• Who here stepped outside this morning and went, "it's HERE!!"!? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Because, it's 62 and it finally feels like fall!!!! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I've been dying for it to cool down and to be able to wake up to that feeling of needing a cozy sweater and riding boots - ya with me? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I'm heading back into the mountains today, but I had to share my favorite image from this weekend's wedding! (More sneaks coming in my stories later!) This is probably my favorite little spot at @sunnybrookvenue...perfect for stolen kisses.
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    Who here stepped outside this morning and went, "it's HERE!!"!? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Because, it's 62 and it finally feels like fall!!!! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I've been dying for it to cool down and to be able to wake up to that feeling of needing a cozy sweater and riding boots - ya with me? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I'm heading back into the mountains today, but I had to share my favorite image from this weekend's wedding! (More sneaks coming in my stories later!) This is probably my favorite little spot at @sunnybrookvenue...perfect for stolen kisses.
  • I think today is a good day for some #fridayintroductions!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ There are a lot of new faces around here, and I thought today would be a good day to say hi and share my face here on the ol' gram since it's been a while! (I'm awkward in front of the camera, but not behind the camera. Ask @annabowserphotography, who got to experience that last Friday. LOL And @meganvaughanphoto nailed this candid. LOL)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So, a couple of fun facts about me...⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 1. I attended 13 different schools before college, because I'm a proud #coastguard baby! (And while I was mad a few times as a kid, I wouldn't trade that experience for the world now!)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 2. As a little girl, I wanted to be a paleontologist or a marine biologist. And I *almost* signed the papers to join the Coast Guard as a bio nerd. I ended up working with big cats instead...⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 3. Until I ended up falling in love with photography while I was in grad school for nutrition! Before that and after being a zookeeper, I did cancer research and autopsies. My husband calls me a professional student. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 4. Speaking of nutrition...I lost 40 pounds this summer, and while the scale hasn't budged since August, I haven't felt better in so long! If anyone here is struggling through a plateau or struggling to start, lean on me. I'll cheer you on!!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So, your turn! Say hi! Tell me the TOP place on your bucket list of places to visit in the world.
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    I think today is a good day for some #fridayintroductions!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ There are a lot of new faces around here, and I thought today would be a good day to say hi and share my face here on the ol' gram since it's been a while! (I'm awkward in front of the camera, but not behind the camera. Ask @annabowserphotography, who got to experience that last Friday. LOL And @meganvaughanphoto nailed this candid. LOL)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So, a couple of fun facts about me...⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 1. I attended 13 different schools before college, because I'm a proud #coastguard baby! (And while I was mad a few times as a kid, I wouldn't trade that experience for the world now!)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 2. As a little girl, I wanted to be a paleontologist or a marine biologist. And I *almost* signed the papers to join the Coast Guard as a bio nerd. I ended up working with big cats instead...⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 3. Until I ended up falling in love with photography while I was in grad school for nutrition! Before that and after being a zookeeper, I did cancer research and autopsies. My husband calls me a professional student. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 4. Speaking of nutrition...I lost 40 pounds this summer, and while the scale hasn't budged since August, I haven't felt better in so long! If anyone here is struggling through a plateau or struggling to start, lean on me. I'll cheer you on!!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So, your turn! Say hi! Tell me the TOP place on your bucket list of places to visit in the world.
  • I can't contain my excitement!!!!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ My calendar is filling up with couples meeting me in #shenandoahnationalpark, and I'm so so so so so ready!! (And y'all. Don't be afraid to meet me there in the winter. I have a thousand reasons why.)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So, while it's on my mind and I have you here, I have a few things to share with you about being in SNP and in the #blueridgemountains in general.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 1. LEAVE. NO. TRACE. There are more photographers - and, of course, tourists - in the park these days because fall is approaching. Lots of people = lots of consumption. So pick up after yourselves, guys. I carry a bag with me so I can pick up after myself - and others. My husband and I always dispose of more trash than we create when we're in the mountains, but please don't leave that responsibility to us and others. Keep it clean. Be responsible and respectful. Love on the planet a little. And keep our animal babies safe.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 2. Speaking of...DRIVE SLOW. Yes, I am the granny in the Jeep that may or may not be feeding your road rage because I'm driving the speed limit, and I'm totally okay with that. Animal fatalities are totally avoidable - don't be the one to destroy another bear or sweet deer baby because going fast on those winding roads is liberating. The deer don't typically run out in front of you in SNP like they do elsewhere. They're usually already in the road, right around a corner. SLOW DOWN, be alert. Enjoy the park. Breathe the air. For their safety and for your own relaxation.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Those are two things I felt compelled to share with you all today, because we're heading into September over the next week, and I know how busy it gets. #leavenotrace, love our planet, keep our wildlife safe. Please and thank you. ❤️
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    I can't contain my excitement!!!!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ My calendar is filling up with couples meeting me in #shenandoahnationalpark, and I'm so so so so so ready!! (And y'all. Don't be afraid to meet me there in the winter. I have a thousand reasons why.)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So, while it's on my mind and I have you here, I have a few things to share with you about being in SNP and in the #blueridgemountains in general.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 1. LEAVE. NO. TRACE. There are more photographers - and, of course, tourists - in the park these days because fall is approaching. Lots of people = lots of consumption. So pick up after yourselves, guys. I carry a bag with me so I can pick up after myself - and others. My husband and I always dispose of more trash than we create when we're in the mountains, but please don't leave that responsibility to us and others. Keep it clean. Be responsible and respectful. Love on the planet a little. And keep our animal babies safe.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 2. Speaking of...DRIVE SLOW. Yes, I am the granny in the Jeep that may or may not be feeding your road rage because I'm driving the speed limit, and I'm totally okay with that. Animal fatalities are totally avoidable - don't be the one to destroy another bear or sweet deer baby because going fast on those winding roads is liberating. The deer don't typically run out in front of you in SNP like they do elsewhere. They're usually already in the road, right around a corner. SLOW DOWN, be alert. Enjoy the park. Breathe the air. For their safety and for your own relaxation.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Those are two things I felt compelled to share with you all today, because we're heading into September over the next week, and I know how busy it gets. #leavenotrace, love our planet, keep our wildlife safe. Please and thank you. ❤️
  • I've been asked multiple times to see the details of Saturday's wedding. You ask, I deliver. ;) ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Vendor Team: Venue + Coordination: @sundaraevents @caridonesreichl Photographers: @oceanandridge + @ksantphotography Makeup Artist: @jessilynn789 Hair Stylist: @hollyfox_hair @adornsalonroa Gown Boutique: @studioidobridalsroanoke Gown Designer: @missstellayork Menswear: @menswearhouse Jeweler: @finksjewelers @mejuri Bridesmaid Dresses: @azazieofficial Floral Designer: @amandadayrose DJ: @imdjkb Cake: @sweetfix Catering: @blueridgecatering Invitations, Design, + Signage: @saralanedesign Videographer: @ironandivyfilms Ring Box: @the_mrs_box
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    I've been asked multiple times to see the details of Saturday's wedding. You ask, I deliver. ;) ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Vendor Team: Venue + Coordination: @sundaraevents @caridonesreichl Photographers: @oceanandridge + @ksantphotography Makeup Artist: @jessilynn789 Hair Stylist: @hollyfox_hair @adornsalonroa Gown Boutique: @studioidobridalsroanoke Gown Designer: @missstellayork Menswear: @menswearhouse Jeweler: @finksjewelers @mejuri Bridesmaid Dresses: @azazieofficial Floral Designer: @amandadayrose DJ: @imdjkb Cake: @sweetfix Catering: @blueridgecatering Invitations, Design, + Signage: @saralanedesign Videographer: @ironandivyfilms Ring Box: @the_mrs_box
  • I often hear the term "adventure" in the photography industry. Finding your way out onto a cliff, overlooking the expanse of the mountains. Getting wrapped up in each other at the base of a massive waterfall. Adventure is buzzing right now, but I have to tell you something I've learned. (And it's probably an unpopular opinion to some.)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Adventure is what YOU make of it.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ It doesn't have to be cliffside. All it requires is the feeling of just GOING FOR IT. All it takes is you and the words, "let's do it". Adventure comes in moments; at least to me.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ After having to reschedule their wedding from June to August, their new wedding date tossed in a late summer thunderstorm just as their portraits began. And we're not talking a soft rain. We're talking those big, heavy raindrops. Loads of water at once. They could have retreated to their event tent. They could have said "5 minutes is enough". But, instead, they said, "let's do it". And they danced. They spent 20 minutes in the pouring rain, dancing, kissing, laughing, and making it their adventure. Because they knew they couldn't get these moments back. This was the start of their lifelong adventure together - dancing in the summer rain.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I often get warned that, "we're not super adventurous - we hope that's okay" because I work in the mountains. So, listen. If you don't have that epic waterfall or that heart-dropping "if we fall" scene right in front of you, that's okay. Even when you're having formal wedding, your adventure is still right in front of you. All you have to say is "let's do it"...together.
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    I often hear the term "adventure" in the photography industry. Finding your way out onto a cliff, overlooking the expanse of the mountains. Getting wrapped up in each other at the base of a massive waterfall. Adventure is buzzing right now, but I have to tell you something I've learned. (And it's probably an unpopular opinion to some.)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Adventure is what YOU make of it.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ It doesn't have to be cliffside. All it requires is the feeling of just GOING FOR IT. All it takes is you and the words, "let's do it". Adventure comes in moments; at least to me.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ After having to reschedule their wedding from June to August, their new wedding date tossed in a late summer thunderstorm just as their portraits began. And we're not talking a soft rain. We're talking those big, heavy raindrops. Loads of water at once. They could have retreated to their event tent. They could have said "5 minutes is enough". But, instead, they said, "let's do it". And they danced. They spent 20 minutes in the pouring rain, dancing, kissing, laughing, and making it their adventure. Because they knew they couldn't get these moments back. This was the start of their lifelong adventure together - dancing in the summer rain.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I often get warned that, "we're not super adventurous - we hope that's okay" because I work in the mountains. So, listen. If you don't have that epic waterfall or that heart-dropping "if we fall" scene right in front of you, that's okay. Even when you're having formal wedding, your adventure is still right in front of you. All you have to say is "let's do it"...together.
  • To know these two is to love these two. (And, well, our family may or may not be in love with their three boys also.) This is our pastor and his wife, for those of you who don't know them. And you see this joy? This laughter? You would never know that their middle son is currently waiting on a surgery date to remove a lime-sized brain tumor. As well as a large tumor on his spine. Because despite these hard, unknown times, their faith in the Lord is strong, though I know it's tested every. single. day. And, as a pastor and his wife, I'm sure they feel a pressure that not everyone must tackle when it comes to their faith. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ They inspire me. Shannon's words convict me every single Sunday. Stacey's glowing joy lifts the spirits of everyone around her. When I see this image, I'll never forget this sweet family taking time out in the middle of everything they're enduring, just to be together. To laugh. To feel normal. To love one another. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Sundays are my favorite days because of them, and if you don't mind praying, pray for them. Pray for Sawyer's healing. Pray for their strength and peace and for God to keep them under His wings today and every day. And if you see me at a wedding with a blue streak in my hair...know it's in solitude for a boy I love like my own as a he fights.
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    To know these two is to love these two. (And, well, our family may or may not be in love with their three boys also.) This is our pastor and his wife, for those of you who don't know them. And you see this joy? This laughter? You would never know that their middle son is currently waiting on a surgery date to remove a lime-sized brain tumor. As well as a large tumor on his spine. Because despite these hard, unknown times, their faith in the Lord is strong, though I know it's tested every. single. day. And, as a pastor and his wife, I'm sure they feel a pressure that not everyone must tackle when it comes to their faith. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ They inspire me. Shannon's words convict me every single Sunday. Stacey's glowing joy lifts the spirits of everyone around her. When I see this image, I'll never forget this sweet family taking time out in the middle of everything they're enduring, just to be together. To laugh. To feel normal. To love one another. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Sundays are my favorite days because of them, and if you don't mind praying, pray for them. Pray for Sawyer's healing. Pray for their strength and peace and for God to keep them under His wings today and every day. And if you see me at a wedding with a blue streak in my hair...know it's in solitude for a boy I love like my own as a he fights.
  • Today, on another side of this very mountain at the perfectly tucked away @sundaraevents, this amazing couple gets to begin the next chapter of their lives together! I'm beyond excited to see them and their families and to share all the incredibly moments of their day with you all! (And get ready...because the talented @amandadayrose is on floral duty and @saralanedesign did all the invites and signage. It's going to be STUNNING!!!)
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    Today, on another side of this very mountain at the perfectly tucked away @sundaraevents, this amazing couple gets to begin the next chapter of their lives together! I'm beyond excited to see them and their families and to share all the incredibly moments of their day with you all! (And get ready...because the talented @amandadayrose is on floral duty and @saralanedesign did all the invites and signage. It's going to be STUNNING!!!)
  • Hit me with your favorite fall season traditions. And maybe your favorite fall meals.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I just threw a homemade chicken pot pie in the oven, and it's got me feeling SO ready for the fall!
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    Hit me with your favorite fall season traditions. And maybe your favorite fall meals.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I just threw a homemade chicken pot pie in the oven, and it's got me feeling SO ready for the fall!
  • I almost quit.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Almost. In fact, I did. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Several months ago, I made a personal announcement that I'd be closing the doors as a photographer, and it felt SO good to be able to do that on my own terms. When business was good. When my clients were amazing, when I was solid in foundation and in experience. But this mom...this wife...this friend...this sister...this daughter...this woman needed to slow down. Way, way down.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Life exists beyond work, and it was hard to tell myself that. Beyond hours on end at the computer editing and learning. Beyond late night emails that you feel SO compelled to answer, because you hold yourself to a high expectation when it comes to serving people. I'm a good ol' Type 2. A solid ENFJ-T. Serving people makes me happy...my heart shines and melts and bursts for seeing people smile and feel beautiful and loved. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ But I was forgetting to balance it with life. My husband would go to bed alone. I missed my youngest daughter's gymnastics competitions. I had to turn down late summer gatherings with friends I've PRAYED for. I missed church. My health was rocky.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So, I felt like I needed to quit. For life - literally. But for every glance at a photo like this one, I was reminded that I GET TO photograph YOU living. I get to hear the laughter, feel the chemistry between you, and see the joy of life. And that? That I couldn't give up. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I just need to remind myself to balance. I took the time to get myself back on track with so many things over this break, but it's time to feel on fire again.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ But a much slower, intentional fire.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Tell me about a time you knew something was IT for you. A time when you KNEW you were doing what you were meant to be doing.
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    I almost quit.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Almost. In fact, I did. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Several months ago, I made a personal announcement that I'd be closing the doors as a photographer, and it felt SO good to be able to do that on my own terms. When business was good. When my clients were amazing, when I was solid in foundation and in experience. But this mom...this wife...this friend...this sister...this daughter...this woman needed to slow down. Way, way down.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Life exists beyond work, and it was hard to tell myself that. Beyond hours on end at the computer editing and learning. Beyond late night emails that you feel SO compelled to answer, because you hold yourself to a high expectation when it comes to serving people. I'm a good ol' Type 2. A solid ENFJ-T. Serving people makes me happy...my heart shines and melts and bursts for seeing people smile and feel beautiful and loved. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ But I was forgetting to balance it with life. My husband would go to bed alone. I missed my youngest daughter's gymnastics competitions. I had to turn down late summer gatherings with friends I've PRAYED for. I missed church. My health was rocky.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So, I felt like I needed to quit. For life - literally. But for every glance at a photo like this one, I was reminded that I GET TO photograph YOU living. I get to hear the laughter, feel the chemistry between you, and see the joy of life. And that? That I couldn't give up. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I just need to remind myself to balance. I took the time to get myself back on track with so many things over this break, but it's time to feel on fire again.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ But a much slower, intentional fire.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Tell me about a time you knew something was IT for you. A time when you KNEW you were doing what you were meant to be doing.
  • Talk to me about your favorite wedding photo. I'm not necessarily talking about your favorite portrait, though. I'm talking about a single, candid, photo that speaks to you the most from your day. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Or share with me the one photo from your parents' or grandparents' day. Sometimes those single images get us hoping and envision what we want from our own photography.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Today, I want YOU to share with me. <3
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    Talk to me about your favorite wedding photo. I'm not necessarily talking about your favorite portrait, though. I'm talking about a single, candid, photo that speaks to you the most from your day. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Or share with me the one photo from your parents' or grandparents' day. Sometimes those single images get us hoping and envision what we want from our own photography.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Today, I want YOU to share with me. <3
  • It’s a wedding day over here for me, and I’m heading up the road to RVA! This week has been outrageously busy and so productive, and I’m so ready to conquer the beginning of a busy 7th wedding season! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I have a little something to share with you all. If you’re teetering back and forth on whether to elope or to have a big wedding, I wanted to share with you that I’ve recently had multiple couples split their days up due to COVID. They elope and then plan receptions for later when things aren’t feeling so stressful and questionable. (SUCH a great way to tackle this time and virus!) Turns out, when you follow your heart, sometimes you find that you don’t even need the reception when your elopement day was everything you’d ever needed. So, don’t be afraid to choose getting married when you want over waiting on that big reception! (Unless that big celebration is everything you’ve wanted! Then I say let's do it!) But ALWAYS ALWAYS start your forever how and when YOU want to!
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    It’s a wedding day over here for me, and I’m heading up the road to RVA! This week has been outrageously busy and so productive, and I’m so ready to conquer the beginning of a busy 7th wedding season! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I have a little something to share with you all. If you’re teetering back and forth on whether to elope or to have a big wedding, I wanted to share with you that I’ve recently had multiple couples split their days up due to COVID. They elope and then plan receptions for later when things aren’t feeling so stressful and questionable. (SUCH a great way to tackle this time and virus!) Turns out, when you follow your heart, sometimes you find that you don’t even need the reception when your elopement day was everything you’d ever needed. So, don’t be afraid to choose getting married when you want over waiting on that big reception! (Unless that big celebration is everything you’ve wanted! Then I say let's do it!) But ALWAYS ALWAYS start your forever how and when YOU want to!
  • My favorite workday motivation song is "Push It" by Salt-N-Pepa. Which, funny enough, is perfect for this photo, because I know this momma was ready to bump (ha, see what I did there?) this song at this point in the game. LOL I'm catching up on some family sessions over here today, and good ol' 90s hip hop seems to do the trick for getting me through the grind some days. How about you? Talk to me about music - what motivates you? What relaxes you? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Also, don't forget to enter the giveaway one post back - it ends tomorrow! ;)
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    My favorite workday motivation song is "Push It" by Salt-N-Pepa. Which, funny enough, is perfect for this photo, because I know this momma was ready to bump (ha, see what I did there?) this song at this point in the game. LOL I'm catching up on some family sessions over here today, and good ol' 90s hip hop seems to do the trick for getting me through the grind some days. How about you? Talk to me about music - what motivates you? What relaxes you? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Also, don't forget to enter the giveaway one post back - it ends tomorrow! ;)
  • GIVEAWAY TIME!! It's no surprise that the mountains and the ocean are two places on Earth that, no matter where I am, I feel the most free, the closest to God, and truly home. The rocky, sturdy security of the mountains and the expansive views from their summits. The promising, infinite horizon of the ocean in front of you. They're two places I can't get enough of, and they're two places I do my best work in capturing couples in their rawest moments. Caught up in laughter, long, electric embraces (yep, there goes my cheesiness), and in moments where they truly feel the power of making time for one another. It's where I chase light, where I frolic with my couples, and where I like to randomly take the camera down from my eye and smile at the sight of LOVE. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ As many of you know already, I'm limiting the number of large weddings I do a year. I'm giving people more of my calendar to nurture their relationships and marriages with those moments of "just us two". (Name that movie for an extra entry!) More time in the mountains. More time by the ocean. More times dancing in the sun, running through meadows, and kissing at the cliff's edge of limitless blue ridges. Ordinary And, yet, Remarkable moments. So, introducing, #oarsessions. (Did you catch what I did there?)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ To enter:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 1. You must be following @oceanandridge here and Facebook!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 2. Share this post on your Instagram/Facebook stories!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 3. Tag a friend! Every tag here and on FB counts as an entry!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 4. Tell me one not-so-obvious reason you adore your love. Spill it!!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Rules: a) you must be willing to sign a model release and portrait contract; b) the session must take place within 5 hours of Roanoke, Va; c) your session must take place within the 20-21 calendar year; d) you must be willing to take a little adventure; e) a random entry will be drawn on August 10, 2020; f) you must be 18 or older to enter!
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    GIVEAWAY TIME!! It's no surprise that the mountains and the ocean are two places on Earth that, no matter where I am, I feel the most free, the closest to God, and truly home. The rocky, sturdy security of the mountains and the expansive views from their summits. The promising, infinite horizon of the ocean in front of you. They're two places I can't get enough of, and they're two places I do my best work in capturing couples in their rawest moments. Caught up in laughter, long, electric embraces (yep, there goes my cheesiness), and in moments where they truly feel the power of making time for one another. It's where I chase light, where I frolic with my couples, and where I like to randomly take the camera down from my eye and smile at the sight of LOVE. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ As many of you know already, I'm limiting the number of large weddings I do a year. I'm giving people more of my calendar to nurture their relationships and marriages with those moments of "just us two". (Name that movie for an extra entry!) More time in the mountains. More time by the ocean. More times dancing in the sun, running through meadows, and kissing at the cliff's edge of limitless blue ridges. Ordinary And, yet, Remarkable moments. So, introducing, #oarsessions. (Did you catch what I did there?)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ To enter:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 1. You must be following @oceanandridge here and Facebook!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 2. Share this post on your Instagram/Facebook stories!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 3. Tag a friend! Every tag here and on FB counts as an entry!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 4. Tell me one not-so-obvious reason you adore your love. Spill it!!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Rules: a) you must be willing to sign a model release and portrait contract; b) the session must take place within 5 hours of Roanoke, Va; c) your session must take place within the 20-21 calendar year; d) you must be willing to take a little adventure; e) a random entry will be drawn on August 10, 2020; f) you must be 18 or older to enter!
  • It’s launch day!!! The new website is live and ready for you to view!! I’d love to hear what you think! I’m horrible about having a fun countdown ready for you guys - mostly because I’m impatient and too excited - but come back tomorrow and be ready for a launch giveaway and special offer! A special thank you to @inkandlaurel for the gorgeous logos and branding and @northfolkco for providing such amazing design templates! 😍
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    It’s launch day!!! The new website is live and ready for you to view!! I’d love to hear what you think! I’m horrible about having a fun countdown ready for you guys - mostly because I’m impatient and too excited - but come back tomorrow and be ready for a launch giveaway and special offer! A special thank you to @inkandlaurel for the gorgeous logos and branding and @northfolkco for providing such amazing design templates! 😍
  • It's happening!! Ocean + Ridge has officially gotten it's website facelift and complete rebrand and will be LIVE tomorrow! As with every rebrand and launch, I'm sure there will be kinks to work out, but I cannot WAIT for you to see what I worked on over the quiet season and in between sneaking in some time with my couples and getting back into weddings and elopements now that thing have opened up a bit! I hope you're as excited as me!! I'll see you tomorrow when it goes live!!
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    It's happening!! Ocean + Ridge has officially gotten it's website facelift and complete rebrand and will be LIVE tomorrow! As with every rebrand and launch, I'm sure there will be kinks to work out, but I cannot WAIT for you to see what I worked on over the quiet season and in between sneaking in some time with my couples and getting back into weddings and elopements now that thing have opened up a bit! I hope you're as excited as me!! I'll see you tomorrow when it goes live!!
  • Alright guys. Entertain me. What's one song you've put on repeat or played one too many times? I'm deep into editing today, and I have a BRAND NEW WEBSITE coming very VERY soon, so lend me your must-have songs to get you through the grind!
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    Alright guys. Entertain me. What's one song you've put on repeat or played one too many times? I'm deep into editing today, and I have a BRAND NEW WEBSITE coming very VERY soon, so lend me your must-have songs to get you through the grind!