Napkins and Me, a Special Relationship

I’m excited to announce a change for this blog, and a step in a new direction! After a two hour talk and some quirky brain storming, I finally chose a name for the business: Paper Napkin Photography. I could tell you why right here, but really, where’s the fun in that? Instead, I’m going to send you over to the new blog papernapkinphoto.com where you can look under “How It All Got Started” for the story!

And because I’m so excited about the wedding Sabrena and I were at this weekend, Casey and Carrie’s, here’s a shot of their crazy getaway!

A Summer of Opportunity

This summer I have the opportunity to work one-on-one with one of Lynchburg’s rising photographers, Sabrena Deal (scarterstudios.com). She kindly agreed to allow me to intern with her, which I learned is code for: learn all I can, ask as many questions as I can, and take lots of notes. My experience has been better than I had ever hoped, and has included more than I ever would have guessed (Filling water balloons? Yes! Collecting lime green paint? Sure! Chapstick holder extraordinaire? Sign me up!).

Not only is Sabrena patient and articulate, but also goal oriented, client focused, and thrilled to be where she is: “My goal with my photography is to truly capture the love between family members, the excitement and anticipation of engaged couples, and the moments of hope and endless potential at weddings. I don’t come to events to just take photographs but to serve. I have made more memories and friends than many people can say they’ve made in a lifetime and I’m just at the beginning. How wonderful life is!”

It’s been a great summer so far, and I can’t wait to see what else is in store!

And because everyone else says a post is better with pictures (think Jasmine Star), here is a preview from a baseball game that fell under internship opportunities!

Jimmie and Melissa

These two had a wedding full of memories and are now enjoying life after their wonderfully tropical honeymoon! They share an amazing testimony of the Lord’s faithfulness and guidance, and I know that their marriage will prove to be nothing short of a beautiful witness for Him.

And of course some fun details:

Dan and Michelle

We (more on the “we” soon!) drove towards the sign that read “Quiet Waters Park” and were immediately taken aback by the beauty and peace that met us at the entrance, and we knew then that it was going to be a great day. Dan and Michelle are two people that exude a sincerity and a depth of spirit that is evident to everyone around them. Their wedding was a pleasure to be a part of for several reasons, but especially because I was given the opportunity to witness the forever love and sweet dedication of two very special people.

This future photographer followed Sabrena around for several minutes, and would snap a picture every time she did!

Tuition=A Lot. Books=Too Much. Finally Receiving a Paper Five Years in the Making=Priceless

Leanne and I have known each other several years now, ever since she scarred me that first and fateful day in our new school (a whole story on its own-trust me!). These days, when people ask about us, we find it easier to just say sisters (think “White Christmas”) than explain the whole thing. Last year, this “sister” of mine, received her bachelors degree from Springfield College in MA, but I just couldn’t make it up the coast in time. She gave me this warning: “You better be there next year when I get my masters…or else”. So a year of planning and anticipating later, I found myself flying home to drive down to MA for the culmination of her five years of torture, er I mean joy and pure bliss! The traveling caravan of family members and friends arrived in Springfield the night before, and woke up to a beautiful, sunny May 16th. By lunchtime, my beautiful friend was officially a “master” of Physical Therapy and was on the threshold of a new life! Congratulations Leanne (********)!

Taylor Wedding

He’s an engineer. She’s an architect. And on May 9th, they became husband and wife! Fun facts about these two: he slept in a hammock for several years, even in his dorm room; she loves coffee/he loves cigars; they just purchased their first house not too long ago; and they have the best friends a couple could ask for-see the end of this post for a preview of the shenanigans these pranksters conjured up for the wedding send-off!

Anna

This girl is just phenomenal! She has a heart that beats for others, one that longs to serve and encourage. I am blessed by her friendship, faithfulness, and patience. When she asked me to take some pictures of her for a surprise gift for her boyfriend, Jason, I was so excited!

Seth and Tram’s Engagement

Tram and I went to high school back in Vermont together. She moved down to Blacksburg to attend VTech, and ended up meeting Seth, her husband-to-be! I was so excited when she asked me to take some shots for them. Thank you guys! Can’t wait until the wedding!

Jess-Newly Updated :)

Before Jess and I spent time taking some “tummy” pics, we got together with her husband Josh

Roberts Family

This is one great family! They love to worship, love to laugh, and they LOVE their kids…