For those who have followed along with my blog or photography for a few years, you might know that I have a special place in my heart for a wonderful family in Maryland. For those who just came to the blog through NCB, I wanted to tell you why this fundraiser is so near and dear to my heart. The truth is, if this family’s story didn’t involve any tragedy I would love them all the same. If you knew them, you would see instantly why I say that. Katie and Justin are two of the most humble, sincere, down-to-earth people I know. Their bond as husband and wife is truly admirable. And their kids exude the love they share, by the obvious joy they wear on their faces. Katie, Justin, and I grew up together in the same town and shared some great childhood memories together and so I was elated when we reconnected through Facebook several years ago. When Katie and I realized we were pretty close to each other in distance, we set up a few dates to hang out. And in 2010 when I started my photography business, they were my very first photo shoot! I had the honor of photographing their beautiful family a number of times since I started my business, and in that time, I reconnected a strong friendship with Katie – this time through our bond in motherhood.
In September 2012 I was in my bedroom when I received a phone call from Katie’s best friend. She called to tell me that Nate, Katie and Justin’s middle child (the most insanely adorable little boy), had drowned on family vacation. Still to this day, I have never felt so much pain. My heart literally became heavy and I dropped to my knees the second I heard those words. I still can feel that weight as I type these words. I can’t imagine what Katie’s grief feels like, but how silly am I to assume that this family, this amazing faithful family, wouldn’t do selfless and loving things with their grief. How silly am I to think that God wouldn’t move mountains in their lives ,and in the lives of those fortunate enough to know them.
Nate visiting us at the beach in Delaware. One of my faves.
Soon after Nate’s passing, Katie and Justin created a foundation in Nate’s honor. This foundation is the epitome of “Community.” It is a foundation that brings people together and inspires greatness. Their tag line “Go Out. Be Great.” has made waves throughout Maryland and across the country and I just know that Nate’s legacy is being lived out each day. When you have a moment, please go read more about their story and foundation here. Our goal for this fundraiser each year is to book all the sessions and donate over $3,000 to the foundation for all the GREAT things they are doing in their community. Who wants to help me do it this year? Read below for details!
Info: 30 Minute Mini-Session with a minimum of 10 digital files available for download
Date: April 23rd, 2016
Venue: Retreat and Conference Center at Bon Secours 1525 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104
Investment: $300
Details on Payment: A $75 retainer fee is required at booking (see below). The remaining balance of $225 will be due the day of your session. Payments can be made by check or cash. Checks can be made out to NCB Foundation.
What to Wear: Family outfit coordination can be stressful. It’s one of my most frequently asked questions. Click here to read a blog post I did of my top 5 tips to help choose your outfit.
Other Details: Please allow for a cushion of 15 minutes into your schedule. I will try to keep all sessions to 25 minutes so we can stay on time, but sometimes we might run past the allotted time if I feel like we haven’t captured the images that I want for your gallery. My hope is that you won’t be there any longer than 45 minutes from start to finish :-)
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