23rd
May
2013
I met Tom Brokaw.
Well… not “meet” exactly, but like he was definitely in touching distance (which I didn’t do because I’m not a creep). I’m just a kid who grew up watching him every night with my family over dinner. My respect for him is probably only barely surpassed by Brian Williams. (Who’s a nerd? This girl.)
He was visiting the Easter Seals campus located in Maryland to get a better understanding of the incredible work that they do. It was a multi-generational facility that serviced both children with disabilities and seniors/veterans. Often times as a society we compartmentalize, forgetting how beautiful it can be for a child to bring energy to the elderly and for the elderly to provide wisdom to youth.
Mr. Brokaw’s mere presence triggered local media outlets to come cover the event and highlight the facility. Being but a day after the Boston bombings, his time was limited, already clipped short from being on the Today show. I thought to myself, if this is his retirement, what was it like while he was still lead anchor?
Knowing his importance and thinking of all the things in the world he’s seen, I found him to be very intimidating, but comforting and familiar all at the same time. His was the voice that had solemnly informed of tragedy during times worth fearing, and asked questions for when we needed answers. It’s good to see that now he still uses his voice to draw attention to those who aren’t easily heard.
8th
May
2013
For being the first wedding of the season, Kaitlyn and John’s was such a wonderful way to start. 100% organized, Kaitlyn had taken full advantage of the 16 month engagement to pull off what was a flawlessly-coordinated, beautiful event. (Mint and gold! What a refreshing color theme.) I’m personally a stickler about inefficiency and bad planning, and the day left me in awe. From the army men in the hors d’oeuvres (as homage to John) to the surprise gift boxes she gave to her vendors, she had all the small details nailed to the T. The crowning glory of it all being the best executed family portrait session I’ve ever seen – something so amazing that I’ll blog about it later.
Kaitlyn’s abundant kindness and attention to detail made it clear that, above all, she is thoughtful. Her and John were such a fun couple and it made me excited to see what the rest of this season holds. Thanks again (as always) to Carly Arnwine whom I love shooting with!
A Highlight: The maid of honor gave her toast and told John and Kaitlyn to hold hands and look deep into each other’s eyes. They did so lovingly and then the maid of honor said, “John, enjoy this moment, because it’s the absolute last time you will ever have the upper hand.” Well done.
Ceremony: Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Reception: Sunset Crest Manor
Shoes: Vivienne Westwood Mint and Pink Lady Dragon Bow Shoes
UFC Groom’s Cake: Valerie Paylor
Dress: Essence of Australia D1032
no comments Northern Virginia Photography, Wedding12th
Apr
2013
I was excited to cover the DC Alliance of Youth Advocates 2013 Annual Member Summit at the All Souls Unitarian Church in DC a few weeks ago. The organization is a coalition that helps guide policy and programming within the district, and is comprised of several members that do amazing work like Bread for the City, City Year, and Horton’s Kids. The summit was an opportunity for them to hear from DC Councilmember David Catania and David Grosso, and to also bring up questions concerning their work with the youth population in DC.
In true nerd form, I was especially enthused to put a face to the voice of Kavitha Cardoza, a reporter for WAMU 88.5, DC’s public radio station that I listen to all the time. Her work covering education in the region is so insightful and she produces some of my favorite pieces, so it was great to see her moderating the Councilmember Panel.
After listening to the crowd and the councilmembers discuss some of the challenges in the system that face DC’s at-risk youth, it was encouraging to end of a uplifting note. Lisa Lazarus from Reading Partners shared how a child came in to the program and, being far away from reading at grade level, ran around the room is frustration – unwilling to sit with his tutor. Months later, as the tutor stepped away to assist another student, the child began to run around the room again. This time it was because he had read a book all by himself for the first time and as he tore around the room he exclaimed, “I can read!”
These are the people who work tirelessly to reach our community’s under-served populations, doing the groundwork necessary that breaks the cycle of poverty for the next generation. It’s not easy, but it’s good work.
31st
Mar
2013
My friends Nate and Taryn invited me to come shoot some head shots and a team meeting for their startup Efficiency Exchange (EEX). I’ve always admired the energy and passion that they both have, so this was a no brainer – plus I love being in these meetings where I get a glimpse of what other people are up to.
EEX builds solutions for retailers and factories, eliminating inefficiencies and improving the supply chain. What makes them unique is their focus on creating a user-friendly software that everyday factory workers will be willing (and wanting) to use. As a proponent of good design and UX, I think they’re on the right track and will bring to market a product that will change the expectations in the industry, proving once again that design is a critical function and not just ornamental. Have I drunk the kool-aid? You betcha. My hope is to watch these guys go from the living room to the board room.
