Giving Thanks…

I have been so excited from the start of planning Tuoi and Spencer’s shoot at the Grand Floridian in Disney World! From the time we arrived in Disney, Brad and I have talked about the shoot. We’ve kept our eye open for unique ideas and locations..and Saturday especially we made SURE that the Grand Floridian was the best spot for the photos: which we agreed it was.

We scouted the location on Saturday to check out the lighting and find the spots that we liked best. Even at dinner that evening, I was anxious with anticipation. It felt like a wedding…with that one opportunity to get it right. With Tuoi + Spencer flying in the next day to meet us there, I almost couldn’t stand the anticipation!…and I prayed for good weather.

Tuoi and Spencer arrived just before lunch on Sunday and we ate lunch just before the start of getting ready. And then…when we headed back to our rooms, they told me they had a surprise. First, they pulled out this awesome photographer T-shirt below which I was stoked to receive. I put it on over the shirt I had on with the biggest smile on my face. But then…they had another surprise:

….And they unzipped their jackets.

There they were, in their custom made T-shirts to celebrate the occasion! WHAT?! How COOL!!!!!! Brad and I both let out a “wwwhaaattt?!”

….and then they turned around and Brad and I both reacted with a combination of wows…laughter and complete surprise.

This was so thoughtful and really made me smile!!! I definitely had a moment of “I love my job, is this real life?”

The shoot went so well. We were nervous because Tuoi and I together would be doing her hair and makeup due to the time constraints.

But thankfully, it all came together. Tuoi had a bouquet and boutonniere created by Root Floral Design of Balsa Wood and a fabulous headpiece

by  Joli Petale  …. which I cannot wait to blog about! The weather was perfect and I am just so so happy that it went so well.

After the shoot was over, they changed into comfortable clothes and we headed to dinner at the Grand Gloridian Cafe. While at dinner…

I can’t believe this either, but Tuoi and Spencer presented me with yet another thoughtful gift that I haven’t taken off since. 🙂

[a charm necklace from The Silver Suitcase]

Each charm represents something:

Mickey : First trip to Disney

Couple Dancing: Love for weddings

Camera: Passion for Photography

Fleur De Lis: Louisiana + Lafayette

Engraved C: For Catherine 🙂

Simply Modern: I think this one is my favorite. They had my slogan engraved on the rectangular drop. AH!

I thank God every day because not only am I able to do something for a living that I am passionate about, but he constantly brings couples into my life that show such an appreciation for photography as well as an appreciation for my work and for me….as a person! 🙂 

I would definitely say that I have no expectations for gifts or T-shirts (although I really love these gestures so much). I am just grateful for my clients’ appreciation and for choosing me to be such a part of their lives. I love working with each of them…and even after the wedding, keeping in touch as their lives grow and change. 🙂

So, today I am giving thanks for my clients. My Simply Modern Clients….

Live Simply, Love Freely,

Catherine