There are few things I love more than getting to walk alongside my couples as their stories continue to unfold long after their wedding day. From engagement photos and wedding celebrations to growing families and welcoming little ones, I feel so honored to document these milestones and walk alongside my couples through so many chapters of life.
I first met Michelle and Derek when I photographed their engagement in 2020 followed by their wedding day in 2021. When they reached out this spring with exciting news to share, I couldn’t have been happier for them. They are expecting a baby girl, and I had the privilege of photographing their baby announcement session to celebrate this sweet season!
Being welcomed back into my couples’ lives as their families grow never gets old. Getting to be one of the first people to know such exciting news is something I never take for granted. These full-circle moments are a beautiful reminder of why I love what I do. It’s about so much more than photographs. It’s about relationships, trust, and getting to celebrate alongside families through every season.
For their session, we met at one of my favorite locations in Kankakee County, Governor Small Memorial Park. This park holds a special place in my heart. We used to live just a few blocks away, and I spent countless afternoons walking our dogs along the trails and through the gardens. Getting to share one of my favorite local spots with Michelle and Derek made this session even more special!
The timing could not have been more perfect. We were treated to a gorgeous spring evening, and the park was absolutely beautiful. Everything was lush, green, and blooming, creating the most romantic garden-inspired backdrop. It felt especially fitting for Michelle and Derek, who share a love for plants and gardening themselves.
From the moment we started shooting, it was easy to see how excited they are to become parents. There is something special about this season of dreaming about the baby who will soon change everything. I loved hearing about their plans and getting a glimpse into the excitement surrounding their growing family. I couldn’t have asked for a better evening spent with Michelle and Derek, and I feel incredibly spoiled that I’ll get to see them in front of my camera again later this year for both their maternity and newborn sessions. It is such a joy to continue documenting their story. I cannot wait to meet their baby girl in the months ahead!
Until then, enjoy a few favorites from their baby announcement session at Governor Small Memorial Park!
If you’re in the waiting season and dreaming of timeless maternity photos, explore more sessions on the blog, and let’s connect when you’re ready to plan yours.
Governor Small Memorial Park Maternity Photos | Kankakee Family Photographer | Kankakee County Photographer | Central Illinois Family Photographer
