6 years ago (2017), it was family photo day, I found myself as a new mom frantically trying on a bunch of random clothes, hoping something was going to work.

I remember standing there in our bedroom, feeling overwhelmed because what I picked for myself from my own closet didn’t fit – the skirt, I couldn’t even zip it up and the button on the shirt was too tight. I was so upset. It was this realization, my body had changed, I had changed.

So there I was with a husband and child who looked great because I had purchased a few new pieces for them and in my eyes, my outfit was a complete fail. In a moment of panic and being short on time, I ended up throwing on a pair of jeans, and a plain tan cardigan – it was not at all what I wanted to wear.

Regardless, we did the photoshoot and I remember getting the pictures back (see below) and being disappointed and underwhelmed with my outfit. Deep down it was this feeling, like I failed, how I couldn’t get it right and how I missed the mark.

Here’s the thing, I felt like I knew better! My degree is in Retail Merchandising and crazy enough, I went to school for fashion! I knew I wanted to get it right.

After trying again a few more times, and not being 100% satisfied, I decided I would plan our outfits just slightly ahead of schedule, as an experiment, to actually be thoughtful about it because I wanted to love what I was wearing, more than that, I wanted to feel good in what I was wearing.

We scheduled again for early fall at our family apple orchard and a month prior I found the perfect red jumpsuit, it was exactly what I envisioned myself wearing (I was so excited and relieved!) and it was in that moment everything fell into place.

Why? It was because I put myself first on the list instead of last. I realized getting everyone else ready around what I was wearing was SO much easier.

And, we showed up that day and it was pure magic. It was the first time I looked back at our family photos and really LOVED what I saw.

And, it was more than the clothes, we felt good as a family, and as a mom, I felt good – and you could SEE it in the photos. It made a huge difference being ready to go in a way that helped us connect with each other and our photographer.

I often say, family photos without a wardrobe plan is like trying to make cupcakes without a recipe. When you wing it, you are hoping for the best, and it’s typically a mediocre result or it can sometimes be a complete flop. On the other hand, when you follow the recipe, that’s guiding each step –  you get the intended result, a beautiful cupcake. Think of the cake like your kids and spouses outfits, this nice base and support and think of the frosting like moms outfit, the thing that makes the whole cupcake shine. Not only do you need all the right ingredients, it’s deciding to follow the recipe that makes or breaks the how they turn out.

So, if you’ve got your family photoshoot scheduled and you’re already having the dread of “what are we all going to wear” looming, I promise, there is a better way.

I started my styling business so I could connect and serve other moms; it’s the heartbeat behind what I do.

If you are a mom who just wants to be able to look back on beautiful memories, without all the extra stress, let’s get in touch. It is possible for you and your family to show up wardrobe ready, not only looking your best but feeling like your best self.

Digital Style Guides – Coming This Fall

So, I’ve got just the thing, and I don’t want you to miss it! Coming just ahead of fall family photo season, I’m launching new ready-made, Digital Style Guides, where I’m putting together a variety of family outfit looks that will be delivered directly to your inbox.

You will be able to select the Style Guide that best suits the “look and feel” you want for your family photos. These style guides are a clickable document, taking you directly to the retailer, where the item(s) can be sourced, making it easy to click, shop and buy!

There will be something for everyone, no matter your style, so if you would like to get your hands on one and want to be in the know on the official launch date, click HERE to get on the waiting list!

-Natalie, xo

Photo Credit: Sweet Light Studio

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