Award Winning Boston Wedding Photographer

Award Winning Boston Wedding Photographer serving Boston, Cape Cod, Newport and New England. Celebrated for her empathetic understanding, meticulous organization and impeccable time management, Deborah brings a distinctive collaborative approach to her craft.

deCordova Sculpture Park Wedding | Lisa

You could tell Lisa was a little nervous the morning of her wedding, the adorable Bride to Be kind of nervous. She laughed with her girlfriends, relaxed with her mom and spent time thinking about the day ahead. After all she was getting MAARRIIIEED and it's a lot to take in as you get ready for the big day.  

But as soon as she saw Bob for their First Look, any nerves or stress she may have been feeling immediately melted away. She and Bob embraced and spent the time leading up to their ceremony laughing and enjoying the moment together. You could not wipe that smile off of Lisa's face, she was just so happy to be marrying her best friend.  

And that joy found it's way to Bob and Lisa's guests too. It was as if it was a family reunion with both sides of the family laughing and enjoying the afternoon together. As the day went on, I reflected that THIS RIGHT HERE is what a wedding is all about. JOY. Family, friendship, love and JOY. There is something just so incredibly amazing about watching two families and one couple join together. You can't help but soak in all the happiness and smile too.  

Bob and Lisa, thank you so much for allowing us to be a part of such a special celebration. It was a treat to watch as you and Bob said "I Do!" and I hope you enjoy your images as much as we enjoyed being a part of your incredible day! 

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Basil & Kimberly Engaged

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A Back Bay Engagement Session

I don't think there is anything a photographer likes to hear more than when their clients say, "We just love your work and trust you completely! Just tell us what you'd like us to do!" Well alright then!! And that's exactly what happened when I showed up to Basil and Kim's apartment to start their engagement session. Quite frankly I didn't have to give them much direction at all, as these two love birds we're just naturals in front of the camera. Their love for one another just oozes out and made it incredibly easy to spend the afternoon photographing them around their home in the Back Bay.  

Basil and Kim met over drinks at the Lansdowne Pub several years ago and have built a life together in the Back Bay. Boston has played a large part in their relationship and so it was only fitting that had their engagement session in the city. We explored some of their favorite places and even used their adorable and charming apartment as a backdrop.  

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Basil and Kim, thank you for being such a lovely couple, opening your life up to me and my camera and for being the warm and kind people that you are. I'm so excited for you as you tie the knot in St. Nevis later this year!! Here's to the last few months of your engagement and many, many, more happy years together!!We stopped by the Lansdowne Pub for a few drinks......and a kiss or two;).How adorable are they?!Basil LOVES pedi cabs and so traveled by pedi cab for the engagement session!Big shout out of Benji of Boston Rickshaw for peddling us around town, all three of us!!Kim's engagement ring is stunning! Nothing is more elegant than a solitaire setting!After a quick outfit change we headed back out!!Favorite!!Summertime in Boston is such a a special thing. The city truly transforms!I'll end with one of my favorites from the day! Congrats Kim and Basil!

July's Self Portrait

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Yes, yes I do realize that this month's self portrait is A. LATE and B. taken with an iPhone. Breaking the rules? Well, I'll say no way! I count it as an accomplishment that I even get a picture of me in these days as I balance life with babe and business. And hey, since this is my series and I can do whatever I want with it, iPhone pictures are welcome;)! 

It's crazy to think that I started this series a year and half ago, inspired by friend and photographer Gail Werner. She does amazing self portraits, so if you're looking for something a bit more creative, definitely check hers out! For me this series is all about keeping it real. iPhone pictures, makeup-less faces and all. I want this series to be a way for me to remember life, a where I've been and where I am going type thing.  

This week was a busy one. It marked the "end" of my maternity leave. I'll be shooting my first wedding this weekend and had an engagement session earlier in the week. The photo on the left is how I spend many of my morning these days, with my baby boy on my lap as I try to respond to emails one handly;). The image on the right is of my son and I cuddling right before I left for my engagement session. I had a session four weeks post partum at the beginning of June and couldn't wait for a few hours to myself. This time around it was MUCH harder leaving this smiling bundle of joy. But I felt good, refreshed and excited to be shooting again. I wonder how I will feel this Saturday as I leave for a wedding, the most amount of time I have spent away since Jonathan was born.  

This month we have some lofty goals for our family and I have some equally lofty goals for my business. But I'm adhering to grace knowing that I may not see all these goals and dreams come to fruition. But that should never stop one from planning and dreaming!  

Personal

-- Sell our house. 

-- Buy a house. (more on both of these things soon! HOPEFULLY!) 

-- Celebrate our SEVENTH anniversary!! 

-- Update Jonathan's baby book.  

-- Print Personal Pictures.  

-- Get a wedding album underway for Mom. (Hasn't this been on the list for MONTHS?!) 

Business

-- Shoot my three weddings this month EXTREMELY WELL! 

-- Take risks and be creative with my shooting.  

-- Rework my pricing for 2014.  

-- Finish and finalize the Client Lounge. Who am I kidding? I just need to enlist the help of my designer for this one! 

-- Create a Introduction PDF magazine.  

-- Rethink some surprises for past and current clients.  

-- Stay on top of my turn around times. 

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-- Book at least three weddings for 2014 this month. YUP I'm putting that out there!

Going Solo

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The Decision To Not Work Together

There seems to be an ever increasingly popular "trend" of couple wedding photographers. So many photography studios these days seem to be made up of a husband and wife team. And to be honest, there are lots of times where I sure am jealous!! I'd love the chance to work with my husband on weekends, to spend our Saturday's together, to steal a dance or two on the dancefloor.  

And there was a time that Dave and I did in fact work together. Did you know that when I first started out Dave was my right hand man. He helped me grow my business, was my second shooter and helped balance my Quickbooks. (Who am I kidding....he still helps me balance my Quickbooks;)0. 

But as the business grew I kept relying more and more on Dave for certain things. Eventually we had to sit down together and have "the talk." I remember asking him if he wanted to be a part of my business, to take on more responsibility, to shoot with me every weekend. Dave loved shooting but it wasn't his passion. And it wasn't fair of me to ask him to do something his heart just didn't want and then go and work a full time weekday job. 

We made the decision that I would go it solo, as in we wouldn't move forward as a husband and wife team. It can be really easy sometimes to follow the trend, to copy what others are doing. And I've been tempted to do just that. It sure can seem very appealing to tempt my husband into becoming a husband and wife team. But ultimately we had to make a decision that was best for our family. And what was best for our family was to have separate careers doing what we loved. For me it is photography, for Dave it's being an engineer. 

So where does that leave me? Well instead of working with my husband I pull together a team of photographers to work with throughout the season. And Dave gets to spend his free Saturdays playing with our baby and watching copious amounts of college football in the fall. This is what works for us. I absolutely love working with the people I have had the chance to work with. I love spending my Saturday's celebrating with my clients and bustin' a move or two with my second photographers on the dance floor.  

We may not be a team of two when it comes to my business. But we sure do work together as a team when it comes to our family. Do I wish sometimes that Dave was my right hand man again? Sure! But I'll leave him to do what he loves best: being all smart and engineer-y and lovin' on our son! 

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Happy Anniversary : Pat & Liz

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Once again it's time to celebrate!! Because yesterday marked the one year anniversary for one of my favorite couples, Pat and Liz! I remember the first time I connected with these two as they were planning their wedding. We hit it off immediately and I knew that their wedding was going to be something special. Not because they were getting married at a beautiful farm, not because they were going to have the best DIY details. No, it was going to be AND was incredibly special because of the amazing bond and love that Pat and Liz share. They blew me away with their excitement for marriage and the commitment they were making to each other. What a joy it was to photograph not just a wedding but the start of a life together.  

Enjoy their first year reccap with some great advice mixed in! Congrats Pat and Liz!! Cheers to many more years celebrating together!D -- Happy anniversary! I simply cannot believe that it has been a year since your wedding!! Has time flown by for you too? 

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deborah zoe photography barn wedding curtis farm wedding new hampshire wedding boston wedding photog

P&L --Yes! We can't believe it has already been a whole year since we gathered together with friends and family to celebrate and say our I do's. We often times just stop, look at each other, and exclaim, holy smokes! We're married! D -- What is your favorite memory from your wedding day? 

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deborah zoe photography barn wedding curtis farm wedding new hampshire wedding boston wedding photog

P&L --Looking back, we loved having space for a First Look. It provided a time to catch our breath, squeeze each other's hand, and soak in the realization of what was about to take place. The ceremony was also very meaningful to us. Having our Uncle lead the ceremony, our sweet sisters sing, and multiple generations of family members pray over us as we began a new life chapter are moments we've cherished since our wedding day. D -- What has been the best thing that has happened to you as a couple since your wedding last year? 

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deborah zoe photography barn wedding curtis farm wedding new hampshire wedding boston wedding photog

P&L --The best thing is being able to "do life" alongside your best friend! 10 months prior to our wedding, we had been living in two different countries for over a year (not fun). Since our wedding, we've purchased our first home in an area of New Hampshire that is new to the both of us. This has allowed us to invest in a great new community and grow significantly as a couple. We've also adopted a fluffy little bich-poo pup named, Charley! We love her. A lot!D -- What have you learned about each other over this past year?  

P&L --Liz: I am an external processor, an organization master, and a lover of avocadoes.  

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deborah zoe photography barn wedding curtis farm wedding new hampshire wedding boston wedding photog

Pat: I am an internal processor, a technology guru, and I don't care for avocadoes all that much. God has really used this first year of marriage to help us identify the strengths amongst our differences. We are learning how to lean on each other where (and when!) we fall short. D -- Traveled anywhere fun? 

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deborah zoe photography barn wedding curtis farm wedding new hampshire wedding boston wedding photog

P&L --After the wedding last July, we traveled to Las Vegas for a fun-filled week of Cirque du Soleil, incredible food and helicopter rides. We also spent time in Topsail Beach, North Carolina for some post-wedding-planning R&R. It was wonderful! D -- Any tips you can offer newlyweds for their first year of marriage? 

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deborah zoe photography barn wedding curtis farm wedding new hampshire wedding boston wedding photog

deborah zoe photography barn wedding curtis farm wedding new hampshire wedding boston wedding photog

deborah zoe photography barn wedding curtis farm wedding new hampshire wedding boston wedding photog

P&L --So often couples are encouraged to let go of the small things that don't matter-those little annoyances and funny habits that your spouse does that may have once endeared you to them. However, our advice to our newlywed friends is to hold tightly to the small things that do matter. Be intentional about scheduling date nights, writing sweet notes, and leaving reminders to let your spouse know you love them. Recently I was away for over a week on a business trip and, upon returning, found notes from Pat hidden throughout our home. It was the sweetest welcome after a long trip home.

Jonathan's First Year

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Two Months Old

Sooooooo. Life has been crazy the past few days. I mean I don't know what day it is, is it morning or night? kind of crazy. There are some big things happening for our family right now (hopefully more to come soon! and no, we're not pregnant;)). It's taken our life and thrown it upside down. Needless to say I haven't had time to brush my teeth let alone even THINK about blogging!! And then when I did think about blogging I couldn't find the card with the images I needed. 

But hurrah! After a frantic search around the house I found Jonathan's two month old pictures to share with you here. And even though this blog post is late, random and probably the only one I'll be able to squeeze out this week I don't care! In fact I'm celebrating a little bit! Baby fed, emails replied too, diapers changed, blog post done, check, check, check and check. Life, even though you're trying, you won't stop me this week! 

Let's see, what has happened in Jonathan's second month of life? Well, this little goober has definitely found his smile AND laugh. He flirts with everyone in sight, including his own reflection. He has conversations exclusively with his Grammie (my mom) and Grandpa (Dave's Dad). He falls asleep in Grampie's (My Dad) arms and loves to be around his Grammie (Dave's Mom). He's certainly learning who his family is and absolutely loves being around them!! This month also marked his first days with his babysitter who he adores and new mobility in his legs. We're thinking about getting him a bouncer already because this kid just wants to move!  

I'm excited to see what the next few months bring not only for his development but for our family life as well. I'm excited to see what's coming but man o man is it going to take a lot of work and STRESS to get us there. Wish us luck and I promise I'll share more soon! 

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If you'd like to see more, click here to see Jonathan's First Year month by month : Month One, Month Two, Month Three, Month Four, Month Five, Month Six, Month Seven, Month Eight, Month NineMonth Ten, and Month Eleven.

Being You

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A Reminder In Confidence

Sometimes you can find encouragement in the strangest of places. Encouragement where you least expect it. That is what happened on Sunday night when I was searching around Pinterest. I found an OLD blog post I had written, a survival guide of sorts for first timers at WPPI. I went through the basics of Twitter, Pre Boarding and Business Cards. But then I cam to tip number ten, a tip about confidence and I was floored. Floored because I had forgotten just how I felt the first time I went to WPPI. And floored because, at times, I can STILL feel this way:  

"10. Confidence. Two years ago I remember walking down the hallway of the food court at the MGM. It leads directly to the conference center and where all of the photographers congregated at lunchtime. I remember clinging to my business cards from WHCC and desperately hoping no one would see right through me. You see, I attended WPPI as a test. A test to see if this is what I really wanted to do. When we first attended, I was still a full time news photographer. I only had three weddings booked for the year and I was using a template website. I felt like a fraud and knew for sure, that if someone dug deep enough, they'd find me out. 

Looking back, I want to shake myself and say "Everyone starts somewhere! Look at where you are going!" If there is one thing you should take with you is confidence. It doesn't matter where you are in your business, or if you have the right website, business cards, clothes or camera gear. Be confident in the person that you are and all the amazing things that only you can bring."

It can be so easy to forget this sometimes. In an industry full of people "just like me", it can be hard to feel like you have something to offer. It can feel like you need to "look the part" instead of focusing on the amazing and unique things you have to offer. And it's true, as cliche as it may sound, we all have something amazing to offer. The question is are we willing to open ourselves up to show the world that?  

I've worked hard since that first trip to WPPI to hone in on what it is that I have to offer. I've asked the hard questions: What are those unique characteristics that make me, ME? What makes my business different? They are not easy questions to answer but they are vital to the health and sustainability of this business that I love so much. 

If you're emotional, outgoing, shy, funny, serious, whatever it is, JUST BE YOU. You'll go further being who you are authentically meant to be than trying to be something you're not. For me I'm a person who loves people, hugs, laughter, pink, romance and being a mom. I started out in weddings after a career as a news photographer. I fell in love with photography as a

middle schooler

. That's not going to appeal to everyone and that's ok! Have confidence in who you are and at whatever stage you're at. You are who are and where you are for a reason. Embrace it!!

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The Bookworm Club

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The War of Art and Today We Are Rich

Wow, remember when there use to be a blog series called The Bookworm Club?! Man it's been SO long since I've posted in this series and I feel like such a bad blogger for letting it go to the wayside. This past year, especially as we awaited the arrival of our little boy, finding time to read a book was HARD. I LOVE to read and so it made me sad that I couldn't even make it through a page of a book before I would be asleep. It took me almost six months to even find my way through both of these books. I'll admit to finding some relief when I had finished them. Eager to fall asleep again.  

It didn't really help that I wasn't totally sold on either book. Both the War of Art and Today We Are Rich came highly recommended and so I had high hopes for what both books could offer. But each time I found myself sitting down to dig in, I couldn't wait for the reading time to be over. And really, no one should ever feel that way when reading a book!! In short I was board.  

The The War of Art reads like a book of short thoughts or chapters on overcoming those problems we all face as artists turned professionals. Steven Pressfield who penned the book writes in an almost aggressive style, as if he is rallying up an army of troops. Pressfield's aim is to empower and encourage his readers to conquer those unique issues faced by entrepreneurs. I call books like these business theory books as they focus on the big picture of business practices. I have to say that these are not my favorite kind of business reads. I like hard facts and tangible ideas, so needless to say I found myself skipping over a lot. If you find this type of reading inspirational then dive right in, you will certainly enjoy this book. 

Then there is Today We Are Rich, which I'll admit, I enjoyed much more than the War of Art. But unfortunately, this book also fell short for me. Tim Sanders uses his childhood memories of living with his grandmother as the back story to the book. His goal is to encourage his reader to exude confidence while maintaining a humble and graceful approach to life. I enjoyed most of what Sanders had to offer. But much of the book is about HIS life and while it was a valuable experience to evaluate I wanted more tangible ideas that were directly applicable to my business. 

Both of these authors are smart, intelligent business gurus who have a lot to offer entrepreneurs like me. In the end it wasn't the content that I didn't enjoy, rather the way that content was presented. I'm a hard facts kind of girl and I wish there had been more of that. Much more of that. But still I'd recommend both the War of Art and Today We Are Rich to any business owner. There's always something new to learn from other business leaders! 

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Reading any good business books? I'm diving into Outliers right now (diving in as reading a page here and there;))! But I'd love to hear what you're reading and love lately!

Mama Said

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Mama Said, Needless But Adorable Baby Clothes

A week before our baby arrived I was restless. We had passed our due date and I was emotionally desperate to meet out baby. I couldn't wait to hold him in my arms and was devastated when our due came and went. Like weeping on the floor kind of devastated. Yes, my hormones made me a tad dramatic;).  
 
To help distract me and probably get me out of the house, my Mom came down and took me to the mall. And of course I ALWAYS have to hit up Baby Gap when I'm there. I mean who can resist adorable baby clothes? NOT THIS GIRL. I found just one little outfit and decided to check out, knowing the hubby would be happy I didn't spend all my pennies on many "needless" but adorable baby onesies. (FYI, you don't need to buy onesies when your preggo, you'll receive more than you could ever imagine. But hey I just can't resist...) 
 
But before I could check out my mom came running up to me waving a white onesie in her hand. "You have to buy this and you have to put the baby in it and then you have to blog it!" Yes my friends, it was a camera onesie and now the whole store knew I was going to blog it;). 
 
Sure all mom photographers seem to have an over abundance of camera related baby products. But you really can't blame us. And besides this onesie means so much to me. From desperation to holding our dear baby boy. Months later I'm not longer weeping on the floor but laughing uncontrollably at his overwhelmingly adorable face.  
 
Yup, this kid is perfect. Say Cheese, Baby Boy, you're on the blog... 
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Styled Shoot at Misswelwood

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Quintessential New England Wedding

Six months ago I called up my friend and fellow photographer, Kendra of Summer Street Photography, with what a that time, seemed like a crazy idea! I just had taken part in the Making Things Happen webinar with Lara Casey and was inspired.  

I wanted to put together a styled shoot. But I didn't want to just do any old styled shoot, I wanted to do something that was uniquely New England. Could we pull together vendors, a location, a Bride and Groom and tailor it all under the umbrella of New England? I mean what made New England weddings so New England in the first place.  

Kendra and I spent a month or so brainstorming and then go to work pulling together an amazing team of vendors who all grabbed hold of our vision for the shoot. Tradition, family, charm, history, classic lines, simple elegance, preppy details, were just some of the descriptions we thought about when planning. Before we knew it we had a styled shoot brought together with a common vision and goal: to capture what make New England weddings so special.  

When our April shoot rolled around I simply couldn't believe that something which had started out as a small idea had flourished into a beautiful team project. Kendra and I were completely blown away by the talented people we had the opportunity to work with, all who were just as excited about this idea as we were.  

It's been slight torture not being able to share these images with you but we had to sit tight until yesterday. (I blogged a behind the scenes post back in April...) That was when Style Me Pretty published the shoot including the wonderful behind the scenes video from Brighter Lights Media. What an amazing thing to see our dream come full circle. Sure was an exciting day around here, should have popped some bubbly;)! 

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

misselwood wedding styled shoot new england wedding boston wedding photographer deborah zoe photogra

So please enjoy our take on the Quintessential New England Wedding, one that is full of tradition, charm and love. (And check out the list of the amazing team down below!) I first visited The Misslewood Estate for my OWN portrait session and completely fell in love. There was no question when it came time to finding a location that Misselwood was the perfect fit!L'elite lent us the most incredible Kenneth Pool dress for our Bride. It was breathtaking.We were so excited to work with the team at Whim Events and they helped to pull all the details together, including this adorable bouquet!Check out this stunner of a bride!! Past couple Nick and Stephanie graciously spent their day modeling for us...gah WORK IT STEPH!!The talented team of Updos by Ann and Makeovers by Ligia made sure that Stephanie looked absolutely radiant!Yes, those are their rings with the cutest inscription ever!Julie of the The Stylish One was on hand to make sure that our Bride and Groom looked perfect!Misselwood just has the most stunning areas for photographs!A favorite from the day!!The incredible team at Hartford Prints! created the most beautiful stationary suite...EVER. Scripty pink font? RIGHT UP MY ALLEY!Our daper Groom "getting ready".Yes, there was even a cocktail station...a la James Bond style.Outside, with the help of Peterson Party Center, the Whim team pulled together the most elegant and whimsical of tablescapes. After we spent the morning photographing the vendor team we spent the afternoon getting some beautiful portraits of our couple!So sweet!Okokok, I might have stolen a bit of inspiration from our OWN portrait session, but how could I not??! That seaside breeze and a long veil cannot be beat!!Even though it was still early April, a bit chilly and lacking in any flowers the grounds at Misselwood were incredibly stunning!I have too many favorites....These pictures are so meaningful. That's the team acting as guests and it's incredibly symbolic of the amazing teamwork that went into pulling this day off. Yes, those are REAL smiles of happy people!! Even my hubby got in on the action... can you spot him?!

Quintessential New England Wedding Styled Shoot from Brighter Lights Media on Vimeo.

Here is the complete list of amazing vendors from our Quintessential New England Styled Shoot:  

Photography: Summer Street Photography | Photography: Deborah Zoe Photography | Venue: The Misslewood Estate | Videography: Brighter Lights Media | Planning and Florals: Whim Events | Invitation Suite/Paper Goods: Hartford Prints! | Hair Styling: Updos by Ann | Makeup: Makeovers by Ligia | Wardrobe Styling: The Stylish One | Car Rental: Christopher Limousine | Church: First Parish Church | Dress, Sashes, Veil: L'elite | Gown Designer: Kenneth Pool | Accessories: Neiman Marcus, Natick and Ann Taylor | Rentals: Peterson Party Center Umbrellas | Bella Umbrella

What's In A Bag

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A Look In My Camera Bag

Today I'm sharing what's inside my camera bag. I'm a simple kind of gal and so I like to keep things light, carrying only what I need, the essentials. My Think Tank is the work horse that carries most of my equipment on a wedding day and I'll share how I organize that later! Today I'm focusing soley on the bag that I carry with me to every engagement session and wedding day. For the past five years I've used a well loved Shootsac to carry my go to lenses. But over the years I found that it didn't have enough pockets to carry things like my wallet, batteries and mints. I started searching for a new bag when I felt like I outgrew the space the Shootsac offered. After a trip to WPPI I fell in love with the Kelly Moore Classic and decided to make the switch. This bag has enough room to hold the gear that I need and pockets to hold valueables like me car keys. Plus it's super adorable. Win, win! 

whats in my camera bag wedding photographer deborah zoe photography

whats in my camera bag wedding photographer deborah zoe photography

Whether it's an engagement session or wedding day I try to balance carrying the amount of gear I might need while trying to not burden myself with too much. That's why I stick to the basics, a few key lenses, extra batteries and sometimes a strobe. Here is my typical set up:1. I shoot with the Canon 5d Mark III. I LOVE this camera and kinda drool every time I use the new focusing system. Talk about amazing!! The body stays out of my bag and always has one lens at the ready. In this case it was the 50mm 1.2.  

2. Of course every photographer knows to keep several business cards handy! I store mine away in the front pocket always at the ready to hand out! 

3. I also have an extra battery on hand, you never know when you might need it! I tuck one away in the second front pocket.  

4. My go to lens for ring shots is the 100mm 2.8 Macro and comes with me to every wedding and engagement session. During an engagement shoot it stays in my bag for the entirety of the session. On a wedding day however I'll start with it at the beginning of coverage then transition it to my Think Tank after the Getting Ready portion.  

5. My newest addition is the 35mm 1.4. This will stay in my bag at all times as it's great for portraits as well as landscape scenes. I love the versatility this lens affords me.  

6. Lastly is the 85mm 1.2. This lens is a beaut. It's PERFECT for portraits, the reason why it comes with me to every portrait, engagement and wedding day. The color and clarity from this lens can't be beat and I find that I use it almost 50% of the time! 

7. This Think Tank Pixel Pocket stays attached to my camera bag at all times. I want to make sure that I not only have cards at the ready but that I always know where used cards are! I never want to worry about if I have misplaced cards and so latching it right onto the bag works for me. The sleeve holds 10 16gig cards and I have another full sleeve as back up in my Think Tank on a wedding day. 

8. It's important to have water on hand!! A simple trip to Target to find a water bottle that matched my brand colors did the trick! I keep it hanging by carabiner to the side of my bag.  

9. My beat up wallet! I think Kate Spade is calling my name... I keep this in the back zipper pocket of the bag along with my keys and FRESH lipgloss;). 

10. Finally my bag, a Kelly Moore Classic . Gah, I love this thing!! It has four slots for lenses (and a flash not pictured) as well as two side pockets, two front snap closer pockets and a back zippered pocket that runs the length of the bag. But what I love most about this bag is this: when I put the bag down it stays standing. No more lenses falling out of my bag! I can feel good placing this bag down knowing that my gear is safe and secure! 

If you have any questions about how I organize my camera bag or any of the gear I shared above leave a comment below!

Mike & Monica

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Happy Anniversary

One of my favorite images of last year came from Mike and Monica's summer wedding! Nothing beats a joyful couple exiting their wedding ceremony to a parade of bubbles! I've known Mike and Monica for quite some time and I'm honored to say that I knew these two when their budding relationship just started to take shape. By the time their wedding rolled around it was quite a sentimental affair for many of the friends and family who were there. And now to think that they just celebrated their one year anniversary!! Nothing makes me happier than to celebrate with past couples and I couldn't be happier to applaud Mike and Monica to a year well done. Here's to many, many more years learning and growing together you two! 

D -- Happy anniversary! I simply cannot believe that it has been a year since your wedding!! Has time flown by for you too? 

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deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer

M&M -- Yes! We cannot believe that we will be celebrating our one year anniversary. Its crazy how fast time flew. D -- What is your favorite memory from your wedding day? 

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deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer

M&M -- My favorite memory of my wedding day was all the craziness and all the things that went wrong. Like the flowers showing up late, almost falling after kicking the isle runner, even when my nephew cried through out the ENTIRE ceremony. Things I can never forget. All of it still makes me laugh!D -- What has been the best thing that has happened to you as a couple since your wedding last year? 

deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer

deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer

M&M -- Thats a tough one. Could it be learning to live with each other and not going crazy;)? For me it has been the change of living, going from my parents home to my own with my husband. I love having my own place and sharing it with my best friend. D -- What have you learned about each other over this past year?  

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deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer

M&M -- We have learned to live with one another, to share, and be very, very, very, patient with each other, even if it is hard sometimes.D -- Traveled anywhere fun? 

deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer

deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer

M&M -- We headed to Europe for our honeymoon three months after the wedding. It was amazing! We spent Christmas and New Year's in the Smokey Mountains of South Carolina visiting Mike's parents. We will be heading down to the Cape to celebrate our one year anniversary and then we're off to Los Angeles for an early birthday trip the beginning of July!D -- Any tips you can offer newlyweds for their first year of marriage? 

deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer

deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer

M&M -- Oh boy I'm still learning from mine! I would say just be very patient with each other, working together as a team!

The Art of Balance

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A Mom, Babe and Her Computer

If you've ever wondered how I'm managing to get blog posts written, contracts sent, details organized and stay in communication with my clients, see below. Between feeds, naps, trips to Babies R Us, and all those diaper changes there are a few sacred minutes that I can focus my attention to running a business and they are glorious minutes. Minutes that are hyper focused and productive. To all those working moms out there, I salute you!! It's certainly no easy feat to nurture a newborn and run a business simultaneously. But with my Boppy in hand and a softly sleeping babe I can accomplish anything, or at least write a blog post or two :-P. 

A few months ago I pondered what it would be like to balance life as a Mom and business owner. Hard to believe that here I am. I'm grateful for the picture below because it reminds me that I can be a Mom, I can chase my dreams, I can run my business. While I don't want to say that I can do it all, this picture does make me hopeful that I can live the life that I've always envisioned. It may not always be perfect or easy but it's a life I've always dreamed of. Mom and business owner. Mom and photographer. I'm so grateful that those roles can live together in my life. Mostly I'm just grateful for the amazingly sweet and adorable nugget sleeping softly on my lap as I type...:) 

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Screen Shot 2013-06-14 at 8.51.05 AM.png

Jon & Melissa Engaged

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Blitheowld Mansion Engagement Session

Their engagement story is like something straight out of a Bachelor episode, something only tv magic could make up. But yet it wasn't, it was very much real and very much planned by Jon, Melissa's thoughtful fiance. During an annual trip to St. John's last year, Jon planned the ultimate surprise proposal for Melissa. Waking up early one morning Jon and Melissa sneaked away for a snorkel trip to a secluded island only to find that they had to swim to the beach. It was there after a lovely stroll through the sand that Jon got down on one knee and asked Melissa to marry him. A trip to the Virgin Islands, a surprise sailing excursion, a swim to a private island and one BEAUTIFUL engagement ring all make for an amazing and unforgettable proposal!! Reading their story just made me swoon (and then wish I was on a Caribbean beach sipping a cocktail;)). 

This August I'll be joining these two for their nautical inspired wedding but first we had to have an engagement session!! I met up with Jon and Melissa at the beautiful grounds of Blithewold Mansion the and we explored the expansive and property together! Enjoy their garden inspired session!! 

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Edit to add -- MANY thanks to Jennifer of Spectrum Makeup Artistry for helping Melissa look extra beautiful for her engagement session!Check out this flowering tree!! It was sooo beautiful!!Love these two:).Adorable...Isn't Melissa's ring STUNNING? After a quick outfit change we explored a bit more of the property. I loved these barn doors!!Favorite for sure!!Love!

June Self Portrait

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It seems these days as if I'm rushing through one thing to the next. Days with a baby seem to zoom on by leaving very little time for work let alone squeezing in a blog post. BUT hooray!! I have accomplished it today!! It might not be 10am like I would have liked, but I've blogged nonetheless!! This week I have my VERY dear friend Amy visiting and thanks to her help I've been able to sneak away and work for a few minutes here and there. Maybe I'll even clean the house this week?! Ahhh we shall see;). 

That brings me to June's self portrait (taken by Amy!!) and my very short list of goals for the month. 

Personal

-- to schedule a time for family portraits  

-- to enjoy a few free weekends with the Hubs and baby 

-- to start running again 

-- to get our deck sanded and ready for summer fun 

-- CLEAN THE HOUSE 

Business

-- get the Client Lounge up and running 

-- get the Pricing Guides printed 

-- photograph another beautiful engagement session 

-- continue to work on my business manual 

-- clean the office and get rid of the clutter 

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-- sell my 5d Mark II (anyone interested?!)Truly I want to just ENJOY these precious few months that I have "taken off" (does a business owner ever take time off, really?) and be with the friends and family as well as my son. So far I've managed to do just that! I'm so grateful to have a job that I LOVE and that allows me the flexibility to have a family too. It's one of the reason's why I started this business three years ago and it's been amazing to see that dream come to fruition over the past few months. I can't wait to grow as a business owner and Mom

The Art of Balance

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Life As A...

This week I've been learning what it means to find balance. Life as a new mom, life as a business owner, life as a wife, friend, sister... 

It's a struggle to find that happy medium. But it's a struggle that is well worth it all.  

So today's blog post is short and sweet. Just a sneak peek of the amazing shoot that is coming your way soon. I can't share more just yet but believe me when I say there is a whole lot of pretty hitting the blog soon! 

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For now I'm off to sooth a hungry baby...

Trip To The Cape

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Summer Escape

I'll be honest after the month we had (oh hello delivering a baby and caring for a newborn) I was READY to escape for a little bit. And so when our dear friends came into town for their summer vacation we were quick to jump on board;). Dave took the week off from work and we spent the time celebrating Jonathan's first month of life and enjoying the company of good friends.  

For the first day of vacation we unabashedly spent our time like tourists enjoying the Public Garden. Go ahead and make fun of us all you want, it was glorious!! The beautiful sunshine, the warm air, the crowds of people. It was nice just to ENJOY our city once again. The next day we packed up our bags and headed south to the Cape where we spent the next few days enjoy a small little cottage a few steps from the beach. And while the weather was not nearly as beautiful (and there was NO HOT WATER!!) it was exactly what Dave and I needed. It was so relaxing and perfect for Jonathan's first trip away from home! 

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Now it's back to real life (and balancing running a business on a baby's schedule;)). I'm happy to be back into a (somewhat) normal routine and so incredibly thankful for last week. Good friends, adorable kiddos, a wonderful husband and some time to enjoy life. Who could ask for more?Ok, ok. I know. This picture could NOT be more awkward!!! But despite our insane facial expressions I love it. This is our life, our family, enjoying being together and learning as we go. This was Jonathan's first time taking a bottle!! I'm a proud mama!Yup, we're in love.How adorable were the details at the Cape cottage?!Yes. Always wake up smiling. Unless you're me. Then grunt, roll over and go back to sleep.This picture. Oh, my, word. I couldn't love it more.Besties with their babies. This is our Godson. Look at those blue eyes!!We even managed to sneak in a few quick beach portraits for friends!! Even though it was drizzling and FREEZING I think they made it work huh?!We got in front of the camera too. But don't judge, we had no hot water remember?!Love this boy so much. Think he'll have red hair? A perfect way to end the perfect week!!

Prints Have Arrived!

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Brand New Features To Your Pass Gallery

YIPPEE!!! FINALLY, prints have arrived to all client PASS galleries!! (You may be wondering what PASS is, you can learn more about this amazing sharing tool here!) If you're a past client then you're fully aware of how amazing PASS is!! Last year I made the switch over to PASS as a new way of sharing images with clients and I have been in love ever since. It's an incredible sharing tool, one that makes my life AND that of my client easy and carefree. I mean who wouldn't love being able to share their images with family and friends with a simple click of a button?! 

I have been patiently waiting for this new feature for what seems like an eternity. In the past I would have to not only upload to a PASS gallery but also create a separate print gallery and forcing my client to have to navigate through tons of sites, click throughs and headaches. Now with just the click of a button, through their OWN gallery, clients can now order prints easy peasy. And who doesn't love easy peasy?! 

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To help clients navigate the new feature I've captured a few screenshots of what the whole process looks like. First you'll start off in your gallery and simply click the image that you'd like to order a print of. Below I used an image from Pat and Liz's First Look last summer!! On the right hand side you can see there are various sharing options PLUS a new icon at the bottom!! The icon looks like a postcard, I know it's super tiny and hard to see with this screen shot but I promise it's bigger in real life;). Just click on that icon and you'll be lead to three print options below. The new print feature offers three sizes 4x6, 5x7 and 8x10. Yes, it's VERY simple. It's not about offering every option under the sun. Instead this is about giving my client the best service and experience possible!! Larger gallery print sizes as well as gallery wraps are still available and can be ordered directly through me if desired!Once clients have made their selections they'll be directed to a check out window. This is very basic as well and like all checkout windows will require some customer information. Finally clients will be directed to their shipping options and final check out stage. And what an awesome surprise to find that clients OR their friends and relatives can extend the life of the gallery past it's standard one year life!! HOW GREAT IS THAT?!So that's it!! Simple right?! I hope that if you are a client and currently have a PASS gallery that you'll USE your gallery and SHARE with your friends and family!! And let me know what you think about this new print feature!! I'm so excited (clearly!!) about it and think it's a great addition to an already awesome sharing tool!  

(*If you're curious about what a Client Gallery looks like please feel free to explore Pat & Liz's personalized client website!)

Happy Anniversary : Dave & Lindsey

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Happy Anniversary

It's time again for another Happy One Year Anniversary post!! This time were checking in with Dave and Lindsey who were married last year on a beautiful June day in Newport, Rhode Island. I simply adored their coral and prep inspired wedding but I think what made this day even more special were Dave and Lindsey. You truly could not meet a more loving and genuine couple and I'm so excited to wish them a very Happy Anniversary!! Join with me as we celebrate their first year of marriage!! 

Deborah - Happy anniversary! I simply cannot believe that it has been a year since your wedding!! Has time flown by for you too?

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D&L - It's gone by so fast! To think last year at this time we were scrambling around doing all things wedding! Deborah - What is your favorite memory from your wedding day?

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D&L - Having everyone we love and care about all in the same place at the same time was wonderful. And of course we loved dancing the night away!Deborah - What has been the best thing that has happened to you as a couple since your wedding last year?

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D&L -We have been lucky enough to travel a lot and we've enjoyed working on our house. Plus we've simply loved spending time with and enjoying the company of our families.Deborah - What have you learned about each other over this past year?

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D&L - I think we've learned that we just need to make time for US in our busy schedules. We enjoy date nights and weekend trips with our two dogs!Deborah - Traveled anywhere fun?

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D&L - We have! We went on an eastern Caribbean cruise in the winter. We are also headed to Nashville to celebrate our wedding anniversary!Deborah - Any tips you can offer newlyweds for their first year of marriage?

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D&L - We'd encourage other couples to just cherish each other, spend a lot of time together and travel!!! Make a bucket list of places you'd like to visit and go!!!! We are having a blast!!!!

Jonathan's First Year

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One Month Old

First, can we just talk about how adorable this baby boy is? I might certainly be biased but man does this little one melt my heart!! When my mom surprised me with these month onesies for my shower I could picture how fun it would be to document our baby's first year. But I had no idea how CUTE our baby would be!! Sheesh. Love him.  

So here we are, one month old. To be honest I kind of dreamed of this moment some time around week one. It had nothing to do with the late nights, the early feedings, the pooping, the crying or any of the typical newborn stuff. I was afraid. I was afraid that I'd break him, that I'd hurt him, that something would happen to our precious newborn. He was just so incredibly delicate those first few weeks and I found myself being scared half of the time and worrying the other. I couldn't wait for a time when I could just simply ENJOY our little man instead of incessantly worrying about him.  

And while I don't think that worry ever goes away, I can say that as the weeks have marched forward I have found more of a rhythm with our little guy. He's such a great baby. He takes a bottle, is an easy traveler (I mean we've already done our first over night!) and it has made my overstrung nerves begin to relax. My Dad kept saying to me, "Just enjoy him! Don't worry, you can't break him!:)" I've finally found that sweet spot.  

One month has brought so many changes I can hardly keep up. He's such a fun little baby, a baby who has already started to smile, coo, "roll over", and start sleeping just a little bit more. He's already been to the ocean, attended a wedding, enjoyed the city life and learned how to look at his mom to make her swoon in an instant. It's been such a sweet month. Man being a mom is all sorts of awesome.  

Here is Jonathan in all his one month glory. Go ahead, it's ok a swoon a little too;). 

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Click here to see Jonathan's First Year month by month : Jonathan's Birth Story.