Gratitude: 2012

I wasn't planning on doing a year-end post (for reasons unknown...probably because I've been hibernating these past two weeks), but I kept seeing them from others, and kept clicking on them, and kept enjoying them. Finally, I said "Do it." And you know what, I'm absolutely, inexplicably thankful that I did.

Not that I didn't know it previously, but looking back on this year as a complete body of work...well, in short, I'm overwhelmed. And incredibly humbled. This year has been one of great change, growth, challenge and exploration. And what I see in result...beautiful clients turned friends, moments in time that speak to me, and the realization that my creative soul is refreshed and excited and alive and well and all those great things. At the end of the year. Which is a great change from exhausted, spent, drained. I feel good. I feel great. And it's all because of those special people who trusted me with their lives and their memories. I thank you. From the bottom of my heart.

I know 2013 has even more new adventures for me, starting with the kick off of Orchestrated Stylized Shoots Heritage Series in Philadelphia with the Welded event this January. I'll be teaching more Shutterbug Basics classes beginning in February, welcoming more boudoir clients, and taking part in amazing weddings. Plus, the Hampton Roads Creative has a whole new bunch of great stuff in the works. I can't wait.

Here are a few (ok, a lot) of my very favorite images from 2012. And seriously, I could have gone on forever. I got totally lost and giddy and teary and yeah, I figured a blog post probably shouldn't have 100 images, so I reigned myself in a bit. Thank you to all. I love you deeply.

Orchestrated Stylized Shoots: Forevergreen

First things first...in case you haven't noticed, there has been a ton of stuff posted recently on the page about a certain amazingly awesome company called Orchestrated Stylized Shoots. So much so, I'm sure I may have had you wondering what was with my new-found obsession? And yes, I think it can be categorized properly as "obsession," because I am quite literally overwhelmed with excitement. I am thrilled to have joined the team as the Logistics Coordinator, which means I have found the perfect home for my crazy. I get to be a part of planning, executing and celebrating uniquely styled photographic shooting events all over the country and right here in Hampton Roads. Could there possibly be a better job for me? I really don't think so. In short, you'll be seeing a lot more Orchestrated stuff in 2013, because my heart is anxious to share such an exciting move with you. And for those of you with a creative bone in your body and a good camera, keep close, because you don't want to miss out on some fabulously original events that will knock your socks off.

My first official event was this past weekend: Forevergreen. Part of the great fun of Orchestrated is bringing together local vendors in a collaborative vision to bring a theme to life, down to the tiniest details. Here are the amazing vendors that contributed to this past weekend's event:

Concept Design | Chelsea LaVere
Venue | Vintage Tavern
Stationery | The Girl Tyler
Florals | Studio Posy
Bridal Gown | Pure English Couture
Bridesmaid Gown | J. Crew
Hair | Chelsea Styles
Makeup | Kristine Marie Makeup Artistry
Bridal Necklace | Laurel’s Bench
Models | Christina & Kyle, Braden

The concept was born from the idea of a bride and groom who were just married in a private, intimate setting with their one witness, the bridesmaid, and were now coming back to celebrate with friends and family with a cozy brunch of holiday inspired, comfort foods that just made you want to curl up with a blanket in front of the fireplace. It was inspired by evergreen branches, winter, natural touches and simple charm. And some ridiculously good food. I can't say enough about Vintage Tavern. I have never tasted anything so amazing in my life, and their decor...well, to say they were a perfect fit is simply an understatement.









Studio Posy rocked the flowers from top to bottom and took our "Play, have fun and do what you do. We trust you!" to the heavens and back. And yes, your eyes do not deceive you. Our beautiful models for this shoot were none other than some of my favorite clients, Braden, former bride turned bestie, and Christina & Kyle, one of my most anticipated 2013 The Chosen Few couples.













Honestly, I could go on forever. I can't say enough about the vendors and how they each contributed their whole selves to each part of the puzzle. The resulting ambiance simply could not be achieved without everyone's creative commitment, from the perfectly styled hair and makeup, to the uniquely crafted necklace, to the organically designed stationary. Each tiny patchwork piece comes together, and it's a marvel.

But the most fun...watching everyone else get excited when they arrive and knowing they are thoroughly enjoying themselves as they shoot, chat and play.





My next adventure with Orchestrated will be a January 2013 field trip to Philly, PA for "Welded." Registration is open now, so if you're game for a road trip (and trust me, you should be - it will be well worth it!), grab your spot and get in on the action!