Ray of Sunshine!

Yes, winter is upon us, but that didn't stop this Cali girl from shining for the camera! Although she was used to living under the Californian sun, you can see that she became fashionably ready for the East Coast life.

Rae posed perfectly for the shoot. She took direction very well, and even added her own unique creativity! Her mother informed me that Rae couldn't wait to show off her hat, b/c it reminded her of Michael Jackson :-)

After meeting her beautiful parents, it was no surprise to see how she acquired such an exquisite and vivacious personality. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with them.

It can't be easy moving to a new place, but the family is adjusting well. I felt honored to be a part of their Christmas memories as they use the photos to share with their families back home.

It was a pleasure meeting you all. Happy Holidays and I hope you enjoy the East Coast!

L.J. :-)

http://laurenashleyjonesphotography.com/

Not All Presents Are Wrapped Under the Christmas Tree

This beautiful couple is receiving one of the most precious and beautiful gifts of all.....a baby girl. The holidays are going to mean so much more to them as they step into the blessing of parenthood. It's wonderful to know that they are ready and willing to provide and care for their new child.

Doing a photoshoot is always hard work, but it was nothing compared to the energy and enthusiasm that Shamika put into posing for the photos. She did a superb job working with all of the ideas that I had.

I adored the background of the area. It gave the photos a more wistful and dramatic appeal.

Shamika and her husband met in college and have been together ever since. They've been married for about five years, so what could be better then making a new addition to their home? Their matching ensembles of purple added an extra flare as they romantically posed together.

The beauty of motherhood is one of God's inexplainable and truly amazing gifts. Congratulations to you both!

L.J. :-)

http://laurenashleyjonesphotography.com/

3 to 1

It must be an adventure to raise a family of boys. But with this strong couple, they make it look easy!

I had a wonderful time taking shots of this beautiful family. I enjoyed watching the parents work as a team to get their children ready and focused for the shots. These two boys were definitely ready to shine. They had great energy and enthusiasm despite the cold weather, and I especially loved their matching argyle sweaters!

As soon as I met the family, I noticed their strong bond. Their love for each

other shined through the photos.

I could see the joy and connection of the boys as they interacted with each other.

It was a pleasure to work with parents who live with such dedication and foundation!

Happy Holidays to you all!

L.J.

http://laurenashleyjonesphotography.com/

Be Inspired!

Stop! Put down the chocolate! No more moping and waiting around for life to get better. Get Proactive! Be Encouraged! Be INSPIRED!

One Saturday, I shot a Women's Day event hosted by "Be Inspired" http://www.beinspired-online.com/home/. This organization is run by two fabulous women: Erica Jefferson and Christina Patterson. "The Mission of 'Be Inspired' is to inspire women all around the world to live a Christ-filled, joyful life through encouragement, teaching, and prayer."

Although this event targeted single mothers, Erica and Christina welcomed all women to come and be blessed through spiritual encouragement and rejuvenation of the mind. The day was filled with delicious refreshments and sweet treats, donated clothes and toys, plenty of giveaways and prizes, games, testimonies, a talkshow, make-overs, and more!

Be Inspired also has a magazine that focuses on keeping women encouraged, fit, healthy, beautiful, strong, and goal-oriented! http://www.beinspired-online.com/home/

L.J. :-)

http://laurenashleyjonesphotography.com/index.htm

Love Can Go the Distance

Love is in the air, and couples are taking full advantage of the summer's warmth and romance. I had the pleasure of shooting John and Lorna's wedding. Such a calm, sweet, even-tempered couple. They had their ceremony outdoors under an enclosed gazebo followed by a tour of the venue's famous wine cellar. The reception was very spectacular as the wedding party strutted in dancing and getting the party started ;-)

Lorna's colors were lilac, silver, and black; very elegant and soft. I truly enjoyed meeting the wedding party as they showed their love and support for the bride and groom. The bridesmaids were especially supportive as they suffered in their 4-inch heels ;-) I took their plight into consideration during the photoshoot. I know they were anxious to kick of their heels and relax, but beauty always has a price :-)

First comes the wedding; then comes Iraq? Although John and Lorna have each other, I'm so thankful that they have a large family to encourage them. John has pledged his loyalty to the army and has been sent to support the U.S. troops in Iraq. They barely had a week to let married life sink in. But as I talked with Lorna, I can tell that she is a strong individual. She's ready to face whatever may come her way. John and Lorna's family will also be there to comfort her and provide her with love and care.

Love can go the distance!

L.J. :-)

http://laurenashleyjonesphotography.com/index.htm