Wake Forest High School Senior | Lindsay

“Let us not pray to be sheltered from dangers but to be fearless when facing them”

— Rabindranath Tagore

Wow, it blew my mind this morning when I realized how long I have been photographing the Rifenburg family! What began as a wedding for Lindsay's aunt Colleen, turned into family portraits, then senior portraits for all three girls now, and even the totally epic holiday parties for her parents' company. These guys seriously know how to have fun and it is most evident, I think, in Lindsay's passion for race car driving. Seriously a girl after my own heart. 

Not only is she a skilled driver, she's incredibly intelligent. She'll be graduating from Wake Forest High an entire year early so she can knock out her Bachelor's and move on to her Master's Degree quickly. 

This October weather was perfect as we explored Downtown Wake Forest, her friend Rachel joined us to make the session more fun and of course we had to snag a few of the two of them together. Congratulations Lindsay, this year is going to be amazing!

Joyner Park Extended Family Photo Session

“Being a family means you are a part of something very wonderful. It means you will love and be loved for the rest of your life”

— Lisa Weedn

I've known this sweet family for years now. From various church encounters and youth group gatherings to the dance floor at several weddings to partnering with them to make BREW Coffee Bar happen in it's initial stages and now we're planning Jessica and Jeff's 2018 wedding! It's been such a fun few years!

Dan is hysterical. Whether he's offering to pay for the wedding in gold doubloons, trying to order pizza delivered to Raleigh from Viola's Restaurant in Florida, or discussing Disney Princess outfits that would be best to wear for the photoshoot, he always keeps me on my toes! 

I've I've combined Senior Sessions with Family Sessions before, but never an Engagement Session. It was so fun to see the family pick on Jessica and Jeff from behind me while I got a few romantic portraits and then again when Dan and Kathy had a turn! These guys know how to have fun, and they topped off the session with Dan's 1971 Ford LTD. So fun!

Steampunk Family Photo Session with The Ritch's

“Once in awhile, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale”

— Anonymous

I know I say it every year, but I just LOVE the Ritch family! For 5 years now they have made their family photos into an event they are able to get really excited about! Even little Phoenix gets excited! Courtney comes up with a theme and gets to work on costumes and props and together we find the best location to fulfill her vision. 

This year was steampunk, though I'm sure she could also pull of gorgeous gypsy princess as well. ;) The props for steampunk are infinite and Phoenix LOVED being a pilot. Josh loves to fly him through the air and adding the goggles this time made him feel like a real fighter pilot, complete with sound effects as he shot the camera. 

I had so much fun shooting these you guys! Can't wait to see what you come up with next year!!

Washington Oaks Park Couple Session | Beth + Sean

“I believe that if life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade... And try to find somebody whose life has given them vodka, and have a party.”

— Ron White

I knew we were a perfect match when the pouring rain didn't cause Beth and Sean to pause for even a second. They asked, "If we could keep your camera dry could we just shoot in the rain?" Ummm, yes please! Luckily it faded to a drizzle, but I absolutely adore adventurous couples and these two did not disappoint. It rained the entire session and they did were not phased at all. The Hurricane Irma induced mosquitos that insisted on finding ways around the layers and layers of bug repellant were no match for their determination to just have fun. Makes me so happy :)

They have been dating for 4 years now and were experts on picking on each other and making each other laugh. When I told them to reenact their first dance (from the wedding they met at) they didn't pretend it was ballroom dancing, they immediately threw their arms up in the air as if Kanye had just dropped a beat. You just have to love people who don't take themselves too seriously. 

You guys I had SO much fun! Thank you for battling the bugs like proper ninjas and dancing in the rain with me!

Venue: Washington Oaks Park

Hair: The Braid Bar

Makeup: The Bardot

Downtown St. Augustine Engagement Session | Gabby + Baron

Oh my goodness, I love that these two met while they were serving as missionaries together. Due to Gabrielle's hint of shyness and the general nature of the trip it took them some time to really get acquainted, but once they did they were hooked. Now here they are planning their future together (with their lovable pets) and building dreams of more trips and owning a home together. 

They took me to their gorgeous wedding venue, Ximendez-Fatio House for photos and we had the added bonus of the sunrise over the water just down the adorable cobblestone street. St. Augustine has a plethora of hidden gems around every corner making it an incredible place to shoot. 

I'm having such a hard time choosing these images you guys! Can't wait for you to see the full gallery! 

Vilano Beach Engagement Session | Heather + Kyle

“Love has nothing to do with what you’re expecting to get – only what you’re expecting to give – which is everything”

— Katharine Hepburn

I'm so excited I finally got to meet these two cuties who won the giveaway last month! Heather said she had never won anything so it's super fun they were able to squeeze in an engagement session just nineteen days before their big day! 

When Hurricane Irma took out a good chunk of Vilano Beach and the homes lining it's shores, we weren't sure we were going to be able to meet there for our session (or that they would be able to hold their wedding ceremony there) but Irma cut us some slack and left just enough of the beach around its famous rocks and we were able to have a beautiful session. 

I couldn't be more excited for you guys!! Congratulations again!

Joyner Park Cake Smash | Hazel Grace

“Actually, the best gift you could have given her was a lifetime full of adventures”

— Lewis Carroll

As we were walking through Joyner Park we were astounded that it was somehow already September, I swear just a month ago little Hazel was gracing us with her presence at Rex, and not more than a week ago she was reading her favorite book at Pullen! 

Amber and Eric have been such incredible parents to this little heart in her first year, they love her independence and encourage it. They want her to have all the adventures and are excited to experience them with her. I'm so excited I get to watch her grow up with you guys! She's perfect! Happy Birthday little one!

Jordan's Bar Mitzvah at Traine

“The ship is safest in the port. But that’s not what ships were made for.”

— Paulo Coelho

More and more, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs are becoming my favorite events to shoot, and it's because of incredible young adults like Jordan. I met him a couple months ago when we began the planning stages of his big party and thought he was incredibly polite and had a sweet 12 year old excitement in him, (he's a huge baseball fan). Similarly when I met up with him a few weeks ago for his baseball portraits I thought he was adorable and super fun. 

The transformation that happens in the last few weeks of Bar and Bat Mitzvah training, however, never ceases to amaze me. The stress of memorizing so much Hebrew, the pressure to fully understand a passage of scripture and make it relatable to your family and peers and to actually stand up in front of them with confidence that all the hard work put in made a difference - it changes them. 

They're only thirteen of course, so they still have a liveliness about them and ability to play and enjoy the world, but they're also somehow much wiser than they were at twelve. Listening to Jordan practice his Torah Portion during the rehearsal I almost choked up. He made it relevant to his love of baseball, and connected the dangers of favoritism in a simple school sport with the greater dangers facing world today in a growing racially divided world. His maturity both on and off stage this weekend was awesome. 

Additionally, you will not find a more awesome family. Their love for each other pours out in everything they do, Jeff and Jodi have set such an incredible example of what it means to love each other fiercely and make life an epic party. Their extended family attests to that as well, they poured in from all over the country to celebrate this weekend. And I've said it before but nothing makes me happier than a great sibling relationship; Rachel and Jordan are the very best of friends, they pick on each other relentlessly and always have time for a huge bear hug. Love them. 

I'm so glad I got to participate in your huge day Jordan! SO proud of you!

(The three of us *might* have agreed not to tell mom that he jumped off a train before entering the party lol. I mean, who am I to deny a teen two of my favorite things: risk and adventure) :)

The Vendors who made the weekend possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola Photography

Synagogue: Beth Meyer

Rabbi: Eric Solomon

Tutor: Cathy Kaplan

Reception Venue: Traine

Flowers: Fallon's Flowers

Catering: Catering Works

DJ: Damien Maass

Photobooth: ZimZoom

Amy and Owen Engaged at NCMA

“We loved with a love that was more than love”

— Edgar Allan Poe

Amy and Owen were a dream to work with. Not every couple is excited about the idea of making out in the bushes of a public park; it can take some time to get warmed up to the idea even if you are madly in love, but these two were naturals right away. They were so in sync, most of the time I felt like I was working with just one person. From their excellent verbal communication to body language and subtle looks, they knew just how to blend right into each other. 

The NC Art Museum was a perfect backdrop not just for it's beauty but for it's connection to their story. Long walks here in their early days was a seed for their love to grow and I love that they included it in their engagement session. 

For their save the dates they used a selfie taken in front of the famous rings on the museum grounds; It was a special moment for them because it was the first time they declared their love for each other. They wanted to recreate the image on this session which I thought was super powerful, because an engagement is nothing if not a declaration to the world that you love this one the most. 

Toward the end of the session we were quite literally chasing daylight. The Art Museum's grounds are quite large and walking from one area to the next can take a surprising amount of time. We kept having so much fun in one spot we'd forget we needed to move on in order to fit it all in! Oops! No worries though, these two were beautiful in front of every backdrop, and I cannot wait to explore Downtown Raleigh with them on the big day! 

I had so much fun you guys!! Thank you for everything!

Arianna - Senior at Heritage High

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars and change the world”

— Harriet Tubman

Arianna is the type of person you like right away. She's easy going and friendly, she takes interest in your life and always has a smile on her face. (She also brought her three super sweet pups on the shoot, so you know she's awesome) :) She's had a lot of great memories over the past few years and is excited to make some new lasting one in this final senior year at Heritage High. She loves the idea of traveling and is looking forward to the possibility of Appalachian State in her future. We had a blast today!

What she didn't know what that her parents had me show up secretly to one of her lacrosse games (as disguised as I could be with purple hair and tattoo sleeves) to catch her in action. The cover was blown half way through the game when she recognized me (I shot her sister Haylee's wedding) BUT she still didn't know WHY I was there until today. So Arianna, I hope you enjoy a few of these favs from your portraits and your big game. You're so very talented, I know you're going to accomplish great things! 

The Nardi Family at Moses Cone Park

“Clouds come floating into life, not to carry rain or usher storm, but to add color to the sunset sky”

— Rabindranath Tagore

It has been quite a while since I've been able to spend time with these cuties, though not without effort. Every trip to Boone where I have a free slot we attempt to make a photo session work out and it seems every thing from schedules to the weather to sick kiddos has prevented it. This time, however, I had a last minute cancellation from another family and on a whim sent Lindsey a text to see if they could pull it off and it worked! 

My kind of people are the ones who tend to thrive on chaos like myself. Life just seems too boring when every detail is planned. As usual with kiddos, I let Bentley and Parker guide most of the session, leading us to the parts of the park they thought were the coolest while I found the best light in each spot. Lindsey and Brandon are, of course, always super laid back and we spent the time chasing the kiddos catching up on the past year. Gonna miss these guys in Florida, but can't wait to come back and visit! Love you guys!

Sometimes it's hard to make all the kiddos happy at the same time, I loved that Lindsey was able to take little Parker off for a few quiet moments to calm him while Brandon and Bentley played. Beautiful moments can be captured when you're focused on having a good time with your family rather than trying to get the perfect shot. 

Amber and Tony Trash the Dress at Vilano Beach, FL

“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

Oh my goodness! I must say I was a *little* nervous about the move to Florida and what I presumed would be a ton of beach photography, but this first session was FAR from ordinary! St. Augustine is amazing!

When Amber said she wanted to do a Trash the Dress session I was, of course, ecstatic, it's always been one of my favorite sessions to offer. I figured we'd finish on Vilano Beach with the sunset, but I was curious what else St. Augustine had to offer. Amber decided to include the Fort and St. George Street and now I'm totally hooked. This place is a photographer's dream! I cannot wait to get more couples and families out here to play! 

Of course, I could not have asked the universe for a more perfect couple for the inaugural session, Tony and Amber have been dancing in front of my lens from the moment they got engaged. This 1.5 year anniversary session was perfectly suited to their fun-loving character and style. A Trash the Dress session tends to pull the adventure out of people and the sheer audacity of it makes you feel wild and free for a day. Capturing all that wild emotion and love of life is what makes this job a dream come true. Thank you Amber and Tony for trusting me on rocky cliffs and in a wildly high tide. Your carefree spirits are everything. Love you both! 

The Kovach Family at Pullen Park

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming ‘Wow! What a Ride!’”

— Hunter S. Thompson

Leslie and Caleb are a couple I will forever adore. They have always known how to get the most out of life and find laughter in all the small things. I think my favorite thing about them though, is how they're teaching their girls to look at life the same way. To not fret the small stuff, to climb on things just to see if you can, to apologize when you screw up, and to dance your way down every street. Since they were one of our very first weddings I feel like we've grown up together a bit. Nearly ten years later they've got two gorgeous girls who are just as playful and adventurous as their parents and a little man on the way who's sure to be the same. 

Pullen Park was so gorgeous last night and these two beauties reminded me to let go. To run through the field with arms outstretched ready to catch any beautiful thing that falls into them...or myself if I hit the ground instead. ;) They are fearless like their parents and everything I hope to be when I grow up. I am SO glad we were able to squeeze in a session before we head to Florida tomorrow. I feel like I have new wind in my sails and am ready to tackle this next adventure head on. Love you guys!!

Luca's First Birthday!

“Families are the compass that guide us. They are the inspiration to reach great heights, and our comfort when we occasionally falter”

— Brad Henry

I am pretty sure you've never met a more adorable and beautiful family than the Beldens. Not only are they gorgeous but they are such amazing assets in the community, loved by everyone they meet and doing everything they can to make a positive impact in our city. 

It's just an added bonus that Lyla and Luca are the most adorable Gerber models out there. I just died when they pulled Luca out of the car shirtless and barefooted and started putting on his suspenders! He has the very best personality already and just loves to explore all the things. 

Something that doesn't always come across in family portraits are the images in between the good ones. Poor Lyla was not excited about having her photo taken and decided to pout in the corner while we took photos of Luca...but then, she didn't want to be left out. She couldn't make up her mind between participating in what the family was doing (which she didn't want to do) and being alone. Such good life lessons. 

Eventually we were able to promise her that if she'd participate, and be happy about it, I would come back to her house after to eat ice cream (for breakfast) and play with her favorite toys. Did I mention I have the best job on the planet? SUCH a great day! Thank you guys for allowing me to capture this special day! 

(this is a flash back from Lyla's one year session a couple years ago... notice any similarities) :) 

Nostalgia

“We like to pretend it is hard to follow our heart’s dreams. The truth is, it is difficult to avoid walking through the many doors that will open.”

— Julia Cameron

These gems are from one of our first weddings ever, nearly ten years & eight cameras ago. Jennifer and Jason. We were shooting with Canon Rebels and did so for our first 10 weddings. This was actually our ninth wedding and the first one I still have images for. (Hadn't quite nailed down my backup process yet) ;) I had taken one film photography class for fun with no intention of ever shooting anything "for real." It was honestly other people who kept telling me I should do this that kept pushing me forward.

Maybe the move to FL has me feeling all nostalgic since it'll be the second time we've physically moved the business and had to rebuild with new clients - but I am feeling so grateful for the people in my life who pushed me toward a dream when I wasn't sure it was my dream and definitely didn't think it was a possibility. 

The very first "real" photo shoot I ever did was a wedding. I mean go big or go home right? Literally up until the weekend of the wedding I'd been shooting film and bought the dslr the day before the wedding with every intention of figuring it out as I went. And that is exactly what I did. Shocked at the end of the day that the photos weren't terrible and amazed at how much fun I had, I still didn't intend to shoot another one ever... Until one of the bride's friends saw the photos and asked me to shoot her wedding. What?!? Really? 

This was our 20th wedding: Nicole and Derek. (A.J. joined me after that first wedding, because that sounded like more fun and it was!) We had also upgraded to a Canon 50D.

We were still shooting with the background in mind and didn't know a thing about light. What this meant was that sometimes we got lucky, (like when the clouds came out here), but our images were super inconsistent. We didn't know why some of them were awesome and some of them were not so awesome. 

Lisa and Matt were our 30th wedding and around where we learned a little more about posing. Though shots like this were still only lucky when we placed them in the correct light (as opposed to a great background), we just didn't know that yet. This was still a side hustle and only a sliver of a dream, we still assumed we'd be doing other things full time. 

Mugé and Farris were the 40th. We'd switched to Nikon at this point (d300s) for better glass and A.J. and I could read each other's minds at this point and know exactly when and where to be and how to patiently wait for the perfect moment (which is usually *just* after the prompt or "pose"). The realization that "golden light" is amazing hit us, but it would still be a long time before we would insist upon it...not wanting to step on toes or be complicated. What we didn't realize was we were actually doing our clients a disservice to have this knowledge and not explain to them how important it was. 

Natalie and Tripp were our first realization that this could be a real thing. 50 weddings in and someone was willing to not only hire us, but pay for two plane tickets and lodging to Aspen for their destination wedding. We were amazed but also realizing that people just liked us. Our photography was fine, but others were way better (and still are). People just felt comfortable around us and wanted us to be a part of the family. This fact alone makes this a true dream come true. I adore people with my whole heart and just really want to make a positive impact. If I can make art while doing that then I'll never work another day in my life.

60 weddings in we were really starting to feel like a part of the family with soooo many clients. Jamie here is Jennifer's younger sister, and being with their whole family again was like shooting my own sister's wedding. This keeps happening over and over, and then when you add puppies and kiddos to the mix, the realization that I'll be a part of all the happiest moments of their lives is so unbelievably humbling. 

At 75 weddings Maggie and Richard overwhelmed us with the possibilities of an incredible venue and vendor team. (Even got to work alongside one of our first brides!) Since this was still somehow a side hustle and not a full time gig though, our turnover was still insane. In off season it would take about 10 weeks to deliver a wedding, 12-15 midseason. The fact that it's only 1-2 weeks now blows my mind. You know they say Rome wasn't built in a day. It's taken us 10 years to get where some photographers got in two, but you can't let a slow pace discourage you. As long as you're moving and not standing still, you'll see your dreams fulfilled eventually. 

With over 100 weddings to date, we still have SOOO much to learn. Only since I went full time two years ago did we start dabbling with off camera flash (of which we still have a LOT to learn), an actual workflow, of course new camera upgrades (d750s), a reflector for portraits, Lightroom, Indesign and an interactive style of posing. I can only image what the new terrain of Florida beaches will teach us but I'm excited for something new and so so so incredibly grateful for everyone who made this dream a reality. Love you all. 

We're Moving to St. Augustine, FLORIDA!

“Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing”

— Helen Keller

If you've been hanging around us recently or following our stories on Instagram or Facebook, you might have noticed we've been a little cryptic about some big adventures and life changes in the not-too-distant future. I'm not sure how exactly to say this, but, we're moving! To Florida! 

Woah. I know. So many questions.

Why Florida?

If you followed our family through the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, you know that he dealt a devastating blow to the family restaurant, Viola's Pasta and Seafood in St. Augustine. In the months that followed the whole family and surrounding community came together to get her back on her feet, but that plus the 20 years of general restauranting took it's toll on A.J.'s parents. The restaurant is their baby and they're not ready to give it up, but they need to take a step back, and A.J. volunteered to help them run Viola's to make sure the family business stays afloat and his parents can get the rest they deserve after years of building. 

What does that mean for BREW Coffee Bar?

You probably already know that A.J. co-owns BREW with Mike. They built it from scratch 3 years ago and have seen it become a thriving space in our community. A.J. will be leaving BREW, Mike and his wife Cindy will take it over entirely and they will run BREW with the help of its capable and awesome managers and employees. We're super sad to let it go, but don't see how A.J. can continue to run it while in Florida. It's been a grand adventure, but we both thrive in newness and change so we're glad to leave her in good hands and excited for the next new thing. 

“We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us.”

— Joseph Campbell

What does this mean for Art and Photography?

Well, lots of things! Because my entire family is in North Carolina, I will be flying back to NC once every six weeks to visit.

It means the schedule will be a little crazy and I'll have to keep my clients informed anytime I plan to be here, but I thrive in chaos and honestly don't think it'll be that much different from how often I travel now. If you'd like to keep up with when I'll be in the area, you can follow me on Instagram and/or Facebook and turn on your notifications. 

If you'd like an email or text notification as well, let me know and I'll add you to a list. When I fly in, it will be to Charlotte and from there I will either drive to Raleigh, Boone or Lumberton as needed to visit and accept photo shoots. 

Just like it works now, if you're able to book me while I'm already here, there will be no travel fee. If you need me to travel on a specific date when I'm not already planning to be here, I'm more than willing, the travel will just now include a plane ticket (or two, if it's a wedding).

What about already booked portrait sessions and weddings?

I will honor every session already booked for the rest of the year by staying in Raleigh through December. There are just too many already on the schedule for it to make sense for me to move before then. A.J. will move at the end of July but he will fly back for the weddings he is already booked to shoot with me. We will both also fly back for the weddings we already have scheduled for 2018. 

What about your paintings?

I will be trying to sell all of my current paintings before I leave. They will be half price as I'd like to not have to transport them. If you're interested just let me know and you can come see what's available.  And as always you can get prints of any of the pieces and some photography at Society 6. 

How long will we be in Florida?

That is yet to be determined. Life is ever changing and we're willing to go where the winds blow us. It may be five or twenty, either way we'll keep you updated along the way.

I suppose this will begin the next chapter of the Book. Can't wait to see what the next page's story has to say! 

“To dare - is to lose one’s footing momentarily. To not dare - is to lose oneself”

— Soren Kierkegaard

Pullen Park Engagement | Anna and Anthony

“Once in awhile, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale”

— Anonymous

You guys I am so in love with these two cuties! Oh my goodness. Anna and Anthony are two of the SWEETEST people you will ever meet! They met at NC State while studying accounting and are generally a little quiet I would say, but you get them talking about how much they love each other and their dreams for the future together - they light right up. Would you just look at these smiles! 

Seriously though...

When you've found the one your heart loves it really doesn't matter what you do, so long as you're together. These two totally rocked their engagement session and I am ecstatic about their River Ridge wedding this October! We had to postpone a couple times due to rain but Pullen Park was just perfect this time, and we're hoping all that previous rain was to ensure it won't be raining in October ;)

Thank you Anna and Anthony! I had so much fun adventuring with you, totally worth the wait!! 

Rose Garden Wedding | Amy and Jay

“When all the work is done, by the light of a setting sun;
We see what we’ve become — two of the lucky ones.”

— The Droge & Summers Blend

When Amy and Jay told me their reception was going to be held at Big Boss Brewing company, I knew we were going to be a great fit. These two are so comfortable to be around and were easy going about all the details, they were a dream to work with. 

The Raleigh Little Theatre Rose Garden was, of course, a perfect backdrop for their ceremony and all day long, Amy and Jay's friends cheered them on and surrounded them with love. It is very clear that their love for the other people in their lives is deeply reciprocated by their friends.

Julie, their wedding coordinator, was so perfect for this group. She's super focused on details, which is vital, but more importantly, her genuine love of people and easy going nature meant no one felt rushed all day. 

Big Boss was amazing: laid back and well suited for any schnanigans  that would inevitably ensue with this fun bunch. In fact, a few minutes after we were safely tucked inside the reception the skies opened up and a torrential downpour started. It fell so hard and fast that Big Boss started flooding inside and AJ, Julie, Brendan and all the groomsmen promptly started pushing water off the dance floor before it got to our or the DJ's equipment. Before long bridesmaids and guests were dancing in the puddles and the party continued without missing a beat. Nothing was going to stop this crew from having a good time!  

Hope you enjoy a few of these favorites from the day!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photography: Cynthia & A.J. Viola

Coordinator: Julie Morrissey

Ceremony Venue: The Raleigh Little Theatre Rose Garden

Reception Venue: Big Boss Brewing Co.

Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Centro

Bride's Dress: Revelry

Hair Stylist: Annie at Mark Christopher Salon

Florist: Jeanette Flaherty

Officiant: Lance Olson

DJ: Save the Date Music: DJ Gino

Catering: Clyde Cooper's BBQ

Cake Baker: Marsha Townsend

Doughnuts: Krispy Kreme

Chairs: Dee Jay's Event Rentals

Party Bus: James Ray Transportation

The couple offered save rides through Lyft for all their guests. 

Hamptyn at The Lavender Garden

“Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable”

— Mary Oliver

Oh my goodness you guys! I have been trying to book a session at the Lavender Garden for two years now but my schedule never seems to align with their super short one week window of bloom before the harvest, but guess what!?!? The stars aligned on my birthday week! So exciting! I feel like Ms. Rita and I became besties over the past two years every time I called to see if our schedules would align. She is sweet as pie and so welcoming into her beautiful field. 

Little Hamptyn is of course one of my most favorite models, she has the best smile and is SO sweet. I knew she'd be a perfect fit in this gorgeous field. (Her momma couldn't be more beautiful either!)

The reason the blooming week is so short for this particular Lavender Garden is because they harvest early, before they are fully bloomed, in order to extract the most oils from the flowers. Their products are focused on oils, sprays, lotions and candles rather than bouquets. 

Lavender has always been my favorite fragrance so I was in heaven as little Hamptyn danced around the garden. Grateful for today. Here are a few images!

Raleigh Rose Garden | Elin Turns One!

“Remember you’re the one who can fill the world with sunshine”

— Snow White

I remember meeting these cuties when Sweet Elin was still in her mommy's tummy. They were so excited to welcome her into the world and she has made quite an impact already! She is full of smiles and loves music and birthday cake! (so does big brother Everett) ;)

The Rose Garden was absolutely perfect last night for Elin's birthday cake debut and she did not disappoint! Her favorite part might have been knocking it over, but had a blast and gave us lots of great smiles as she bathed in icing. Hope you enjoy a few of these favorites from the night!