Ocean City, Maryland

Every once in awhile, I will be sharing bits and pieces of my life here on the blog (maybe a recipe or two, too!), because as Michael Scott would say, "Business is always personal." I really value relationship and connection, so if you're visiting my website for the first time or we've never met yet, I hope you'll grow to feel comfortable with me while learning a little bit about who I am and what I love in life! 

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When I was growing up, my family would visit Ocean City, Maryland, for a week every summer. It should be noted that when I say family, I mean the ENTIRE extended family on my mom’s side - which includes both of my grandparents, all seven of my mom’s brothers and sisters and their respective other halves, AND all of my cousins. I loved it, everyone together in one place! Some of my fondest childhood memories were made during these annual weeks with loved ones. I still remember the time that a seagull dropped a present on my Pop-pop and his face when it happened; venturing out onto the sandbars with my older cousins; trying to boogie board but hardly at all because I was a wimp and didn’t like my knees being scratched by the sand; listening to my dad as he woke early every morning for his cup of coffee; digging for sand crabs… 

Needless to say, I love being able to visit here with my husband now that I’m older and starting a little family of my own. We join my parents (pictured below - they've hardly aged since 30, it's unreal!) each year, which makes the trip extra special because they are just so wonderful! When I think back on those annual vacations, I don’t remember much about the place itself but rather the time spent with the people I loved. The more I grow up, the more this becomes true - life is much more about who you are with, not where you’re at. Location can be beautiful, sometimes important, but people matter above all else. This is one of many reasons why I love being able to photograph PEOPLE.  

Here is a peek into some of the memories that our little family made in Ocean City this past summer …approximately 75% of them are photos of our furry pup, Toby. He’s a ham in front of the camera!

Todd & Samantha - Engaged

I remember our time with Todd and Samantha so vividly because we met on the first cold-enough-to-make-you-shiver, windy, fall-like day of autumn. These two are college sweethearts, whose paths also crossed with mine in quite a few Anthropology classes. Todd is an archaeologist and knows his history, so basically... Indiana Jones. Sam is so soft-spoken, sweet, and intelligent, and they both are friendly and wonderful to be around! Their chemistry was really fun for me to experience, sort of like a couple who has been married for 30 or so years, weathered and genuine, still very much in love. Brent and I really enjoyed our time with them, especially warming up with hot tea and coffee at Prince Street Cafe at the end of our session! Also, what. a. ring. 

I can't wait for their April wedding! 

From Heart to Ink

I spent a few hours last week with my friend Amy, talented calligrapher and creator of From Heart to Ink, while she worked on some festive decor pieces for Christmas. I have always been impressed by her attention to detail, creative process, and patience for perfection. Each piece of work is uniquely personal and done entirely by hand, not to mention beautiful. It’s such a privilege for me to observe and capture others while they’re in their element, doing things they love, or with people they love. Consider yourself warned - these images are sure to get you into the Christmas spirit!

*If you are interested in seeing more of Amy’s work, she can be found on Instagram @fromhearttoink. For inquiries on commissioned work or pricing, she can be reached at amynmast@gmail.com. 

Ben, Summer, & Charles a.k.a. "Charlie," "Snugglebug," etc.

I am so excited to share this anniversary session with the Miller’s! Summer and I have been friends for 25 years (we were infants when we met) and she is my dearest friend, so it was a total joy for me to capture this season of life that we’re in together. Also, I may be somewhat biased but I'm pretty sure she should have been a model. Ben, too. And Charlie. The evening sun was gorgeous, Charlie provided plenty of puppy kisses, and we even enjoyed some soy beans as a snack. 

I hope you love these images as much as I do! 

Matt, Kiersten, & Almond - Portraits

Fall has been especially beautiful in Lancaster City this year, so I was thrilled to spend last Sunday afternoon with the sweetest little family - Matt, Kiersten, and Almond the sheltie. Kiersten is one member of a family full of foodies that decided to open the most wonderful (and dangerous, to your wallet that is) kitchen store in the city, Mise En Place. Needless to say, I frequent this location, admire everything in the store, and take notes on Kiersten’s fabulous and classic personal style. Brent came along with me because we love working as a team, and we seriously enjoyed spending time with these three! Although, Almond undoubtedly stole the show with his playful personality and cute little face.

Enjoy!