Kaylan | Maternity | 04.2012 {Houston Maternity/Newborn Photographer}

Kaylan emailed me about a week ago asking me if I would photograph her maternity pictures. She mentioned that she had been following my blog ever since I wrote a post about her cousin, Sarah. For my avid followers, you will remember that Sarah was a dear, dear friend of mine who passed away last February of cancer. I was so touched that Kaylan chose to continue reading my blog after I wrote that post. And even more touched that because of her following my blog, she asked me to capture such a precious moment in her and her husband's life - bringing in new life into this world.

What a sweet, sweet couple :) I find so much joy in photographing first-time parents. One, because the smiles could not be more genuine. And two, because I hope to one day be a mother myself, and photographing new moms gives me just a tiny glimpse of the joy that I will experience as a new mother.

Kaylan, you are such a beautiful woman. I hope that all goes well in the next few days as you prepare to welcome this life into your arms :)

Ashton + Justin | Wedding | 03.17.2012 | Houston Wedding Photographer

I photographed their engagement pictures in December, her bridal portraits 3 weeks ago, and their wedding 10 days ago. This was not only my cousin's wedding, but also my very FIRST wedding to photograph!

Ashton is not only my cousin, she is my best friend. She and I are only 6 months apart, and despite our distance growing up, we have maintained an honest, steady, and loving friendship since day one.

We often played "house" with imaginary husbands (hers was usually Rock Hudson), and often wondered who we would actually end up with 'til death do us part. I met mine in high school, and she was there for our first phone call at age 15. She met hers after college at the age of 24 when her brother, Kelsey, went off to Africa for the semester. Justin is Kelsey's best friend, and with Kelsey away for 4 months, Justin started an innocent conversation with Ashton about just that - Kelsey's trip. It soon evolved into a beautiful relationship. He loves her more dearly than any other man I've seen come her way. He respects her completely. He adores her every quirk. He makes her feel beautiful.

Ashton and Justin, I pray the richest blessings on this new adventure. Thank you for giving me the honor of serving as Matron of Honor and of photographing such a momentous day in this next piece of your life together.

The wedding was quaint, with a vintage-inspired decor and honey + wheat colors. Vintage doilies, mercury glass, and silver spoons dotted the site and glittered in the afternoon sun. Truly charming :)

I owe a TREMENDOUS thank you to my husband and my mother who served as 2nd and 3rd shooters for the event. While I stood by Ashton during the ceremony, Scott and my mom served as 1st and 2nd shooters. I could NOT have done this without you. Thank you, thank you.

Me doing the bride's hair and makeup!

My momma (left) and Ashton's momma (right) cinching up the back of the dress!

Best Man and Matron of Honor

All the guests! About 40 total :)

 

What I learned from photographing my first wedding: bring a bottle of water so you don't look like a dog who just returned from a 30 minute chase with squirrel as you lapped up 6 cups of punch after photographing the reception for a mere 10 minutes. Geez.

Cake and punch,

HK