It was a beautiful day for a two-in-one maternity and family session with Missy and Brian Walsh, and their 3-year-old daughter, Kate. Not only were we able to capture pictures of the family of three, we also had a little quiet time to photograph the expecting parents alone.
What started out as a windy session on Wrightsville Beach with a shy little girl, turned into something special when we moved to a much quieter place at the New Hanover Arboretum. In her “Princess Dress”, as Kate referred to it, she began to open up and steal the show with her adorable personality. With a little provoking of “say cheese”, Kate would strike a pose and smile big for the camera showing us all how it is done. It was easy to see how much she adores her parents in the way that she hugged their necks, held their fingers and looked up at them with admiration throughout their photo session.
Missy and Brian met and started dating over 12 years ago. This upcoming November will mark their 9th wedding anniversary! Missy is an accomplished horse trainer in Wilmington, North Carolina. We actually met showing horses together on the Arabian horse show circuit – a passion near and dear to my heart. She manages a barn and a riding lesson program at the beautiful Cedarbrook Arabians.
The Walsh’s are anxiously awaiting the arrival of their baby boy Michael, due soon on November 9th. They are most excited about a new addition to their family dynamic and watching their love grow with this bundle of joy. Missy said they’re most looking forward to seeing who the little guy resembles, either her or Brian. Will he have crazy hair like Kate did when she was born? They cannot wait to meet him soon enough and find out the answers to the mysteries they have been wondering about for the last 8 months!
Kate is already planning her big sister duties. She’s promised to hold him a lot, give him his bottles, teach him everything she knows, and love him with all her heart!
Of course, the family is not complete without their fur dog child Jack Russell, Lucy (not pictured). Missy said she’s their protector, loyal companion, travel buddy, horse show mascot, and best friend to Kate. I have a feeling Lucy will also be a “big sister” and protector of baby Michael when he arrives.
The best part about this session was capturing the love and personalities of Missy, Brian, and Kate. It was obvious how much they adore one another through their expressions in each photograph. Michael will be a warm addition to their growing family. He is already loved by so many!
What a heartwarming family session! Missy, Brian, and Kate’s love shines through each photograph, and the anticipation for baby Michael adds an extra layer of joy. The connection between them is truly special. Cheers to the Walsh family as they eagerly await their newest member! 📸👨👩👧👦