows, maybe this year I'll get around to it and if I get one of your Christmas cards, maybe yours will contribute to the cause! ;) I know what my favorite traditions are of the season, but with this post, it got me to thinking what "tradition" looks like to you? Join in and share your favorite past times. Who knows, I may even have something up my sleeve for a "show us your life" blog post.
In the mean time, I'm currently scheduling for Christmas sessions. If you want to be among the first and save your "golden hour" spot when the light of the sun is just perfect for capturing your families pictures, send me an email.
And because photos make my heart sing (especially Christmas), here are a few from years past.
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Stacy & Russ, I'm so happy for the both of you and can't wait to meet your little one. You both are such welcoming people to be around and I know you'll pass that trait down to your own children. You're going to make great parents! (That goes for you too, Russ) ;)
One of the nice things about custom photography is that each client is able to incorporate treasures that are meaningful to them, during their session. The night of our session, Stacy had brought along several special little items to help document this time for all of them. I love this aspect about her, she knows the meaning of making something memorable and I think she did just that, as you will see her own personal touch with her maternity pictures.
On the font porch there were all these rocking chairs. But Stacy told me that when she and Russ started dating, there wasn't enough rocking chairs for her so Russ found this one and engraved a special message just for her on the back. Before you know it, Baby Cooper will be climbing on this chair, wearing these little froggy rain boots!
This next shot is taken next to a bench that Russ's grandmother owned. The blanket on the left is one that the same grandmother made for him many years ago when he was just a wee one. On the right, is the blanket that Cooper's great aunt stitched for him. Stacy also brought along these wooden letters spelling his name across the blankets that he'll soon be wrapped up in! 
I imagine this will soon be one of his favorite places!
And my personal favorite is this next image!!! Love, love, love!
“A mother’s joy begins when new life is stirring inside…
when a tiny heartbeat is heard for the very first time,
and a playful kick reminds her that she is never alone.”
– Author Unknown
Thanks again Stacy and Russ for letting me capture this time for you!
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(left to right - Salem, Journey, Schadd & Brantley)
Here's the notorious Front Porch! (The "Front Porch" just feels like it deserves capital letters for it's name! ha!)
Salam plays the guitar and let me tell you, this boy can play!
From what I understand, these strings are his first love! ha!
(Little different look but the vintage feel just seems to suit in this next picture.)
One of the locations Mitzi wanted their pictures taken at...The Hill beneath the trees! This hill has entertained many of children in years past when covered in a blanket of white while a speeding sled, slid down it's bank. And then again on hot summer afternoons when red faced cousins had rolling body races to the finish line at the bottom. 
(Brantley, the oldest of the children)
Journey with her pretty pink shoes on the front porch steps!
Schadd
Mitzi told me that she has pictures of her own parents holding their babies on this porch when she was little. Now, her growing boys are pictured in the same location.
"Brothers"
And this next picture was taken just for a little bit of nostalgia. You see, it never seems to fail, it there were ever kids at this house, they ended up on "the roof above the basement". The night of the session, the past met present when Schadd had to exit by jumping off to below!
Salem
Journey
Brantley (I'm sure there's a story about the old tractor in this picture, but it was before our time. Maybe some others can fill us in. What I do know is, this location is right beside the Scuppernong vines that held the seen of aunts and uncles enjoying nature's treats during a Sunday afternoon visit.)
The fig bush in this next picture is the same from which a switch was picked and used across Mitzi's legs (Journey's mom) when she had misbehaved as a little girl. (I didn't know that part until after the picture was taken. ha!) 
This last picture just felt fitting... memories from the past with a generation from the present.
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So their session had been scheduled for a while and when the day rolled around for me to capture there relationship in pictures, so did what we thought, was going to be a perfect overcast day. When I arrived at Brandon's family farm, the sun was glowing just perfectly through the evenly white clouds. As I waited for Morgan and Brandon to finish getting ready, I watched a single little grey cloud gather overhead. Nervously wondering if this afternoon was going to be as the many we've had recently with a late day thunder shower? Although the evening sky darkened just above us, the sun continued shining all around, so we decided to persevere with our session. But just as soon as I snapped the first shot, rain drops began to fall. First just a few sprinkles, then someone must have opened the flood gates because it poured! In one single spot above us, it poured as the sun shown down through the rain! So due to the weather, we scheduled a second shoot and I'm so glad we did. We ended up with some beautiful pictures of the soon-to-be bride and groom!
Fortunately, we were able to reschedule and in the end we had the most perfect, no humidity evening ever! Not only was the weather perfect but let me just say, their family farm looks as if it should be featured in Country Magazine. They had the most prefect rolling hills with these magnificent old oak trees that were towering over in every corner. The landscape was beautifully manicured with hues of purple from the butterfly bushes, sunny yellows and vibrant red country barns trimmed in crisp whites that whispered perfection. We had horses, goats and even Banjo (Morgan and Brandon's first baby, who you'll meet later in this post) to come along with us for the afternoon. To say the least, it was magnificent...this place offered total peace and tranquility! I could go on and on but I'll get to the best part...pictures! Hang on everybody, there's a lot, I had a hard time narrowing down my favorites!!!
And this is when we felt the first few rain drops! Love this candid shot of them both looking up watching as it began to rain.
Uh, I think this next one deserves a special place in your house. Love it!
See what I mean about the massive trees?!
This next one is another favorite!
Well hello, furry friend!
And this is Banjo, their first puppy together!
Morgan you are beautiful!
This is one of my favorites!
Love this next one of you two!
Morgan and Brandon, thanks again for letting me capture this time with you!
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Look at those lips!
Love this shot of him lost in his own little world...
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On a hot summer afternoon a few of years back, I was piddling in my house and the image of a rusty, abandoned tricycle that was in a wooded area behind our house came to mind. But only this time, the image of the abandoned tricycle, included my girl. So without even changing her out of her holey jeans or running a brush through her tangled hair, I grabbed my camera and out we went to bring life to the vintage image I had so recently given thought to. And to this day, I treasure the simplistic feel of each of these images. After publishing the first image on my previous blog, I was asked if I would donate the first image to a silent auction fundraiser. In the process, a "name" was needed for the piece. The name that came to mind was again, very simple..."Childhood Days". Now you know the meaning behind the title.
"Childhood Days"
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to set up our stand and sell lemonade,
The cupcakes and strawberries, look so pretty and nice,
a homemade sign to tell the price.
A drink for a quarter, a dime or even a nickel, it doesn't matter at all,
In return, you'll see little smiling faces for the change in the cup is getting so tall!
With lots of sugar that makes it oh, so sweet,
along with the bake goods we have to eat.
A timeless tradition to quench your thirst,
from the heat of the day when we feel our worst,
So with our last customer gone, we’ll put all our things away And go out to enjoy some other childhood play!
I must confess, this event has allowed my inner child to surface through classic summer traditions, born by a late night basement concoction of a crackled yellow and white wooden stand. I admit, a lot of hard work went along with the preparations but in the end there are some pretty adorable kiddos that took part in this day and that makes me happy! So enough with my rambling, now onto the pictures.
First up, is Hannah!
Love the belly laughter in this shot!
Then she had a case of the silly's! ha!
Katina, Anika, Samona & Chyna came dressed in pretty, sunny yellows, bright pinks and a favorite of mine ...bare feet!
I don't think she could get any cuter!
Sisters!
A favorite from the day!
And our smallest "little" ...Baby Zander in his overalls! (Watch the blog, there will be more of this little guy soon.)
Then meet Ally ...Ahhh, those eyes!
Adorable bare feet!
So precious!!!
More sweets for the sweets!
Thanks to all of you who participated!
Sleepy eyed mornings out on the deck...
Big cousins taken care of the "mini's"...
Finding big chairs out by the seaside...
and bike riding were part of our days...
Ponytails were the "hairdoo" of choice...
With the best babysitters around!
Cute little bathing suits had to be sported...
And laughing babies...well, not much to say other than she just makes us feel good...
Eating 3' long candy snakes...
and pirate adventure dolphin tours...
then to end the day Gigglng on the floor with cousins...
and the older ones lost in a good read...
Funny looking sea creatures, a Ribbon Fish maybe???
then the tiny ones spotting Uncle Billy in the crowd...
sandy tootsies...
And of course, if I'm around, there will be more pictures at sunset!
Until next year, that wraps up our family sea side memories for 2012!
The day that our session was scheduled, our "model" was Ashley, Florence's daughter. Ashley is absolutely a gorgeous girl. But as the saying goes, you can see, "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree". Florence truly is a beautiful person both inside and out.
Check out her site to see many more designs!
Thanks again Florence for trusting me with not only your jewelry but for allowing me to take your pictures. You and Ashley were a pleasure to work with!
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And for those of you who aren't familiar with the Mini's session, here's the details.
Love this one!
Pretty piggies!
This may be my favorite from the day!
At the end of the night, the kids came outside and I had to get this one of she and Miss Cambria!
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Ginny Austin wins the FREE session giveaway!!!! Her name was entered the most times on our Facebook page!
And now on to the winner of the $75.00 MTH Photography gift certificate....
I decided to skip using the ever popular online drawing system (Random.org) and have some good old fashioned fun. Needless to say, there was a little excitement around here this morning!
Pre drawing...I think Cambria is loving this idea!
A name is drawn, oh, who could it be....
Cambria's a little curious too....
And the winner is....
Lisa Purser!!!!!
Congrats Lisa Purser, you are the winner of the $75.00 MTH Photography gift certificate. Please email me and we will go over the details. Thanks to everyone who participated. This was fun, hmmm...wonder what the next one will be????
]]>A gift of love - of flesh and blood. A tiny bit of heaven.
See the wonder of it all, and marvel at the sight,
Share the happiness we know, celebrate the life.
Make memories of the times to come, of hours and days and years.
Mark down each step, each task, each word - the laughter and the tears.
For a celebration of life is such, that one must never be
In too big a hurry to stop and smell... to feel... to touch... to see.
Yes, gather 'round and celebrate the life that has been given,
A gift of love - of hope eternal. Our tiny bit of heaven.
~Author Unknown
Meet Little "K" in all her newborn sweetness! This little one is much older than this now. If fact, this was one of my very first post on my old blog, however, some of her photographs are still favorites of mine.
I so love, love, love the simplicity in the next image!
Safe in Daddy's hands!
See the flakes of her newborn skin? Don't you just love the freshness of brand new baby hands???
Kissable lil' ears!
This was an un-posed shot. I was adjusting my camera settings and while I was taking test shots, I got this image of "Momma" soothing her baby. There couldn't have been a more perfect expression on her face.
Look, sweet little Lanugo still on her back! So many favorites from this session!
In this next photo, this shot was a special request from her Momma & Daddy. You see, the blanket that she's snuggled up on, was hand made by her Great Grandmother who Baby "K" never got to meet. In fact, the blanket was made for her Daddy 30 years prior, when he was a just newborn. His name was embroidered in blue on the blanket, underneath where her hand is lying. So sweet!
Thanks again for letting me spend the morning with you and capture these images!
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Here's a peek of a shoot I did a while back that was on my previous blog. I'll have a full post on the little cutie soon!
As I mentioned last week, I'll be posting snippets of the Vintage Lemonade Stand, Summer Mini's session. This antiqued lemonade sign will be part of the event. Today is my first look into what I think turned out perfectly!!! In the last few weeks, I have rummaged through my attic and pulled out a few props that can be for the older kids and as well as for our wee ones too! To you Momma's out there that have babies you want to have pictured with their brothers and sisters, have no worries, I've already tested the waters with my own little bebe' and her big sister with some of my "attic finds".
So put your little boys in their overalls and the missy's in the favorite outfit (or bribe them if they're like my oldest...lol! She's got the "7-going-on-14-thing" down pat when it comes to picking out her clothes) and head on over to get some lemonade on the 28th or 29th!!! Can't wait to capture them enjoying some summer fun!!! It's gonna be a good day!
And details for anyone interested!
Kind of like the kitchen is the heart of the home, well, Independence Day is the heart of summer. It’s a time for picnics, watermelon and small town parades. Little’s dressed in red, white & blue that are adorned with silver stars and stripes of white. An excuse to have an ‘Old Glory’ painted across your cheek as sign of pride for this great country that we live in! But to me, it’s time for family, the ‘heart’ of my life! Watching the kids splash in the water and the older teenagers gather with their friends making preparations for the grand finale at the end of the day…Fireworks! Booming so loudly in the night sky that you feel the vibration in your chest! And in between the thunder of each display, you hear the welcomed sound from a nearby citizen playing the Star Spangled Banner. To this day, for me, it’s a prideful sound! It’s when the stranger in the crowd around you becomes more than just a stranger; suddenly, the phrase “fellow American” makes more sense to you than it has in the past. The 4th of July is a day that we celebrate our Freedom. Freedom of a country that allows us to enjoy all the traditions that we look forward to year after year! Above are some of my favorite traditions and as we are approaching the festivities of this holiday, it got me to thinking what your traditions may be? Will you be with family or savoring a day of solitude?
Whatever your day consist of, my hope is that we all enjoy the simplicities of summer fun!
These photos are a few of the fireworks display I took last year.
Look! It's Pink! ...lol
Happy 4th Y'all!
To put a more positive spin on the brutal heat from the dog days of Summer, MTH Photography is offering a give away! The give away can be used for an engagement, bridal, maternity, newborn, childhood or family session. For your chance at winning the session give away, follow these easy steps: You must “Like” MTH Photography’s facebook page, then enter your name on our wall. Have everybody you know help you win by them “Like” MTH Photography’s facebook page. They must “Like” our page and then enter your name on our wall. (Only one name entry per person that post your name. Other words, the same person can’t just continuously enter your name over and over again.) The person who has their name entered the most time’s by 12:00 noon on Friday, July 14th 2012, wins a FREE session with print release CD!!! In addition to the FREE session give away, to make it even more fun, MTH will also be giving away a $75.00 gift certificate to one lucky person who has “liked” our page. So everyone who “likes” or has “liked” our page, their name will be put into the pot and one name will be drawn out after the contest is over. (if you have already liked our page, your name will automatically be entered.) (Free session must be used by Sept. 30th, 2012 and Gift Certificate expires December 31st, 2012) I told you this would be good! Got to do something to get us through these hot days!
And because every post is better with a picture, I'll leave you with this picture of a session I did a few weeks ago. Stay tuned for the full post soon!
Also, there will be a full post on the following later, but for now here's a quick peek at what's to come. Summertime Mini's!!! This one is right up my alley, so I'm super excited about our progress with the theme so far! Keep on the look out for some sneak peeks!
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Love her pouty expression in this shot.
And this next image, well, this is just Cambria. Always has that pleasant little face. :)
Close up of the baby carriage.
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Love the warmth of the sunlight in this shot!
Pretty piggies!
See what I mean about personality? :)
Thanks again Taylor for letting capture your "baby's" pictures!
]]>I logged into my previous blog and went to my Dashboard only to find that I couldn't edit or post anything. So after few more steps, contacting my blog host and then my IT guy, I find out that my blog has been hacked and deleted! Yep, you read that right, DE-LET-ED! All my post, my photos, everything has completely gone away...As in, I-can't-retrieve-it, gone away .
So after taking a breather and nearly pulling my hair out, I have come to terms with the fact that I am starting out all over again. Over the next few weeks or months, I will continue to post, or should I say, re-post all of my previous customer's images and images that have special meaning to me.
In the mean time, here's a starter picture that I captured recently on our trip to the coast. I'll have a complete blog post about our trip in the following days.
