After a very long labor, Lauren and Derek welcomed their first child into the world. Chloe was born the end of March at 19 inches and 7 lbs 7 oz. Lauren was so happy to have her healthy baby girl in her arms and thought "wow, she's so big". Now, two months later, she happily looks back at Chloe's newborn photos and realizes how quickly they grow...and how tiny she really was!

A week later, I welcomed Chloe, Lauren, and Derek into my studio for Chloe's big day! She was very sweet and amazingly alert for just one week old. Something tells me she will be smart like her momma! Lauren was prepared and relaxed for the session. Of course, she was worried about Chloe not cooperating or peeing on me...but as I assure everyone...I expect it! Lauren was happy with the time and patience I took during their session...and look at some of the great memories we captured!

Most new mom's are worried about how their newborn will do during the session. Newborn sessions are an investment, so its important that you feel comfortable with your photographer! Lauren said, "I was mostly worried that [Chloe] would be fussy, which she was, but Kirsten was super patient with her. I was also nervous that I was going to look enormous after having the baby a week prior, but Kirsten made me look amazing. I couldn’t be happier with how the pictures came out." As a mom of three, I completely understand!

Sometimes, when you least expect it, love finds YOU. Kathy wasn't looking for a relationship; she only wanted someone to talk with and keep her awake during one late night shift. But, it was fate! Joe was a complete gentleman, and being the only respectable person she found at that time, they started to chat. They hit it off with great conversation and tons of laughs. Kathy new he was her new best friend (sounds like the perfect start to a relationship if you ask me), but if you ask Joey, he knew she was the one at first glance! So of course, you know how the rest of the story goes! ​

While Kathy was away in Vegas, Joe took her son ring shopping. She returned and Joe proposed in the comfort and privacy of their home, with her son as a witness. (Awwww!) They are all looking forward to the big day next fall. When I asked what she was most excited about for her wedding, she said, "Honestly, the cake, venue, DJ, dress...those are just details. I'm just excited about marrying my best friend, joining together our two families, starting another chapter in our lives, and having all our friends and family there to share those moments. 

We decided to head to one of my favorite spots, Colt State Park in Bristol, RI. Its an awesome location because you can find a diverse selection of scenery--all within one area. This was perfect for their mini engagement session. They were both a little nervous and "someone" doesn't like doing pictures, but Kathy said that nervous feeling went away pretty quick and Joe was phenomenal. I think they were naturals! You can see the love and personality in their images. I am very excited to document their big day at Venus de Milo next fall and witness these two very warm hearted people join together. I imagine it will be a day full of love, happy tears, laughter, and fun!