Now that we have our new collaborative blog rolling, I’m so excited to get to author my very first blog post.  Since buying in as a partner of Zoë Photographic Group with Cheryl, we’ve been taking care of so many behind the scenes details, I haven’t had a chance to make it public online.   Although you won’t see me posting any photo sessions (mine aren’t worth viewing), I look forward to sharing things from time to time.  I’ve had a chance to meet many of you over the past year during post-session consultations.  I’m excited to get to know the rest of you!  On to my very first post…

My baby turned three last month!  This marked the beginning of “kid parties,” and I felt that full fanfare was in order.  I look for any excuse to plan an over-the-top, party… even if the effort is somewhat lost on my three year old.

The party planning process is always fun.  But doing it with the help of my dear friend, and Zoë’s graphic designer, Annie was almost more fun than the party itself.  Annie and I met months ago over coffee to talk themes and color schematics.  A few days later she emailed me proofs of invites, signs, stickers for the ice cream containers, etc.  She asked me what improvements I would like?  My response was, “Nothing!”  They were absolutely perfect.

Because I love to have parties at home, but the size of the crowd necessitated being outdoors we rented an inflatable water slide to beat the heat.  The kids loved it, and after all the little ones left we might have slid late into the night as a family.  There may or may not have been dish soap involved.  J

The party could not have been better.  Many thanks to the dear family and friends who blessed us by coming, by helping with party prep at the last minute and by being such a big part of our lives.

A huge thank you is in order to Anna Ingle, Zoë Portrait Artist, for beautifully documenting this special day for us.  I have hired a professional photographer for each of Landon’s special days (Disclaimer: This time I had the benefit of an insider connection.  But, for the first and second birthdays I paid full price and am so glad I did.)  We moms put so much into making our little one’s birthdays special and memorable.  Hiring a professional photographer allows you to have beautiful images of life’s sweetest moments while still being able to enjoy the day, rather than trying to take pictures in addition to hosting.

If you would like information on either hiring Anna to photograph or Annie to design for your special event, please call (501.281.8789) or email for more info.

Happy partying!

Kristen,