{ Fall Newsletter}

The Power of the Internet

I am still amazed at the power of the internet.  I have been told by multiple people that they found me simply by Googling “photographers in North Augusta” or “newborn photography”.  

I guess it is really not that different than the old school Yellow Page book that I remember thumbing through when I was younger, but I love knowing that someone, who didn’t know me at 1 p.m., looked for a photographer, saw many results return, clicked on my name, checked out my website and/or Facebook page and by 1:30 p.m. decided I was the right photographer to capture their precious moment in time.  Amazing!

Susan Waskavitz found me through a Google search and when she reached out to me, she told me that she was the Mom of an almost one-year-old and she was looking for a photographer to capture her family’s first portraits.

On the day we set our session, I drove to Edgefield, SC to her family’s farm.  What a beautiful day, the farm was so pretty and Spring was bestowing her majesty of everything in bloom.  As if the scenery wasn't enough, the Waskavitz family was adorable - Susan, Adam and sweet Milo were a wonderful family.

One of the most special parts of the day was watching Milo with his Grandpa.  The smile that Milo gave when his Grandpa was helping to him to smile was one of affection and unconditional love.  Such a precious moment and such a lovely session.  What types of special moments of your children do you like watching most?  www.MaryBethsPhotography.info

{ Sweet Chesnie - A Dream Newborn }

Last year, I made a big decision in my professional life.  I wanted my clients to have an “experience” with me.  Not one of those “run-of-your-mill” photographer experiences, but one that left the impression of how I feel and how I have always felt about my clients – I am so very thankful for being your photographer of choice.  

I teamed with La Dolce in Aiken and bring clients special desserts during our Session Viewings, I try to be proactive in figuring out what outfits/locations/props would work well for who my clients are and have tried to find resources that fit my clients’ needs to taking classes to improve my photography skills.

When Chesnie Tucker came to my studio, I felt like I had a new outlook on my newborn sessions and an ace in my pocket by the name of Terrie Lehi, one of the members of my team who keep me running on a daily basis.  At one 4 a.m. prior to the session, I had an epiphany about how I manage newborn sessions.  

I did a bit of research, called Terrie (when the sun was up) and headed to the kitchen.  I had spoken with Chesnie’s Mom about how I recommend making the newborn session successful, from timing of the session to how well-fed Chesnie should be prior to our start.  I made yogurt parfaits and muffins before Chesnie and her Mom arrived.

And just like I have always been told, being well planned worked.  Chesnie, who by the way was one of the best newborns EVER, slept the whole time.  Her Mom was able to sit back and watch her daughter being a model for the day while feeling pampered with the sweet treats I made.  

I was able to work with Terrie to use many of my tricks to get the perfect shot and keep sweet little Chesnie safe.  It was an amazing time and I really think the portraits express that!  Now, if I could only figure out how to make moments of preparation happen during the daylight!  www.MaryBethsPhotography.info 

{ La Dolce - A Treasure in Aiken }

I am so excited to partner with great businesses and I still can’t believe that the delicious and wonderful La Dolce in downtown Aiken is featuring my portraits in their gourmet bakery coffee/tea house! 

Lady Kelly MacVean studied in England to become a tea master and she operates such a wonderful business that opened in November 2012.  

Their treats are so yummy thanks to Kirstie MacVean, executive pastry chef!  

La Dolce provides wonderful unique desserts, custom wedding and birthday cakes, custom teas, coffees and bread.

They also offer a light lunch.  You can even book a tea for you and a group of friends with Kelly!  

So go on down to Lauren’s Street in downtown Aiken to visit La Dolce and check them out on Facebook!   www.MaryBethsPhotography.info  

{ Impressions of the South - Making a BIG Impression! }

I have been making some great connections with local businesses who share my same sentiment of pampering our clients!  “Impressions of the South” is owned by a husband and wife team.  

Eva Watkins left corporate America to open “Impressions of the South”.  Jay Watkins had owned another retail store at this location, but after Jay and Eva got married, they opened “Impressions of the South”.  

80% of the items at the store are under $30!!  Things move quickly because they purchase new items weekly.  

Their handmade chocolates are made in the USA – handmade in Texas.  

You can also purchase coffee and tea.  It truly feels like you are at home when you are there – well, if being pampered is what happens at your home!!  

Eva makes gorgeous custom wreaths and she offers weekly classes to teach you how to make the wreaths.  They are located off West Avenue in North Augusta.  

Stop by to purchase their YUMMY chocolates for party favors for weddings, gifts, thank you gifts, and you can buy them in different sizes!!  www.MaryBethsPhotography.info

{ Thompson Engagement - A Very Special Couple }

Yesterday, I told you about someone who literally built my dream with his two hands, Stuart Thompson. 

I was so excited when he shared with me that he was going to pop the question to his girlfriend and even more excited when he and his fiancé Britney booked me for their wedding!

We were scheduled to meet at a beautiful Peach Orchard to take their engagement photos – what a unique location – however, the orchard got pruned right before our session, so Stuart and Britney called asking if I had another idea for an outdoorsy, rustic area.  

I love that I know the area so well and am able to help accommodate my clients.  One quick call and we landed at the Stewart House.  What a fun couple.  We had such a good time.  

Britney had texted me pictures of the outfits they were wearing for the session, so I was able to plan out the session and optimize their time!  This was seriously one of the best engagement sessions I have ever had – it was very relaxed, the weather was perfect, the lighting was incredible.  Britney and Stuart were so fun to be with and willing to try anything – even with their truck and dog!   www.MaryBethsPhotography.info

{ Dreams Come True }

Have you ever had a dream?  You know, one of those BIG dreams that seem so unattainable, yet you live day in and day out with it in the back of your mind?  

Well, I am living proof that dreams come true.  When I first picked up my camera and started taking portraits, I remember telling my husband that I would love to have my own studio – a place that I can call mine and a place that doesn't have limits of weather.  

In August of last year, my dream became a reality when our addition was completed by Stuart of Greystone Construction (www.GreystoneConstruction.net).  His Dad had built our home and when we realized that Stuart’s Dad was now working with his son, we couldn't have found a better fit for making my dream come true!!  

Stuart made it manageable to live in our home while the construction was happening.  He was so respectful of us; he drew everything out and put reality to my dream.  I am still overwhelmed when I walk into this space in our home.  Dreams can come true.  

You have to work hard, but I am living proof of following your dreams! 

Thank you to Stuart – he has become a very special person in my life, as I had the opportunity to take his engagement portraits with his beautiful fiancé, Britney.  Check back soon for those amazing portraits!  www.MaryBethsPhotography.info