The Errato Family at Raleigh Little Theatre Rose Garden

A.J. and I have a special relationship with Maureen and Nick as we were able to guide them through pre-marital counseling a few years ago when A.J. officiated their wedding. We thought they were perfect for each other then and we think they are perfect for each other now. While their lives are immensely complicated, between acting and modeling with no less than six children to love; they are never without huge smiles on their faces and words of encouragement on their lips.

I was blown away when I piled them into their first photo and it went from happy chaos to eight instant smiles. Then it happened again and again. These cute kiddos are well prepped for a future in the biz if they want it. 

Today also happened to be Maureen's birthday! I can't imagine a better birthday plan than a photoshoot, a meal together and seeing 'Fantastic Beasts.' (Therefore we chose to do exactly the same thing...it was amazing in case you were wondering) ;)

I hope you enjoy a few of these favorites from the day! 

Alana Rolesville High School class of 2017

I usually know a little something about my models before I walk into a session because they find me through Facebook and I can view their pages. Sometimes they were recommended by a friend and the friend tells me a little something, but today felt a little like a blind date. 

Walking into a venue I'd never shot before, I of course arrived early to make a plan and was blown away by the beautiful colors the Raleigh Little Theatre Rose Garden had to offer this time of year. I wrongly assumed the flowers would be gone but they were gorgeous and the trees were breathtaking. It made the perfect backdrop for this beauty. 

Alana is an athlete at Rolesville High, playing softball, basketball and volleyball with a focus in softball and loves the community and friendships that have formed from it. She's planning a few trips with all her friends before she begins college in the fall. Alana tried to tell me she'd never modeled before, but she was such a natural, I hardly believer her ;)

Her whole family actually came with her for the session which made my day because I got to sneak a few photos of all of them and got to see them interact together. I love a family that's comfortable experiencing all the big life events as well as the little ones side by side. You can tell they have a great relationship. I hope you enjoy viewing a few of these favorites from the day!

Thankful

“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses”

— Abraham Lincoln

In this hectic photography season I must admit a few things:

My yoga practice has become like a 24/7 chair pose...except it's not the muscle building kind. I can literally feel every muscle in my body getting tighter and tighter the longer I sit in front of this computer screen. 

Meal prep is non-existent. I've had to succumb to store bought granola, guacamole, protein bars, pre-sliced veggies, pre-cooked chicken...the list goes on. And let's not talk about the fact that the dust levels in the house are equivalent to a home abandoned for 17 years. 

I've had so much chocolate I actually have acne again lol. And my 5-6 days per week work out schedule has dropped to 1. Maybe. 

Because A.J. is also hustling hard right now, date nights seem to revolve around when we both happen to be passing through the kitchen at the same time and sleeping. Do date night dreams count? 

The few hours I do manage to find myself with my family I'm either scheduling them around other photo sessions or thinking about the sessions I need to edit as soon as I can get my hands on my laptop. I'm not exactly present. 

Poor Letty Girl keeps putting her head in my lap wanting some attention and all I can offer is an occasional hand mindlessly waving around in her general direction while my face is still glued to the screen. 

While a little overwhelmed, I am still grateful. 

For the physical ability TO work and for a skill in the arts that actually pays the bills so I can do it full time. I am thankful for my clients/families/couples who have believed in me through the years while I found my way. For my husband, full of grace for late nights and an equivocal work effort. For my family who understands that the 12 weeks between September 15 and December 15 are basically wife/daughter/sister-less so that I CAN be present the other 40ish weeks of the year. 

I am thankful that with each new couple or family I spend time with I hear new stories and gain new friendships. I feel like the more people we allow into our lives the more complicated it gets. But it's so worth it.

 It has been a whirlwind of busy but I am grateful to be alive and actually pursuing a dream with the full support of my husband and family; looking forward to what this next year holds. 

Fall Sessions

“Memories are the key not to the past, but to the future”

— Corrie Ten Boom

I don’t typically blog my smaller sessions because I can get the images delivered to my families faster without it, but when you have several in the same weekend it seems reasonable to me to just have a Mini-Party and blog them together! That said, here are some of my favorites:

From Saturday afternoon’s session at Historic Yate’s Mill: The Brown Family

From Sunday morning’s session at Lake Crabtree: The Polin/Hescock Family

And from Sunday afternoon’s session at Pullen Park: The Hutchinsom Family

The Ritch Family in Downtown Raleigh

“Life is a great big canvas; throw all the paint you can at it”

— Danny Kaye

I don’t think I’ve ever had the pleasure of shooting a more creative and adventurous bunch than these three. From casual sessions in parks and back yards to a Pin Up-themed garage session to a colorful event at the NC State Fair, Courtney always keeps me on my toes with her next big idea and I’m always super excited to participate in the fun. 

This year’s theme was winter in the city. They got bundled up in these adorable peacoats and scarves and we played around with some Beatles-esque album covers and sipped hot chocolate while trying to keep our fingers from going numb. Starting at sunrise provided the perfect cold weather to make the peacoats not only comfortable, but essential for warmth. They are ready to welcome the winter season and I’m excited to show some of these fun images! 

Jordan Class of 2017 - William G. Enloe High School

“Authenticity is more than speaking; authenticity is also about doing. Every decision we make says something about who we are”

— Simon Sinek

Oh my goodness, I’ve known this beauty since she was in middle school. She is one of the most driven and intelligent seniors I’ve had the pleasure to photograph. 

Jordan's been accepted to Belmont and already has her CNA and has been working to help other nurses fulfill their duties. She said she loves being able to make sure folks get served faster because there are more people helping. She's experienced a mission trip to the Dominican serving children, volunteers in her youth group, and on her 18th birthday received a butterfly tattoo symbolizing how God has changed her life. 

This tells you so much about who she is as a person. She truly cares for people and wants to spend the rest of her life doing so. Such an inspiring teen. 

I had so much fun hanging out with you Jordan! Here's a few of my favorites from our adventures in downtown Raleigh and the WRAL Azalea Gardens. :)

The Arthur Family at Durant Nature Park

“I sustain myself with the love of family”

— Maya Angelou

I feel like I've known the Arthur's and especially Leslie for a decade. They are one of the kindest families you could ever know. Leslie spends her time at Lifepointe Church serving the community in a myriad of ways. She is never without a kind word on her lips and genuinely cares about everyone she serves. 

David tends to deal more in numbers and things I could never understand but it is always for the purpose of serving people and helping in amazing ways. 

Hannah who has always had a shy love of music (even though she is an amazing singer) has also recently discovered a love of cross country. Leslie and David fully support her of course and we're all amazed at what she's accomplished in her first year on the team. 

Their dog Tucker is just the sweetest! We were able to take portraits with him a couple years ago and he is as sweet as ever! I hope you guys enjoy a few of my favorites from the day, I had so much fun!

Carter Turns Two! Seagroves Farm Park

I don't typically write blogs for mini sessions because I can deliver the images faster without it, but I just couldn't resist, they're just so stinkin cute! Look at little Carter's shoes! 

Carter is a lover of turtles, the kind you can feed at the pond as well as Squirt from Finding Nemo...he might have been the most adorable Squirt on the planet for halloween...just sayin. He is also a lover of people and all animals. He didn't know a single stranger at the park, said hello to every person tried to hug every pup. I might have also melted when I went to give him a high five as we were leaving and he hugged me and gave me a big sloppy kiss on the cheek! The. Best. <3

Hope you guys enjoy a few of these favorites! 

Sloane Turns Two! Pullen Park

“While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about.”

— Angela Schwindt

This morning started off a little crazy as I was traveling to Pullen Park for little Sloane's two year birthday photo session. Apparently the City of Oaks Marathon thought glowy sunrise light was good for race atmosphere. At every turn I was blocked until a nice police officer told me it was not possible to get to Pullen from downtown. Yikes! Fortunately A.J. came to the rescue and was able to reroute me and all was well. 

Before we had even taken our first photo though, we were welcomed by a lone goose who thought it would be fun to follow us around, this was a perfect birthday gift for Sloane who loves animals. She just talked to him and we decided he must be turning two today as well and wanted to participate in the festivities. 

I've had so much fun capturing memories for Kathryn and Thomas for the past six years, they have become part of our family and I'm excited for what the future has in store for them. Hope you enjoy a few of these favorites!  

You gotta love a little lipstick on the cheek <3

Ben's Bar Mitzvah at Beth Meyer & Sitti

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things”

— Henry Miller

As soon as I met Ben's parents, Mara and Jon, I knew I was going to get along well with Ben. Not only are they super relaxed and easy to work with, but you could tell they really enjoyed each other. When the whole family got together, it was effortless for them to laugh and really live in the moment of the day. That is so important in a family. 

Ben is on the ultimate frisbee team at his school and he used his love of sports to infuse his studies for his Torah portion. For his service project he served at Miracle League of the Triangle. By helping kids with disabilities play baseball, he said he now appreciates the fact that his body is whole and he's able to play his favorite sports. He's able to empathize with how others cannot.  

Ben is quite the life of the party. It seemed as if every moment during his party he was completely engulfed in a crowd of his friends. Not only that, his whole family came to celebrate, from California, Florida, Virginia and more, they all showered him in love. 

Sitti is, of course, an amazing venue. The courtyard is perfect and provided an intimate and stylish downtown feel for the celebration. Amy and her team were so easy to work with, I highly recommend them. And well, Damien is forever my favorite DJ. He can keep the party going all night and always seems to know exactly what the crowd needs. 

I hope you guys enjoy reliving a few of these favorite moments from the weekend. Congratulations again Ben! 

The Vendor Team

Photography: Cynthia Viola

Ceremony Venue: Beth Meyer

Party Venue: Sitti

Rabbi: Eric Solomon

DJ: Damien Maass

Balloons: Blooming Balloons

Photobooth: All Events DJs

The Pace Family at the NC Museum of Art

This morning's brisk session at the NC Museum of Art was so fun with this sweet family of adventurers. I love it when knowing one amazing family leads you to meeting another amazing family which leads you to another... This world is just so big, it's amazing how small it can feel. 

This bunch loves to be outdoors and often explores the grounds of NCMA (three times this weekend actually!) Little Ellie even loves rock climbing already and was all too willing to climb any tree or wall or big rock we came across. I love that they encourage that in her, she's going to be so strong when she gets older. 

I hope you guys enjoy a few of my favorites from the day! 

Jordan and Alex Engaged! Fisher Farm Park - Davidson, NC

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage”

— Lao Tzu

These two have loved each other for a very long time, though I think perhaps neither of them knew it until little Joslyn arrived brimming with laughter, whipping out crazy dance moves and belting silly songs at the top of her lungs all while donning an elegant princess dress. 

They were both doing fine on their own with and without each other, but when Joslyn wrapped her little finger around both their hearts, she tied them together in a way that can't be broken. I've never seen the three of them so happy and it gives me great joy that they'll be tying the knot next year. 

Jordan is one of the strongest and bravest women I've ever known. She has faced multiple challenges in the few years I've known her but she's made all the best decisions, conquered her fears and is setting an amazing example of what it means to be a woman to her little Joslyn. I'm so proud of you Jordan, and can't wait to see what this next adventure has in store for you. I know it'll make you even stronger. 

Curiosity and imagination at it's finest. We told her there was a butterfly inside the camera, and if she got really close she could see it...she could :)

Alaria and Drew - The Oaks at Salem Wedding, Apex, NC

“After all this time? ~ Always.”

— Dumbledore to Severus

Oh my goodness, I knew I loved these two before I even met them just by hearing the tiniest snippet of their story which can be summed up pretty well with in their adorable hashtag #agypsyandasoldierwedding 

They met in 5th grade, were friends all through high school, fell in love in college and the rest is history. Most of their bridal party were even friends from all the school years together. They chose to be married at my favorite wedding venue in the Raleigh area, The Oaks at Salem. A gorgeous white house surrounded by 11 acres of land, trees and a beautiful lake. Veni is an amazingly organized coordinator and I adore working with her. Their team is just the best! 

You are going to love these details:

First of all, Alaria's bouquet was wrapped in a piece of her mother's wedding dress, giving it a timeless feel. For the unity portion of the ceremony Alaria held a vase of water while Drew placed a single rose in it: the rose symbolizing love while the water symbolized everything needed to make the love grow. So beautiful. 

They also chose to have a Ring Warming Ceremony. As every guest entered the space they placed the rings in their hands and wished good tidings and blessings on their marriage. Alaria happens to be a lover of words and reading, so they brought a beautiful typewriter for guests to type out their congratulatory notes on, something they'll be able to read throughout their marriage as they need it. 

Damien of course rocked the party with his amazing DJ skills, and he and his team will have an incredible cinema story up soon, I'll be sure to add the link here as soon as it's ready. Beau blew everyone away with his incredible menu and it was a night to be remembered for all. 

You guys, I was truly overwhelmed with all the beauty. Of course you were gorgeous, but your spirits were beautiful and the love brought by your many friends and family just surrounded the whole day with something special. Thank you for letting me be a part of your day, I hope you enjoy reliving it with a few of my favorite images. 

Being huge Harry Potter fans, they had the groomsmen take the personality quiz on Pottermore and had them wear socks representing their house! So cute! (I *might* have also taken the quiz out of curiosity, discovering that I'd be a Gryffindor...in case you were wondering) ;)

Vendors:

Photography: Cynthia Viola

Venue/Coordinator: Veni at The Oaks at Salem

Videographer: Damien Maass

DJ: Damien Maass

Hair and Make-up: Kristi Martinson at WINK

Dress: Bridal Boutique of NC

Groom/Groomsmen attire: Egara by Men's Warehouse

Rings: designed and custom made by Samantha Laddin at Green Lake Jewelry, Seattle

Bride's Shoes: Ophelia by Vince Camuto

Groom's Shoes: Heritage by Joseph Abboud

Groommen's Socks: Harry Potter Hogwarts houses socks :)

Officiant: Darren Granniss 

Perfume: Armani Code for her

Cologne: John Varvatos Vintage

Catering: Beau Catering

Florist: Teacup Floral

Cake and pies: Laura at Confectionate Cakes

Truffles: Chocolate Smiles

Get away car: Dave's Classic Cars

Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas

First Dance: Work Song by Hozier

The Buscemi Family at Wallace Wade Stadium

“You’ll learn, as you get older, that rules are made to be broken. Be bold enough to live life on your terms, and never, ever apologize for it.”

— Mandy Hale

When Meme said Mike had access to Duke University's Stadium the "yes!" burst out of my mouth faster than I could type it back to her in an email. I've never had the opportunity to shoot in a stadium before, so this was an awesome first experience. As Mike pulled up to greet me in a golf cart, I knew an adventure was about to take place. What I didn't realize was that he had access to Duke Chapel and Duke Gardens as well, so of course we adventured in the golf cart to all three. 

Little James wasn't so sure about everything at first, but ended up having so much fun. What one year old wouldn't want to celebrate in style on Brooks Field?!? We may or may not have found ourselves in one or two places we weren't exactly supposed to be but I won't tell if you won't. ;)

They both said they are looking forward to his next season of being able to walk - which means the adventure is just beginning. Can't wait to see what you'll discover James! Hope you guys enjoy looking through a few of my favorites from the day!

The Fleming Family at Fred Fletcher Park

“When love is a habit, joy is a reflex.”

— Bob Goff

A.J. and I met Gorden at our gym a couple months ago and instantly knew we liked him. You know, some people you just like right away and you can't explain it. When he asked me to take family portraits for them, I couldn't wait to meet the rest of his family and they did not disappoint!

Kelly was quick to welcome me with a big hug right away and by the end of the shoot inviting us over for dinner. They both have such big hearts and you feel loved immediately in their presence. 

That is not unnoticed by their 4 amazing kiddos. Ware and Caroline Gray were both quick to help their younger siblings get into place and make sure they adjusted Hunt's hair and Bess' cute dress. They helped them when they wanted to climb the stairs... and the tree...and the wall...and the porch... you get the idea, love came effortlessly. 

Hunt and Bess are little fireballs of energy, never without a huge smile on their face, and always ready for the next adventure...very much my kind of (little) people. 

I had so much fun exploring Fletcher Park with you guys! I hope you enjoy looking back through some of my favorites from the day! 

The Guilfoyle Family at MacGregor Downs

“Nobody has ever measured, not even poets, how much the heart can hold”

— Zelda Fitzgerald

This day included so much perfection, I can hardly stand it! Kristi and Mike had access to the golf course at MacGregor Downs Country Club and asked about shooting there. I was, of course, ecstatic! Not only because I love shooting in new locations, but LOOK at it! Exquisite golf courses, beautiful landscaping, every spot we chose was perfect. 

The flowers they brought were a fantastic compliment to their beautiful dresses, the weather was amazing and and we were able to play in between holes as various golfers teed off around us. Mike said he has been playing golf for 27 years, it was actually one of the reasons they moved here, so this was an excellent setting for them. 

I actually feel like I've been friends with Kristi since we first started chatting about the shoot a few months ago, she is an amazing encourager and loves Keira and Mike so much. 

Keira was just so much fun right out of the car, we became fast friends and she even gave me a huge hug when we were finished. I melted. Can't wait to hang out with you guys again! I hope you enjoy looking back through these images! 

Haylee and Austin - The Mill Room Wedding, Wake Forest, NC

“Let me share this whole new world with you.”

— Aladdin

Haylee and Austin might be the youngest couple whose wedding I've had the honor of capturing, but that makes them no less in love. (In fact, A.J. and I were actually a little younger). When you know you've found the one, you just know.

Watching two high school sweethearts like Austin and Haylee commit to loving each other for the rest of their lives is such a beautiful thing. The way he made her laugh during their perfect first look at Joyner Park, the way she made him light up on the Mill Room dance floor even though he doesn't typically enjoy dancing, and the way both their families came together to celebrate their love and their story was wonderful.

Something fun about their big day was the subtle hints of Disney everywhere. Haylee is a huge fan of all things Disney so they both wore yellow shoes to match Mickey and Minnie's, they used red and yellow flowers, danced to Disney music, had a Disney cake and even a tiny Minnie Mouse. 

Congratulations you two! I hope you enjoy this week, these images, and this whole new season of life!  

Vendors:

Photography: Cynthia Viola

Venue: The Millroom, Wake Forest

Stylist: Stephanie Woodworth from Studio B 

Florist: Brandi's Botanicals, Youngsville

Wedding Coordinator: Shannon Gamble

DJ: DJ Mass Appeal 

Cake: Kristina at Love Cake 

Catering: Papa Jack's Catering 

Favors: Kristi's Tasty Treats

Heather and Adam - All Saints Chapel Wedding, Raleigh, NC

“Could never have dreamed that we’d find enough
On our very first date”

— Josh Walker

Ok, so do you want to hear the sweetest thing ever? Heather and Adam were sharing the story of how they fell in love with Adam's brother-in-law Josh and he joked that there was a song in there somewhere. After all, Adam had pursued her at her job for a long time, and their first date was at a cute little wooden playground where they ended up talking for hours through the night falling in love along the way. Then Josh actually wrote them a song about their first date and then sang it for their first dance. And I die from cuteness overload. 

All Saints Chapel, built in 1875, was just perfect for them. It has this classic and timeless feel to it due to its beauty and having Oakwood Cemetery out the front door adds an element of history that really suits their personalities. I love that not only was Heather "ok" with doing the first look in the graveyard but when I said I could make it not look like a graveyard with my angle she said she really wanted the graveyard in the photos! The coolest bride ever. 

Heather and Adam also share a mutual love of gaming. They even brought their gaming controllers to the engagement shoot which was so fun, and in his first words in his vows Adam talked about having a player number 2 for life - bringing a knowing laugher from everyone in the room and a huge smile to Heather's face. They are just a perfect match. 

I hope you guys enjoy reliving the day as much as I did! Here are a few favorites!

We all know how much I love first looks. They just make the day so seamless and allow so many emotions to be had in private with only your love. However, I am also quite partial to father-daughter first looks. Especially when they have as sweet a relationship as these two.. Oh my goodness, I was just a pile of mush after this moment. Brian was being his usual self, full of jokes and trying keep it cool, but I think it just made Heather realize she adored him that much more. Bring on the Kleenexes!

Photography: Cynthia Viola

Venue/On-site Coordinator: Diane at All Saints Chapel

Dress: David's Bridal

Groom's attire: Men's Warehouse

Rings: Ultimate Concepts by Brad Dingler

Flowers/Coordinator:Jane at The Wedding Woman

DJ: Todd Moody

Cake: Once in a Blue Moon Bakery

Caterer: Empire Eats Catering

Rehearsal Dinner: Gravy 

Hair: Lauren Meyers Stevens

Make Up: Melinda Ewbank

Invitations: Made by groom :)

Honeymoon: Washington D.C.

Juan Carlos of The Modern Portrait Studio

“Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known”

— Carl Sagan

I must say, the ultimate complement is when another photographer asks you to take their portraits.

I met Juan Carlos a couple months ago and we became instant friends. He is just one of the greatest guys you'll ever meet. He's overwhelmingly generous in his affirmations of other people, he has a bright outlook on life and an infectious smile. He was born to adventure and dream and take his family on wild expeditions like deep sea diving and swimming with dolphins. When he said he wanted to include paddle boarding as part of the session I knew it would be a perfect fit for his personality. 

He started The Modern Portrait Studio when film was still the primary means of professional photography, and honestly, I cannot even imagine. Not only was he great at film but he quickly adjusted when digital became primary and he had to also learn the computer and photoshop etc. He's quick at adapting to anything new and will forever be great in his field. So glad we were able to connect. Here's a few of my favorites from the day. 

Caity and Al - Caffe Luna Wedding - Raleigh, NC

“All of me loves all of you”

— John Legend

These two.

Somewhere between Long Island and Wilson, NC these two romanced each other over a good meal and are happily here today, dedicating the rest of their lives to each other and little Gabe. 

They just seem to have this way with each other where they don't need to say much, Caity just giggles (which Al loves) and they give each other a look and you know they mean it. 

First looks are always my favorite part of any wedding, but you guys, Caity decided to include Gabe in the first look as well and he was absolutely precious! As Al stood there in the Marriott hallway anticipating his beautiful bride, little Gabe had to go ahead and get a sneak peek and we were, of course, SO ok with that. He just loves his mommy.

Before the big day Caity asked Gabe why she and Al were getting married and he not only said it's because they love each other (which he repeated during the middle of the ceremony) but he also said "because we want to be safe." Is that not the sweetest response ever!?! He just knows it's good. 

In lieu of wedding favors, I love that Caity and Al made a donation to the Boys and Girls Club of Wake Forest in honor of their guests. It just makes it so special. The fact that they had Monica and her incredible team at Nouveau Events design and coordinate the day at Caffe Luna was just icing on the cake. I don't think I've ever seen a wedding so completely flawless from start to finish. 

Hope you guys have as much fun reliving your perfect day as I did! Here's a few favorites!

The Vendor Team:

Photography: Cynthia and A.J. Viola

Venue/Catering: Caffe Luna

Wedding Coordinator: Monica at Nouveau Events

Officiant: Marianne Dotson

DJ: DJ Supreme 

Stylist/Make Up: Cori Lee from Atomic Salon 

Florist: Doug at Purple Poppy Florist, Wake Forest

Bridal Suite: Marriott City Center

Rings: Neil Lane, Kay Jewlers

Cake: Publix

Limo: A Formal Affair