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Tea time baby announcement

5/13/2015

This family session was amazing! Everything about it was perfect and I had so much fun setting up. Originally, this was going to be just a tea party photo session with sweet little London and a few of her closest stuffed friends. However, the family just found out they are expecting baby #2, so tea time also became a good time to get mom and dad in there and make an announcement. I'd like to take credit for the adorable chalkboard framed sign, but London's mommy made it and was the mastermind behind the setup and everything turned out beautifully! I really do love seeing a vision come to life and my greatest reward is to know I've captured it.
After we had tea, we walked around and the sun was just setting, so we had lovely skies for some family photos. I'm so excited in doing this mama's maternity photos this fall, she is so stunning, and will be absolutely glowing when her baby belly is nice is and full.

Such a beautiful girl! Her sweetness just emanates...

One of my favorite pieces of the tea party was a vintage Cabbage Patch doll. As an 80's child, I totally appreciate those dolls and have a few of my own stashed away. Our kids may never know how awesome our toys were back then, but glad the internet makes everything so accessible so we can show them or even find some.

Congratulations!

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Amanda & Christopher- a Betrothal

5/7/2015

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Betrothal. That's a word you don't hear often unless you're reading a fairy tale or a romantic story of a couple long ago in those black-and-white films. To explain better, I would liken it to our modern-day wedding engagement, but with more guidelines in reference to the actual married and spiritual life and not just wedding planning time. My dear friend Amanda's life story, and what she undergone, has been a testament of her faith...what a strong and extraordinary woman! I'm so happy she and her son will soon be a family unit with Christopher. Seeing their journey has been a blessing, and I'm so honored to have been able to capture a glimpse of their commitment and faith that is ever growing! This event was so special. Of course I had to celebrate alongside them in the best way I know how...with my shutter eyes!
A day before Passover this year, Amanda and Christopher celebrated their betrothal with close family and friends. It was so lovely and intimate; it was actually held on my parents’ property. Every single detail of the ceremony was either handcrafted, handmade, or contributed by friends. I've included links for those that may not be familiar with traditional Jewish betrothal/wedding customs.
The Chuppah was built by my handy husband, flower arrangements/décor chosen by bride, and decorated by friends. Amanda's dress was a rare find at an antique store in Oklahoma. It dates back to the 1920's, and the shop owner was very particular about whom she sold the dress to because it was around Halloween season. The shop owner was afraid someone would purchase it for a costume, destroy it and use it for something gory. After Amanda explained her intentions, she was knew it was going to a good owner. Her beautiful and flawless makeup was done by Jane. She looked absolutely stunning, absolute vintage couture beauty. Amanda's father officiated the beautiful ceremony, Christopher and his father sang to the bride. The Ketubah was hand painted by Amanda's mother. Friends had emotion-filled personal statements that they read aloud. The children played, bread was shared, and heads were bowed in prayer...Mazel Tov! All my best, love, and support to you Amanda, and as I told the groom "Welcome to the family, familia, mishpacha"!
The marriage covenant is truly sacred, and this betrothal ceremony was a great example of how young people should view the deeper meaning of entering into a marriage union. You can read more about Amanda's story and the ceremony on her blog here
Before the ceremony, I knew I had to go to my favorite garden. With spring in full bloom, I have to take advantage of all the amazing flowers and foliage south Florida has to offer. We were there for a short 20 minutes to make it on time for the ceremony!

Disclaimer: I am not an event photographer! Especially a wedding or ceremony photographer, that's really not my specialty at all. I've found my happy little niche with families, where I can let loose, play and smile as we go. I highly respect wedding/event photographers, it's a territory I don't think I'd want to tackle, but appreciate the art. These are just a few personal photos I took of the joyous event. Phew, ok, I hope you guys are easy on me critiquing my work when you view the ceremony photos that I mostly took while holding my 17 month old ;) While I doubt I'll have flocks of people inquiring about event photography after this, I'd be happy to refer you to a photographer that does specialize in that.