A beautiful, dedicated family - and true love is how it all began. Is there anything more special than that?!

The VanPatten family. Referred to me by a friend, who was referred through another friend. They are a solid group of longtime girlfriends who now have husbands and children. Their recommendations and the chance to meet each of them and their respective family was so fun. Vanessa (aka: Mom) really did the darn thing when choosing outfits for our session. I loved their energy and their neutral, color-coordinated looks definitely helped the overall vibe and cohesiveness of the session. Not the mention - I am pretty sure she is the definition of a hot mama! To add to it, her husband was swooning over her in real time, whilst pridefully watching their children and the world they built. Their kids were so well behaved and the sibling-dynamic was loving and laid back. My favorite part about a family session is the chance to get a little glimpse into everyone's personality and what character and temperament they bring to the equation.

tight knit

the vanpatten family

MOM + DAD

Parenthood - the ultimate test of your relationship, your sanity and your patience. Now you've scheduled and paid for this family photo session....you planned for it, got your children (and yourself) clean and ready. You are presentable, you're on time, you're ready to rumble. Now, all you can do is sit back and say a little prayer that your kiddos will stay clean and cooperate. I can completely sympathize that the lead up to your session, as parents, can be incredibly chaotic. There is something to be said about two parents who show up and just have got this parenting thing down. Their kids know what to expect and are respectful and well-behaved. In our short time together, you could see just how much each of their kids looked up to them. It was also incredible to see the uniquely different bond between each family member. Big sis was sweet and sassy, middle brother was cool and collected and little sis was just happy to be there with her people. To say Mom + Dad have done an amazing job raising them would be an understatement. 

The love, passion, and unity was on between these two. A solid, committed, forever type of love. The kind that has evolved, more than once, growing stronger and blooming in new ways as the years go on. From what I could tell, they have a very solid foundation and continue to fill the cup that is their relationship. I think it's true - a resilient family starts with happy parents. Vanessa and her husband exuded friendship, joy, and sheeesh were they romantic, playful and sweet with one another. It filled my heart to see how this beauty family started in the first place.

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