This wasn’t just any family session. It was a full-circle moment — one I’ll treasure for years to come.

From Engagement to Family of Five

I first met Nick and Katherine when I photographed their engagement session back in 2016 — when I was pregnant with our daughter, Evy. I still remember capturing their excitement as they prepared for their wedding day, and I had no idea just how much our stories would intertwine over the years.

Fast forward to today: Nick and Katherine are now parents to two beautiful daughters, and this session marked another milestone and addition for their family! Even more special? Evy, now eight years old, came along to help me during their session — her first time meeting the couple who were part of her story before she was even born.

It felt surreal. Watching Evy interact with them, seeing Nick and Katherine love on their girls — it was a living, breathing reminder of how time passes and life unfolds in the most beautiful ways.

A Dream Location: Mayhurst Estate

We met at the Mayhurst Estate in Orange County, Virginia, and let me just say… it is every bit as stunning in person as it looks online.

The estate, that dates back to the Civil War era, is a breathtaking five-story property filled with charm and history. The Cashell family, who owns and lovingly cares for Mayhurst, welcomed us onto their grounds, and I was blown away by their generosity — and their story.

They run a bed and breakfast, host retreats, and live out a life full of passion, family, and purpose — something that resonated deeply with me, especially given our journey with Acton Academy.

When we arrived, the doors were thrown open, music was playing, a soft breeze floated through the halls… it felt like stepping into a dream.

Battling the Wind… and Making Magic Anyway

As gorgeous as the setting was, the weather had its own plans. It was freezing — and the wind was howling. We had to pause the session multiple times just to smooth hair and let the kids warm up a little!

But even with the cold and the chaos, Nick, Katherine, and their girls were absolute champs. They embraced every moment — laughter, cuddles, and all. Their two daughters were such a joy to photograph: sweet, spunky, and full of personality.

(And as you scroll through the images, don’t miss little Kaia’s hilarious expressions! She kept me laughing the entire time!)

We even had a little extra magic with a visit to meet baby ducks and goats — adding even more sweetness to an incredible shoot.

A Session to Remember

As I packed up my gear and loaded Evy into the car after the shoot, my heart was full. Not just from a beautiful session in a beautiful place… but from the deep gratitude I felt for the relationships this career has allowed me to build.

Nick and Katherine trusted me with their engagement session, their wedding day, their maternity portraits, and now, years later, with their growing family. That kind of trust is a gift I will never take for granted.

I’m so thrilled for them as they prepare to welcome their little boy soon. Watching their family grow has been a privilege and a joy, and I can’t wait to continue documenting their beautiful story in the years ahead.

Nick, Katherine — thank you for choosing me again and again.
And thank you for letting Evy and me be a small part of your amazing journey.