“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life. ”

— Prince

This year was tough. It was full of tension, loss, + anger. I believe these things, and whatever you associate them with, will make us stronger. it also teaches you to find the peace that does still exist in our lives. It teaches us to tell stories that are truthful: both the ones we choose not to acknowledge + the ones that give us hope for our future.

I'm saying these things because 2016 wasn't the best year, although there was a lot of hope going into it. I poured tons of good energy into this year, and despite what happened worldwide, personally, it was a very colorful, vibrant, year in which I tried to seek out the best in everything.

This year took me to China, France, + other nooks of our county. It let me make new friends all over the world + cherish old friendships. It moved me to Dallas with Jerry + Eloise, it taught me to hustle and to also be at peace with things I cannot change. It taught me to constantly shoot and experiment with food, styling, and travel + push my photography style further along. It brought me some amazing clients who trust my style + work ethic. But mostly, it taught me to be grateful, patient, + to stand up for your beliefs.

I love this family, y'all! They are the sweetest, funniest, rambunctious (in the best way!), and most creative family around. This past summer, the Eller's moved up to Alexandria for a new job opportunity. I headed up there to do some family photos of them. We headed out to the National Mall in D.C. for a good American adventure of running in the grass + learning about our nation.

Tabitha and I go way back to Northern High School where she interviewed a little ol' fresh college grad for the photography teacher position. She was sweet, kind-hearted, and goofy enough to instantly like her and surprisingly trusted me with the job! Over the last three years, I got to really know Tab + her family of boys. She wiped my tears + made me laugh when I thought the world was going to end. I watched her + Garrett raise Logan + Briscoe, and when Sully came along, I got to go welcome him to this world. This family, to say the least, is part of my family.