---You did it ! Tell us about your over all experience---

"I had a great time!  Samantha was very professional and did everything she could to make sure I was comfortable.  I had such an overwhelming feeling of confidence during my session, which is not something I expected given the nature of the photography! "

---Were you nervous at all leading up to your session?---

"Not really.  I was more excited than anything else.  My biggest fear was not knowing what to do in front of the camera, but [she] gave really good and simple direction.  It was fun watching myself come out of my comfort zone and really get into it as the session went on."

---What inspired you to book a Boudoir session?---

"My biggest inspiration was myself.  I have been on this crazy, awesome, exciting health and fitness journey over the past year.  With eighty pounds and 7 dress sizes down, I have been on this whirlwind of self discovery and I wanted these photos to show my new found sense of confidence and beauty."  

---What was your favorite part of the experience?---

"My favorite part was getting all dolled up.  I felt like a movie star sitting in the high director-style chair while an artist created the perfect hair and makeup for the shoot.  I also really enjoyed getting to pick the music.  There's always that one song that you just come alive to, and I listened to that during my more sexy shots."

---How did you feel seeing your first images?---

"Absolutely astounded.  I was in awe of the lighting, color, and angles that seemed so effortless by Samantha, but showed up so beautifully on film.  I finally saw myself through everyone else's eyes and thought, "Wow, Melissa...you really did it.  You are beautiful and radiate confidence.  Where have you been all my life?""

---What advice would you give to others who may be on the fence about their own session?---

"Just.  Do.  It.  Don't wait until you lose those few extra pounds, or until you get your hair done next, or until you get your man's thoughts on it.  Just do this for you.  Once you see your photos, you will realize that you don't need to change anything.  You are beautiful and perfect just the way you are.  Only change for you, if you want to. Not for anyone else.  This session was better than any hour of therapy I've ever had."

               Elopements have my heart. As much as I love the elegant princess affair , those quiet backyard moments speak to my soul. Alyssa and Anne planned their intimate wedding and were not certain if a photographer was important , Anne's mom contacted me a week before the event because she knew she needed at least a few professional images from the day and I am so thankful she did!

              Alyssa and Anne wedded on a Saturday not so long ago. Though with nervousness towards the big day, they ascended with all the grace in the world. They created a love story I am eager to  share with all of you.

              I can tell that their  love will not stop here, with it they will create anything their hearts desire; They will find a place of home with room for celebration and rest. They will grow to tell of  happily ever after they have made as a family.

                As I look through these photos and see them smile, I smile too. I hope to give you also the chance to  witness the happiness they give their daughter, and praise these wonderful mothers on their perfect day.

                I love that they chose to incorporate sunflowers into their day because these two beautiful souls are as the sunflower, they will follow the warmth of the sun, and their love will blossom bigger and brighter by every passing summer.

Many of you know words are not my strong suite. I force myself to write in order to better serve you. I have always shared my stories through photos, but have recently learned that is not always enough. I really wanted to share this gorgeous event with all of you ( hello internet world) so I force myself to the blog. Each new blog post I write, I think the words flow a little easier, and hopefully that translates to a better read . 

So here I sit on a beautiful Summer Sunday to share a little shimmer. I KNOW, my opinion is biased but I truly believe you should always hire a professional for your event. Those moments that are the most intense are also often the most fleeting. By the end of this beautiful shower I had guests thinking this beautiful mommy-to-be and I had known each other for years ( but we had only just met in person that day!). 

Your photographer should just CLICK with you. The day is about YOU not them; they simply help facilitate the memories. They spend a good chunk of time in your personal space though so make sure that they are the best! This shower was really cool and I had to share with the internet world.

Many new moms are waiting to learn the gender of their baby , some new moms just hate the blue/pink "gender norms" .Whatever the reason gender neutral baby showers are making a very strong stand. This beautiful mom-to-be , opted to go with a nest theme. Handmade centerpieces and cute signs completed the feel. I don't know about everyone else but I just love little birdies , little bird cages, little nests; They just fill my heart with JOY!  

These fun moments you cannot make up ! Imagine how sad it would be if they did not have these memories to hold onto ? This beautiful shower took place at Trumpets at The Gate . If you are not familiar with it you should be! The staff was very sweet and accommodating and the venue was beautiful. Plus I may or may not have daydreamed about stuffing that GORGEOUS chair into my car ( Hello studio prop). The are the perfect venue for smaller events , weddings, showers dinner parties. Right on the water and some very beautiful sunsets.   

Congratulations Mommy and Daddy to-be. Your sweet little birdie will be arriving so soon. Thank you for letting us be a part of your big day <3