There’s something about first birthday photos & Southern summer evening that makes time feel like it folds in on itself—where memories from decades ago quietly meet the present.

That was exactly the feeling last night at the McGarity House.

I’ve known Eve’s mama, Lauren, since the day she was born. Our mamas were best friends before we even existed—long before either of us had children of our own. I used to babysit Lauren when she was little. I photographed her wedding here on this very property. And now, all these years later, I had the honor of taking Eve’s first birthday photos right in the same place.

Eve is the youngest of four. Her three big brothers adore her—and this baby girl photo session felt like a celebration of that beautiful shift in their family story. Eve wore her mama’s heirloom baby dress, the skies threatened rain, and the hydrangeas bloomed right on cue.

We moved between the gardens and the little pasture behind the house, the same way I did when Lauren was the one in a white dress. The light shifted gently through the evening, and the storms danced all around us—but never quite touched down.

The McGarrity House is a place that holds stories. And now, it holds this one too.
Explore the McGarity House here

If you’ve been thinking about outdoor birthday photos, or just a summer family session that feels relaxed, timeless, and a little bit magical—this is your sign. My hydrangea photo sessions are booking fast, and there are just three spots left before July 12.
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These are the kinds of moments I never take for granted—the kind you want to bottle up and save for someday.