charleston

A Day to Retreat | Business

A Day to Retreat | Business

It's something I've thought about over and again but I've never actually done: a personal retreat day. In the business of life I often realize how much I need to slow down and take some time to remember why I'm doing what I'm doing, re-prioritize, and refocus on the things that matter most. With my mother-in-law on spring break from school and more than willing to watch Willow for the day, I took the opportunity to plan it out - and oh am I so grateful that I did!

As I thought about the day, I knew I needed a solid plan. If I had at least a rough schedule I would be far more productive than if I just went to sit outside and think or pray. With that in mind, I wrote down what I thought my day would look like...

Cedar Room Charleston Wedding | Charleston Wedding Photographer | Heath + Kate

Cedar Room Charleston Wedding | Charleston Wedding Photographer | Heath + Kate

The word that most comes to mind when I see Heath and Kate together is joyful. I remembered from their engagement session that they couldn't stop laughing together, and their wedding day only heightened their happiness. Full of energy and excitement at what was to come, the two were all nerves before their first look because they just couldn't WAIT to see each other! The reaction was beautiful, and each interaction from then on was a reminder of the love they have built through their relationship and the beautiful marriage that is sure to follow.

As far as location, Heath and Kate could NOT have picked a more gorgeous place than his home, quaint Charleston, to get married. From a first look near the Charleston Battery right by the water to a gorgeous navy and gold reception at The Cedar Room in the heart of downtown, every detail screamed elegant, Southern charm. Wine colored anemones and lush cascading greenery made me fall in love with Kate's bouquet, and classy tuxes paired perfectly with the towering trees in the background of all their pictures...

I Can't Just Give Money | Personal

I Can't Just Give Money | Personal

It feels strange to say this but it's true: this blog post, and the heart behind it, has been a lifetime in the making. As a child I grew up overseas with parents who had a mission and purpose beyond just living a comfortable life and achieving the 'white picket fence' dream - it's something for which I'm forever grateful. Living in a third world environment for 9 years of my life has changed my perspective permanently.

It had been years since I had left the country when Nathan and I visited Africa in January. We have traveled a lot - PortlandSeattle, the Outer BanksCharleston, and Arizona, to name a few - but it has all been for fun vacations or getaways. This year's trip was for a greater purpose and sparked something inside of me that I had long ago forgotten...