Gone are the days of matching Christmas clothes… Please dress your children in non-holiday specific clothing and coordinate their clothes rather than dress them in matching outfits. Accessories are great – including scarves, hats, belts, headbands, striped tights, argyle socks… and cool shoes or boots. Patterns are just fine as long as they don’t compete with each other. And solids are also good (just avoid white). Definitely try to layer clothing and create a texture. Ruffles are great for girls and layering shirts/sweaters on boys. Infants/young babies may be best photographed in just a diaper or naked, but feel free to bring a few options. Just make sure they are fed about 15 minutes prior to your session and have a clean diaper and clean face. And infants are best photographed sleeping, so dress them in what you plan on having them wear and keep them bundled up and sleeping while you wait for your session to begin.

Here are a few wardrobe ideas for the kids to give you inspiration…

Little girl/big girl (Gap/Old Navy).

Big girl/little girl (Old Navy/Gap).

Girl/boy (Old Navy/Gap).

Toddler girl/Baby boy (Gap).

Toddler boy/baby boy/Toddler girl (Gap).

Parents should abide by the same rules, if they choose to be in the photo (only recommended with one child as we just don’t have enough space in the makeshift “studio”). Moms and Dads should coordinate their clothes, but not match.

Here are some examples…

These two would be great with the above kids outfits (no need for purse).

And these outfits would be great paired with the muted toddler girl/baby boy outfits above.

The most important thing… COMFORT! Make sure you dress your children (and husband in clothes they are comfortable in (both physically and mentally).

Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled time in order to fill out paperwork and get your child ready to go (clean face/nose, jacket off, etc). Sessions have been scheduled back to back. Your session starts the time it was scheduled for – not the time you arrive.

The Dulce Press studio (where we will be doing the sessions) is located in Mashpee Commons at 18 Steeple Street, Suite 203 (above the Black Dog/Roberto Coin jewelery shop). (Directions here).

If you have any questions, feel free to email me at kml@kmlphotography.com or give me a call at 508-274-2598.

Get a preview of some card options on Jen’s Facebook page (here) and a sneak peek of a few of my own…

I’m so excited for a fun weekend of mini sessions!

Here’s how to enter:

1. Like kml photography page on Facebook
2. Like Dulce Press page on Facebook
3. Post on your wall about this giveaway
4. Comment on this post that you did all three steps above

The winner will be announced *** WEDNESDAY, November 16th at 10am!

Get the details about the mini sessions here: http://www.kmlphotography.net/holiday-card-mini-sessions/

Mini sessions will be held on Saturday, November 19th 10am-3pm & Sunday November 20 from 10am-2pm at Dulce Press, located at 18 Steeple Street in Mashpee Commons (on the 2nd floor above the Black Dog and Robert Coin).

Sessions will be indoor/studio sessions and include:

• 15-20 minutes of studio time
• online web gallery roughly two weeks later to view and pick your images
• and up to 4 images included for your Dulce Press or kml photography designed holiday card!

Prints, products and digital files may be purchased for an additional fee through your online gallery.

The cost for the photo session is just $40 and all custom-designed holiday cards will be $0.95 each, instead of the usual $1.45.

Appointments can be booked by calling Jen at Dulce Press at 774-836-0927 or email her at jen@dulcepress.com.

What to wear: Dress the kids in coordinating outfits using patterns, textures and layers to add visual interest. Avoid wearing white or holiday themed clothing. Large collars on little kids and babies will likely end up covering their faces when they sit down, so make sure that this isn’t the case before you bring them. Infants and babies are better off naked, or in a diaper or in a one piece jammy outfit. Clothing that is to big will look bulky – make sure the clothes you choose fit the kids appropriately. Most importantly, your children should be comfortable in what they are wearing!

If you would like to do an outfit change, I suggest you purchase two time slots (40 minutes) for $75 to ensure there is enough time.

Infants may also need two time slots in order to get them comfortable (and hopefully sleepy!)

Although we will have some props of our own, please feel free to bring your own! Bring hats, scarves, tutus, props, a special “blanky”, etc.

Please make sure you book a time when your child/children will be at their best! Nothing worse than trying to get a two-year-old to be happy when they have missed their naptime and are just overtired and cranky!

Feel free to contact me or Jen with any questions. Hope to see you there!

Jessie and Bryan’s wedding was a spectacular event that reflected their natural, organic style. Jessie’s parents worked really hard to transform their greenhouse into a wedding reception venue. Even as I arrived on the wedding day, Jessie’s dad, Mike was shirtless and working on getting everything just perfect in the greenhouse. And Jessie’s Mom, Cathy, was busy arranging flowers and making bouquets from the flowers she’d grown in her gardens.

It was honestly one of my favorite weddings EVER. It was a true reflection of Jessie and Bryan down to every last detail and the guests enjoyed the uniqueness of their reception and the casual atmosphere.

I picked over 200 images as my “favorites”, but here are a reasonable amount that I hope gives you a feel for their amazing backyard farm wedding.

I set up a photo booth for their event. Jessie provided the burlap backdrop and bench.
Flowers and veggies from their own gardens adorned the tables which were also lined with burlap. At each setting was a unique plate where the guests would later load up on some delicious BBQ courtesy of Blue Ribbon BBQ. Outhouse tent provided by Sperry. How awesome is this? And the amazing greenhouse/wedding reception venue. Jessie and Bryan opted for a first look and to complete the family and wedding party pictures before the ceremony so they could enjoy the cocktail hour and reception with their guests. Simply stunning, Jessie. And I think Bryan was pretty excited to see her! This is one of my favorites. Jessie’s bouquet was made by her friend, Colleen (CMS Flora).
This barn belongs to our neighbors down the street. I LOVE IT! The ceremony was held at St. Elizabeth Seton in North Falmouth. Their friend, Sid, gave them a lift in his classic Custom Royal. And back to the barn for a few more shots. I adore this one. At the reception, the welcome table (captured on film).

Jimmy D. entertained guests during cocktail hour.
And guests enjoyed the photo booth.(So did my kids)!The best was standing by the photo booth and getting reactions to the shots they captured of themselves. 
Here’s Jessie’s brother, Mikey, giving a speech. And everyone has a crazy uncle, right? This is him.

Bryan is an Iowa native. So, here is our version of Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” (they tried to be as serious and solemn as the original duo in the painting, but it pretty much ended up in a burst of laughter every time).

First dance was sung by the Beninghof brothers (formerly The Old Silver Band) and backed by the night’s entertainment, The Mike Dumas Band.
Sperry tent also provided the tent attached to the greenhouse, the dance floor and the lighting. Here’s what it looked like at night with a(n almost full moon).

Jessie and Bryan, it was such an honor to be the photographer and a guest at your wedding! Thank you for inviting my family, not getting mad when my dog joined the party (not once, but twice!), or when Jack fell in the cranberry bog and the kids took off with all of your flashlights! Love you guys!

Thanks to the family, friends and vendors who made this a night to remember!

Cocktail hour entertainment: Jimmy D.

Tent: Sperry tents

Band: Mike Dumas Band

Caterer: Blue Ribbon BBQ

Bridesmaids dresses: Priscilla of Boston

Suits: Chase Couture, Mashpee

Second shooter: Fran Colonna

The day was filled with spectacular details. As Susan got ready, her niece looked on. Susan’s gorgeous bouquet included flowers indigenous to South Africa. Her brother catches a glimpse of the bride. I love this image. To me, this is the epitome of Sue (now known as ‘Susan’). She is always smiling and she has the most infectious laugh. Sue has got to be one of the funniest people I know. The bride and groom opted for a “first look”. This is just before Johan and Susan saw each other for the first time…
And because they opted to see each other prior to their ceremony, we were able to get all the family formals completed prior to the guests arriving. And that also left us some time to get some of the two of them. Gorgeous, Susan! And then it was time to make it official. Here is Susan’s Mom and two of her three brothers. I’d say Johan was pretty excited to see his bride walk down the aisle with her Dad! The ceremony was so spectacular. Everything about it was so personal and meaningful. Susan’s high school friend, Jocelyn and Jocelyn’s father officiated.

Her brother revealed the history of the home their Grandfather had built. And the rock walls he had constructed by hand. And the wall surrounding the ceremony that was built by her father and brothers. And the apple tree that had once been destroyed by a hurricane and torn down to the roots years earlier, that had grown as their family had grown and bears fruit today… To say that this was an emotional wedding would be an understatement. Johan is from South Africa. Unfortunately, his family was unable to attend their wedding. Instead it was simulcast via the internet to his family, so they could “be there” as best they could.  Susan’s brother, Jack, read a letter written by Johan’s mother. It was an amazing letter from a Mom to her son and soon-to-be daughter-in-law. I can’t imagine there was a dry eye. And yet, thankfully, there was an occasional reprieve of laughter.
Taking a moment after the ceremony to talk to Johan’s family in S.Africa. Dad approves!
An emotional speech by Susan’s brother. And more dancing, fun and laughter. And a special dance with her niece. And another for her best friends (and their mothers!). And a dance with her brothers.Which sent the tears flowing again…And then some more fun on the dance floor!

Susan, I can’t thank you enough for inviting me to photograph your wedding. I have to say it was one of the most spectacular weddings I’ve had the honor of photographing. What made your wedding so special was that your wedding was not about the “stuff” or the “fluff”. Your wedding was about the two of you. To witness the love that could bring two people together from over 8000 miles apart was amazing. And the love and closeness of your family is something I can only hope for for my own kids. It was the most personal event I’ve photographed, and that’s what made it so wonderful. Thank you!

I really have nothing but praises for this couple and their families. They were just so easy to work with and we couldn’t have had a more spectacular day! They are not only beautiful on the outside, but beautiful on the inside as well. And to see their love and how the two of them connect with each other makes one realize what true love is. And here is the story of their wedding day…

Oh Aileen – you are simply stunning.
Ian and Aileen opted for a “first look”. When a couple opts to see each other before the ceremony, they not only get a much more emotional reaction, it also allows for relaxation and enjoyment of the cocktail hour and reception with their guests. Here’s how it all went down.. Checking each other out. And Aileen wipes away a tear.
And lots and lots of kisses.
Love this one! They couldn’t stop looking at each other and kissing. So cute! Definitely a more personal reaction than that you would get at the end of an aisle! And once the happy couple enjoyed a few minutes to admire each other and kiss, we got on with family and wedding party formals. Here’s the gang! And the beautiful ladies.
And handsome groomsmen. And lastly, some pictures of Aileen and Ian. Stunning! Gorgeous. And gorgeous. I just loved the simple brown, green, white, touch of pink color palette which was reflected in all the details.

And after all the guests arrived, it was time for the beach ceremony. And hello Mr. and Mrs. Rider! First dance. Even as others joined them on the dance floor, it was as if they were all alone. Some great speeches and even better reactions!
And before the light disappeared, just a few more photos of the married couple. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these!
And really?! Could you be more gorgeous, the two of you?! Love how the green grass stands out and coordinates with the color scheme. And the texture of the rocks. And back to the tent for father/daughter dance. Which ended with Aileen dancing with her Grandfather and her Dad with his Mom. So sweet! Here’s her Grandfather on the left and Grandmother looking on as she gives her Dad a kiss. And Ian danced with his Mom. And everyone danced! And even the guitar player got in on the action on the dance floor. And while their guests danced around them, it was again like they were the only two people in the room… That’s love.

Thank you, Aileen and Ian for allowing Kelly and I to photograph a momentous occasion in your lives. Your wedding day was a photographer’s dream and I feel lucky to have been chosen as your wedding photographer. I hope you had a fabulous time in Europe and I wish you all the love and laughter that I witnessed on your wedding day ’til the end of time. XOXO, Kate

Ceremony & Reception: Clamalot, Marion

Caterer: Brian Bump Catering

Bakery: Artisan Bake Shop, Rochester

Floral Design: Always in Bloom, Marion

Band: GQ & The Lady, Onset

Bride’s dress: Casablanca, purchased at Christina’s, Andover

Bridemaids dresses: J.Crew

Suits: Jos. A. Bank

Hair: Karma Salon, Marion (Hair – Jen, Makeup – Kim)

As we arrived a little early, Kelly and I scoped out a few locations for pictures. At the beach we had been planning on taking pictures, we could see that the tide was coming in and the beach would be nearly non-existent by the time we’d be back with the families and a large wedding party. Plan B… And was that a rumble of thunder or just a large truck passing by? Hopefully a large truck… I remember Erin’s Dad saying he did not want to see umbrellas in Erin’s wedding photos…

When I arrived at Erin’s house, she was getting her hair done by the very talented Stacey Kuehn. She did an AMAZING job on all the girls’ hair! And also stuck around to help Erin put on her veil.

While I was with the bride getting ready, the guys were at Ocean Edge with Kelly. Here’s the handsome groom, Jesse, and his groomsmen. (Notice the “blue” sky is actually an enormous, gray cloud! Fortunately, it provided some nice, even light!) Erin had a GORGEOUS wedding gown by Amsale. And of course, I loved her choice of blue shoes! Pretty pleased with the way she looks in her gown as her Mom and MOH’s look on. Stunning.
The bride’s bouquet.

Immediately after Erin dressed and descended the staircase, the skies opened up and the rain came. Hard. In spite of the umbrella in hand, Erin’s father had a smile on his face. Phew! I snapped this shot as Erin was walking down the hallway. She looks like a movie star.Erin and Jesse were married at Holy Redeemer in Chatham. Erin looks so happy to see her guests and awaiting groom as she walks down the aisle with her Dad.
Kelly got this great shot from the balcony above.
Jesse’s Mom looks so proud and happy. Woohoo! We’re married! And the rain stopped! And the sun is out! A quick stop with the bride and groom at the Chatham Lighthouse. Gorgeous! And then to the beach for family and wedding party “formals”. Erin, you are stunning. ‘Nuf said. I love this more candid shot. My perspective.Kelly’s perspective. (Kelly, you ROCK!)And then it was back to Ocean Edge too cool off in the A/C, grab a cold beverage and get a couple more shots.
Girls, you are GORGEOUS!
The girls tried the jumping thing like the guys on the beach. Let’s just say, it wasn’t quite so successful… But I LOVE this shot of them post-jump! Croquet on the front lawn. Even though Erin was trying to “send” Jesse’s ball, he gave her a helping hand. The reception was held in the ballroom at Ocean Edge. It was beautiful!
Cocktail hour was held on the Ocean Terrace. I love their reaction to seeing their guests for the first time. So happy.
And their reaction to some great speeches by Erin’s father, Jesse’s brother, and Erin’s MOH’s. As the sun was setting, we headed down to the beach for a few last shots of the couple before they would continue to dance the night away.

Congratulations Erin and Jesse and thank you for the opportunity to document your wedding day! It was a pleasure getting to know you, your families, and your friends.

Thank you to my assistant, Kelly who makes my job not only easier, but also more fun. And thank you to all the wonderful vendors who made this wedding so beautiful and especially to Cape Cod Celebrations who made it run so smoothly.

And most of all, thank you to Erin and Jesse – you are both beautiful inside and out!

Ceremony: Holy Redeemer, Chatham

Reception: Ocean Edge Resort, Brewster

Wedding Coordinator: Cape Cod Celebrations, Jamie Bohlin

Bakery: The Casual Gourmet, Centerville

Floral Design: Meredith Fancy, East Orleans

Band: Night Shift – District 21

Videographer: Digital Imaging of Cape Cod, Bob Lassiter

Bride’s dress: Christos by Amsale, Saks Fifth Avenue

Bridemaids dresses: Jenny Yoo, NY

Tuxedos: Men’s Warehouse

Hair: Stacey Kuehn

Makeup: Mariolga Pantazapoulos

Here’s Erin’s gorgeous dress and fabulous pink shoes!

A stunning bouquet by Karen at Lilacs. And I hope she doesn’t mind that I added a little pop of pink to her lovely creation!Erin was so calm as she got ready for the big day. And lovely. Very lovely. Too cute! Her flower girl looks on as Erin’s sister buttons her up.
I love this shot. So serene and calm.
And a little help from Mom.

Gorgeous, Erin. And meet the ring bearer. How handsome!And Erin as the neighbors stand by gawking at the stunning bride.

After some quick shots at the house, I took the girls down the street to the beach. Stunning! I love this shot. Very Cape Cod! The girls looked so good in their Coren Moore dresses with the pop of pink! I LOVE the colors! The funny thing was, I showed up wearing a black dress with silver flower – the opposite of the girls, but coordinating nicely.  Gorgeous, ladies! I LOVE the look on John’s face as Erin and her Dad walk down the aisle. She is jaw-dropping gorgeous!

Married!
And back to her parent’s beach where John had proposed. I love the shot on the right.  And the handsome groom and his groomsmen.  And one more of the lovely ladies. After the formal photos, we headed over to Wychmere for cocktail hour. The guest card table was stunning.

And so was all the decor in the newly renovated space. 

I love the modern, beachy look.Especially this sofa.
And I couldn’t resist another shot of Erin’s gorgeous shoes! And as she stood there posing her shoes for me, I looked up and the breeze was blowing in and I captured this lovely shot of Erin. This could be my favorite image of the day! Looks like a magazine shot! Gorgeous, Erin! The reception area has been updated as well and looked absolutely stunning and elegant with the white arrangements and orchids. Another modern touch is this lit wall and the flooring. Love it! The Marines did the tradition of the sword arch as the bride and groom were announced into the reception. Leading the way is John’s brother, Michael. Thanks to my assistant, Fran for this shot!

And their first dance as their attendants and guests look on.  Reception: Wychmere Beach Club

Reception Coordinator: Karen Rood, Wychmere

Bakery: Montillio’s

Floral Designer: Lilacs, Karen Taddei

Band: Night Rhythm

Trolley: Cape Destinations

Bridesmaids dresses: Coren Moore/Flair, Newbury Street Boston

Hair & Makeup: Wedding Tresses, Newbury Steet Boston

While I adore photographing weddings and older children and adults who can take direction, I have an even greater passion for photographing kids. While some photographers would be a little wary of photographing two two-year-olds, I absolutely LOVE it! No, they don’t listen. They cry. Their noses run. And they can be a challenge. But I love that challenge. And I adore capturing their personalities. And running around and playing with them on the beach. Really – how could my job be any better than running around on the beach playing with kids?

I had the absolute pleasure of photographing the Sachs and Camp families who rented a beautiful house right on Ridgevale Beach. These two little girls just made my day! I had had a rough one, but their cute little faces and hysterical personalities brought a smile to my face. And their parents couldn’t have been any sweeter.

I’ve never taken so many photos at a family session, nor have I given so many proofs to look at. I seriously had the hardest time hitting the delete button to get rid of any of the captures I’d taken. When you have two little faces as cute as these, how could you possibly delete them?

Just a quick walk over the bridge to the beach. Emily and I made quick friends.

And here’s Payton having fun with Mom and Dad. I LOVE her hair! And seriously, CUTE! While this is the shot that most parents might purchase… …this is the shot that truly shows Payton’s personality – and I LOVE it! Payton loves the water! And the sand. And her beautiful Mommy. I loved these emotion filled shots so much I couldn’t decide. You can pick your favorite. I love Mom and Dad’s feet in the background running toward her! And a little down time and a snuggle with her gorgeous Mommy. I love…just look at how happy they are at this moment in time loving their beautiful little girl and having a blast on their Cape Cod vacation. And a tickle from Daddy. Best friends. Running for the ocean!
Uh oh. Got a mouth full of sand. Love these shots with her beautiful Mom! I ADORE the shot on the right. And the last light of the day just as gorgeous as the family itself! Than you for letting me capture this brief time in your lives and your Cape Cod vacation! I had a blast!

Yesterday my baby girl turned 5. I know every parent says it, but I must say it too. Where did those 5 years go? I remember the day she was born like it was yesterday. And believe me when I tell you, I don’t remember ANYTHING. It all happened the day she was born, but that’s a whole other story…

Before she was born, I was THE MOST MISERABLE PREGNANT PERSON EVER! My husband, sister and friends can attest. It wasn’t that way for every pregnancy. With my first, I was thrilled and happy, healthy and FAT. But by pregnancy #3, I was a little less fat and a lot more impatient with the whole process. It didn’t help that I was having painful and aggravating contractions from 4 months on and was on bed rest with two young children running circles around me. And for someone like me that is a “do-er”, lying around on the couch or the bed all the time isn’t so much fun (of course now that I have three kids and running a business, I’d be happy to be on bed rest – even if only for a few hours!). There were numerous trips to the doctor, and to the maternity ward. Awful medication that made my heart race like I’d just chugged 12 espressos. I had cankles. And it was summertime. And because my 2nd child was born 24 hours after I got off bed rest, I figured that would happen again… But no. I waited another 3 weeks and felt like I was overdue by three weeks at that point. The misery had turned to torture in my mind.

But then it came! The contractions were painful (as usual) and consistently one minute apart. Since my #2 pregnancy ended up with Jack being born after only 15 minutes of being at the hospital, it was definitely time to go. Of course 15 minutes after we arrived this time around, the contractions dissipated like the times before, and the nurses were ready to send me home and wait. They asked, “would you like to go home and wait it out or try some pitocin?” Before I could say anything, my husband said, “well, we did the other two births naturally, so let’s go home.” I think I must have looked like something out of the movie “The Exorcist” – my head just may have spun around like that little girl’s. And I demanded, “I am NOT leaving this hospital without a baby in my arms!” And so, after numerous tries and about 5 different nurses, they were able to get an IV in my arm and start the pitocin drip. After about 10 minutes, I was in labor for real. Without an epidural. That was OK. I’d done it twice before without any drugs. But this time was different. Excruciating back labor. Fear of the needle in the back went out the window – it was time for an epidural. But clearly the anesthesiologist didn’t realize how much I needed it NOW. I felt as though he waited hours and hours to come to my room. They said he was reading my chart. He came in, had to give me the full set of instructions before he put the catheter in, got it in my back and I immediately said, “I’ve got to push.” He said, “but I haven’t given you the medicine yet.” And I yelled, “You’re too late!” And so the doctor checked me out and said, “that’s just your water. Would you like me to break it? It might move things along a little quicker.” And by now, if you’re still reading this, you know that my answer was clearly “yes!”. And so, she busted the water bag and it burst everywhere. She took off her gloves and I said, “I’m gonnna push!” And she insisted, “No, you’re not ready to push.” And I said, “I’m gonna push!” And I did. And a baby was born as the doctor screamed for someone to get her some fresh gloves. I don’t know if she ever got them on before she had to catch the baby. I didn’t care. IT was out!  And as we had traditionally done, it was Andrew’s job to announce the sex of the baby. And the doctor said, “tell her what it is!” And there was silence. He said nothing. I’m not sure whether he was in shock or whether he just didn’t recognize what was going on down there. But after the awkward silence, he finally said it. “It’s a girl.” I think he could have said, “it’s a three eyed, four-legged, lizard baby” and I would have been thrilled. IT was out. The nurses suggested we name her Bullet.

But that IT, has completed our family and has been a huge joy. Worth every ache and pain and all the misery and torture. It’s great having a little girl around the house. I never expected that. I thought for sure I’d be the Mom of three boys – I pictured it in my head. I didn’t realize that I wanted a girl until I had one. Lainey is happy. She’s bubbly. She’s girly. She’s expressive. She’s talkative. She’s charming. She puts a smile on my face the minute she walks into the room. She has her down times. Her bratty times. Her whiney times. But thankfully, not too often do those times happen. And she is my best friend. And I am hers (at least for now I’ve ingrained that in her brain).

And here is the birthday party I had for her the day before she turned one hand old….

I made the pom pom and fan decorations. The backdrop is one I’ve used for infant sessions. The tent I purchased at Job Lot. And the flowers were picked from the garden.

Closer detail shows the mint I added to the flowers for easy access to garnish for the watermelon mojitos (for the adults, not the kids . The kids had a selection of canned sodas, water and juices that were put in their own personalized koozies which were theirs to take home as a party favor.
There was face painting…
And Makena tried her hand at it too. And there was t-shirt painting (another take home item).And the kids played games in the backyard, and played with water balloons and bubbles.
And after dinner consisting of chicken fingers, mac & cheese, pulled pork sandwiches (homemade!), corn on the cob, cole slaw, potato salad and chips, there was an ice cream sundae bar!
I had some of the glass jars. Others I picked up at the Dollar Store.
I found the labels online.Lainey was a bit overwhelmed as we sang Happy Birthday But bounced back quickly with a ice cream sundae creation including gummy worms. Aiden gets the most colorful sundae award. The evening ended with some fireworks. And the next day, her actual birthday, Lainey showed off all her new birthday gear!

Thank you to Bob for bringing oysters for a special pre-dinner treat, and to everyone for all their help! I couldn’t have done it without you! Lainey had a fabulous day and was thrilled you were there to celebrate with her! We hope you had as much fun as we did!