7 years ago, this boy made me a mother. All 5 lbs, 7 oz of him. That tiny baby turned our world upside down and changed us forever, in the best way. Because of him, our hearts grew larger, patience stronger, and laughter more abundant. He is strong and loving, kind and fiercely protective. I am so proud of how well he has transitioned from a comfortable life in Buffalo, NY that he knew well, to a brand new one in Orlando, FL. He has adjusted to a new place, new schedule, new way of learning, and has made some great friends along the way.
It always amazes me just how much changes in the course of a year. He has been more shy than I have ever seen him. I suppose at this age,  he's also learning that he can be vulnerable. He thinks armpit farts and chickens are hilarious. He is learning by himself that most superheroes are not real, but he still loves them. I feel I have a short amount of time remaining for him to want to watch cartoon movies with me, and snuggle while we watch. We are now reading books together, rather than me reading to him. He still asks for extra hugs at bed time, which I will cherish for as long as he continues to ask.
Most days, he is dressed in a superhero costume. If not a costume, it's mesh shorts and a superhero t-shirt. I had to make him change his two sizes too small Flash shirt for this photo. He immediately ripped it off, Hulk style. He loves adventure and all animals. He can talk for an entire car ride, asking question after question, but has started to read books on long drives. He loves playing hockey, soccer, and swimming. Most of all, he loves his family. He is beast of a boy with an even bigger heart. We are so proud of the person he is becoming.
Happy 7th Birthday, Bubba! 

How can you not love this town? The architecture, the history, the food...New Orleans is amazing. So, I got of Orlando for the weekend and tagged along with my husband on one of his work trips and did some exploring while he was in meetings. I found so many aspects of this city intriguing. I love the meshing of cultures, the Spanish and French influences, the eclectic nuances throughout the city. Everything was just so alive. Music in the street, to-go cups for your drinks, the place is surreal. We saw a wedding ceremony decend out to the street with a full band and the whole reception danced down the street, following the lead of the bride and groom. You couldn't help but stop to watch! That is certainly new, grand exit idea, brides!! 
We were only there for a few days, but I was happy to get back to kiddos. I feel like they grew so much in such a short time. Well, Tess is no longer sitting in a high chair since we returned, so she really is a big girl now!  Being away from the ones you love for some time really makes you embrace the time you share with them. Mike and I had countless conversations about the kids, what they were up to and how we missed them. The wild life of parents! It was a fun trip and I'm happy to be home.
I took way to many photos...so I will apologize in advance for the overshare of buildings and all things random, quirky and NOLA related! Enjoy! 

We stole a few minutes to take some quick photos before Reid's bedtime, while my three kids wrestled in the living room. Yes, Tess was right in there. Reid was teething and ready for his bottle, but I'm so happy we could catch him at this age, in their beautiful home, before the explosion of all things baby. Reid is the most smiley, chill little guy. He is a dream baby, sleeping 12 hours and excited to army crawl around the floor, stopping only to give the most adorable one toothed, drooling grin! I just love seeing Dustin and Caitlin as proud parents! 

Mix of film and digital! 

I was so excited to catch up with this sweet family while they were on their vacation at Disney World. The tiny newborn that I photographed 3 years ago, in Buffalo, is now running around and telling me stories about his adventures in Orlando! No longer a baby, he has become such an animated little boy. Both of these little guys had so much fun visiting all the theme parks and making sandcastles, daily, at the resort beach. What a nice break from the snowy winter they have had in The 'B'. The Grand Floridian is so beautiful, there is so much to do, and really, the place makes you never want to leave. They call Disney the happiest place on earth. This extends even to the Disney hotels. Coming from Buffalo, my kids were confused why we won't stay at Disney World for a week like all their friends did when they traveled down here. They think you sleep at Disney World and  were not impressed that we could conveniently drive back to our house from the park. The Grand Floridian was pretty impressive. Everyone was so nice and the place was buzzing with happy families well into the evening. When I got into my car, it made me realize I was not actually on vacation. But driving home, sun setting and sandy toes, I realized we do kind of live in paradise. Although I deeply miss our friends and family in Buffalo, we are fortunate that so many come to the Orlando area for family vacations! 

There is something about the last few minutes before bed or a nap. This little one is so snuggly. She will back peddle, scootch right into my lap, and look up at me. She lays her head back for a moment and sniffs her blanket. I know she is beyond tired, but these precious few minutes are so sweet that I allow her to linger. Perhaps, it is her way of procrastinating, but it reminds me of when she was a tiny baby and wanted to be held all the time. I notice her wanting to do everything on her own now and it is these quiet moments that I don't ever want to forget.
Pinky is her comfort when she is tired. All three of our children have a blanket they use when they sleep. Our oldest has a scrap of his, but after 6 years, he still sleeps with it. The many nights, naps, and trips out when they were too tired or sick to leave their beloved blankies at home. I know this sole pink blanket will be ripped and shredded very soon. Replacements will be ordered. Pinky has gotten us through the last days of nursing, fevers and teething, and sleeping on trips away from home. It smells just like her. 
It is so hard to believe that 18 months have passed since she was born. Days are not perfect. There are tantrums when she doesn't get what she wants. But, she turns it on before bed. She scampers out from the bathtub and lies right on the floor, ready to be dressed in her jammies. I know she is exhausted. It's tough keeping up with two older brothers all day. I pick her up and she leans her little head against mine and pats my shoulder with her tiny hand. It melts my heart. I lay her down in her crib. She snuggles up with Pinky and gives me a very enthusiastic "Bye-Bye".
Maybe it's because I know this is our last baby, I am hanging on to every single memory. I keep trying to etch these moments into my brain or write about it so I don't forget these sweet memories. Maybe I'm just getting older and it's hard to remember anything! As they grow, we also grow as parents. We become more observant, more patient. I am learning to find comfort in the tender moments, amidst the chaos of the day, and know that although it seems they are growing much too quickly, we are all growing together. 

Photographed on film. 

I remember 8th grade being such a unique and transforming year. The feeling that the end is near, but to believe that end is a new beginning, is hard to fathom. It's a huge step moving from middle school to high school. There is the physical transition to a new school and all of the emotions that follow. Friends moving to different schools. Feeling sad to move in a different direction. Excited for the new relationships this journey will bring. Learning more about subjects you never thought you'd care about and learning so much about yourself along the way. It's a beautiful and emotional time. These young people, our daughters, sons, nieces, nephews, grandchildren...they will all go through it. My children may not be at this age yet, but it is coming all too quickly.

​I remember thinking no one could understand. Being an adult now, I know that I really can't understand. Things are very different for every generation. Sure, some of the struggles will always be the same but I know it was sometimes hard for me and some days may be the same for them. Growing up and knowing it. It's a wonderfully fun and incredibly scary thing. I may not always understand, but I can listen. My hope for every young person is that they know they are smart, kind and brave. I hope that we give them the tools and confidence that they will use to succeed. They may be fearless or fearful, but they are the future. They are our future. I truly believe that they will be better, for they have to be. They are ours. 

I was fortunate enough to photograph a lovely styled shoot with Taylor'd Southern Events. I believe that inspiration comes with a story, so here is my take on this portion of the styled session...

Amidst the nerves and excitement of seeing your groom and jumping into your forever life, there is an important time just before. That time you spend getting ready for the biggest day of your life, with the most important people in your life. Those girls you grew up with, whose opinions you value, who tell you if you have something in your teeth and who love you as much as the person you are about to marry. This inspirational post focuses on this intimate and exciting period of time. 

The girls are getting ready at Arundel Estate, a marvelous venue, just outside Orlando, with classic southern charm. Our bride is breathtaking. She has her best friends beside her and they are all having fun at this alluring Estate as she awaits meeting her groom on their wedding day. 

Our bride’s dress is the palest shade of blush with intricate lace detail. It is beautifully paired with a two tier, mid length veil and sleek updo. The florals are both classic and vibrant with peonies, roses and modern greens. The bridesmaids look chic and elegant in their blush pink dresses with gold accents. 

A simple sweetheart table adorned with local greens, luxurious gold tableware and a cozy bench resides on the relaxed poolside terrace. A gorgeous, custom water color designed paper suite by Scissortail Creative Co-op, added to the whimsical and lighthearted feel of the wedding day. 

Once everyone was ready, the bridesmaids were delighted to send off their bride to her romantic new beginning in a classic black ride. A brand new feeling of excitement and fun await. 

A huge thank you to this dream team of vendors:
​
Planner and Designer – Taylor'd Southern Events 
Venue – Arundel Estate
Florist – Fern and Curl Designs
Cake – Rose Hill Cakes
Vintage Rentals & Décor – Weathered and Worn Vintage Market
Reception Table & Arbor - Taylor'd Southern Events
Dishes & Flatware - Dishie Rentals
Classic Car - Cole's Classic Cars For Hire
Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist – igotodidi.com
Calligrapher – Etui & Co
Bridal Gowns & Bridesmaid Dresses - Bridal Gallery of Orlando
Menswear – Men's Warehouse
Invitation Suite - Scissortail Creative Co-op
Bride & Groom - Katelyn & Jared Haile
Solo Bride - Danielle Montalvo
Bridesmaid - Hannah Gardner
Bridesmaid - Breanna Swanson

Photographed using a mix of medium format film and digital imagery. 

So this is pretty exciting! 

The Editors' Choice Awards honor Two Bright Lights submitters whose work was continually recognized by top print magazines, blogs, and websites.  Just honored to be a part of this group! 

Taylor'd Southern Events had a vision for an elegant affair featuring blush pink, an assortment of beautiful greens and metallic accents. Lauren created a modern take on classic southern staples. In this inspirational shoot, a beautiful love story comes to life at a small town venue full of character and southern charm. 

Arundel Estate is set amongst eleven beautiful acres in the heart of Central Florida. The stunning two-story southern estate is like no other hotel or venue location. Surrounded by endless manicured landscapes, oak canopies, and a fragrant lavender field the estate property is simply incredible. 

Our models exemplify the modern day bride and groom with a bit of southern flare. The bride wears a romantic flowing gown, adorned with long, lace sleeves and an open back. The blooms are a lovely mix of pastel colors with a variety of unexpected textures. The color pallet, with hints of blush and pops of peach, accentuates the warmth of the South. Spring inspired pastels such as pale lavender, ivory hues and subtle greens provide a whimsical feel. 

A small tablescape takes its cue from the grandeur of the venue with metallic candelabras, gold accents and delicate flower sprigs. Greens in the centerpiece are pulled from the surrounding landscapes. 

Our real life couple share an uncompromising love for one another that make this story all the more endearing.  A polite, charming, romanticism between two people that will last forever.

I find film so dreamy. I'm encouraged in this learning journey as many of the images below were captured on film. 

Thank you to all of the amazing vendors who brought this styled shoot together:
Planner and Designer – Taylor'd Southern Events 
Venue – Arundel Estate
Florist – Fern and Curl Designs
Cake – Rose Hill Cakes
Vintage Rentals & Décor – Weathered and Worn Vintage Market
Reception Table & Arbor - Taylor'd Southern Events
Dishes & Flatware - Dishie Rentals
Classic Car - Cole's Classic Cars For Hire
Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist – igotodidi.com
Calligrapher – Etui & Co
Bridal Gowns & Bridesmaid Dresses - Bridal Gallery of Orlando
Menswear – Men's Warehouse
Invitation Suite - Veraly & Company
Bride & Groom - Katelyn & Jared Haile
Solo Bride - Danielle Montalvo
Bridesmaid - Hannah Gardner
Bridesmaid - Breanna Swanson