I first met Amanda & Justin in 2007 when they were engaged and called me for an engagement session.
In 2009, I captured their wedding at the Pagoda in Norfolk. I remember it raining as she walked down the aisle and she didn't even flinch. Even a brief rainstorm couldn't stop these two from saying "I do!"
Today, they welcomed me into their beautiful home to take some lifestyle family portraits. Their cute puppy wanted to be near by for everything and made his presence known when we walked away. Amanda & Justin's three year old son Matt is such a cutie pie! He wasn't shy around me and immediately showed me his room full of toys. He is the only grandchild on both sides so he has lots of favorite toys. He is such a kind, gentle boy who loves to build, dance and play outside. He loves to read and could sit for hours as people share books with him.
We started the session in his playroom. Together, they played with his foam blocks and built things for him to tear down. He drew on his easel and then danced to "Wobble Baby", his favorite song. His face immediately lit up as the song started to play and we all laughed with him. Dad measured him to see if he was tall enough to ride the children's rides at Busch Gardens. He had grown since the last measurement but not quite enough for the rides.
We then ventured outside to enjoy the decent weather. He had plans of riding his bat mobile but it was in need of a charge. He handled it in stride and instead started riding his car and drawing on the sidewalk with Amanda. He took a small tumble but Amanda scooped him up and she wiped away his tears. Matt is such a special little boy. He holds a kindness that you don't see in many three year olds.
We went to the back yard and Justin pushed the swing a little too high for our mama hearts but the giggles never stopped from Matt. He played in his bounce house, chased his parents, his dog and played soccer. This was such a dream day for a three year old. He had such a blast playing outside!
We went to his room and he showed me his favorite spot - his bookshelf. Together, they read books. He sat intently, listening to his mom read his favorite construction books.
We went downstairs and Amanda & Justin showed Matt their wedding album. It was fun seeing the album that I had made for them and the memories from their day. Even though it was from 2009, I have vivid memories from their wedding. Matt was able to point out family members and friends, while Amanda & Justin joked about how bodies have changed over the years. So many of their friends have created families of their own and even their flower girl & ring bearer were high school aged now.
It was so fun to catch up with them both and to meet their son. I always love keeping in contact with my couples and seeing how their lives change over the years.
Thank you to the Nelson's for having me today and trusting me to create a little story from your day.
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