The session that almost wasn’t.

The Bontrager family was scheduled for a 6pm session this past Friday evening, and the weather forecast was looking dismal at best. Storms were predicted all afternoon into the evening. It had already been a long week for this family after completing their first go round of e-learning for the school year for the 3 oldest. “Let’s wait till 4 to make a decision,” we agreed. And when decision time arrived we were still unsure. Against the odds, we decided to have a little faith and see what we could make of the evening.

And y’all…it turned out to be so beautiful!

We explored the grounds of their church, a place that is so special to this family, and chased the beautiful evening sun.

Maybe our location lent a hand in some divine intervention, but I am so glad we didn’t postpone this session!

The week prior, Ashley and I texted ideas back and forth about their potential wardrobe. As I say to many moms, figuring out what everyone will wear is often the most stressful part of pictures! I don’t want to add that stress to families, and am more than happy to give ideas and input on what outfits will work well together.

I’ve never actually been much of a “let’s go shopping” kind of girlfriend, but it turns out I love virtual shopping trips! So if you’re looking for someone to send you outfit links - I’m your girl!

Knowing she wanted to work with a few items from her kids closets, we found a color scheme that she loved and set to work on finding a dress for her (that she looked stunning in!!) to complete the entire family’s ensemble in just a few clicks!

What I love about taking photos of this family is that these siblings have such an awesome bond. They truly are built in best friends at the end of the day. They look out for one another, and they are pretty darn cute to boot! Each has their own very specific personality that balances out the rest of their tribe. Beyond four great kids, mom and dad are pretty awesome too. Mama Ashley happens to be my favorite lactation consultant in this world and she sat by my side in the very early days of navigating all of the “Am I doing this right?!” questions that came with our sweet boy. Papa Conrad has more Dad Jokes than possibly any other father that I have met in my life…combined…and multiplied.

A sweet, funny, and adventurous family always makes for an awesome session and I’m so glad I got to spend some time with this family!

Thanks Bontragers!