.

Sotomayor Family

2011-01-09T18:47:00.000-05:00

I have had the pleasure of watching this family grow and I couldn't be more excited for Karla and Vince to welcome their second beautiful daughter into the world. Little Victoria is due Tuesday so we squeezed in a maternity session before she made her big debut. Isavella is so excited to be a big sister and already shows her baby sister lots of love.

I can't wait to meet you Victoria!

Ashley and Luis Engagement

2010-11-22T22:59:00.000-05:00

As I stood on the doorstep getting ready to ring the doorbell, I took a deep breath to ease my nerves. I was immediately greeted by a warm smile and two adorable dogs. Luis politely invited me inside as we waited for Ashley to finish getting ready. This was my first time meeting them, as I was referred to them by my best friend's sister.

I always get nervous before meeting people for the first time, afraid I'm going to say the wrong thing and make a complete fool out of myself. However, once Ashley descended the stairs, I quickly realized why Luis was so smitten by her. She has this electric smile and adorable laugh that immediately puts everyone around her at ease.

These two were easy peasy to photograph as they were constantly laughing and giggly. I almost couldn't handle all the cuteness they were throwing my way. We spent the day exploring the gorgeous grounds of the Deering Estate and the bustling streets of Coconut Grove.

Ashley and Luis, thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of this special day in your lives. I'm so excited for you and what the future holds. I know you're going to start off your marriage with an awesome rocking party in Las Vegas. =)

Blair Family

2010-11-16T20:32:00.000-05:00

When I walked up to greet Michelle, Bo and their two adorable sons, Eric and Caden, I quietly thanked the photo gods (and my good friend Melanie who referred them) for blessing me with such a beautiful family. They looked like they were straight out of a magazine.

We spent the afternoon playing baseball, tossing the football around, and even had some fun with bubbles. The beautiful moss covered oak trees of the ridge made for a gorgeous back drop and I just stepped back and watched as they interacted as a family. I'll keep it real and say there were a fair share of tantrums and sour faces, but what family doesn't?

At the end of the day though, what stays in my memories of this family is the laughter, squeals, silly faces, and love that was shared between each other.

Michelle, Bo, Eric, and Caden thank you for inviting me to spend the afternoon with you. Melanie, thank you for trusting me with your family and giving me this opportunity. =)

The handsome Eric...

The adorable Caden...

I love how uninterested the boys look while Michelle and Bo are smiling at each other

Michelle you are looking fierce!

My Loves

2010-11-14T20:23:00.000-05:00

I have typed and deleted five times now. I just can't express how I feel about this family in words. Nothing sounds good enough or conveys the right emotion. There simply aren't any words for the love I have for them.

My brother, Jason, and his beautiful girls, Terry and Madison, have a very special place in my heart. Jason tormented and teased me as a kid, like most brothers do, but he's always been looking out for me too. He has the biggest heart and would do anything for his family. Terry is an amazing mother and the sweetest person. She has an awesome laugh that comes from deep within and makes anyone around her laugh too. Madison is the perfect mix of both of them. She has her father's love for animals and her mother's nurturing care. She's a free spirit and a little bit of a wild child. I love her to pieces and can't imagine my life without her.

I was so happy to be able to document their family at this time in their lives. I can only wrangle them up for a family session once a year, but I'll take what I can get. =)

Madison sweetly refers to the dogs as, "my boys."

I couldn't help but post this one. Her face had me bent over in laughter.

Graffiti Walls and High Heels

2010-11-02T23:03:00.001-04:00

Yuly loves everything fashion and wanted her quince pictures to represent that. She didn't have the traditional formal white dress, instead she had a gorgeous, short, cream-colored bubble dress that was adorned with silver and pink gems. It represented Yuly's personality perfectly.

Yuly also wanted a lot of bright colors and has a love for graffiti. When I mentioned Jimbo's in Key Biscayne to her, her eyes lit up. It's full of colorful shacks and a graffitied bus. Our first time out shooting we ran out of light quickly and weren't able to make it to Jimbo's in time. I couldn't disappoint her though and I knew how much she really wanted to take pictures there, so we went out again today and grabbed some gorgeous shots at Jimbo's.

Yuly it was truly a pleasure working with you and I hope you lovee the photos. =)

Part 1

Part 2

Kanner Family

2010-10-26T18:01:00.000-04:00

This past weekend I went to New York and while I was there I arranged a shoot with my best friend's sister. I was soo excited to experience the northeast in the fall. It's one of my favorite seasons. Full of beautiful colors, hot chocolate, fresh pumpkins, and cozy scarves. It makes the perfect backdrop for photos.

We stumbled across an empty soccer field in New Jersey and decided it would be the perfect place for photos. Brooke, Rick, and Riley were a delight in front of the camera. Little Riley even posed for a few photos. =)

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to photograph your family. I can't wait until there's a little baby Kanner added to the family. =)

City lights and ocean views

2010-10-18T00:16:00.000-04:00

I was beyond excited when one of my bride's, Adriana, asked me to take her younger sister's quince pictures. Adriana and her family are the sweetest people I know. They are so laid back and stress-free that they're calming to be around.

When I first met Stephanie and asked her what she likes. She said she didn't know. After her sister and I bounced some ideas off of her she decided on a nautical and city lights theme. She's very modern and trendy and the girl has a great sense of fashion. I was drooling over her outfit choices. I only wish I had the style sense she has at 15.

We started off the day at the beautiful Hilton Ft. Lauderdale and ended in Las Olas Riverfront. I had so much fun hanging out with the girls and their mom, I didn't want it to end. I hope you enjoy the photos!

My Sunshine

2010-10-08T13:58:00.001-04:00

The past couple days I've been a pretty miserable person to be around. I don't really have a reason as to why I just wanted to lay around and hope that the sofa would consume me. I just didn't feel any motivation or inspiration to do anything. There are plenty of things that needed to be done. Editing, cleaning, laundry, errands.....the list can go on forever. But I just sat there and wasted each passing beautiful day. I was in a funk and I didn't know how to get out.

My mood partly could have been brought on by our air conditioner refusing not to go on any longer. I jinxed it I'm sure. I woke up Thursday morning and took Tessa for a walk. I came back and the house was so cold and there was a slight chill in the air outside. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and it was just beautiful. I mentioned to the hubby that maybe we should turn the air off and open the windows. He replied with a "You must be crazy" look. So I decided against it and went about my day. Well when I left the house to do groceries around 7pm (yes I do groceries late in the evening don't hate) I came back 45 minutes later and I was greeted with a gust of heat when I opened the front door. It was seriously like a sauna! Thankfully, the weather has been beautiful ever since and it's been bearable to live in our house with no AC and just the breeze coming through the windows. I've actually come to like it a little. Call me crazy!

Well yesterday I was still in my I hate the world mood and my mom called to invite me over to make pumpkin cookies and haunted houses with her and my neice. I of course accepted because the idea of sugary sweet goodies and my adorable neice beats sitting around an empty house by myself. I walked through my mom's door and was greeted by my neice screaming my name. She was so excited to see me, really who isn't? =) I instantly started to feel that annoying debbie downer that's been living inside me, leave. Watching her and playing with her brings a warmness over me. She does everything with passion and all her heart. She runs, laughs, sings, and plays with no worry in the world. And she's not afraid of anything. She dives head first into anything that comes her way and I admire her for it. I know she's going to grow up to be an amazing young woman and I'm honored to be able to witness it.

Now if you're read this far I'm shocked. For those who have, thanks and I'm sorry for the babbling. Now you can enjoy my cuter than ever neice.

I can already see how beautiful she's going to be.

I decided to step back and document my mom and her granddaughter making cookies.

Madison and her granddaddy have special relationship. They're always so silly together

She sticks her tongue out while she's concentrating just like her daddy

My parents are amazing grandparents. I can't wait until we can bless them with more grandchildren for them to love unconditionally and spoil like crazy.

Pino Family

2010-10-05T20:26:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday I had the priviledge of meeting the Pino family. They signed up for my holiday mini session and totally rocked it out. I loved their coordinating outfits and winter theme. The girls' boots were so cute and made me wish it would get cold already to start wearing my own on a daily basis.

I dragged Steve along insisting I would need his help since they have a 3 month old daughter. I told him she's never going to look at the camera, you'll have to jump around and act silly. He rolled his eyes at me and agreed. Well of course little Ileana had to go and prove me wrong and look directly into the camera for almost every shot! I couldn't believe it. She was awesome! Thank you Lisa, Ivan, Ivy Marie, and Ileana for allowing me to capture your family. I really enjoyed it!

Maternity with Style

2010-09-26T22:07:00.000-04:00

I've been anxious for this shoot since the day I met Demi and her sister-in-law at Starbucks to discuss ideas. Demi was determined not to have your typical maternity photos and I was excited. We tossed around a few ideas and decided on a nautical theme and to end with a picnic in the park.

I also knew this was going to be a stylish maternity session because Demi doesn't like to wear traditional maternity clothes. She wanted to maintain her style and boy did she. She was the hottest, cutest, most adorable pregnant woman I have ever seen. Any girl who can rock 4 inch platforms on a typical day has my heart, but add an adorable baby bump and I'm sold! She brought along her sister-in-law to help coordinate outfits and let me just say, I wanted to take her home with me so she can dress me everyday. I think I'm going to start sending all my clients her way before their shoot. =)

Enough babbling....onto the pictures!

P.S.- Chris you totally rocked it too. Demi's lucky to have such a handsome man as the perfect accessory.

Baby Bump Makes Four

2010-09-25T22:36:00.000-04:00

Alia and Alex have the cutest little boy, Andre, and are getting ready to welcome yet another baby boy to the family. I couldn't be happier for them. Alia is such a sweet and kind person. Seeing her with her family today, showed me a different side of her I hadn't seen before. She showed patience and tenderness. I can't wait to see the newest addition to this already adorable family.

Movies in the Park

2010-09-23T15:03:00.001-04:00

Beaufort, SC has a special place in my heart with its huge moss covered trees and old brick buildings. It's rustic and small town qualities instantly put me at ease. I would love to live in a place just like this one day with our kids running through empty fields. But for now I'm in sunny south florida with its unbearable humidity and packed roadways.

Last week I went to beautiful Beaufort to do a stylized shoot with my good friend and talented photographer, Misty Smith. She dreamt up this amazing idea of having a couple go on a date to watch movies in the park. I instantly fell in love with the concept and jumped on board. Her friends, Megan and Zack, were our fabulous models and faced the swarm of mosquitoes with smiles. These two are so in love and so beautiful together that it was a delight to be able to photograph them.

Until next time SC I will day dream of picnics in the breeze underneath your big beautiful trees...

Holiday Mini Sessions

2010-09-17T13:08:00.000-04:00

October is just around the corner and marks the beginning of the holiday season. Get your family photos done early and beat the rush!

I can't wait to see you there!

Bridal Shoot

2010-09-16T22:55:00.000-04:00

The lovely ladies at the Academy of Glam invited me out to photograph the newest class's bridal make-up. I love me some bride so of course I was excited. The make-up artists did a fabulous job. The weather gods were not cooperating with us at first, but toward the end there was a break in the clouds and the sun peeked through.

One of the artists got to do two models and since she did traditional bridal with her first model we decided to do a punk bride for her second look. And she totally rocked it! I LOVED the way everything pulled together. Thanks ladies for making it a great shoot and tons of fun!

Taking a Risk

2010-09-05T22:17:00.000-04:00

I have been contemplating this for quite awhile. I've been unhappy and feeling stuck. I have been at the same job for seven years. I'm a receptionist at a day spa and I know it sounds wonderful, but it's no longer the job for me. Yes, I'm going to deeply miss getting services for next to nothing, but that just means I'll need to challenge myself and learn how to do my own nails and facials. My husband can handle the massage department. Ha ;)

I'm taking a risk.....I put in my two weeks this past friday. I don't have another job lined up and we have bills to pay, but I feel peaceful. I believe God spoke to me through a few people and told me it was going to be okay. I think this is the fresh start I need to pour my heart and soul into photography. I have no idea what lies ahead but I feel confident that in the end, even if I fail, I will be glad I took the risk.

Boudoir Shoot Marathon 09.13.10

2010-08-31T11:36:00.000-04:00

Ladies! The time has finally come. I will be hosting my first ever boudoir shoot marathon on Monday September 13, 2010 from 9am-7pm at the beautiful Chelsea Hotel in South Beach. The cost is $75 per person and includes make-up, hair styling, food, drinks, and a CD of 10 of your favorite images hi-resolution and fully retouched. Space is limited so be the first to email me at Julie@photosbyjewel.com in order to reserve your spot. Once I have received your email I will send you an email with more details and tips on outfit suggestions. There will be a 50% deposit to reserve your spot as well. You don't want to miss out! Come out and enjoy some girl time and feel beautiful, sexy, and powerful!

Here is a shot of the gorgeous room courtesy of the Chelsea Hotel.

Academy of Glam: Garden Nymphs

2010-08-30T23:21:00.000-04:00

I'm on a blogging roll! Anyway, I've been given this amazing opportunity by my good friend, Daniela, to be a guest photographer at the Academy of Glam. The Academy of Glam is a make-up artistry school where they have both beginner and pro classes. As part of the program the girls get to do make-up for themed photoshoots and then use the images as part of their portfolio.

This shoot in particular I was not the main photographer. I had stopped by to drop off a CD from the first shoot I did, which I will be blogging very soon, and the girls there are just so sweet and fun to hang around. The main photographer, Tracy, ended up inviting me to come along and shoot. The models looked AMAZING. Their make-up and wardrobe was beautiful. We shot in a gorgeous park close by and I am in love with the images. I only got images of a few of the girls because I was also shooting behind-the-scene photos. The last model, Crys Marie, was gorgeous and I absolutely loved her look. Tracy and I both went crazy shooting her and got some great shots.

So enough babbling. Here are the images!

Danielle, Tim, and Tyler

2010-08-30T22:51:00.000-04:00

I can't believe I'm old enough to have friends who are married and having babies. It seems like something you day dream about when you're a little girl, but never actually believe it will happen. Well it's happening and I couldn't be happier.

Danielle is my figga. Now you may be asking what the heck is a figga? Well my freshman year of college we were put into groups called figs, which pretty much were a group of 25 freshman who shared 3 classes their first semester of college. It was to help us make the transition from high school to college and meet new people. I personally think it was a fabulous idea! I made friends with a small group of girls and we figured out the college life together. It was awesome. I wouldn't trade it for the world. They were also my support system while my husband was on deployment to Iraq with the Marines. I'm not sure I would have made it through without them.

The day of their shoot was my first time meeting Tim. After college, Danielle and I had lost touch a little and I watched her life from a distance through Facebook of course. I saw that she met a handsome man that seemed to make her light up. They fell in love and got married. Tim is so sweet to Danielle and so attentive to her. I'm so happy that she found a man like him to take care of her. I know they're both going to be amazing parents to Tyler. He's one lucky little boy. I can't wait to meet the little fella in November. =)

Brown Family

2010-08-30T22:33:00.000-04:00

I was so worried the weather was going to ruin this family session. The skies did not let up all day until around 2pm. Typical Florida weather, it can be beautiful one minute and hurricaning the next. I know hurricaning isn't a word, but whatever. It's my word. So we decided to just stick out and wait and see what happened at 6pm. Well the weather gods were in their favor. The sun peaked through the clouds and gave us beautiful light. The Brown family is such a nice family from New York. They wanted the beach as the backdrop since they don't really get that in NY and they were so much fun to photograph. Little Tommy and Mia loved playing in the sand and seeing the airplanes soar through the sky.

Lorena and Bill, thank you so much for allowing me to capture your family in it's natural state. Having fun and enjoying each other's company.

Ricky: Senior Session

2010-08-29T23:58:00.000-04:00

My good friend from college, Aly, contacted me a few months ago inquiring about senior pictures for her little brother, Ricky. I couldn't believe he was a senior. I remember Aly sharing stories back in the day about her little brother who was in middle school. Now fast forward five years and he's a senior...crazy how fast time flies when you get older.

The night before the shoot, I was incredibly nervous. This would be my first time photographing a guy! I had no idea how I was going to pose him without making him look or feel ridiculous. I can't simply tell a guy to twirl around and look cute. Nope, wasn't going to work. Luckily, my husband calmed me down and told me everything would be fine just like it always is and to look to ads for inspiration. Pure genius! Why didn't I think of that? I browsed through some magazines and Internet ads and felt slightly better about posing ideas, but still, I really don't know Ricky and his personality. What if he's not really into pictures or only wears one lame outfit? Then what?

Well Internet, when I rang the doorbell and Ricky walked up with a warm smile and a handFUL of clothes, I breathed a sigh of relief. Not only was he a good looking boy, he had style! I had an amazing time photographing Ricky and reconnecting with Aly and her super sweet now fiance(yay!), David. Thank you again for giving me this opportunity.

Vintage Wedding Part II

2010-08-12T21:53:00.000-04:00

I blogged this session a little while back, but I was going through the images again looking for something to print for my office and I came across so many gems! This session definitely deserves a bigger post. The models were fabulous, the dress was amazing, the tablescape straight out of a magazine. The entire session was more than I could have imagined thanks to Diana Lupu, Adi Lupu, Krystle Vladia, Lauren Gabrielle Bota, and Ozzy Garcia. Such wonderful people with beautiful souls.

Now on to the pictures....

Betancur Family

2010-07-23T16:44:00.000-04:00

As I stand in front of Barnes and Nobles nervously waiting for them to arrive, I start to panic that what if little Emma is upset and cranky and none of the pictures come out cute. Then I see Paula and Alvaro walking across the street with the cutest little girl cradled in her daddy's arms. As soon as they reach me, I smile wide and say hello to Emma and she puts all my fears aside with a simple gummy smile. She was such an angel to photograph and a very happy baby. There were plenty of smiles and laughs to be captured. We started off at an outdoor mall called City Place in Palm Beach and then made our way over to the beach. Paula, Alvaro, and Emma thank you for letting me photograph this special time in your lives as a family. I can't wait to see how Emma grows!

Anniversary Shoot: Melanie and Dave

2010-06-08T21:03:00.001-04:00

Melanie and Dave are two of the nicest people you'll ever meet. I don't think they have a bad bone in their bodies. They have huge hearts and are so much fun to be around. They celebrated their two year wedding anniversary on April 12th and we finally found time to take photos in their wedding day duds. We had fun in a local park trying to beat the rain. They were such troopers to lay in the middle of a field and do whatever crazy thing I asked. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to take your pictures. I hope you treasure them for a lifetime.

A Military Wedding: Cristina and Travis

2010-06-08T20:55:00.000-04:00

I looked forward to Raven (Cristina) and Travis's wedding for months. Travis is a Lance Corporal in the Marine Corps which mean't a Marine Corps wedding. I have a weakness for Marines since my husband proudly served four years in the Marines. During which he deployed to Iraq twice. It was definitely a life changing experience for both of us, but I don't regret a minute of it.

Raven was such a classic-looking, STUNNING, bride. She definitely let her personality shine through too. She wasn't afraid to rock the most amazing blue shoes I have ever seen and catch me by surprise with her famous facial expressions. Travis looked handsome in his dress blues and was by his new wife's side all night, making sure she was always taken care of. He's such an attentive and loving husband. I'm so happy for the both of you and I know you'll have an amazing life together. Always remember to love with all your heart.

Vintage Garden Wedding

2010-06-08T00:06:00.001-04:00

Two months ago I stumbled across the blog of the super sweet and talented photographer, Diana Lupu. I sent her an email introducing myself and not really expecting to hear back since that had been the case with so many other photographers I tried to connect with. Much to my surprise, she did write back and with such excitement and enthusiam it was uplifting. We met for lunch a few weeks later and easily fell into conversation about our dreams, marriage, and photography of course. Even though Diana barely knew me, she invited me to get on board with her on a project she had been dreaming about for months...a vintage garden themed wedding. Anything vintage and my heart swoons, so I immediately jumped on board. After many trips to Home Goods and Michaels Diana and I, along with several other talented ladies, put together an amazing tablescape and shoot. It was so amazing to work with such inpsiring people and share in our passion together. I'm so grateful to Diana for giving me the opportunity to collaborate with her.

The shoot wouldn't have been possible without the following people...

Event Coordinator: Krystale Vladia loveeverafterevents@yahoo.com

Wedding Dress: Jorge Manuel

Make-Up: Oana

Hair: Elizabeth Villa

Accesories: Belles for Her

Models: Diana Vilskaya and Alex Taylor

Photographers: Diana Lupu
                       Lauren Bota
                       Ozzy Garcia
                       Julie Jarrell-Fernandez

Here are photos of the lovely bride and groom for now. Detail shots will coming soon....

Adriana and Jovany's Wedding

2010-06-07T23:44:00.001-04:00

On May 16, 2010 Adriana and Jovany joined their lives in a beautiful ceremony held at the Spanish Monastery in North Miami. In the words of the maid of honor, their love is patient. Adriana and Jovany have been together for eight years and have spent four of those years in a long distance relationship while they each followed their dreams and studied at seperate universities.
They are genuinely kind people with huge hearts. I am so thankful for them. They trusted in me to capture their day knowing I didn't have any prior experience shooting weddings. It was overwhelming to have two peope who were total strangers to me until last year, have faith in me and never doubt my capabilities.

Adriana and Geo, you will forever have a special place in my heart. You gave me the courage and the inspiration to jump feet first into the wedding industry and I cannot thank you enough. It was a joy to share in your love and witness such a beautiful day. I wish you both all the happiness in the world and a marriage full of love and adoration.

LACIE MARIE 3 MONTHS

2010-06-07T23:32:00.000-04:00

A month ago I met up with my good friends, Meredith and Nick, to photograph their beautiful daughter's 3 month photos. Lacie has grown and changed so much in the past three months, it's hard to believe she's the same baby. I can't wait to see how much she'll learn and grow over the next three months when we do her 6 month photos.

Sebastian's Communion

2010-04-25T20:37:00.000-04:00

On Saturday I had the pleasure of photographing Sebastian's Communion. He is the son of one of my dear friends and co-workers. This family is such a sweet family with genuine open hearts. They have always welcomed me with open arms and let me be apart of their family and share in their special moments in life. I am so grateful Aida that you trust in me to capture this for you. I hope you enjoy the pictures. There are more to come!

Makeover

2010-04-02T20:44:00.000-04:00

My blog has finally received a makeover. I'm still learning how to make it exactly what I want so please be patient with me. I totally redesigned my website as well. Even though I liked my old website I didn't feel that it truly represented me. I'm not really sure where the inspiration for this new look came from but I love it! I finally can breathe a sigh of relief and accomplishment. I hope that this is the beginning of something beautiful. I promise to blog more too. I really want to connect more with my clients and readers. With that being said, I'll stop rambling. New blog post coming soon!

Pictures always make a blog post that much better so here's a recent picture of Tessa....

New website is http://www.photosbyjewel.showitsite.com/

Preview Post of Jenni

2010-03-16T23:31:00.000-04:00

When this is the 5th frame of the shoot, you know it's going to be an awesome shoot! Jenni is graduating from FIU with her Masters in Speech Pathology this May and wanted to celebrate this time in her life with some lifestyle portraits. She is truly a beautiful person both inside and out. She's smart, hard working, and definitely going to go places in life. She is such a sweetheart and easy to be friends with.

Jenni, I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. I know you're going to make your dreams come true. =)

More to come tomorrow!

WEBSITE

2010-03-15T01:47:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to announce that I FINALLY have a website! I'm still working on making some changes and uploading more galleries, but I was just so excited to share with everyone. I have a lot of new sessions and ideas coming up. This blog will be getting revamped to go along with the website and a discount special will be announced in the near future. Keep your eyes peeled for a post on here. Please take a moment to head over to the website and check it out. Let me know what you think. Try not to be too harsh, it's my first time. =) Busy next couple of weeks....two portrait sessions of some beautiful ladies, a boudoir shoot, and hopefully a bridal shoot!

www.photosbyjewel.showitsite.com

Gabriella [Newborn]

2009-10-04T21:07:00.001-04:00

Last weekend I had the pleasure of photographing little Gabriella. She was sooo adorable and such a well-behaved baby! She slept pretty much the entire time. I love how little baby lips are always in the perfect little pout. She's going to be well taken care of, especially by her cousin, Juliet. She's so sweet with Gabriella and it was her first time getting to hold her when I took their pictures and she did it like a pro! I can't wait to see Gabriella grow over the next year. You will see her a couple times on here. =)

Police Lovin

2009-10-04T21:03:00.001-04:00

I'm so proud of my hubby-to-be! I'm super late with this post, but that's beside the point. Steve graduated from the police academy on September 24th and I couldn't be more proud. He's going to be an amazing cop because he's such an amazing person. Here are a couple from his graduation and one I snapped of him when he came home in his police get-up. Ha. My heart swooned a little. ;)

Rainy Day

2009-09-10T23:05:00.000-04:00

On Labor Day I spent the day hanging around the house with my family. We were out on the patio having lunch when it started to rain. No surprise there....it had been raining every day for the past week. Well, Madison, my gorgeous neice who you'll see a lot of on here, was playing by the pool and started to feel the rain drops fall on her skin. She looked at all of us, threw her hands up in the air, and yelled, "Es raining!" We all let out a big laugh and decided we would let her have her fun in the rain. Here are a couple of pictures I captured of Madison's first time playing in the rain.

She loves to fill up Skylar's bowl and then pour it out

Of course the bowl could always be used as a hat

She's yelling "kick, kick, kick".... She'll be swimming in no time

My Bridal Shower

2009-09-07T23:28:00.000-04:00

This past Sunday I had my bridal shower. I can't believe we're just 2 months away from the big day! Time has flown by and I get more and more anxious. Before I know it, I'll be walking down the aisle to become Mrs. Fernandez. YAY!

All the girls did a great job planning the shower. It was kitchen themed and my mom got me and my bridesmaids adorable aprons to wear. I am so blessed and thankful for everyone that came. One of my bridesmaids drove all the way from Gainesville at 10:30 the night before. Now that's a devoted friend! Thank you again to everyone. We appreciate all the wonderful gifts and can't wait to put them to use in our new home. =)

Meredith and Melanie...my ladies from work

My beautiful Momma

My gorgeous sister and my Maid of Honor

My future Mother-in-Law

The ladies in our aprons

My girls

Me and Meredith (Bridesmaid #1)

Me and Aimee (Bridesmaid #2)

Me and Jamie (Maid of Honor)

Me and Jamie (Bridesmaid #3)

My die hard UF Gator Fan who drove all the way from Gainesville

Isavella: Round Two

2009-07-28T22:58:00.000-04:00

Little Isavella and Karla came over about a week ago for our second try at Isa's one year pictures. This time she didn't have a fever, we promise! She was a totally different kid...laughing, dancing, and playing. I'm so glad we were able to capture Isa's true personality. Karla has been dying to see the photos so I'll stop blabbing and get to the pictures. Thanks for being so patient Karla!

This one is for Daddy who proudly served in the U.S. Army. Thank you Vince for all you have done for our country!

Love those lips!

I love when babies are fascinated with their belly button...too cute!

Jessica: Class of 2010

2009-07-21T00:15:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure when exactly it happened but at some point by little cousin grew up to be a beautiful young woman.... I had the pleasure of going to Ft. Meyer's this past Sunday to take my cousin, Jessica's, senior pictures. She's got some spunk and was a blast to photograph.

I love you Jessica! I hope you like your pictures and we need to plan a girls weekend with Leslie sometime soon. =)

Her older sister, Leslie, was able to join us later at the beach so of course I had to grab some of the two of them together. I know my Aunt Margie will appreciate it!

Isavella

2009-06-29T21:39:00.000-04:00

"It's a small world," has become a very familiar phrase to me since I started my photography business. I have connected with people from my past and those who I never interacted with, yet at some point our lives crossed. This happened again this past Sunday when I showed up at Matheson Hammock Park in Coral Gables and greeted an adorable little girl and her doting parents. They were warm and welcoming and I immediately felt at ease with them.

Throughout the shoot I kept thinking the proud father reminded me of someone I knew. Finally, toward the end of the shoot we figured it out... We had gone to high school together!! He is now married to an amazing woman, Karla, who is so caring and attentive. Little Isavella was a struggle to photograph and we played it off to the horrible humidity outside. However, later that day, Karla text me saying Isa had a fever. =( Poor girl was sick and we were forcing her to take pictures.

We plan to reshoot again soon so we can truly capture Isavella's personality, but in the meantime enjoy the few we did manage to get. Can you say diva?