This is always one of my favorite annual posts… for one, it’s so fun to look back and see the previous year’s photos, just how much the girls have grown and changed, how much longer and blonder my hair tends to get [so true], and how Jeff seems to reverse age, which I just can’t quite understand [haha I’;m just jealous–it must be a guy thing]. My inbox gets flooded this time of year, with friends and followers asking for outfit inspiration for their holiday photos and I am hoping this little update helps steer you in the right direction to make sure you get the PERFECT ensembles for the cutest Christmas card ever!
A look back down memory lane… oh goodness, this makes me oh so sentimental–look at how tee tiny they were and just so darn cute!!
As always, our annual holiday cards come from Minted… they offer the best of the best when it comes to original designs from artists, unique details including card cut-out shapes, letterpress or foil pressed printing options, and they will also include custom, addressed envelopes for you = time saver and a must!
Ready to place your order to get one big Merry Minted discount?!?! Enjoy 15% Off All Holiday Cards with Code AUTUMN18, through 10/15/18. With Minted, you can order NOW and then personalize them later once pictures have been finalized, colors have been selected, etc.
ONE | Select one color palette or family of colors and incorporate throughout each person’s ensemble… it doesn’t have to be “matchy matchy” and I much prefer it NOT to be, as it looks more natural when there is contrast and variation in patterns and prints, colors and textures. Continuity helps keep things consistent though and that is key! This year, we are stepping totally out of the box from our “go-to” casual and cute outfits and we are getting ALL DOLLED UP in formal attire for our photos… think elegant, glamorous, sequins and fun! The girls are super excited for more sparkle dresses and to get dressed up for our big night on the town and of course Jeff is taking us out to dinner afterwards because we figured it’s a must since this is a total special occasion.
TWO | Ladies, start with your outfit and go from there. I ALWAYS find it hardest for me, so naturally I set the task to find my outfit first. It’s funny that I am always styling myself for photoshoots, but when it comes to photos for our family, it gets tricky and I get overwhelmed trying to find the perfect outfit [type A much?!?!]. This year, I am trying out the Rent the Runway’s Unlimited Plan–here’s how it works–you pay $99 for a month of unlimited outfits… I just ordered four dresses yesterday and hopefully [fingers crossed] one of those will work for this year’s photoshoot–if not, I’ve built in enough time so that I can send it back, re-select something else and get it to my doorstep before our pictures on the 24th. Plus, they offer some pretty incredible designers and styles so I have no doubt that I will fall in love with one of the ruby red pretties headed my way!
THREE | Don’t give in to the trends when it comes to pictures… sure it’s fun for various events and occasions, but these photos last a lifetime [and will probably get framed] and you don’t want to look back and see a “what’s hot right now” look and regret what you wore. And yes, I say this sentiment from previous experience, so learn from my mistake. When in doubt, classic and timeless is best and you’ll be happy you played it a bit more safe.
FOUR | Relax and HAVE FUN! That’s what this is all about. If you’re having a hard time, reach out to your photographer and ask for help and guidance. Whether you need some direction on selecting a location, an outfit, props, etc–they are a great resource and offer a wealth of knowledge and that’s their job… trust me, they usually think of something totally unique and creative and they know what works.
So, what’s on tap for this year’s lineup?!?! Here are a few sneak peaks of what I’ve crafted for the 2018 look:
1 Red Heritage Dress | 2 Red Mila Dress | 3 Sequin Bodice and Tulle Dress | 4 Larabeth Mary Jane Bow Flats | 5 Glitter Headband | 6 Pink Gingham Button Up Shirt | 7 Yoshi Sandals | 8 Leo Clutch | 9 Large Crystal Bracelet | 10 Cienna Earrings | 11 Genius Slim Navy Suit
LOVE all your cards and pictures my friend, and you DO NOT AGE!! x