This is going to be a long, long post. Almost as long as Santa’s list this Christmas … almost.
I wanted to wait until after all my clients had their galleries and time to order & share their images from this year’s Merry & Bright Holiday Mini Sessions at our Ann Arbor Studio, so I’m excited to be able to share some of my favorite families. A few have requested no shares until after the new year, and of course I’m happy to do so.
Now, hold onto your jingle bells because this post will not be short, and I hope it brings a smile to you this holiday! This was my first time EVER doing Holiday Minis! I know, right? It’s almost 2020, get with the times, Mishelle. But they just never felt right for my business until now, where I have more control over the weather and a creative space that feels more like home than work. I’ve turned away many wedding clients over the years because I didn’t shoot a ton of families & kids, but this year all of that changed. And I couldn’t be happier.
I opened the studio for 3 full days of mini shoots (20 minute sessions) booked every half hour. I told clients to wear their holiday best, helped with wardrobe & styling, but told them to show up with nothing but each other and their smiles. I was lucky enough to have my talented friend Jen of Jen House Designs help me hang fresh greenery and deck the halls at the studio turning it onto a beautiful winter wonderland. My studio partners were so helpful and amazing through all my craziness. I added in some buffalo check, black velvet and berries. We had hot chocolate waiting and Alexa playing all my favorite Christmas jingles. Needless to say, every slot filled and every client showed up ready and on time (Christmas miracles do come true!)
I loved every single minute. Now, I know I say that often. But I honestly had the most fun seeing familiar faces, wedding clients and their little families that were created in the years in between. It was truly magical for me. Most of the sessions were full of imperfect moments. We had a few meltdowns, the teenagers felt awkward, and I even had a few tiny protesters in the mix. I love you, JoJo! Our greens wilted after day one (our studio is in a 100 year old building and nothing lives!) and we had to come up with a different game plan. But all in all, I know we walked away with images that will bring so much joy to family & friends. And that’s all that matters. Don’t you agree?
I cannot wait for next season. I am already dreaming up switching gears and how it will look. It will be completely different just to keep a fresh spin on things. I’m so excited. So for now, here’s a peek at this seasons Merry & Bright Holiday Mini Sessions.
Wishing everyone the merriest of holidays!
xoxo, Mishelle
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