Francesca Marina Teresa Scarpelli- 5 days old

A couple weeks ago I flew down to San Diego to celebrate the birth of one of the sweetest baby girls I have ever laid my eyes on. This was an extra special trip for me and I feel honored I was the person who had the privilege to take her newborn pictures. It was wonderful to see them in action as new parents. They are overflowing with love.

You see, her mother Karleigh and I met our Freshman year of high school, which makes her my oldest friend (not in years alone, but in years we have known each other). Karleigh is eternally kind, and thoughtful and was of the most beautiful pregnant ladies I have ever seen. Girlfriend just has it going on-what can I say? She remembers every birthday and holiday, she's full of compassion and love and if you are lucky enough to know her, you will always know true friendship.

See! I told you! Amazing.

Gabe is the guy who will make you laugh until you have soda coming out of your nose and use his entire lunch break at work to help you start your car (true story). He's a real teddy bear underneath all of those muscles!  In high school I worked at the front desk at a local gym with Gabe, the good looking Italian guy...... Long story short, I knew pretty quickly that the two if them would hit it off.  I introduced them and the rest is history! They are happily married. They are such a sweet couple and this sweet baby is a testament of their love for one another. I had a hard time editing these pictures without tearing up a little...or a lot, I'll never tell ;) It's really amazing what love can do.

Going to the Scarpelli home is a true Italian experience. I walk in having just eaten, not feeling hungry at all
and then WHAM, I'm hit with aromas that instantly make my brain tell my stomach that I'm starving! I ate REALLY  well that day. Thank you Mike, Margo, Gabe and Karleigh for feeding my mouth and my heart. Gabe's parents are wonderful, and I have never seen so much love in one house as I did that day. To be in the presence of your home is comfort. Both in food, and in spirit.

*Mike and Margo Scarpelli above and Francesca wrapped in the blanket I had made for her as soon as i found out she was on her way.

 

Until we meet again sweet Francesca......Hopefully soon. Don't grow too fast okay?Okay.

Love,
Shea

Chloe's 1st Birthday!

A few weeks back I had the opportunity to photograph Chloe's 1st Birthday party. Colleen is the cousin of my best friend and I met her not long after she married her husband Frank. Seeing her in action as a mama was awesome! I've taken plenty of pictures over the past few years, but a 1st birthday is really something special. I think more than anything, it's a celebration for the parents for making it through their first year with their first child. I can imagine it has it's challenges, but I bet this sweet face makes it a lot easier!

Colleen and Frank are wonderful parents, and you can definitely tell how much they love their little girl.

No detail was spared for this pretty in pink princess. Between Colleen, her sister Melanie and her mother, they could run a party planning business! It was gorgeous, and fun at the same time.

This is baby Cash. I REALLY wanted to take him home because not only was he adorable, he was about the sweetest little boy I have ever met. I still smile every time I see one of his pictures. Call me Cash ;)

Happy Birthday Chloe!

Love and All the Best,
Shea