Today I am sharing an adorable Valentine’s Day look that I shot with the talented Katie of Katie Britt Photography this past weekend at The Cupcake Shoppe Bakery in Raleigh. As with most blog posts, I’ll be sharing my style with a sprinkle of the behind-the-scenes emotional reality.
Flashback to December
Back in December, I found Katie on Instagram and was soooo excited to schedule our pregnancy announcement photos with her. We started get to know one another and plan for the shoot. I picked out the props, had my friend make a custom onesie and ordered this adorable dress from Chicwish that I had been eying.
Our Miscarriage
Fast forward a few weeks, and we were faced with the most devastating news… the baby no longer had a heartbeat. Katie was extremely understanding, and we canceled the shoot. Looking at the dress brought me such sadness. I had imagined my pregnant belly and dreamed of those bump photos. We had dreamed of this for so long. The dress sat collecting dust in the closet as our dreams slipped away.
Healing My Heart
As the weeks progressed and my heart healed, I knew I wanted to meet Katie in person and turn the pain and disappointment surrounding the photoshoot into something fun. We decided to go for a Valentine’s Day theme, because what on earth is better than cupcakes, pink and love?! Nothing, I say!
Valentine’s Day: Rebuilding Confidence
Over the past month, I have struggled with anger towards my body and a sense of self-doubt brought on by the miscarriage. It’s been a battle to rebuild my confidence, and find love for my body following the trauma. Meeting Katie, was like meeting an old friend and shooting with her made me feel amazing. She is the most kind, and talented woman I have ever worked. Can you believe photography is her side hustle?!
Valentine’s Day: Seeing Myself Through her Lens
Seeing my body and my smile through her lens, I was reminder once again of the strength of my body and my heart. No matter what Mac and I shall face, I am proud of all that my body has been through and its resilience. I just have to believe I will be pregnant again and I know in the future, Katie will capture those beautiful moments for us. It felt so good to feel joy and embrace the small moments of light after such a painful month.
Valentine’s Day: The Cupcake Shoppe
So let’s talk for a minute about this gorgeous bakery!!! The Cupcake Shoppe was so sweet to let us shoot in their boutique space and everything was literally picturesque. Katie did little to no editing, that is just how cute their shop is. If you are looking for a bakery for an event or an adorable spot to work or meet friends, I highly suggest their shop. They even have GF cupcakes, yum! The mocha latte with oat milk that I had was also DIVINE!
Valentine’s Day Outfit: Pink Chic Dress
Now for the outfit details… This dress is soooooo cute, I know I will be wearing it all the time. It’s soo soft and flattering and I paired it with polka dot tights and slingback heels for a playful dressy look. The tights really took the outfit to the next level. You could also wear it with boots for a different vibe or even sandals in the Spring. Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to mix it pinks, reds, and neutrals, but I could also see this dress with a blazer for a work look or a night out.
Valentine’s Day Look: Adorable Earrings
I am so obsessed with these lightweight earrings from Scout & Molly’s. I’ll be taking them to NYC with me and stay tuned for a fun giveaway with Scout & Molly coming soon. These exact earrings aren’t available online but stop by the store in North Hills for tons of similar options under $25.
fBook Your Valentine’s Shoot
Want to shoot with Katie!? Check out her website or Instagram for more info.
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