I met Charel in September, 2010 for a Mommy and Me shoot, with her then 4 year old daughter, Layla. I remember admiring Charel’s style, sense of humor, and genuine love for and patience with her daughter.  Layla was her perfect little mini-me, down to the matching pedicures.  Since that first shoot, Charel has become a friend and my admiration for her, as a person, continues to grow. For the past few years, she has more-or-less been a single mother; a job Charel has held with dignity and grace.

Understanding the struggles that she has surely endured, meeting her for this shoot has left me downright ecstatic for my friend. Because, Charel and Layla aren’t my perfect little twosome anymore… they are now part of a beautiful and growing family, with the addition of Jamaal and baby brother, who is due to officially join the family in June.

Before a quick outfit change, I simply had to capture a few of Layla, alone. I talk alot about how amazing it is to watch my youngest clients grow up, but was literally floored by how beautiful and mature this child has become.

Ahh!!  Here we go… a glimpse of the little attitude filled-girl that parked herself in the grass and refused to participate in our very first session!

And of course, Charel was in cute shoes, despite her pregnancy.

I cannot wait to fall in love with you, little one!!