FEATURED IN: Emmaline Bride

So excited that it's Lauren and Ryan's wedding week AND their engagement sesh is featured on Emmaline Bride today! Hop on over to Emmaline's blog and check it out. (:

North Cypress Member Perks

I've had a few minimum wage-esque jobs in high school and college, most of which were at gyms, coffee shops, or heck, even coffee shops IN gyms. I'll tell you, there's something about working in both of these atmospheres that just brightens your day--or it did for me, at least. I loved the spirit of uplifting people I met in both of these places so much, that I always say someday, perhaps when I retire, I'll go back and work in a gym or a coffee shop--just for the sake of meeting bright and beautiful people. Perhaps its the good endorphins flowing and the routine-oriented people that frequent these places, I don't know. But I'll tell you, they're a bunch of happy humans.

Health and wellness are a pretty big deal to me. I think caring for your body and fueling it for success and longevity is one of the greatest gifts you could give yourself. It invigorates the mind, as well as the physical body, it breeds an environment of goals, and it paves the way for personal achievement. We've been members of our particular gym for a few years now, and I'll tell you, the faces we come to see every day there, just become sort of like an uplifting family.

Well, it turns out, our already AWESOME gym is in the process of a $3 million dollar expansion. Yep, you read that right. A fabulous club that already has a sauna, outdoor pool, tons of group exercise class offerings, a bistro, a salon, and childcare is now expanding EVEN MORE. Part of their expansion will include larger group exercise rooms, tons of new equipment, a sports complex, a private poolside party room, and some pretty cool new training concepts. The best part? Our monthly membership is EXTREMELY affordable. If you're local and want to read more about the expansion, you can do so here.

Anyhow, what's the point of me telling you this on my photography blog? Well, I'll tell you. (: As part of their new expansion and courtesy to members, new and old, North Cypress is partnering with a few local businesses to provide savings exclusively for North Cypress members. I'm so thrilled to announce that I've decided to partner with them for the upcoming year! SO, if you're a member or thinking about becoming a member, feel free to contact me or the club for more information on these sweet deals exclusive to YOU. I'm so looking forward to meeting you and expanding Kali Norton Photography with these offerings this year!

And if you are a local and would like to meet me and see more of my work in person, I will be at Imagine Boutique in downtown Hammond next Friday, April 4th from 6pm til 10pm for Art in April.  Our little town is so great at putting on events to celebrate art and local business, all with the most festive atmosphere. So come stop by, browse Imagine Boutique's PERFECT new Spring arrivals, and have a glass of bubbly with me! I'd love to meet you!

Stephanie + Joel - Part II

Happy first day of Spring! Oh how optimistic I am about blooming flowers and sunshine. As promised, here's the second part of Stephanie and Joel's sweet, sweet engagements. Since we are welcoming in the first day of Spring today, I thought it was appropriate to share this part with all of the pretty white blooms... 

These black and whites were both Stephanie and my favorites.

 I hope you enjoyed part two of these little lovers. Stay tuned for some Cabo goodness when they say their nuptials next May! Have a fabulous weekend, my friends.

Stephanie + Joel - Part I

I'm quite a girl. In fact, Preston wouldn't fight anyone on the notion that I'm as girly as they come. With that being said, we girls tend to have a bit of a rep for changing friends much more frequently than guys as we go into adulthood. Tis' ever-so-true. Stephanie and I were pretty attached during some of our younger years. As time went on, we drifted, then went on with our lives. But what I love as I look back on all of the various friendships I've had from childhood to adulthood, is that I look at where most of the ladies I've had the pleasure of being close to have grown to be, and well, it's just a beautiful thing, this life. Perhaps it has a lot to do with the fact that we are living out our twenties with eyes for adventure and ambition. Nonetheless, dream-inspired and goal driven seems to be a common theme.  This is absolutely true of Stephanie and her fiance' Joel.

Stephanie and Joel most certainly seize the day, and it's something I find so admirable about their relationship. After meeting Joel for the first time, I instantly saw the comforting love, security, and adventure he provides Stephanie. They are equals and they work life so beautifully as a team. This was so very apparent to me just from being around them. They even backpacked through Europe for 5 weeks last year, just taking time to soak in people, food, and culture. Are you in love with them yet? I am. (:

As I mentioned with a few past engagements, when photographing an old friend, a beautiful nostalgia comes into play. This was most certainly no different as I photographed Stephanie and Joel. We had a ball, laughing and chatting the entire time.

The comfort they had around one another seriously just found itself so perfectly on the screen of my camera.

Stephanie and Joel, you both exude beauty, inside and out. I'm so very grateful for the opportunity to spend more time with your contagiously warm and bright souls this year. And of course, I most certainly cannot wait to document you tying the knot in Cabo next May. Here's to love, travel, and doing life so big. Cheers!

Caitlyn + BJ

It's always particularly special to me when I have the opportunity to document a monumental life event of someone whom I've personally known for some significant portion of life. To observe them a little more intimately, through my lens, and see the true emotion that exists within them during this season in life. This is one of the many reasons I was overjoyed when Caitlyn asked me to document her wedding and this season in life for her and BJ.

You see, I've known Caitlyn with all of her sweet personality and smile that could light up a room since pre-school. In fact, there's a photo of us from pre-school with some other fine ladies that I grew up with that I tried to dig up for this post, but I couldn't locate it. Caitlyn's smile alone is so full of joy, it's no wonder BJ wants to spend the rest of his life with her. I've also known BJ for quite some time. He too has a welcoming smile and persona that leaves you feeling right at home.

Caitlyn and BJ both attended Southeastern, so photographs among the quaint streets of our little college town were nothing short of appropriate.

The above photo, to me, personifies the welcomed warmth BJ exudes, especially towards Caitlyn. And her smile below is that genuine Caitlyn smile I was speaking of. And just so we're clear, he definitely brought her home these flowers the day of our session, so she found it only appropriate to bring them along. I'm so glad she did. Ah, little sweet gestures...

I happen to love little detail shots to tie outfits, colors, and surroundings together. I particularly love the ones I snapped in this session, because I feel that they really show the personality of our adorable little college town. It's nothing extravagant in Hammond, Louisiana to most, but when I walk the streets, I feel so much appreciation for the personality in all of the little nooks and crannies.

Caitlyn and BJ, I adore the relationship you share just as much as I adore the two of you. I could not feel more honored and delighted to document this part of life for you. Here's to January, and the many years to follow.

Allie + Dalton

Mylanta, where do I even start? Allie was one of my best friends in high school. In fact, we were pretty much inseparable for a while. We drove to school together every day, lived only a few streets apart, and were pretty much together all hours that we weren't obsessing over school activities and insanely high GPAs. The insanely high GPAs makes me chuckle a little now. While that was undoubtedly so very important and I FULLY support striving for the highest academic achievements, our unwavering need for nothing less than a 107 percent was a little insane. I think, perhaps, I could have stressed a little less and enjoyed my youth a little more. Nonetheless, I can't say I've changed much--presumably, it's come in handy running a business.

Anyhow, as I went to college, Allie was a couple of years younger than me and, naturally, we drifted a bit. It was fine, though as we both have personalities that seem to fully embrace the change and seasons of friendships, which I love. I've always found that the best friends are the ones who understand these seasons, and nonetheless, can pick up right where we left off.

I hadn't seen Allie in quite some time before her engagement session, but you would have sworn we'd kept in touch weekly by the banter that ensued during. And, of course, I should have known that Allie would end up with a gentleman who fits right in, interjecting his own entertaining comments as if he's known a person for years. This is exactly how my Allie is. She's got a heart of gold, an adventurous spirit, and a drive for the utmost success. She's full of talent and her wit never misses a beat. After spending time with Dalton, I learned of his perfection for her, on all counts.

Being around Allie had me laughing harder than I've laughed in a long time. I forgot how absolutely entertaining she is. This girl could light up a room with her wit and ability to make people laugh.

This is pretty much how most of the session went, belly-aching, face-palming laughter. And then, OH THEN, there was Copper. Copper is the adorable little guy below, Allie and Dalton's 5-month-old "baby." He's SO smart too. He performed all of his little pup tricks for me and sat ever-so-perfectly for photos.

This next one was my favorite photograph from the session. Cozy, warm, AND cable knit cream...right up my alley...

We ended their session on the water at sunset just opening some beers and hanging out by the water--how I recommend ALL engagement sessions should be. We just relaxed, talked, and got some photos in that truly represent Dalton and Allie. Plus, they brought Shiner's Holiday Brew, Holiday Cheer, which I came across this year at Christmas time and is an absolute favorite of mine now. (:

Allie and Dalton, I'm so elated for your future together, on so many levels. I could not have picked a better match and I truly adore every aspect of you two and the start of what will be a life of beautiful adventure and, undoubtedly, never-ending laughter together. Moreover, I'm ever so grateful to have the honor of documenting these first moments of your life together. I love you both.

The 2013 Portrait Favorites

Whew, what a year of growth and self-exploration 2013 was for both me personally and my business. Since the holidays are over and I refuse to let the post-Christmas blues get me down, I've decided to start a yearly tradition in which YOU get to vote on YOUR favorite portraits of 2013! The client voted favorite portrait will win a $25 gift card to Gap, Jcrew, or Anthropologie (winner's choice). Most of these are from my 2013 portrait sessions, with the exception of a couple from 2012 that I just couldn't not include, since I've never done a giveaway of favorites before. Also, because my favorite portraits are the ones heavy on emotion, I've converted them into black and white. While I love a color portrait, I believe that the black and white allows you to fully observe the beauty of emotion I was trying to capture in each photograph. Here's how it will work: To vote, simply state your favorite of the twenty listed in the comments at the bottom of the post, that's it! 

One vote is allowed per reader; however, you may share the post and get as much friends and family to vote as you'd like! The contest starts today and goes through this Wednesday, January 8th at midnight. The winner will be announced on Thursday's blog post.

Disclaimer: This does not include my weddings, so if you were one of my brides, don't feel left out, I've just decided that weddings did not belong in this category. Instead, I think I may do a summer giveaway especially for brides in the future.

1. Waller - Lifestyle Family Portrait

2. Dunckleman - Lifestyle Portrait

3. Blanchard - Lifestyle Family Portrait

4. Callie - Senior Lifestyle Portrait

5. Nelson - Lifestyle Engagement Portrait

6. Kaylyn - Lifestyle Senior Portrait

7. Rebecca - Lifestyle Maternity Portrait

8. Franklin - Lifestyle Family Portrait

9. Waguespack - Lifestyle Engagement Portrait

10. Ducote - Lifestyle Family Portrait

11. Fabre - Lifestyle Family Portrait

12. Franklin - Lifestyle Newborn Portrait

13. Blanchard - Lifestyle Family Portrait

14. Dunckleman - Lifestyle Portrait

15. Bailey - Lifestyle Senior Potrait

16. Owen - Lifestyle Family Portrait

17. Waller - Lifestyle Newborn Portrait

18. Cefalu - Lifestyle Family Portrait 

19. Harrison - Lifestyle Portrait

20. Minear - Lifestyle Family Portrait

To vote, simply enter YOUR favorite in the comments below. Contest ends at midnight on Wednesday, January 8th. The client voted favorite portrait will win a $25 gift card to Gap, Jcrew, or Anthropologie (winner's choice). Happy voting!

A Southern Louisiana Wedding - Ashley + Matt

A girl born and raised near the mossy trees and cypress knees of South Louisiana, Ashley knew in every ounce of her being that her heart desired the most traditional Southern Catholic wedding with hints of all things reminding her of her sweet childhood and heritage. Both food lovers and raised near the bayous of South Louisiana, these sweet Southern elements came easily. I love the soft tones, mossy grey hues, and natural light that filled Ashley and Matt's day.

Ashley gifted her parents sentimental tokens of her appreciation on the morning of her wedding day, and for her mother, that meant Love You Forever by Robert Munsch. I'd like to imagine this book holds sentimental value for a few of us. I don't think I'll ever forget my own personal memories of the countless times my granny read it to me as a child...

Her wedding party was small and her colors were classic--all making for a timeless compilation of color and emotion to encompass the day.

Ashley and Matt did not opt for a first look, however, her dad hadn't seen her dress or any elements of the day, so she had a very special moment with him.

Ashley and Matt had a traditional Catholic Mass, followed by a traditional South Louisiana reception. If you know anything about South Louisiana weddings, you know this means the dance floor wasn't empty. (;

Both Ashley and Matt's mothers were not shy of a good time, and our cameras were thankful.

 Ashley and Matt, thank you for choosing us to be a part of your day. I hope for you nothing less than a lifetime of love, cherished moments, and happiness.

Lauren + Trey {engaged} - Part II

I just adore the class that these two exude and the sweet dynamic they share. In case you missed the first part of Lauren and Trey's session, you can check it out here. Now, if only I wouldn't be so antsy to see all of the fabulous planning Lauren has up her sleeve for October. Undoubtedly, it will be breathtaking.

For now, here's part two of their sweet engagement sesh...

Happy Friday!

Lauren + Trey {Engaged} - Part I

When Lauren and I began collaborating on the style of this session, I knew our outcome would be fabulous. And oh my word, it was just that! My jaw dropped and wheels started turning as I learned quickly how much I adored these two, how much this session would come to feel as though it were straight out of a Jcrew magazine, and how excited I'd be for documenting their wedding next October.

Lauren's a sweet Southern girl and an organization obsessor after my own heart. And Trey? He's just the type of comic relief most of us Type-A girls need for the perfect balance in our lives. That's just one beautifully pieced dynamic I learned about their sweet relationship. Scroll, and swoon, over part one of their classic, timeless style...

When Lauren showed up with red wine AND s'mores, there was no question she was destined to be my bride...

This little fella? His name is Teddy. He's perfect. Trey shared with me that he briefly debated naming him Chewie before they decided on Teddy...and then I died.

Lauren and Trey, from your sweet, Southern hospitality, to your classic style, to your inviting persona, you had me at "Hello." I cannot wait to get to know you even more and collaborate with you to create perfection for you next October. Stay tuned for Part II. Happy Hump Day!

Bethany + Chase {Engaged}

She's bubbly, he's chill and quiet. Friends for years and now planning to spend their lives together, Bethany and Chase wooed me full force during their session. Not only were they beautifully smitten with one another, but they were perfectly comfortable in front of the camera. In fact, they fell into place so naturally, it was almost as if I weren't even there -- just how I like it. (:

What I loved most about them was that even Chase was incredibly comfortable in front of the camera. But moreso, the interaction he had with Bethany that naturally unfolded from him taking the lead to make them both comfortable and natural, was so, so very beautiful to me. A man leading his lady so delicately is a beautiful thing. I adore these two so much.

I loved Bethany's low-back maxi with her soft curls. They both worked it! In fact, I told Chase I'll need to hire him to direct men for me at weddings. Kidding! But really...he was a pro.

There's little in life more beautiful to me than a happy woman. While, of course, happy people and general are great to be around, there's something specific about a woman. Every single time I capture photographs where I can tell, genuinely tell, that the woman in them is happy, content--that all is right in her world--I fell an immense feeling of satiety inside me.

Bethany and Chase, I absolutely cannot wait for our year of adventure and planning together. And what's more, I cannot wait to document you two becoming one next October. Stay beautiful, radiant, and in love always.

Meet My Second Shooter...

He is my comic relief, my voice of reason amidst my frequent female freak-out sessions. He’s a genius brain and knower of any random fact. He is my avid video gamer, Pop Culture lover, Scout Sniper and Reconnaissance Marine. He’s my textbook reader and fixer of all electronic devices. He is my Mister Social, risk taker, and limit pusher.

He pushes me when I’m scared, picks me up when I fall, and challenges me when I’m stubborn. Our adventure in love has taught me more about life than I ever could have imagined, and brought me an eye for documenting life and love in a whole new light. It’s taught me to embrace life’s moments and the huge story, feeling, and era that lies behind each photograph. He connects with people and sees life in a whole different dynamic than I—and this is why he documents your day alongside me.

When you hire us for your wedding day, you're getting more than just a photographer and second shooter, you're getting a team of newlyweds who know the adventures, successes, trials, and monumental moments you will experience in this crazy next chapter -- because trust me, it will be crazy. And it will be beautiful.

Some of the most monumental times in your life are ahead. There will be beauty, there will be breakdown, there will be all emotions in between. There will be days when you need to listen to your wedding song after a fight or look through those pictures to remind you of how you felt at those moments, to remind you. This is why we document.

How to Join the Creative Process Alongside Your Photographer (For Brides)

This is a post for those of you who want more than just photographs documenting a timeline of events from your wedding day. It's for the bride who wants to feel something -- a bigger story, if you will -- when she looks back on her photographs. A story, that when she looks back, doesn't remind her of the miniscule happenings or stress surrounding the wedding, but instead, a story that tells her of her place, maturity, experiences at that moment in life. A feeling that tells of her place with her brand new spouse at that time -- of the ripe, new relationship. It's for the bride who wants to look back on her photographs and feel every inch of the person she has become since then. Because, for me, a beautiful nostalgia or prideful feeling of accomplishment are the greatest gifts photographs can give us...

There is a difference between a photograph taken by someone who's a stranger and someone who knows your style, your personality, and the dynamic within your relationship. What I've found to be the absolute key to getting organic images full of pure emotion and style, is an experience based firmly on communication. This is why I base the planning process with my brides on a system centered on certain specific points of communication that I believe to be essential to a welcoming relationship and great photographs.

Let's talk more about some ideal communication. Good communication breeds a relationship that makes a bride feel like a friend to me. In addition to our frequent emails, perhaps a Skype meeting or two, and maybe even a little dinner double date in my home, I encourage my brides to join me in communication in a few simple ways:

1. BLOGS AND PINTEREST: Let's face it, Pinterest has become a common theme of our generation and what a beautiful tool it is! I encourage you to create Pinterest boards for your own personal inspiration, but I encourage you to invite me to join the process. Even more than Pinterest, I encourage you to find wedding blogs that speak to you. Tell me about them. Tell me of your overall style, vision, and FEELING you're trying to acheive. This gives me such great insight on your personal style and a look you may be trying to achieve, but cannot put into words for me. It allows me to see and interpret your style, see what inspires you, and mesh them together after getting to know you to create the perfect curated story that is all your own.

With that being said, please don't submit to me specific Pinterest photos you'd like replicated. That's a different story and won't create anything authentic for YOU.

2. SOCIAL NETWORKING: Invite me to join your social network. While Pinterest is great for styling and creative direction, this allows me to get to know you on a more personal level. It allows me to interact and learn about your personalty, the things you are passionate about, or maybe a little of your relationship dynamic. Let's make the most of social media. (:

3. ENGAGEMENT SESSION: Engagement sessions are a fabulous way, and in my opinion THE BEST way, to join in on the creative process. During the process of collaborative planning for an engagement session, I truly get to know you as a couple, what you're like when you're not dealing with wedding-esque things, and the you that makes you two who you are. Essentially, engagement sessions allow me to really learn the foundation and dynamic of your relationship. They allow me to learn what the both of you are like behind the camera, your best angles, and how to make you feel most natural on the wedding day. Engagement sessions create the foundation for a beautiful tradition of taking photographs with one another. This is a tradition I feel very strongly about among married couples in the first years of marriage (and well, always) for the many benefits it brings. You can read more about those sentiments here.

I hope this post helps inspire you a little. I can't wait for us to become great friends!

FAQs {Lifestyle Sessions}

Lifestyle sessions are the best ways to document growth every year. Whether it's growth of a child, relationship, or family as a whole, I truly believe in the importance of having this documentation yearly. In fact, as I mentioned in this post, Preston and I make it a point to fit a stylized lifestyle session into our budget every year. You should go read THAT POST about the invaluable meaning of these sessions and the way it's helped us grow as a married couple, documenting the first years of our family and the journey of learning life together.

Yes, a Lifestyle Session is an investment, but it's an absolutely invaluable one for me. It's a monumental experience, planned meticulously to capture raw and organic emotion, style, and love into a curated time capsule. I love the profound joy I have in knowing that the milestones of my own life with Preston have been beautifully documented.  I pray that I give you an inkling of such joy in your own photographs. It’s not just about the photographs for me, though — it’s about the ups and downs, trials, and tribulations of life that you have experienced with the people you love in those photographs. It’s the feeling of accomplishment of making it through those ups and downs with that boyfriend, fiance’, or spouse.  It about the feeling you get when looking at your beautiful grown-up daughter as she graduates from high school and imagining the nine months you carried her in your womb.  I do what I do because I love capturing these milestones so you always remember these blessed feelings.  I want to create treasured heirlooms for you as well.  I want you to feel your own radiance when you look at my documentation of your life. Life is beautiful and it should be documented. You only get one, and oh, how it passes ever so quickly!

I've put together a little informational post for you guys answering some frequently asked questions about my Lifestyle Sessions. Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to learn more! Below are some of my favorite shots from recent Lifestyle Sessions. Scroll through to see these and read through the FAQs. (:

How much do you charge for stylized lifestyle photography?

My consultation, curating, editing, and disk of final images costs $500. Sessions are for individuals, couples, or immediate family members. Please inquire about extended family sessions. I also have additional offerings, including prints, canvases, albums, and other art pieces. If you’d like to learn more about additional offerings, please inquire here (kali@kalinorton.com).

How long after the session does it take to get all of our edited images?

It typically takes 2-3 weeks for full editing completion. It’s probably tempting to ask how the progression is going, but just know I am working very diligently to finish your beautiful images in a timely, yet quality manner.

Do I get printing rights to all of the images?

Yes! Once I finish editing the images from your session, I deliver a DVD to you. You are then allowed the printing rights to these images. I have a list of preferred printing locations that will print your images with the best color and quality. You are also able to post these on Facebook, Twitter, or wherever you choose. If you wish instead, a $250 credit towards prints through me is offered with the collection purchase in lieu of the DVD. All of the images will also be posted in an online proofing site where you can view them and order if you’d like.

Can I order prints, albums, and other specialty products through you?

Yes, you sure can! Many of my clients like to own the digital copy of their session; however, still prefer to print products through me with my professional lab. You can inquire about printing, album design, and other product offerings here (kali@kalinorton.com).

When do you book sessions?

I book sessions on Monday-Thursdays. We work most weekends shooting weddings, the weekends off are generally spent with family. I ask that you plan work schedules in advance to shoot on weekdays. I typically start the shoot 1-2 hours before sunset or, sometimes, early mornings during busy seasons.

Where are you located?

I’m located in Ponchatoula, Louisiana area, but I take sessions along the entire Gulf Coast…and will travel wherever families, love, or seniors request! For local sessions, I typically shoot in the Hammond/Ponchatoula area or arrange a customized travel fee for locations over 30 miles.

How can I reserve my session date? Can you hold my date?

I require a 25 percent non-refundable retainer of the total collection you choose to reserve your session date. I do not hold a date without a retainer and signed contracts, as dates are booked on a first come, first serve basis.

Do we get all of the images you take on the session day?

No and we do not allow the extra photographs to be seen as they are typically duplicates with eyes closed. I break down all of the images taken into the best collection that beautifully represents the scope of your session. I believe in quality above quantity. These are all hand-picked and edited in detail, then delivered to you as well as posted in an online gallery.

Do you touch up all of your photos?

I do edit each image individually to make sure the color, saturation, and lighting looks as it should. I strive to curate your entire collection with cohesive, timeless beauty.

Do you help me plan outfits and choose a great location?

YES, oh yes! This element is equally as important to me as the actual editing of your images. I truly believe a thoughtfully planned outfits and location coordination are central to beautiful photos and a stress-free shoot. Once you begin the booking process, I will send you details of how we will go about a specific planning process to ensure we are on the same page about the entire style and feel of your session.

What happens if it rains?

All of my lifestyle and senior sessions take place outdoors on location, so I watch weather forecasts days before sessions to try to gauge if rain will affect the session. If it is the case, I will contact you and we will reschedule for another Monday-Thursday available session date that suits the both of us.

What do your albums look like?

I offer premium leather albums. The pages are thick and extremely durable as the photos are printed onto the pages. Each album is custom designed by yours truly in a classic, timeless style. I also offer Fine Art Coffee Table Books with the same classic, timeless design techniques and a linen outer cover.

How long does it take for our albums to arrive?

After the design process is complete, it takes around 6-8 weeks for your albums to be delivered.

Do you make any of our images black and white?

Yes. Some images look better in black and white! I use professional, creative judgment on this. My goal is to make your entire collection as beautiful and timeless as possible.

Does sales tax apply to us?

Yes! If you reside in Louisiana, I am required by the state to charge sales tax.

I hope this answers some of the questions you may have had. If you'd like to learn more or book a Lifestyle Session with me, you can email me at kali@kalinorton.com. I'd absolutely love to get to know you!

No-mayo Chicken Salad + Kendall Jackson Avant

There's something about a delicious, healthy life and the enjoyment of a corresponding wine that just makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. Cooking a delicious, healthy meal, pairing the perfect wine, and mixing good company might be one of my most favorite things in the whole world. I'm pretty sure I could talk about good food and good wine for days AND I absolutely love when people share healthy recipes and wine recommendations with me. So, I've decided to make weekly foodie posts with new, healthy recipes I'm trying and fabulous wines I'm diggin'. Sounds like a win, right? I thought so too.

So, here's our first ever of many "What I'm Loving" foodie posts. I imagine a crowd roar in my head here...

First of all, let me start out by saying that Preston and I have adopted a new way of eating that we've come to absolutely love. I talked about some of those changes a little in this post. With that, we've given up (for the most part) wheat, red meat, and several other things that we realized might be bringing down our energy levels and contributing to other problems. I'll talk more about this in a future post. Among that, we've eaten much more fish, the occasional chicken (hormone-free when possible), fresh fruits, veggies, and grains. This week we were both a little fished-out, so I decided to try my hand at a healthy, no-mayo chicken salad to eat on some lettuce wraps. OH MOMMA, let me tell you, this chicken salad did not disappoint!

Here's what I used:

2 Large Chicken Breasts

1 1/2 Avacados

2 Boiled Eggs

1/2 Cup Fresh Basil (remove stems)

1/4 Cup Dried, Unsweetened Cranberries

4-5 Tablespoons Olive Oil

Seasonings: Sea Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cayenne

Wraps: Romaine Lettuce

Add desired amount of chicken salad, roll and eat. Voila. (: I'm honestly terrible with measuring out my seasonings, so I'll try to be better with that. Be sparing with the sea salt, but the rest you can pretty much season to your preference. Remember, put less and you can always taste test and add more.

And because the aura of a delicious dinner is best paired with a little vino, this is one of my favorite Chardonnays I recommend to pair with such a light meal. I'm mostly a red wine girl, but hot summer days sometimes make a cool, crisp white a great change of pace. For those of you who may not be akin to Chardonnay, I still highly recommend you try this one from Kendall Jackson.

Although it's a Chardonnay, it's made in a way that brings together two separate blends, allowing you to taste more of the fruit-forward notes you would find generally in a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, yet combined perfectly to still taste the slight oak notes that bring in the warm vanilla and spice you often get from a Chardonnay. This little mix of flavors is why it's one of my favorite whites! Some of my near and dear friends like to giggle at me for this, but I like to think that my favorite Chardonnays have a nice, slight buttery taste. Make fun of me if you will, I'll keep appreciating my hints of butter. (;

So, if you're feeling the urge for trying something new, light, and delightfully refreshing, these are definitely my two top recommendations for this warm summer week! Happy Wednesday, my friends.

Alexis {Senior 2013}

In lieu of the FAB senior offer available for 2014 Seniors who book during the month of July (which you can read about HERE, if you haven't already), I'm doing lots of tributes to my breathtaking 2013 Seniors. This group stole my heart. Here's some of my favorite shots from Alexis' session. Her session was the perfect mix of classy, Southern, with a little hint of some saucy vintage. It's always hard for me to pick favorite images from sessions, because I end up with about twenty "favorites," but I think these first few with her TO-DIE-FOR cream lace dress took the cake for me. Her natural expression mixed with the lighting and locale made me feel like I was looking through the JCrew Style lookbook. Since I have a small obsession with JCrew and their fabulous ability to create both timeless style and branding, this was a win for me. And I mean, of course the complete obvious that Alexis is no foe to the camera...

We ended Alexis' session in her dad's very own perfectly polished Thunderbird. I felt like the cast of Grease was going to come out at any time and we would all start singing "Summer Nights." Ok, not really. But I was in awe of the timeless class this vintage-inspired shoot brought. Anyone who knows me knows I work best with a little vintage in my life once in a while.My 2013 Seniors were beyond fabulous. Heck, my seniors always are. They remind me that I better keep my style on point and just how beautiful each and every one of these young women are. No discrimination though, my camera totally works on boys too! Happy Wednesday, my friends!

Kelli + Ryan {Anniversary Session}

Kelli and I have known each other since kindergarten, so when she contacted me about her upcoming one-year wedding anniversary session, I was more than stoked. As I emphasized in this post, regular photo documentation after all of the wedding craze is done is, perhaps, even more special to me. You know, once you're living together, growing together, and realizing the true beauty unveiled in sharing your good, bad, and ugly with that other person. It's magical and scary, all in one sometimes, which is why I find looking back on these professional photographs can be such a rewarding experience for a couple.

Here's Kelli and Ryan. I loved their chemistry and the flow they brought to the session. Everything about this makes my heart sing. Kelli and Ryan, I pray that you look on these photos and see the beauty in your marriage now and forever. I hope that in a year when you look back on these photos that they bring you a nostalgia and whole new sentiment and appreciation for one another. And most of all, I pray that you always remember to document your life together and cherish the ways you grow with one another each year.

Thank you for allowing me to document. I wish you the happiest first wedding anniversary. Cheers!

Chelsey + Kaleb {married}

The plantation was warm and inviting when we arrived, Mimosas and laughter in the air. Chelsey was ready, calm, enjoying every bit of the love surrounding her and the breeze on the giant, drool worthy porch. As the day unfolded, I was sure that we'd have the most perfect spots for all of the intimate photos I had in mind for Chelsey and Kaleb's exchanging of letters and non-look first look. Chelsey and Kaleb didn't want to see each other before the ceremony, so I carefully positioned them for the crafting of some shots that we just couldn't miss at their phenomenal warm, Southern bridal prep locale--and let me tell you, oh how this worked out beautifully and ever-so-intimately! After the exchanging of letters, I was able to move Kaleb so that Chelsey could come up behind him for a hug and a few words, all without him seeing her. It was intimate, quiet--exactly how it should be.

As another added surprise to my Southern, vintage-loving heart, her mother and grandmother's wedding dresses were hanging next to Chelsey's when I arrived. Talk about a photo you'll want to pass down to your grandkids. This gave me so many happy chills, reminding me yet again why I love the art of photo documentation.

Chelsey and Kaleb, I have no words to sum up the beauty of your day and the fun-loving relationship you two share. Not only that, but I'm positive that the love and laughter that surrounded you on that day will continue to surround you for the rest of your lives together. You two are loved, by so many, by one another, and I undoubtedly understand why.

Ceremony/Reception: Cedar Grove Tchopitoulas Plantation

Bridal Prep Location: Ormond Plantation

Chelsey and Kaleb, I truly adore you two and wish you the absolute best.

What I've Learned Through Photographs

This is a post very near and dear to my heart. About what I’ve gained, besides just pretty photographs, from having regular photo sessions with Preston as a newly married couple. About the strength it’s given me in times when I thought I had none. About the beauty and pride it helped me find in myself. All of the aforementioned are ways these sessions have truly enriched my life, helped me find beauty in what I HAVE instead of what else I want, and are priceless time capsules that I cannot wait to show my children someday.

All of this is just another reason why I feel that the documentation through photographs is ever so important. It is why I put it in our budget to make it happen every year.  Yes, taking professional photographs is an investment, but for me, it’s one that has given me value, insight, and priceless frozen moments in life that I just cannot live without. With that being said, I prepare myself for the cost of the photographer I want to document that time in our lives and I prepare myself for the investment. While we do take some of our own photographs of one another, we also pay other photographers to take our photos together at least once a year.

Let me clue you in on something that I don’t think I’ve ever told you on here: I don’t get sad or my feathers ruffled when someone who has inquired with me chooses another photographer. Why? Because it’s not about the sale for me. It’s about my client feeling comfortable with me, clicking with me, and trusting me enough to let go of picture perfect and show me a small glimpse of life as it really is for her. I believe in quality, not quantity and I’ve learned the hard way that trying to do it all and take every client, that it just simply isn’t for me. That’s not what photography is about for me. Photography is about the experience, about being able to soak in life and then having it right in front of you via photographs to reflect on later. It’s the time we take to plan and get to know one another all the way to the feeling those photographs give you twenty years down the road.

Wanna know something? You know which of my little tiny clients make for the best sessions? Oh, that’d be, 9 times out of 10, the trouble-makers—the little ones who, for the life of them, will not listen to momma. Coincidence that I’m preaching about the beauty in life’s breakdowns and the little ones somehow seem to ace the concept? Isn’t it funny how children, in their simplicity, always seem to execute tasks adults have the hardest times with?

With that being said…DO YOUR RESEARCH as you would anything else you’d invest in. Find a photographer whose work you’ve fallen in love with, that you connect with—and don’t stop there. Email them, call them, ask questions, feel them out. You will know when your soul connects with a photographer—and when your soul does connect with your photographer, they document your life as organically as it is and your investment is worth every penny. Even more so, they are able to document organically through the flaws because you trust them. They document it so that when you look back at those photographs, you remember the era of your life, you remember happiness, sadness, fear, excitement, anger. You remember it all, and you look at it with beautiful reminisce. Beautiful reminisce because they captured such beauty among the chaos your life may have been at the time. Because, let’s face it, life is chaos. You dreaded that shoot, you didn’t like your outfit 10 minutes before you left the house, you got in a huge fight the day before, the kids were doing anything but cooperating—life was happening.

Guess what? Before THIS session with the lovely Rachel Brooks I had a major outfit meltdown in the car, complete with crying and almost ruining makeup.

And this photo below from an entire session we did during our beach trip that you guys will see soon? I was drinking a beer to get me pumped about some creative shots because I had decided at the last minute that I just didn’t want to do the session anymore. Why am I telling you all of this? I don’t know. Because I’m a girl? Because I’m imperfect. Because everyone is imperfect. Because in the age of Pinterest and Facebook and Twitter, it becomes so easy to lose yourself in comparing to others and forget to step back and embrace your flaws and the things they’ve taught you. Because…this is life. Because life isn’t perfect, but it’s beautiful that way. Because I like to make pretty things from imperfection…

Cassandra + Mark {married}

“We think you'll find that every woman in her heart of hearts longs for three things: to be romanced, to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, and to unveil beauty. That's what makes a woman come alive.”―John Eldridge (Captivating)

On Cassandra's wedding day, every fiber of her being was nothing less than perfectly captivating. Her planning for the day played out flawlessly, her attention to detail was impeccable, her physical appearance was so captivating that it simply spoke for itself. But what got me, and heck, even Preston the most as we were watching the events of she and Mark's day unfold, was the level of raw emotion intertwined in everyone involved - and moreso, between the two of them. Every girl in her youth dreams of her wedding day. Take those pictures and ideas every little girl has and bring them to life. Well, scroll down to see what you get...

See what I mean? Every little detail, fairytale. And as little girls do, her flower girl was in awe (along with everyone else) of Cass's princess dress. Although, she had a pretty adorable princess dress herself.

Another point very evident throughout the day, was the level of complete love and support Cassandra and Mark have. It was very clear to me as I spent the day with the bridal party just how loved and adored they are. From Cassandra's close relationship with her mom, to the way both sets of parents spoke of the person their child was marrying, this day just simply embodied so much love. It is only my hope that we captured that love and adoration as organically as it was conveyed in front of us.

Cassandra and Mark, I could not feel more honored than to have had the opportunity to document such a beautiful day. There is no doubt in my mind that you two will live a long, happy life full of love and support. Never forget how to cherish moments in the way that you showed me on your wedding day.