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WILD THING…You make my heart sing
-Chip Taylor
Article by Ericka of Little Apple Styles
Images by Rebecca Keller Photography
Have you ever wondered what goes on before Becky shares those amazing pictures of your little ones? Well – let me tell you, it’s hard work! I used to think it was click, click and done. Ha – that is so far from reality. We start planning a session months in advance, look at calendars and make sure we block out those days for any potential family outings. Since this particular session was not outside, we did not have to do the rain dance. But since it is winter we “may” have done the snow dance. You know the Triangle STOPS if there is any snow, or ice, or both. We select a theme and gather ideas – trying to make sure the session is unique and special. We put our “mommy” hats in this process. What is the outcome we are looking for, that as moms, would love to have for our little ones? SO FUN. The theme for this session was “Rock Stars” – crazy cute ones. I sketched a backdrop full of LP records. (Side note: Apparently this media is having a comeback, so if you have any collecting dust in your basement check its value at reputable sites). I needed SIXTY FIVE – so I scouted sites to see where I could get the best price. Thankfully for me, my friend Lisa reminded me Thrift 2 Gift carries all sort of trinkets.
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I was introduced to Thrift 2 Gift last year while I was looking for a place to take my donations. This thrift shop has great programs and partners with other faith based organization that help the community locally. The idea that my clothes could end up given for free to women trying to get back on their feet inspired me to do a much better purge. This is just one of many amazing programs worth checking out! I went to the Cary store – which is big, fully stocked and well organized. I was able to bring the little ones while I searched for my items. They had a great time checking out the toys and got a history lesson when I showed them cassettes, LPs and older books. Gosh I felt SO old! haha. We also lucked out and found the perfect pink chair – that was not only a great addition to our Valentine set – but is also the perfect addition for Eva’s princess bedroom. She is not going to let us get rid of it! They just opened a a store in Apex I will be checking out soon.
Mr. Little Apple was again employee of the month as he did not complain while building the stand in 25 degree weather – or going to Walmart at 3 am for more hot glue gun sticks. I completely underestimated the amount of glue I needed – but after 10 years of marriage he is used to my random projects and they are no longer a surprise. I have to be honest and say that all the little hiccups were immediately forgotten the moment we saw all little ones smiles. Love was definitely in the air! Becky and I surely got a work out with all the dancing we did at the session – and then I sipped my coffee while she spent hoursssss editing. The end result was amazing… and modesty is not my forte! haha!
Ericka dancing in between sessions – we may have had too much fun at this one!
Ericka Jimmerson is a busy mom of two who runs Little Apple Styles, photography + event styling. Contact her at littleapplestyles@gmail.com if you need help making your event picture perfect!
Rebecca Keller is a Raleigh Cary Styled Family Photographer featured in People Magazine who spends her time sipping iced coffee, chasing after her two little ones, reading, running, and editing. Contact the studio for more information about Valentine Mini Sessions.