(James):  After hearing about an exercise program called The Dailey Method from several of our clients, Stef and I decided to give it a try.  Now I can’t speak for Stef, but it has been a long time since the brutal workout routine I used to hurl my body through in my college days.  Back then I would throw crazy amounts of weights around and run…and run…and run.  So when I tried the first class at the Dailey Method, I expected it to be tough, but not “I can’t move my abs” tough.  It is very challenging and I have a long way to go before I can make it through a class without a little bit of “cheating”.

(Stefani):  I have known for a long time that my body wasn’t going to tone and strengthen itself, so when 2 of our clients within the same week informed us of a workout class they absolutely love, we decided to check it out.  The class was originally being held in the home of Stacey & Adam Armijo, owners of the local Dailey Method.  We knew their brand-new studio was opening up close to our home, so we decided to try it out when the studio opened up.  After inquiring about the class, Stacey asked if we’d be interested in photographing the studio and instructors; of course we would!  So last Saturday we began our journey to more fit bodies.  For those of you wondering what exactly The Dailey Method is, in a nutshell, it’s “a unique combination of ballet barre work, core conditioning, stretching, and orthopedic exercise.”  In short, it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done, I was extremely sore after the first class, and it’s awesome!

This weekend is the grand opening celebration, and free classes are being offered both Saturday and Sunday, so if you’re curious, check it out!  Visit their website for a class schedule.  It will be well worth it!

Last Sunday we took the girls over to our friends at the Silver Spoon children’s boutique to photograph some of their brand-new spring arrivals.  We all agreed that some of the outfits definitely needed live models; enter Reilly & Teagan.  While the ladies pulled outfits, I styled the girls in and out of clothes as fast as Superwoman changed into her digs.  The girls had so much fun trying on all of the super adorable clothing, and even insisted on choosing a new hair accessory from the store’s vast assortment for each outfit.  Enjoy a peek at some of the Silver Spoon’s gorgeous new selection!

As many of you know, we held our first annual Vintage Valentine portrait event at the Silver Spoon children’s boutique a few weeks ago.  As this was our first go at this particular “theme” if you will, we had no idea how it would go, especially given that they were 15 minute mini-sessions.  Much to our delight, we had an overwhelming response, completely filled every available spot and then some, and the images turned out–magical.  We provided tutus, pettiskirts, tanks, and hair accessories for the girls (and thanks to the Silver Spoon for adding to the selection, as well as our talented friend who provided the amazing hand-made flower headbands-you can find her one-of-a-kind pieces on her Etsy store, Wrapped in Clover), but the boys were on their own this time around, with some suggestions to guide their choices.  As you can see from these examples, the boys looked adorable, too!  I wish we could post everything, including all of the delicious Valentine cards and custom montages people ordered, because they were all just too cute for words!  This event was such a fun experience for us and everyone who came out, that I’m sure this will not be the last…we’re already thinking of next year’s Valentine event.  We’ve chosen a few faves to post here, but it was painful to only show a sampling; if we had posted everything I wanted to, it would have pretty much been every image from every session!  Happy Valentine’s Day!

It seems like Christmas was yesterday and now we’re already looking ahead to Valentine’s Day!  We have an exciting event planned with a special look and special offerings to go along with it, including custom Valentine cards featuring your little angels.  This will be slightly different from our events in the recent past at the Silver Spoon in that these are actual mini-sessions and you’ll get more time in front of the camera.  With that comes the opportunity to view the best images from the session, all styled in our signature vintage look, and choose your favorites at your private in-person ordering appointment at our studio.  Feel free to bring your own clothes or borrow from us and the Silver Spoon….little boys would be darling in simple jeans and a plain shirt, a cute vest or blazer, or an adorable newsboy cap.  Don’t forget to make an appointment at CJ’s Cuts for Kids right next door to the Silver Spoon to get that fresh haircut or fancy portrait hairdo before you come in for your session.  Please call us to schedule your session time and to ask any questions!

Hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season filled with food, fun and family.  Just thought I’d share a few of my favorites from our Toys for Tots Santa portraits.  Again, it was a great time and we really appreciate all your participation.

Merry Christmas!

Santa Claus came to town!  Last Sunday we held our first annual Toys 4 Tots Santa portrait event at the Silver Spoon children’s boutique, and it was wonderful all around.  Santa came to hear the Christmas wishes of close to 200 kids, all while we captured those wonder-filled (and sometimes tear-filled) moments.  It was great to see how many people came out to see Santa and donate toys for less fortunate kids….a great reminder of the kindness in our community.  These were two of our favorite images of the day…okay, so we’re a little biased…it’s our girls!  Grandma brought them at the end of the day so daddy could have the rare honor of capturing the true innocence of their childhood.  A huge thank you to the Silver Spoon and everyone who came out in the cold to support our local Toys 4 Tots!