It was a year ago last Monday that I sat on their couch clutching my pen and paper so tightly listening to every last word of advice and encouragement they so genuinely shared about my business. Hours spent breaking down my business plan and answering my millions of questions, all of my how’s. I sat there as they gave me direction and tangible next steps while igniting the fire inside me to go forward with pursuing my passion. They believed in me and saw something in me that I didn’t see but knew so badly that I wanted. They sat there, so passionate and excited about my future and where the next year would take me. It was a night where I heard for the first time that I was good enough and that my dreams were absolutely reachable, they told me with enthusiasm and conviction that I could do it.
I first met Ashley and Chris, of Ashley Therese Photography, a husband and wife wedding photographer team in Fairfield County over two years ago as they were the photographers for my cousin’s wedding. Ashley and I exchanged quick words inside the church following the ceremony and after that day, I started following them, anticipating every blog post Ashley would share, hungry to learn. I decided to take a chance by attending their Beginnings Workshop that without a doubt, changed my life.
Six months after the workshop, as a birthday gift, Justin surprised me with a 1-on-1 mentoring session with them! Oh you guys, let me tell you the tears that I cried when he told me about this surprise! I think my exact words were “THHHEEEE ASHLEY AND CHRIS”…and the poor waiter didn’t know what to do as Justin whispered, “babe, they’re going to think I’m breaking up with you” as I shed the I can’t speak, is this really happening, happy tears. I was shocked that Justin had been emailing Ashley for over a month and was so deeply touched that he knew I was ready for the next step after a summer of sessions.
Grateful is not even a strong enough word for what their mentorship and friendship has meant to me personally and for the growth of my business. They’ve supported me when I’ve mentored with other photographers and root me on every step of the way, excited to see me living out my passion. Their actions over the years speak so loud, the check-ins, the “we know you can do it” the countless words of encouragement, and the validation that I am enough.
And today, almost exactly one year from our 1-on-1 mentor session, here I was photographing their beautiful family! Someone pinch me please! I nearly fell off my chair when I read Ashley’s email to me inquiring to book a family session. I ran SO fast to Justin, crying, excited, honored, and grateful. Here they were, validating all they see in me, yet again. There is nothing I wanted more than to give them an experience they so deserve. They do so much for others, making it their life mission to help and serve those around them and it was my honor to give them an enjoyable experience together as a family.
I’ve seen them as photographers, as teachers, as mentors, as friends, as a beautiful family of two and now I was photographing them as a loving family of three. To celebrate this amazing couple, I wanted to share a few of my personal favorites of the two of them from our session. Originally I was only going to share one image but couldn’t resist sharing a few more because I love them and their connection! Watching them together was like watching a love story unfold in front of my eyes—as if they just met for the very first time, giggling, joking, laughing, hugging, as their adorable son Greyson and fur baby, Remi looked on. The way they make each other laugh and the way Chris looks at “his bride” is so very special. Spending an afternoon photographing this incredible family was something I could have only imagined in my wildest dreams.
I am SO excited to share more from this special family portrait session soon but for today, as I remember where I was a year ago, I am beyond thankful for these two incredible people, dear friends who have taught me so much about living life with purpose.
Ashley and Chris- it’s in the joy of helping others that makes what you do so genuine and so very special. Thank you for making such a huge impact on my life and showing me how following my heart is entirely enough. I adore you both and loved our time together so very much, it was so much fun!
Hair and Makeup by Caitlin Cotter of Caitlin Cotter Makeup Artistry
Ashley and Chris- it’s in the joy of helping others that makes what you do so genuine and so very special. Thank you for making such a huge impact on my life and showing me how following my heart is entirely enough. I adore you both and loved our time together so very much, it was so much fun!
Hair and Makeup by Caitlin Cotter of Caitlin Cotter Makeup Artistry
