Since Easter is late this year, there will be more than enough time to get in a fun early spring photo shoot. Jennifer, from Minor Impressions, has some adorable outfit ideas for both a dressy OR casual look. Enjoy!

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This is one of my most favorite times of the year! It’s getting a little bit warmer, the grass is turning green again, and you start to see a few flowers bloom. The other reason I love it is that the stores start putting out all of their Easter outfits.

I don’t usually suggest that kids (especially toddlers) wear something dressy to take pictures in, but Easter pictures are definitely an exception. So many times I catch myself purchasing the perfect dress for my girls to wear, and they end up only wearing it once or twice. You might as well attempt a third time and have some portraits made of your little darling looking perfect, even if he/she isn’t! 🙂

Many Easter outfits are your basic pastel colors. Most of the time, the lighter colors can look very washed out in pictures. I suggest mixing some pastels and darker shades of color to make your outfits stand out more. You’ll see that there are various colors in both of the girls’ dresses, which also makes it easier to find something which coordinates for the boy to wear. If you tend to steer away from the dressier outfits because you know you won’t get as much use out of them as you’d like, you can still have the great colors with something more casual. Just follow the same guidelines of the dark and light colors mixed together!

Now that you have some great wardrobe choices, be sure to talk with your photographer about the location you’d like to use. For Easter pictures, some great choices are a local park, somewhere with a pond, or even an arboretum if you have one nearby.

Spring Easter Outfit Ideas

Shopping List

Girl’s Dressy Outfit – Crazy 8

Dress – $34.95
Cardigan – $26.95
Shoes – $22.75
Necklace – $12.95
Bracelet – $8.95
Headband – $5.00

Boy’s Dressy Outfit –  Crazy 8

Pants – $24.95
Shirt – $16.95
Sweater Vest – $22.95
Shoes – $16.99

Girl’s Casual Outfit – Hanna Andersson

Dress – $19.00
Shoes – $74.00
Necklace – $10.00
Bracelet – $8.00
Headband – $8.00

Boy’s Casual Outfit –  Gap

Shorts – $26.36
Shirt – $16.50
Shoes – $19.50

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Kelly, of Kelly V. Photography, has once again put together a post filled with ideas to help you dress for your shape. This week she’s focusing those of you with an hourglass shape.

Thank you, Kelly!

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Time for another spotlight on how to dress each one of the four female body shapes! In the process, I’ll discuss what to look for when shopping, as well as what to avoid. The goal is to help you accentuate your best features when it comes to picking an outfit for your portrait session whether you’re a pear, apple, hourglass or rectangle.

I’ve already featured the pear shape, which you can find here, and the apple shape, which you can find here. Next up? Hourlass!

HOURGLASS SHAPE

Typically hourglass-shaped women have:

  • Symmetrical shoulders and hips
  • A full and shapely bust
  • A distinctly defined waist
  • Shapely legs

The world is your closet
If you have an hourglass figure, count your blessings! The hourglass is considered to be the ideal female shape. Since balance is always the goal, and you have it naturally, your overall figure is the easiest to dress because most things look great on you. But there are a few things you can do to accentuate your curves without adding bulk to your shoulders and hips.

Tops
Look for tops that accentuate your bust and waist such as V-necks, scoop necks and especially wraps. You can’t go wrong with almost any length, either. Fitted tops that sit at your waist, as well as those that are a little longer will all work to emphasize your curves. And halter tops are a great way to show off your shapely shoulders. Solids and patters are both equally flattering, but think simple and subtle if you want to appear slimmer. When selecting a jacket, you could opt for short or long — just be sure it’s fitted at the waist to show it off.

Pants
Your ideal pants will be cut for larger hips and taper in at the waist. You can certainly pull off the “skinny jean” look, but for overall balance — particularly with timeless pieces like a pair of black dress pants — look for those that are slightly flared at the leg or even a wide leg. Mid-rise pants are the way to go, especially if you’re carrying a little extra weight in the tummy area. But, again, you have the body type that can pull off all of the latest looks whether it’s super low-rise or even high-waisted. So go for it and don’t be afraid to take a risk if you’re the trendy type!

Skirts and dresses
Here’s where you can really play up your shapely silhouette! Choose skirts that hug your curves and give you a smooth fit at the waistline, such as a knee-length pencil skirt. You can also go bold with shorter options to show off those legs. For dresses, you’ll never go wrong with a wrap, fitted halters or even the strapless look. If you want something with a little flare, go with an A-line skirt or dress, just be sure that the top is fitted to balance it out.

Shoes
You have great legs, so show them off! For you, the sky is the limit, so feel free to experiment with wedges, straps, pointy toes, peep toes — you name it! And you’re one of the lucky girls who can pull off that sexy stiletto heel without looking off balance.

What to avoid
Stay away from anything that hides your beautiful curves and turns you into a shapeless line. Tops and bottoms that are too big and baggy will only make you look frumpy. You’ll also want to stay away from straight lines in almost anything including jackets, jeans and skirts. Avoid tops with big prints, ruffles or too many details around the bust area because it will make you look larger and throw off your natural proportions.

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It’s time to give out the fourth gift at the baby shower for WW girl Kelly Valeri! Don’t worry – if you’ve missed any of the others, you still have time to get in on the action. Just head over the the Events tab of the Wardrobe Wednesday Facebook page.

Today’s guest is my good friend Mindy MacLaren from Sweet & Woodsy Aromatherapy. Mindy and I first met when I photographed her twins about two years ago. At the time she was just starting her aromatherapy business, so I’ve had a chance to watch it (and the girls!) grow. I’ll admit it – I’m a HUGE fan of Sweet & Woodsy. If you follow me on Facebook, you probably already know that though 🙂 Because of Mindy, I now clean my house using essential oils (no more stinky chemicals), have no more chapped lips (thanks to her new lip balm!), and am typing this while enjoying a custom blend she created for a diffuser in my office. No, I’m not a paid endorser – just a loyal customer 🙂

I could go on and on, but I’m sure you’d rather hear more from Mindy herself AND hear about the gifts she’s bringing to the shower (for Kelly and THREE lucky guests!).

One last thing – I HIGHLY suggest you become a Sweet & Woodsy fan on Facebook. You won’t get bombarded with messages, but Mindy often shares some of her recipes for homemade cleansers and remedies!

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MindyMaclaren_600px Firstly, let me say that I am so honored to have been asked to participate in the Wardrobe Wednesday baby shower for Kelly, and to be able to share my story with their fans.  Thank you, Ladies!

I gave birth to my twin girls in August 2009.  In October 2009, I started my home-based business Sweet & Woodsy Aromatherapy.  I was so tired at that point (to which many a new mom can relate) I’m not sure what I was thinking!  But, as I look back on that time, I know I wouldn’t have done it any other way.

S&WA_logo_Final It makes sense that my daughters and my business have grown alongside each other.  I’d learned about aromatherapy while in esthetics school in the 1990s, but my interest in using essential-oil based products began around the time my husband and I decided to start our family.  I’d become keenly (if not obsessively) aware of the kinds of substances around me and was learning how to support my health through natural options like aromatherapy and acupuncture.  It didn’t take long for me to give up the chemical-laden products I was accustomed to and begin making my own personal care and cleaning products.

My formal “aroma education” began in 2008 when I attended Aromahead Institute’s Aromatherapy Certification Program.  I credit this as one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life to date!  Not only did I learn about quality essential oils, their many therapeutic properties, and how to use them, but I also experienced top notch instruction and befriended many amazing people who continue to offer me, my family, and my business care and support.

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The products for purchase at www.sweetandwoodsy.com are all handmade by me with organic or all- natural ingredients.  I have used all of these products on myself, my family, and in my home, so I know firsthand how wonderful they are.  The line offers an alternative to commercial personal care items and household cleaners and proves that the simplest of ingredients can create fabulous effects.

Along with the peace of mind these non-toxic products offer, the essential oils that are blended into them are tested for purity, promoting physical and emotional health.  For example, Sweet & Woodsy’s Scented Baby Lotion contains only an all-natural lotion made of oils such as Safflower and Apricot, aloe vera gel, and distilled water, and Roman Chamomile essential oil (Chamaemelum nobile).  Traditionally, Roman Chamomile has been used with babies for its calming abilities, and because it’s also anti-septic, it can help keep baby healthy, especially during cold and flu season. Unlike commercial baby products which often contain harmful synthetic ingredients, you can use our lotion without worry.  And the fewer things to worry about (especially when it concerns your children), the better!  All of the Sweet & Woodsy Aromatherapy products are created with intention and I am very proud of them!

I am so honored to have been asked to participate in the Wardrobe Wednesday baby shower, and to be able to share my story with their fans.

Thank you, Ladies!

~ Mindy

{GIVEAWAY DETAILS}

I’m excited to offer everyone a chance to win some of the Sweet & Woodsy products! I’m going to pick THREE people who who will get to pick out either 1, 2, or 3 items of their choice. ANY item in the shop! To enter,

(1) Please “like” Sweet & Woodsy Aromatherapy on FaceBook

(2) Check out the SHOP on my brand new website at  www.sweetandwoodsy.com

(3) Come back here and leave a comment telling me the items you’d most like to try.

That’s it! You have until 8:00 EST on Monday to leave your comment. I’ll announce the winners on Tuesday! In the meantime, check out some of the products in the shop, as well as the contents of the gift basket I’m sending Kelly!

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{Just a sample of what you can find at Sweet & Woodsy}

Products
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Here you go, Kelly – the contents of your gift basket! Enjoy 🙂

From left to right: Citrus & Tea Tree Foaming Hand Soap, Mothering Blend Lotion, “Naturosporin” Healing Gel, Lavender Baby Bottom Balm, Lavender-Scented Baby Oil, Vanilla & Citrus Lip Balm & Sweet Cheeks Tushy Spray

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  • February 10, 2011 - 11:15 am

    Sadiee - Oh LALA looks like some yummy goodies there!! I liked her page
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  • February 10, 2011 - 12:11 pm

    Stacee - Just “liked” Sweet & Woodsy on FB!! 🙂
    Wow! She has some GREAT stuff!!! Too many things to write down ALL I’d like to try, but the first few would be the GOOD SMELLING hand sanitizer and the Multi-Purpose Cleaning Spray. Thanks for the opportunity to win some of her wonderful items!! 🙂
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  • February 10, 2011 - 12:33 pm

    Michele Riggle - The vanilla and lemon lip balm sounds wonderful and I’d love to try the tushy spray on my son’s occasional awful diaper rash.
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  • February 10, 2011 - 1:42 pm

    Kendra - The inhalers and custom blended lotion and hand sanitizers sound amazing! I’d try all of those.
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  • February 10, 2011 - 2:04 pm

    Amber Epps - Liked on facebook! Love the natural products. Can’t wait to try them. I would like to be use less products with chemicals, now that I am pregnant again with my third. The products I want to try the most are nausea inhaler ( would be wonderful right now!) , mothering blend lotion and vanilla & citrus lip balm. Can’t wait to place an orderr!
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  • February 10, 2011 - 4:00 pm

    Sara Hodges - I liked your page and I’d really like to try the Multi-purpose cleaning spray, the custom peppermint hand & body lotion, the foot scrub and the abrasive cleaning scrub! There’s actually a lot on there! I’d just love to smell it all!! LOL!
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  • February 10, 2011 - 6:34 pm

    Trista Laborn - I Like you on facebook and keft a comment, i Love the feel of your website as well, I would also like to try the Vanilla & Citrus Lip Balm!
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  • February 11, 2011 - 12:22 am

    Cheryle - Liked on FB! (Love would be more appropriate! lol) I am dying to try so many things – I would have a hard time choosing if I did win! The Naturosporin is intriguing (with 3 year old triplets, boo-boos are an all-too-common occurrence), the lip balm and lotions look divine – so many yummy scents. The Relaxation Inhaler sounds lovely! Heavenly sounding stuff, glad I found you!
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In a million years I couldn’t love this post more. Rebecca from Rebecca Keeling Studios has put together a totally cool look for the entire family that just screams funky session in the city. What makes this even better is the color – yellow! Don’t ask me why, but I can’t get enough of that color these days.

Thank you, Rebecca!

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I’m not sure if my inspiration this week came from our very own fabulous logo colors or if I needed some cheering up as I listened to the rain outside of my window last night, but either way, I think it made for a great wardrobe collaboration!

Although many of us are still firmly planted in cold winter temperatures, it won’t be long before it starts warming up outside and we get back to doing what we love best…having outdoor portrait sessions with our favorite clients!  Spring makes me think of many things, including rain and rubber boots, which naturally pairs these fabulous black, white, and gray neutrals together with a pop of yellow.

This week, I wanted to do something a little rock & roll, a little wild and crazy and FUN!!  While it wouldn’t work for everyone, this wardrobe combination is geared toward a young family in an urban environment.  It is just begging to find some back alley grit juxtaposed with rambunctious laughter and soft kisses.

Some of my favorite items from today’s wardrobe are mom’s jeans, which are super stylish but have a classic rise.  I adore mom’s jacket.  By dressing in layers, not only do we look fabulous, but we are also able to conceal any spots where we may be a little self-conscious.  Don’t forget to accessorize dad!  This Fossil watch is awesome…a little edgy and definitely very masculine.  And what’s not to love about these skully rain boots or the adorable floral fabric headband?  But I have to say, my most favorite part has to be the color combination with the neutrals and one strong pop of color.

So, even if this particular color combination is not necessarily your choice, you get an idea of how to pull together a wardrobe with any neutral palette and a pop of gorgeous color.  Cute, fun, and different…and that’s what makes your portrait session personal for your family.

Where to find the goods:

Mom

Buckle BKE Drew Classic Rise Stretch Jean | $70

Buckle Daytrip Perforated Jacket | $65

Buckle Hurley Full Boar T-Shirt | $29

Banana Republic Corgie Open-Toe Zipper Bootie | $140

maxandchloe.com Primadina Pearl Fan Earrings | $165

maxandchloe.com Blu Bijoux Grecian Bangles | $45

Son

Boden Rugby Shirt | $22

Gap Whiskered Dark Wash Boot Jeans | $20

Gymboree Skull Rain Boots | $25

Dad

Buckle BKE Carter Jean | $70

Old Navy Twill Military Jacket | $50

Buckle Volcom V-Neck T-Shirt | $32

Banana Republic Adidas Campas II Grey Suede Sneaker | $60

Buckle Fossil Wide Band Watch | $85

Daughter

Gap Glamour Graphic T-Shirt | $20

Gap Alternate Tier Skirt | $20

Old Navy Girls Lace-Trim Leggings | $9

Journeys Kidz Converse Lo Athletic Shoe in Buttercup | $30

Made By Lori Etsy Store featuring the Yellow Flower Fabric Headband | $10 {http://www.etsy.com/shop/lori311?ref=pr_shop}

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Well, what better way to start a shower than with a gift and giveaway! JudyJavin2 Our first guest is Judy from A Mother’s Boutique. We originally thought Kelly might enjoy a pair of their yoga pants, but after a few minutes shopping around the site, we knew it would be better to let her pick something out. Judy’s shop has SO many options for new moms!

Judy was kind enough to send us a short note about herself and A Mother’s Boutique. She also has a gift for Kelly…and maybe a few of you. Get the details below!

{Photo of Judy and her son is courtesy of Robin DeNoma Photography}

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{From Judy}

After a few months of being at home, I decided that I wanted to help other new mothers to breastfeed. Breastfeeding isn’t always as easy as one might expect – and I wanted to help as many new mothers as possible to be successful in their efforts to breastfeed their babies.

When I was a new mother, I had a difficult time finding quality nursing clothing and products that would enable me to be successful at breastfeeding.  I realized that this “unmet need” that I felt was also something that many other mothers also experienced. Coming from a business background, I decided this was something that I could use my corporate skills to develop a solution for. I realized that I would be able to meet my personal goals of spending more time with my son, while achieving professional goals of helping other new mothers succeed with breastfeeding. This led me to start up  A Mother’s Boutique. AMB_Logo_4C

I originally started the company to provide moms with great nursing tops.  I LIVED in nursing tops when my son was a baby.  For me, I didn’t care if someone got a glimpse of my breast while I was nursing him (breasts are beautiful, right?) – I didn’t want my belly to be hanging out!  So when I discovered nursing tops – I literally lived in them.  I wore them whenever I was with my son and I also wore then while I was at work.  It made pumping easier, kept me warm in an overly air-conditioned office and provided the most discretion for those times when a co-worker (or my boss) happened to walk in on me!  I then expanded my “offerings” to include nursing bras and breastpumps and finally maternity clothing and slings and just about any accessory to make breastfeeding easier as well.

A Mother’s Boutique is focused on helping new mothers breastfeed by providing all of the tools that new mothers need in one convenient location.  I have selected the highest quality and most functional items (as well as many of my own personal favorites!) from several different designers to make sure that mothers shopping here get the best selection available. Based on my experience as a working mother, a stay-at-home mother, a work-at-home mother and now a one-woman-retail-wholesale-and-internet-store-operation, I have chosen items that will work for different kinds of mothers who are in different personal and professional parts of motherhood.  I have chosen stylish business wear for the mother who is pumping at work or meeting her baby at lunch for nursing; as well as comfortable casual wear for mothers who are on the go.  I have also made sure to include stylish casual and dress wear for all types of occasions – for dressing up and dressing down.

In October of 2009, I started a blog as a way of supporting all of the moms out there having babies.  My blog, Mommy News and Views, has great parenting and breastfeeding advice.  And even a section where you can write in with your own breastfeeding questions.  And most recently – I opened a retail store in Wexford, PA in the North Hills of Pittsburgh.

I am passionate about helping moms to meet their breastfeeding goals.  I provide assistance in any way that I can think of – from writing articles to blogging to being a resource for moms on facebook and twitter.  I’d love to connect with you too!  You can find me on twitter @MommyNews and on Facebook.

I am so excited to be a part of this baby shower!  Congratulations on your baby-to-be Kelly!  I will be sending Kelly an item of her choice from my boutique – I can’t wait to find out what she chooses!!  And as part of this fantastic celebration, 4 lucky moms will also get to pick out something to treat themselves to as well!  The grand prize – a $50 gift certificate – will be given to one lucky mom!  And three additional gift certificates in the amount of $15 each will be given to the runners up!  That’s FOUR lucky winners – and with our semi-annual sale going on now – there are TONS of great items to choose from!  All you have to do is stop by my Facebook page and “Like It” and then visit my website (http://www.mothersboutique.com) and figure out where you want to spend your gift certificate.  Then come back here leave a comment on this post telling me that you “liked” my page and which item you have your heart set on for your gift to yourself. I’ll announce the four lucky fans on Friday!

{A FEW OF OUR PRODUCTS}

OceanDreamsBra

Nursing Bras: We carry nursing bras in sizes 32-48 A-K – so there is something to fit every mom, no matter what her size or shape!

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Maternity Tops: All of our maternity wear can also be used for easy breastfeeding once your baby arrives – and these items are so cute! You won’t stop wearing them when your nursing days are over either.

CapriPJs_Black_prego2


Pajamas: What new mom wouldn’t love to snuggle up at night in these!


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Swimwear: It might be cold outside now – but before you know it you will be running in the sun with your little ones. This nursing swimwear will be perfect for chasing a toddler while breastfeeding your newborn – at the pool or at the beach!

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Jewelry: This necklace makes the perfect gift for any mom or mom-to-be – appropriately named “Sweet Embrace.” Can you think of anything you’d like more?

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  • February 7, 2011 - 1:52 pm

    Sara Hodges - I liked your Facebook page and I really like the Flynn top and the Tiger Hoodie in Expresso from your website.
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  • February 7, 2011 - 2:11 pm

    Erin S. Conrad - Liked your Facebook Page =)
    The Banded Tunic is very chic and even though I might look huge during this pregnancy I still want to look cute too. And it def. offers that.
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  • February 7, 2011 - 2:24 pm

    Erin Morris - I think that I have a huge crush on the shirred tunic top! Oh to have a stylish top that is also great for nursing!
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  • February 7, 2011 - 2:42 pm

    Mollie B - Already like AMB on FB. I have to say that I’m in love with the breastfeeding hats! So adorable.
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  • February 7, 2011 - 3:11 pm

    Robin Thornhill - Liked your facebook page. Just checked out your website. I am in love with the Geisha Wrap top! It is so a must have for me~!
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  • February 7, 2011 - 3:56 pm

    Marisa Morris - It’s always so hard to decide!! you know I love your store! I think I need some summer things now so the Elbow Sleeve Hoodie this time…maybe…
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  • February 7, 2011 - 5:22 pm

    Kari Smith - I liked your page! For me maternity clothes for this summer are a must! I need shirts like crazy 🙂
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  • February 7, 2011 - 5:41 pm

    Erin Morris - Oh and by the way, I also liked your FB page.
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  • February 7, 2011 - 8:23 pm

    Jennifer Bailor Sipes - Liked your Facebook page and I glad I found you! I have a 4 week old and a 19 month old. It’s nice to find a place that carries a large selection of nursing clothes. I really like the sweater sets, they would be great for work. I will also be loking for warm weather clothes. We visit the Pittsburgh area a lot so I look forward to stopping in.
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  • February 7, 2011 - 8:48 pm

    Amber Epps - I enjoyed your website. I really love the Belly Belt combo. I never had something so wonderful when pregnant with my older children. Now on my 3rd and I am so excited at what’s out there now! I also love the d & a nursing halter in mint black leaf. Perfect! I liked you on facebook. I can’t wait to shop your website some more!
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  • February 8, 2011 - 1:57 am

    Krista - I already like your page, for real! 😉
    And if I could pick something fun and “unnecessary” I’d get some new pajamas that don’t scream “mom”. 😉 Something like the first one on the pajamas and loungewear page!
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  • February 8, 2011 - 2:29 am

    Kayla Renckly - liked on FB 🙂 oh I would love to get some cute nursing tops! hard time picking just one
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  • February 9, 2011 - 10:23 am

    Jonna - You know I like your facebook page Judy 🙂 I have to choose just one thing to like in the store?? There are many, many things that I like, but I LOVE my bravado seamless silk bra!!
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  • February 9, 2011 - 10:39 am

    Kristi Harman - I ‘liked’ your facebook page! Your website is amazing! I’m excited to place an order! I really like the Flynn top, your nursing bras, and I must have the nursing tank that hides your belly while nursing! I’m so glad I discovered your site!!!! Thank you!!!
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  • February 11, 2011 - 9:34 am

    Jaimie Leader-Goodale - i’ve liked your FB page for a while 🙂 and you *KNOW* i love the glamourmom nursing tanks. 🙂
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I’m not sure who was more excited for Miss Kennedy’s arrival: me, her parents, or Big Brother Landon. Seriously, as soon as I got the news that mom Ashley was having another baby, the plans started forming. I can’t count the number of calls, Facebook messages and e-mails we sent each other in anticipation of her newborn session. I’d say the work paid off.

Ashley searched the internet (especially Etsy – don’t you just love Etsy!) for just the right thing for Kennedy to wear. I think she did a great job… isn’t the headband adorable! And since a few people have already asked, I’ll mention that the diaper cover and newsboy hat were from Polka Dot Posh. They come in dozens of colors and sizes, so you can order a set for older babies as well!

Kennedy was such a doll during our shoot. While it took a little while to get her to really fall asleep, once she did she was OUT. She looked so peaceful, I almost felt bad about moving her around…almost. I need to get the shot, right?

Ashley, CJ and Big Brother Landon (that’s what he calls himself now) – it was my absolute pleasure to photograph Kennedy. I can’t wait to watch her grow, and for Landon to shine as a big brother. It’s easy to tell already just how much he loves her.

Cheers!

Morgan

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  • February 3, 2011 - 8:32 pm

    Erin Morris - The one with Big Brothers hand….take my breathe away! Just beautiful Morgan, beautiful!
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  • February 14, 2011 - 1:08 pm

    Tamra Hart | Crendo Photography - Love the little smile in the one with the pink hat. I’m sure the parents are thrilled with these photos.
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