Merry Christmas

Yesterday afternoon, we kicked off our family Christmas celebration. We gathered at my brother and sister-in-law's house, and headed off to the Christmas Eve service at church, all bundled up and excited with the anticipation of a possible white Christmas. Over the years, the Christmas Eve service has become one of my favorite traditions and the thing I look forward to the most. For me, this is a time of reflection and worship; a time to remember my great Savior who humbled himself by being born as a baby in order to bring salvation to a sinful world. His life and sacrifice gives us a true reason to celebrate.

After the service, we headed over to my parent's house. Mom and Dad decided to try a new thing this year and make breakfast for dinner. We all loved it so much I think it will become a long-standing tradition. Over eggs, bacon, and hash-brown potatoes, we enjoyed conversation, laughter, and each other's company, just happy to all be together. Today was spent watching movies, working on a puzzle, eating, and enjoying our first White Christmas in a long time; a special gift from the Creator to His children.

I hope that you've had a wonderful and blessed holiday. Merry Christmas!

Northwest Arkansas Portrait Photographer: Emily

Meet Emily! She's a beautiful senior from Bentionville. We met down on Dickson for her senior portrait session. Emily is so fun and LOVES to smile and laugh which made for a fun day and some great pictures. Congratulations Emily!

Happy Wednesday!

Northwest Arkansas Portrait Photographer: Schulte Family

Meet the Schulte family! Candice and I have been friends for awhile now, and when she asked me to shoot some family pictures for their Christmas card I was thrilled! This was their first photo as a family of 3, so fun!!! We were fortunate to have beautiful weather and we got some great shots!

Northwest Arkansas Wedding Photographer: Dan & Julie

It didn’t take them long to know. He was a fire fighter from Portland. She, a beautiful, smiling girl from Arkansas with a love for nature. They met one night, both assigned to a forest fire. Julie, was in a different place on this night. Usually working on topographical surveys in the office, this time she was on the ground, in the middle of the action. It was on this night that she met Dan. THIS night, was followed by many more together. Over many hours spent working and late night chats, literally, sparks flew.

Dan and Julie, thank you so much for allowing me to get to know you and be a part of your beautiful day. You both are such amazing people and I am in awe of what you do. Thanks for teaching me about all that goes into fighting forest fires. I have already wowed people with my newfound knowledge :)! I hope you had a wonderful time on your honeymoon!

Holiday Cards

Can you believe it? Only 39 days left until Christmas! This year has flown by and there's no better time than now to start thinking about your holiday cards! I have had several requests for cards this season and thought I would put up a preview of what I will be offering. What a great way to spread holiday cheer to your family and friends! If you are still thinking about booking family pictures, it's not too late!

 

Postcard designs:

I LOVE this card, sooo fun!

A really great tri-fold card design to showcase your family pictures:

I'm Thankful For... YOU!

So, as you may know, for several years I’ve been easing into starting a full-time business doing photography. I originally graduated with a nursing degree and have been working part-time as a nurse for 6 years, but I have known for most of that time that I’ve wanted to pursue a career in photography. As it is with starting any business, there have been a few difficult times. As fun as it is, it’s not always glamorous and there have been many times that I’ve  asked myself “Now why are you doing this again?”.

Last night, I was called unexpectedly into a meeting dealing with all things medical and legal (yawn), and I began to remember why it is that I LOVE being a photographer and what I do. I truly have the best job and, though there are many reasons that I feel this way perhaps the greatest reason is YOU.  Thank YOU for allowing me to capture a few of the most special moments of your life. You have invited me to be a part of your engagement and wedding day, your new baby, your senior year, your growing family. Thank you for trusting me and giving me a chance. Thank you for welcoming me and allowing me to grow with you. I am so grateful for the time I’ve spent with each of you and the friendships that have grown out of the last few years. I look forward to so many more! So, THANKS!

And, because every post is better with a picture, here are a couple of faves from an afternoon with Dustin and Katie…

dan & julie: wedding details

this past weekend i shot dan and julie's wedding at the beckham creek cave in jasper, ar. these two searched hard to find a location that would reflect their love of nature and the outdoors and they found the perfect spot! after weeks of rain, the day could not have been more beautiful. check out some of their wedding details below. julie worked hard to make many of the decorations herself! more about their story and some portraits to come later this week!

the ahhh-maz-ing dress...

i looove this bracelet!

refreshments for guests down at the outdoor ceremony. the hot toddies were a hit!

a sweet moment between the bride and groom

and... the cave entrance. awesome isn't it?!?!

first dance, such a sweet moment...

hope you enjoy! more to come later this week!

Senior Shoot : Katie

Hi everyone!

Meet one of my most favorite people ever!  This is my sister Katie. She is a senior this year in Rogers.  We went out last week to grab a few portraits and had a blast! The fall colors were awesome and she came ready to have a good time. She was totally game for all of my silly ideas which, of course, made me happy! Katie, congrats on making it to your senior year. You're beautiful inside and out and I love you!

One of my faves!!!