When I first started the portrait part of my photography business, I knew I wanted to establish deep and long-lasting relationships with clients. I dreamed of shooting a wedding for a couple, then documenting their life together through maternity, newborn, and family portrait sessions in the years to come. Well, the Lilly family is exhibit A that dreams really do come true! Tom and Lucy are one of two couples who hired me as a wedding photographer when I was a total newbie, and I am so grateful for how far we have all come since! I am glad I got to shoot their lovely wedding, but even gladder that the Lillys have become some of my dearest friends! Lucy and Tom actually broke the news that they were expecting a baby at the same time they told us they were moving to Tennessee--I was so happy and so sad all in one moment! We have missed having them here in Ocean Springs, so it was a special privilege to visit their new home to meet sweet baby Rhoades and photograph this precious new family of three!
I was so excited to meet this little guy!
Snuggles on the bed are always a must.
I've been envisioning this nursery ever since the planning for Lucy's Ocean Springs baby shower, but it was even more impressive than I imagined! So many colorful Noah's Ark details--can you spot the guest book print from the shower? And Rhoades fit right in with his perfectly coordinated jungle animal pajamas.
Mommy and Daddy shared so many sweet moments with this little one during our session. It was such a joy to observe all this love through my lens!
Pepper wanted to get in on the action, too! She's still getting used to this new family member, but I bet they'll be the best of friends in no time!
Aunt Ann Marie and soon-to-be Uncle Carson arrived for a weekend visit during our session, too! Rhoades was surrounded by adoring fans!
My heart may just burst with joy for my sweet friends.
Congratulations, Lillys! And as we sang at your wedding, to God be the glory!