Motherhood Session Guide
Styling Tips!
When in doubt, go neutral! It is hard to go wrong with any combination of cream, grey, or tan.
Choose a statement piece first (i.e. mom's dress) and then draw colors from that item to choose what everyone else wears.
Footwear. For indoor sessions, the barefoot look works really well (this also works outdoors!). Make sure you don't wear ratty old shoes or shoes that are too casual for the rest of your outfit.
Make sure you are comfortable! You don't want kids who are unhappy because the neck of their shirt is too tight or their shoes pinch their feet, or a parent who can't play with their kids in the photos because their dress is too short or pants are too tight, etc.
As my aunt says, what separates us from the animal kingdom is our ability to accessorize! (lol) Necklaces, earrings, watches (not Apple watches or Fitbits though!), suspenders, belts all add visual interest.
Stores to check out for timeless clothing: Zara, Gap, H&M, Old Navy, Target, Amazon
More styling advice and access to Style & Select (virtual style guide) provided upon booking.
Have Questions? Get Answers
Common FAQs
Q: What does "simple hair & makeup included" mean exactly?
A: I have a professional HMUA coming to the sessions named Desiree. You will have a 30 minute slot for hair and makeup so she asks that you arrive to your hair and makeup session time (which will be about an hour before your photo session time) with your hair clean and blow dried/tamed AND with your foundation already applied. She will take care of the rest. You CAN choose to have the 30 minutes spent on just your makeup (come with your hair done already) if you want something more extensive done (or vise versa). There will not be time for "full glam" makeup but I promise you will look and feel beautiful! Please reach out if you have specific questions about this.
Q: When will i get my hair & makeup appointment session?
A: After everyone has returned their questionnaires and I know if anyone is skipping hair & makeup, etc., I will create a schedule and send you the information. I will make sure I am giving you your time slot at least 2 weeks before the session so that you have time to arrange everything on your end. Hair and makeup will be inside of The Paris House. Take the time to relax and enjoy if you can. There will be champagne and light snacks. If your children will be with you and are well behaved, I will also provide some coloring books and crayons for them so that they are busy while you are beautifying. Make sure your children have someone to watch them during your hair & makeup if they need that level of supervision.
Q: who can come to this session?
A: This one is just for the moms and the kids (sorry, dad!). Dad is definitely welcome (and encouraged) to come and help wrangle everyone so that mom isn't worried about doing that AND looking good (haha!). I do encourage multi-generations though so if you want to bring grandma to pop in a few, you are more than welcome. If you do not want to leave dad out, book a full Family Connection session with me by clicking here.
Q: what if my kids take a long time to get comfortable?
A: Due to the nature of these sessions and their quick pace, if your child(ren) take a long time to get comfortable around new people or in new environments, I suggest either arriving a bit early so that your child can get acclimated to his/her surroundings.
Q: What if i am really bad at picking out outfits?
A: Do not fear! Style & Select is here! I pay for this membership each year because it is THAT good. You will find this process to be SO simple and helpful when it comes to choosing a color palette, knowing what kinds of clothing to stay away from, and what pieces will look great together.
Q: what if I love all of my photos and want to purchase my whole gallery?
A: This option will absolutely be available to you, as well as a variety of professional quality products, such as prints, photo books, and wall art. We will be scheduling a Virtual Viewing Appointment (only 30 minutes) after your session so that I can show you your photos and help you choose.
Q: what if it rains the day of the session?
A: Do not worry at all about this. The Paris House has a beautiful indoor area and I will set up inside if it rains. The photos will still be JUST as gorgeous.
Q: Do you offer payment plans?
A: Yes, I do! If you would like to discuss this option with me and set up a payment plan, I can do this. Just know that I cannot deliver any products or digital files until you are paid in full.
