Pernell & Maggie // Downtown Smithfield Engagement Photographer

We had been excitedly talking about this engagement session for weeks, and the day finally came on a cool evening in the end of March. Maggie's week was one for the books - between managing a classroom of kindergartners and a nasty fall, she had every reason to be tired at the end of a few very long days. Yet when Pernell and Maggie arrived, they were filled with joy that bubbled over into every laugh, every smile, and every moment of their session.

Their personalities shone in a whole new light. Maggie is easygoing and natural, while Pernell is goofy and fun loving. He kept her laughing the whole time, and yet shared a few quiet moments in between the jokes and giggles. As we walked around Windsor Castle Park and downtown Smithfield, it quickly became evident why the two of them are inseparable. They started as friends, but their love has grown, and in just over a month they will finally be married.

Pernell and Maggie - you two are awesome! I laughed so hard, and enjoyed every minute of our time together. Thank you for all the jokes, all the funny quotes that I'll remember forever, and for your excitement throughout the day. May is going to be beautiful, and I just can't wait.

Adoption Mini Sessions, Part 1 // Smithfield, Virginia Family Photographer

Last weekend was one to remember! On the most gorgeous day in October I could've hoped for, ten families met me to take pictures as they supported our adoption. There were families of all ages and sizes - from a couple barely a year into marriage, to a family of six, to a whole bunch of cute dogs, the variety of people from all stages and walks of life was incredible.

I am so amazed that there was such an incredible response to our announcement, and to the mini sessions themselves! I remember right before I hit publish on my blog, wondering aloud to Nathan if ANYONE would sign up. And here I am, with 10 down and 9 more to go this weekend, blown away by the love people have shown us.

So I hope I've done justice to these families who have become a part of our story! It's hard to choose just 5 or 10 images to send, let alone one or two from the blog, but I've narrowed it down to my absolutely favorites. The only thing more exciting than this is that I'll have even more to share next week!