After several months of emailing back and forth, I finally had the pleasure of meeting Desiree & Jon on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon at the Florida Southern College Landing here in Lakeland. Desiree had requested old books, an old blanket, and a family photo of everybody (including the family pets) in matching Christmas sweaters for their engagement session. Yes, yes, and even more yes to all of the above. So loved trying to make their requests a reality!

It turns out, this is one of Jon's favorite Harry Potter books...we almost lost him to the book there for a few minutes. :)

This was entirely Desiree's idea and it turned out beautifully!

And then at the very end, this total bit of awesomeness happened....

Desiree & Jon- I cannot wait to be a part of your celebration in June! Thank you so much for choosing me to capture the memories of your special day! As a thank you, if we can get 18 comments on this blog post (there's that number 8 for you!), I will add an extra hour of photography on to your wedding day.

With Regards- CBlackwell

It all started with macaroni & cheese.

I met Ashley & Chris this past Saturday at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL for their family session and to find out a little about their story. The two were introduced at a barbecue party by mutual friends. When asked, Chris said one of the first things that attracted him to Ashley was her macaroni & cheese. They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach & Ashley definitely has that figured out!

There's a warm glow of happiness surrounding Ashley & Chris. It's an amazing thing to be around. — There's a warm glow of happiness surrounding Ashley & Chris. It's an amazing thing to be around.

This session wasn't about only them though. They brought along two of the cutest little people and I love little people.

Everybody ready for more cuteness? These two just about cornered the market on it!

And I love, love, love that Ashley brought her Grandmother. There is nothing like being able to have these pictures to look at years down the road.

Ashley & Chris- thank you so much for letting me capture some of the love in your family. Wishing you much joy & happiness on your walk through life together.  (and delicious macaroni& cheese!)CBlackwell — Ashley & Chris- thank you so much for letting me capture some of the love in your family. Wishing you much joy & happiness on your walk through life together. (and delicious macaroni& cheese!)
CBlackwell

D & J Florida Southern College Landing, Lakeland, FL

A & C Florida Southern College, Lakeland, Fl