Young Women's Resource Center: Fall $100 Headshot Partner

When Samira was sixteen years old, she found out she was pregnant. “I was so scared,” she told me. Her older sister was also early in her own pregnancy, and it was not lost on Samira how differently the sisters’ news was received because of Samira’s young age. “My family thought I wasn’t going to get as much help as I’d planned, that I would drop out of school, and things would just be so terrible for me. But I actually ended up graduating early.”

Pictured: Samira looking stunning.

This was no small feat, and Samira’s success was made possible by a whole community of people. Samira’s mom was the one to first help her look for resources for pregnant teenagers in the Des Moines area, and they found the Young Women’s Resource Center. Founded in 1978 with the belief that every girl deserves a life of possibilities, the YWRC has spent the last nearly four decades achieving its mission of supporting, educating, and advocating for girls and young women ages ten to twenty-one, empowering them to be strong, self-confident, and resilient. 

Samara with her daughter, nephew and baby son.

Through a wide variety of programs tailored to fit each individual’s unique needs, the YWRC serves over 2,000 participants in daytime, evening, and summer programs with the overall goal of teaching healthy, resilient decision-making.

The Empowerment Program provides small groups and individual therapy to help young women improve their self-esteem, develop healthy relationships, and understand reproductive health. The Young Moms program, which Samira joined, supports teen mothers and their children through education on how to achieve a healthy pregnancy, parenting skills, self-sufficiency, and the importance of education. All of the programming at the YWRC fosters community involvement, positive thinking, setting goals, self-care, stress management, building communication skills, and finding a sense of purpose.

The organization employs fifteen full-time staff members who are all trained in trauma-informed care, and facilitators utilize evidence-based curriculum. All programs are provided at no cost with free transportation and meals or snacks available for on-site groups. In order to reach underprivileged and underserved young women in the greater Des Moines area, the YWRC intentionally partners with schools, teachers, counselors, success workers, and other agencies.  Their clients are often survivors of trauma, assault, abuse, or mental illness, which have a significant and long-term impact on the mental health and overall wellbeing of the women in our community. The current COVID-19 pandemic is escalating destructive conditions at home, so it is critical that the YWRC is able to ensure continued programming and support to those participants who are at the highest risk. 

Aya, age 5 was a great model.

For Samira, it was the Young Moms program alleviated the burden of young motherhood, supporting her throughout her pregnancy, the birth of her daughter, Aya, and ever since.  “I really like our group. When I was pregnant, they gave me a lot of information about what would happen when I gave birth, and I never knew a lot of that,” she says. “I ended up having to get a C-section, but I wasn’t scared because I was prepared. They were also very supportive during recovery, always checking in to see how I was doing.” In addition, her group helped her figure out her sleep schedules, how to coordinate school and work with a new baby, even how to find daycare.

Samira says one of the best things the YWRC did was advocate for her when the medical team at the hospital was not giving her all of the information she wanted. Doctors often overlook their younger patients, particularly during delivery, making it very difficult to navigate while in a vulnerable position. To Samira, the whole experience seemed very transactional and impersonal. Since then, she has switched hospitals, thanks to the support of her peers and mentors at YWRC. 

In order to finish high school, Samira had to complete her last credits after her baby was born. She woke up at 6 AM every day to take the bus (along with her stroller and baby) to school. She graduated months ahead of time, finishing school in February, but walked the stage in May with the rest of her class. “I was sobbing, I was so relieved,” she recalls. “It was so hard but I am so glad I did it.”

One of the cornerstones of the YWRC’s curriculum is teaching resilience, which is a key factor in determining the success of each participant. Samira recognizes her own resiliency through her ability to go with the flow. “Sometimes things get really overwhelming, but I just have to take it one day at a time. I can try to control the situations by my decisions and actions. When I found out I was pregnant with my second child, my son Asaiah, I was excited but it had been a while. It felt good to go back to my pregnancy group and relearn all that information.” 

There were a lot of cute baby kisses happening!

But this time, of course, was a little bit different. “I was glad they offered me a doula because it was in March, during the pandemic, and I wasn’t allowed any family in the room during the birth.” This time around, the consistent support and advocacy provided by the YWRC made all the difference in what felt to Samara like a whole different experience. 

The YWRC continues to be an asset to Samira’s family. “If I run out of things for the baby, they’re the first ones to tell me that they can get these things for me as soon as possible.”

“The Young Women’s Resource Center is going to support you, they’re going to be your advocate for a lot of things. Especially if you’re pregnant and going through school, or if there’s something you want to do, they will find ways for you to be able to do it. If you’re scared, or if you’re speaking up for something, they will stand behind you.”

Join the Ivory House Photography team in support this amazing mission. We will be holding fifty $100 Headshots, giving away $10 from each of these session fees. In addition to this, we will be giving $5 from every additional extra file purchased from your session.

Get on the waiting list to be the first to know when the sign ups go live on Sept 8th at noon!

Project Iowa: Our spring $100 Headshot Partner

Last week, I had the privilege of photographing a group of incredible women and men who are embarking on their own unique journeys into the workforce. These humans make up the latest graduating class from Project Iowa, a nonprofit organization that, among many other things, helps to match employers with people seeking stable, fulfilling jobs in our community.

Julie Fugenschuh, Executive Director of Project Iowa

“At Project Iowa, we strive to help people align purpose and passion with employment,” says Executive Director Julie Fugenschuh. “We believe finding a career that clicks with your values means you’ll stay in the position, ultimately providing security and stability in your life. [The program} is more about a person’s mindset rather than their skillset.”

Every three months, Project Iowa welcomes a new group of students for their three-month program (which is free of charge) teaching them how to excel in job interviews, write an effective resume, network, while also integrating wellness principles and digital skills.

There is so much more than tactical training happening in this program, and it’s evident in the photos I took of the students on the eve of their graduation. The emotional difference Project Iowa provides is far, far beyond simply finding a job. The transformation is both professional and personal: People who go through this program have more confidence, resources, accountability, and physical and mental wellbeing.

Jane, graduate of Project Iowa’s latest program.

“I was in such a bad place when I started this program,” says Shawna, another graduate. “Besides my kids, this was the best thing I’ve ever done. I thought the program was just about getting a job, but that’s the least of it. It teaches you to recognize your thoughts so that you can change your behaviors. Before, I tended to just go into survival mode. But now I’m figuring out who I was meant to be and who I’ve always been before I got so sidetracked.”

At Ivory House, we believe in finding passion and purpose in our work. Project Iowa’s holistic approach to job placement is completely different from the typical agency and aligned beautifully with the Ivory House mission and core values. Project Iowa believes when a job is well-suited to a person’s identity it also shapes their outlook on life. Meditation, yoga, nutrition, and stress management are all incorporated into the classes, which take place four times per week and run about two hours long. When we recognized the in-depth commitment to self it takes to complete the program, we were hooked and immediately on board with supporting Project Iowa.

“This program got me in touch more with my emotions,” says graduate Carrie. “I’ve always been a task manager, very task-oriented. It has helped me refine some of the emotional aspects of working that I’ve been missing for a while.”

“The biggest thing is changing the way you think and how that’s going to alter the way you act, which has been huge for me,” says Jane, one of the graduating students.

Shawna, graduate of Project Iowa’s latest program.

Tears from Shawna, seeing herself in the right light for the first time.

Students of the Project Iowa program come from every kind of background you can imagine. Whether it’s someone who’s been a stay-at-home mom for the past twenty years and looking to get back into the workforce, someone who’s been convicted of a felony, or someone just looking for a fresh start in a new field, virtually anyone would fit in and find value in the education.

A beautiful group of grateful souls, ready to take on the world with passion and purpose.

“There are no labels here,” Julie says. “You’re a person, you have value. No one in our program is a ‘felon,’ or ‘lazy,’ or any of those other labels people might feel ascribed to when they’re out hunting for a job. They do not define you as a person or a job candidate.”

Jane, totally rocking her photo shoot and leaning into herself fully.

“Project Iowa has helped bring out those parts of me that I didn’t know existed,” says graduate Christina, who traveled an hour each way to attend her classes. “I’m ready to apply for things I wouldn’t normally have applied for. I felt like there were a lot of barriers for me, like I shouldn’t even try. I felt like my past was my name, so I settled for minimum wage jobs.

Now I know that I have worth and hidden talents that can make a company more successful. My name is who I used to be, not who I am. Now I’m answering to new names. I’m worthy, and I have things to offer people.”

Christina, confidently captured.

For me, photography is my way to truly see people, and in this case, I was able to witness these graduates transformation. They have been doing the work for months, diving deep into themselves, removing road block and building new skills, but I know from personal experience, that change doesn’t feel real until you see it on the outside.

By photographing them, I was able to mirror their new mindset, label, title, career path and capture it in a photograph that will hopefully remind them of how far they’ve come. And in addition to simply celebrating their growth, having headshots taken was a brand-new experience for many of them. Stepping in front of a professional camera wasn’t something most of them were comfortable with — not because of cost, availability or usefulness, but simply because they had been denying themselves of the recognition.

“I was like, who gets headshots?” Christina laughed. “It made me feel important. It made me feel like I was someone to watch out for.”

“Last time I had my pictures taken was graduation,” says Shawna. “I felt like I could smile again. It’s so cool to be given a decent chance.”

The reactions are ALWAYS the best part.

“Whatever we do, we do it together,” says Julie. “It’s not just about what Project Iowa could do for you. It’s about who you have in your corner, in your community. We are part of your team. We are someone you can rely on, no matter what your goals are.”

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. If you’re ready to be seen and support a great cause, grab one of our 80 $100 Headshot timeslots. At the time of publishing this blog, the session are already 50% sold out so DON’T hesitate to show yourself and your community who you are and what you’re capable of.

SPECIAL THANKS TO WHISTLER STUDIO and Anna Jones for donating the space for these shoots. If you’re ever in need of a gorgeous shooting space, with perfect light, we highly recommend.

Car Talk

After 10 years together, it was time to turn this baby girl in. We’d been together since college. Yes, my 2006 Volkswagen Jetta and I had put in some real miles together. Tracy Chapman (circa 1989) had been in the six-CD changer rotation since I took ownership. Winston’s hair had completely carpeted the floor to the point where a powerful vacuum was no match. The upholstery had started to peel off the ceiling in the back. The buttons of the radio were worn down and my leather seats had started to deteriorate at a rapid pace.

The outside of her had many scrapes and dents after years of distracted driving around unfamiliar cities, looking for gas rather than where I was going. Garbage cans stood no chance with this backup-cameraless car. The rear left fender was completely smashed in around the tail light. After I had the same accident with the same damage twice, I decided to leave it. That hole belonged to me, as a testament to my inability to go backwards. I had earned that hole. Twice.

My Jetta, while not flashy or speedy, was reliable, and she was all mine. I had paid her off early,  and she was a source of stability through many years of financial risks. I crave freedom in my life, and this car gave me that, both monetarily and in the knowledge that I could take off down the interstate at any given time, and she would get me where I needed to go.

Perhaps it’s strange to write and ode to a car. But we were together for 10 years and 100,000 miles. Ten years of singing loudly, crying profusely while no one was watching, laughing uncontrollably, and so, so many conversations on speakerphone because Bluetooth was but a dream of the future when my girl was made. The driver’s seat was molded to my butt, and even as she declined in her later years, I still took great comfort in climbing behind the wheel and taking off on my next adventure.

There are a handful of things in life that I value above all others, and enjoying the journey is one of them. Not only did my Jetta feel like a friend to me, but she gave me comfort on my journey, both literally and figuratively. Now it’s time to start my next adventure with a new friend, a black Golf that may as well be my Jetta’s cousin. And if this Golf proves to be as reliable as she was, then I’m so excited to see where our journey takes us over the next decade.

Look @ You Fashion Collaboration Shoot

One of my very favorite places to shop in Des Moines is at the East Village boutique Look @ You. If you've ever met me in person, chances are I was wearing a jacket from this store. And if you haven't checked it out yet, do yourself a favor and go! (This recommendation, by the way, is coming from a gal who detests shopping. That's how awesome this store is.)

Last weekend, I got together with Amber Keppler, owner of Look @ You, and a few more of my favorite local vendors for a collaborative shoot. We met at the store, chose several outfits, glammed up our model, and hit the street of the East Village for some fun shots that showcase not only the boutique's range of clothing options but also the capacity and flexibility of our hair and makeup stylists.

Our model for this shoot was the always glamorous Julie Wulfekuhle, whose frame and attitude were perfect for Look @ You's clothing. Julie is the brain and creative force behind Le Foyer, a lifestyle blog that also incorporates career, travel, shopping, and health advice. I met her when she contacted me about taking her headshots, and was impressed during our shoot when her nerves melted away into an incredibly relaxed, confident version of herself. I instantly knew that I wanted to photograph her again. When she came to me about updating her blog, the idea for this collaborative shoot was born.

Ivy Boyd is my go-to gal for clean, classic makeup for every face and skin type. I have the privilege to work with her on a regular basis for my creative portrait shoots. Ivy has the innate ability to make our clients feel comfortable, confident, and 100% themselves, even if they're wearing more makeup than they normally would. Her work on this shoot ranged from clean and light to evening elegance, No matter what look she's trying to achieve, Ivy pulls it off effortlessly.

Working at Elevencherry, Stacy Syroka is my favorite new hairstylist on the scene. She has quickly proven herself to be multitalented, demonstrating her talent in every facet of her job. Her sarcasm never fails to keep me giggling, and I have so much fun on every shoot we get to work together! Stacy's styles for this shoot varied from tousled, sexy curls to a mermaid-esque braid to a playful ponytail. Her skillful styling lent the perfect touch to Julie's multiple looks.

Finally, Miss Amber! She brought everything together with her boutique's phenomenal array of day-to-night looks. We had no shortage of options for Julie to wear on this shoot, and in fact we ended up with three extra looks that we didn't even have time for. Amber specializes in elegant clothing that is every bit as comfy as pajamas. I am so comfortable in everything that I buy from Look @ You, and I love it even more because I can wear the pieces all day and then go out after work in the same thing and feel absolutely fabulous. 

This shoot reminds me of the importance of developing relationships (both business and personal) with other entrepreneurial spirits in our community. Projects like this are great for promoting all of our endeavors. And in situations like this, that old adage is true: A rising tide (or a fabulously styled shoot) lifts all boats!

Finding Stories in Woodland Cemetery: A Walk with Buz Brenton

Today I took a tour of one of the most historic places in Des Moines: Woodland Cemetery. I was joined by my mentor and friend, Junius (Buz) Brenton. Currently 83 years old and thriving, Buz is responsible for initiating some pretty amazing projects around our city, such as the revitalization of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and the Brenton Arboretum. He is passionate about history and passing along knowledge to the next generation.

One of his current passion projects is restoring the headstones in Woodland Cemetary to their proper upright position. This cemetery was established in 1848, before Des Moines was even the state capitol. This makes it the oldest cemetery in the city, and as a result, parts have fallen into disrepair. Many of the deceased no longer have relatives routinely checking on their gravestones. The ground has also shifted over time, causing some of these stones to lean and occasionally tip over. Buz commented that after five generations, there is usually no family left who are connected to the namesake. 

Buz believes in the legacy of Des Moines in both big and small ways. He is also interested in dendrology (the study of trees). In fact, he loves trees more than anyone else I've ever met! While touring around Woodland Cemetery, Buz pointed out his favorite tree to me. He described this particular tree as "flamboyant but modest." Its sturdy trunk rises and splits evenly into beautiful, even branches that reach upwards as if honoring the people buried beneath its canopy. We stood marveling at its complexity and symmetry, the beauty of its branches dividing into themselves in some effortless, majestic pattern that only nature can accomplish. As Buz dove into the topic of trees, he anthropomorphized them, talking about their longevity, their lack of frivolity, their ability to weather the storm. "Trees embody so many qualities that men should, but so rarely do." 

As we walked underneath the tree, it struck me how true these words were. Underneath the ground, the roots of this tree and others nearby had been growing together for decades, sharing nutrients in the warmer months and standing solidly through the colder ones. It's something similar to a community: On the surface, we are all individuals living our own lives. But underneath, and where it really matters, we hold each other up. We share resources and depend on one another. We shape the landscape. 

As Buz and I strolled around the cemetery, he explained that most of the trees in this cemetery were planted at the same time, which you can see by their similar size and shape. He also pointed out the oldest stone building in Des Moines: the cemetery's Receiving Vault, where the city stored the remains of those who passed away during the winter when the ground was too frozen to bury them. He pointed out the gravestones of prominent Des Moines leaders of the past. Familiar names like Savery, Hubbell, Frankel, Crocker, and Sherman are scattered across the 69-acre plot. The people who built Des Moines, who started this journey and laid down the foundation for what has become such a vibrant city, are lying so close to us, and I feel like I know so little about them.

I am guilty, as many of us are, of being obsessed with the grind, the trends, the latest events and social gatherings. Of being "in the know," of knowing the people in the know. But how much do we actually know? Where would we be today if these brave men and women had only forged their own paths without regard to where their city would be in 100 years? And is that any less important than understanding where we were 100 years ago?

This trip to Woodland Cemetery with my dear friend Buz opened my eyes and my heart to the rich history that's often lying right under our feet. It's a privilege to live in a city with so much to learn, and it's our responsibility to take an interest and pass on that history, these feelings, and this knowledge to future generations. 

Let's Chat Recycling with Ciji Mitrisin of RecycleMe Iowa

I still remember the feeling I had over 25 years ago, walking out of the grocery store with a wad of cash in my hands from collecting pop cans out of my dad’s junk yard. This moment may have been the impetus to starting my business, but recycling has always played a role in my life: My parents were always telling us to turn off the lights, stop running the water while brushing our teeth, and heading to every garage sale in town (and I mean EVERY garage sale!). It was a way to save money so we could go on family vacations and take part in every sport and club that we wanted to. My passion for the environment, however, really clicked while living abroad in New Zealand. The country’s natural beauty will bring tears to your eyes. I recall the exact moment when I was enjoying the beauty surrounding me, only to look down and see piles of litter. Without thinking, I picked it up. The solution seemed so clear, the problem so easy to fix. Pick it up.

After leaving New Zealand, I relocated to Des Moines. Living in an apartment with no recycling was perplexing. This is a big town, I thought. Does that mean that no apartment tenants in the entire city have access to recycling? It became a topic of conversation at every social gathering, and I quickly learned that I was not the only one disappointed by the lack of options. The city provided curbside recycling to residences, so why not us? I started to get angry, and decided to direct my energy into doing something productive to solve this problem. I took on the fight to create better recycling options for the community, which I was growing to love more and more each day. In 2010, with a small group of motivated "eco-heroes," I started RecycleMe Iowa. 

We’ve heard the phrase “reduce, reuse, and recycle” a million times, but how well are we really practicing this? When you start separating your recycling from your trash, you see the difference one individual can make in the world. It’s my favorite conversation to have with a new recycler. It reminds me to keep challenging the waste industry, to make it economically viable so more jobs can be created, and to eliminate landfill-bound items like straws and styrofoam.

It takes time and commitment to form a habit, so I challenge my community, family, and friends to create an Earth Day resolution and make a change. Forgot your reusable bags in your car? Turn around and go get them. Get coffee everyday at your local coffee shop? Start bringing your own cup. See some litter on the ground near a trash or recycling bin? Pick it up and throw it away. There are so many simple solutions that each individual can use to make a real impact. I challenge you all to pick one new habit and stick with it for the full month of April. If you live in an apartment, work at a business, or plan events, get in touch with us at RecycleMe Iowa. We are here to help you live a greener life, and we always love talking trash!

Finally, as Whitney and I talked about in our video (above), we have our 8th birthday party coming up! We hope to clink drinks with you at our open house on Thursday, April 19th at CollaborateDSM (31st and Ingersoll) from 5:30-7:00 pm. Bring your business card for a chance to win prizes, too!

A note from Lucy:

I could not be more proud of my beautiful friend Ciji! She and I have been very close friends since I first moved to Des Moines in 2011. We met at a yoga class and bonded over our passion for sustainability. She's taught me so much about overcoming the challenges that small businesses and grassroots movements face, and has inspired me to make small changes in my own life that add up to major ones. She is always spreading her message with a smile and an open heart, willing to talk to anybody and everybody about the difference that they can make as just one person. Ciji, you are truly one in a million. I'm so proud to call you a friend, and can't wait to start kickin' trash and takin' names with you in April!

Dress for Success: The Gift of Confidence

I am so lucky. 

This is what I kept repeating to myself all day on Sunday, March 4th, 2018. 

I am so lucky to have this team of talented, generous people showing up to donate their time and talents to Dress for Success clients. I am so lucky to have a job and the flexibility to give my time and passions. I am SO LUCKY that I've never experienced true hardship. My privilege. 

Recognizing that, I jump at any chance of passing that luck and privilege on to others who might benefit from it. This event was one small way of providing confidence and support to women in our community who may not have always been so lucky. They say that when you can give a piece of yourself to someone else, it comes back to you tenfold. Never have I found this to be more true than with these portraits. I feel the love from that day every time I look at them, and I hope the feeling continues for a long time to come.

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A note from Lucy, Ivory House Photography's Studio Manager: 

The day began the way I expected: rushing to set out snacks and bottles of water, unlocking the doors, answering last-minute emails about the event. What’s the parking situation? Which street is the door on again? The stylists arrived with their ring lights and curling irons. Is there another outlet in this corner? No problem, I’ll set up in the kitchen. Jody White, Executive Director and Co-founder of Dress for Success, was all smiles as she introduced herself to everyone, warmly thanking each person for donating their Sunday to a great cause.

The Glam Teams, clockwise from top left: Ashley Maree Harvey (hair), Violeta, Natalie Gendle (makeup, ACADEMIC Lash & Beauty); Ivy Boyd (makeup, Ivy Boyd Makeup Artist + Beauty Blogger), Africa, Stacy Syroka (hair, Elevencherry); Desi Thompson (hair, Desi at Dolce), Jenny, Natalie Gendle (makeup, ACADEMIC Lash & Beauty); Kelsey Ziemann (makeup, Kelsi Ziemann Artistry), Jasmin, Kearra Chester (hair)

Whitney’s idea for a campaign to benefit Dress for Success originated before I came to work at Ivory House. Selling discounted headshots to her regular clients seemed like a great way to generate revenue that would allow for her to donate portraits to the clients of Dress for Success, an organization that empowers women to thrive professionally. She first mentioned this undertaking in my job interview back in January. Hearing her talk about the importance of elevating every member of the community made me realize that working at Ivory House was going to be much more than a nine-to-five job. Coming fresh from the corporate world, this was very appealing to me. 

My role on Sunday as Whitney’s studio manager was to manage the flow and make sure everyone was getting what they needed. I was anticipating a fast pace and lots of last-minute problem-solving, but as soon as the women began to arrive, it was clear things were going to go much smoother than I anticipated. The "Glam Teams," compromised of incredibly talented hair and makeup artists, were matched with a Dress for Success client. As anyone who’s been to a salon can attest, once the women were seated in their chairs and the pampering began, their stories began to pour out. 

There was Violeta, a legal assistant at Drake, who told me about the lifelong romance with her husband that started in their hometown in Mexico and brought them all the way to Des Moines.

Violeta

There was Sharon, who works in the crafts department at Walmart and who boasted that she has 13 great-grandkids. She honors the memory of her late husband, her sweetheart and the love of her life, by wearing their wedding rings around her neck. 

Sharon

After 10 years in school while also raising three kids as a single mom, Jasmin is going to graduate next year with her master’s degree in social work, and is currently working as self-sufficiency counselor.

Jasmin

Kimberly brought so much attitude and energy to the day. She kept us laughing the whole time, and her confidence shone through in every single photo that we took of her.

Kimberly

Angela, who I told that I would definitely ask for her ID at a bar, told me she’d been married for 14 years and has nine children. (Angela also told me an incredible story about her dog Capone, who’ll be receiving a medal of bravery next month.)

Angela

Africa opened up about her history of domestic violence and the strength it took to take her children and leave her husband to start over in a country where she barely spoke the language. 

Our interactions were brief, but the energy in the “glam room” was that of support and love. 

In the studio, Whitney was working her magic with each woman, making them feel confident and beautiful. Your hair is flawless! Oh my gosh you have the most perfect jawline. Yes, those eyes! You’re killin’ it! It wasn’t anything out of the ordinary for her when it comes to shooting any client who walks through the door, but today was different. These women have overcome obstacles and carried weight on their shoulders that we don’t know about, that maybe is only seen in their hesitance to meet the camera’s eye. Whitney took the time to make them feel beautiful, radiant, and cared for, and the proof is in their stunning images. The person who entered the studio was not the same person who emerged. 

The day came to a close with smiles and hugs of gratitude, exchanged phone numbers, and more than a few happy tears (my own included). Giving the gift of confidence to these women who have overcome so much in their lives, and providing them with a gorgeous portrait that they can share and keep forever, means just as much to us as it does to them. It's unbelievably rewarding when we're lucky enough to have the opportunity to share our skills and talents with others in the community. I'm so grateful to be with a company that values lifting each other up whenever we're able. As our stylist Kearra said, it's why we're on this planet.

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We couldn't have done this without the support of our amazing collaborators:

Jody White and Nicole Roe Sickels of Dress for Success Des Moines

The Glam Squad:
Kelsi Ziemann with Kelsi Ziemann Artistry
Ivy Boyd with Ivy Boyd Makeup Artist + Beauty Blogger
Natalie Sanger Gendle with Academic lash & beauty
Stacy Syroka independent stylist at Elevencherry
Ashley Maree Harvey independent hair stylist
Kearra Chester independent hair stylist
Desi Joelle with Desi at Dolce

And our kind and patience videographers (video to come): 
Caleb and Joe Stevens

And lastly, a huge thanks to the Ivory House team: Megan, Rachel, and Lucy.

Wednesdays with Whitney: Gina Skinner-Thebo

“As we lose ourselves in the service of others we discover our own lives and our own happiness.” Dieter F. Uchtdorf

A note from Whitney: 

From the moment you meet Gina, you know she is special - in large part because she has the amazing capability of making every human in her presence feel incredible and HEARD. From our very first conversation, I knew I could trust Gina with my deepest insecurities, my ugliest thoughts and my wildest dreams. This woman shows up to listen. She shows up to connect on a deeper level and she passionately pursues her most innate capability - creating community. To Gina - the women who truly does it all: thank you for consistently showing up in all your honesty. You allow us all to exhale and live a little more fully in this beautiful mess we call "real life."

A common theme I hear from women who are “getting it done” in our community is “there’s never a perfect time to start something”. Relationships develop, careers lead you in unexpected directions, children need different things at each stage of their lives, and so on. I’ve got a lot going on. To say that I love everything I do in life would be a disservice to those of you reading this piece. Sometimes I do things because they need to be done- not necessarily because they fill my heart. For example, planning my son’s parties at school and determining what crafts they will create doesn’t spark creativity and joy in me. But it does contribute to the happiness of 23 first graders and so I do it. The joy comes when I attend the party and witness the children having fun.

I have a lot of privilege. Something I’ve focused on the last few years is making sure I acknowledge my privilege and then do what I can to give back to my community. I do that through loving my family as well as I know how, taking pride in my professional work, showing up for other women and filling in where I can. I may not always be the perfect person for a task but I might be the only one willing to do it! Using the privilege we have to expand opportunities for all women is one cornerstone of modern feminism.

I’ve always been drawn toward leadership roles. I like engaging with others and I’m not afraid of speaking my truth. I’ve enjoyed many programs and academies where I’ve built up my leadership muscle. The Atwood Center for Women is my way of taking the wheel and steering the ship. It’s me deciding that I have valuable things to offer women in my community and then doing something to serve them. I’m a relationship person. I want to dive right in when I first meet people. I want to know how you’re broken and I want to tell you how I’ve patched myself back together over the years. I want to build you up and I want you to hold me accountable. So let’s get started.

Wednesdays With Whitney: Kelly Timmerman

One of my favorite things about our Des Moines community is our unique ability to rally around our warriors and lift people up. Kelly is one of those warriors and she came highly recommended. During the one month lag time between scheduling and shooting, Kelly's name kept serendipitously coming up. I ran into a friend at Hy-Vee and she mentioned Kelly's amazing on-the-go meals that Kelly and Hy-Vee collaborate on. I heard several friends talk about the success of Kelly's health program. By the time Kelly walked into the studio, I was beyond ecstatic to meet her. 

Kelly's journey has not been an easy one. Kelly's journey has not been an easy one. She beat colon cancer diagnosis only to face breast cancer, which doctors thought spread to her ovaries. Before turning 40, Kelly had gone through multiple rounds of chemo and radiation, a double mastectomy AND a hysterectomy. She had lost her hair and struggled with the repercussions of cancer and cancer treatment on her body. Kelly turned to her faith and nutrition to heal her from the inside. What started as a personal health journey quickly morphed into a professional venture. 

One of the foundational beliefs in Kelly's program is that you SHOULD NEVER BE HUNGRY. I personally love this philosophy. One of Kelly's big go to meal prep options is a smoothie - below you can read her reasoning and find a delicious recipe! 

Best Blueberry Oat Smoothie

Have you ever been short on time but wanted a quick, healthy meal?  Try a smoothie!  When made correctly, smoothies provide great on-the-go nutrition and boost your metabolism. Here are some of my Top Smoothie Tips:

1. Make it “PFC”.  So what is PFC?  You need Protein, Fat and Carbohydrates to balance your blood sugar, burn fat, boost your metabolism and have solid energy.   Loading up a smoothie with just fruit (carbs) will spike your blood sugar, causing you to store fat.  Soon after, your energy will crash and you’ll be hungry.  The best way to get heatlhy and lean is to eat balanced PFC meals and snacks. This is the foundational teaching in my  Kelly Timmerman Nutrition Program.
2. Always pack in healthy greens.  Start with adding a handful of fresh spinach. Honestly, you won’t even taste it! As you get used to this, gradually increase the amount and add some kale, too.
3. If you don’t have Magic Bullet, get one!  

Here’s how you can build a basic PFC Smoothie:

• 1-2 cups liquid (unsweetened vanilla almond milk, unsweetened coconut milk, etc.)
• 1 serving quality protien powder, plain Greek Yogurt, or Hemp Hearts
• 1 serving carbs (approximately 1 cup frozen fruit - or less if adding oats)
• 1 serving healthy fat (nut butter, coconut oil, avocado, chia seeds, etc.)
• Optional:  ice, stevia, almond extract, vanilla extract

Bonus Tips:

• If your kale or spinach is about to get old, put it in a zip lock bag, squeeze out the air, and store in the freezer. These crunchy, icy leaves work great for future smoothies.
• As bananas start to ripen, peel them and freeze in small zip lock bags for future smoothies.

Now that you’ve become educated on building healthy, balanced smoothies, get creative and change up the fruit, try different flavors and types of protein, and experiment with extracts or spices for flavor.  See below for one of my very favorite smoothies recipes.

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Kelly's Blueberry Oat PFC Smoothie

For 2 Servings:

1 cup raw spinach

2 c unsweetened almond milk

2 servings vanilla protein powder

1/2 cup frozen blueberries

1/2 banana (frozen is great!)

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 cup raw oats

1 Tbs healthy fat (olive oil, coconut oil, chia seeds, etc)

Optional: couple ice cubes

Blend and enjoy.  So yummy!  

Note: This is 2 servings, so I cut it in half and easily mix in my Magic Bullet. 

Tip: It will thicken as it sits due to the oatmeal. Add extra liquid if you're letting it set for awhile.

P.S. I'm putting the final touches on my exciting FREE interview series "Healthy Crazy Life: Simple Wellness and Weight Loss Hacks for Busy Women", which airs April 2. I've collaborated with 20+ wellness experts to bring you top strategies to take care of YOU, to look and feel great, even with a busy schedule. If you'd like to join us, click here: Healthy Crazy Life Series , enter your email address, and I'll be in touch soon!

Shane Hefty: Your Designated Dapper Dude

Meet Shane Hefty, Your Designated Dapper Dude

I met Shane the day he walked in for his photoshoot. I was so impressed by how prepared he was for the experience, especially given the lack of resources I had provided. He brought several suit and tie options that fit his personal brand and business goals. He had a fresh haircut and neatly trimmed beard.  

On top of being organized, he knew exactly what he was looking for in a successful photo, and together, we achieved his goals. When I started designing a Men’s Style Guide, I knew Shane was the best choice for advising on men’s fashion. The following pages are filled with great advice, not only on how to prepare for your headshots, but useful knowledge on where to get started in the wide world of men’s styling. Happy reading!

A NOTE FROM SHANE

People often ask if I own any clothes other than suits; many can’t recall ever seeing me in anything else, and in a number of cases close friends are shocked the first time they see me in a pair of joggers. A large part of my personal brand is being suited up at all times; even though I may be over dressed more often than not. My mantra when it comes to my personal attire is, “Dressing like the place you’re coming from or going to is more important than where you currently are.” 

Regardless of your profession, you need to look like you’re the best at what you do, whether it’s a server at a restaurant or the CEO of a Fortune 500 company. For some, that simply means clean clothes that fit well and are in line with the dress code of your employer. For others, that means a suit and tie, and for a broad swath of people, it’s somewhere in between. 

In the coming paragraphs, I’ll share a few key items every man should have in their closet, some grooming and tailoring tips, and finally, what you should wear to a headshot session with Whitney. Let’s get started!

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10 Closet Essentials

A Navy Suit

Navy suits are a great alternative to traditional black and are perfect for everything from job interviews to dates. Bonus: It’s versatile enough, you can wear the jacket as a sportcoat or the pants without the jacket.  

A White Collared Shirt

You need one perfect dress shirt to go with your perfectly tailored navy suit. If you’re of average build, always get a slim fit shirt. I buy most of my dress shirts online from Charles Thywhitt – great prices, quality and fit.

Brown and Black Lace-up Dress Shoes

You can buy the same shoe in different colors.  Brown will go with your navy suit and the black are more formal. This is an opportunity to invest, as well-made shoes can be repaired and last decades. I suggest leather soles and sticking to a classic style like a cap toe or wing tip.

Dark Blue Denim Jeans

Dark denim looks great with sneakers or dress shoes, t-shirts or dress shirts, cardigans or sport coats.  I prefer J. Crew’s or Levi’s 513 jeans – good quality, great fit, and they’re not $300. 

White V-Neck Undershirt

If you’re wearing a dress shirt without a tie or a polo shirt, select a v-neck tee.  The sleeves should hit your mid-bicep – if they don’t, it will affect the fit of your shirt. 

A White Pocket Square

A white pocket square is conservative and simple, but also shows that you pay attention to the details.  YouTube has great tutorials showing how to fold it in a square.  

A Grey Tie

A grey tie goes with everything from your suit to your jeans; it works for weddings and job interviews or on a first date with your white button down and dark jeans.  

A Gray Polo Shirt

A gray polo shirt is the short sleeve version of the white button-down shirt – it goes with everything.  You can dress down your navy suit or wear it to Sunday brunch. Try to find one without logos and try numerous brands on until you find one that fits perfectly.  A good fitting shirt hits mid-bicep and if you wear it untucked, it should hit just below your belt. 

Jack Purcell Sneakers

Jack Purcell was a badminton star who had his own converse sneakers, which looked similar to the ubiquitous Converse All-Stars.  The difference is the “smile” on the toe of the shoe.  These sneakers are simple and incredibly comfortable.  The colors are fairly subdued, so you can get them in navy, white, and grey.  I like white or grey, as they provide a nice contrast to the jeans or the navy suit. 

A Cardigan

You can wear a cardigans like a coat in the spring and the fall.  It’s like a sweatshirt, but dressy; if you get hot, it’s easy to take off.  It’s also a great substitute for a sport coat.  

Leveling Up: 

Invest in tailoring. I can’t emphasize this enough. It will make your investment in the suit and shirts that much more valuable. A good fit just as important as good quality material and construction. I recommend building a relationship with a tailor. J.D. at Frederick’s Tailoring in Clive is the best.  Tell him Shane sent you.

Wednesdays With Whitney: Karla Walsh

Words from Whitney:

So how do you appreciate your body? How do you say, "hell yes" to the skin you live in? For me, it's wearing bright colors and attention grabbing clothing and NEVER saying no when someone asks me to be in a photo. For other people, it's baring it all in a boudoir inspired Empowerment Session. 

I hear so many people talk about how empowering it can be to step in front of my camera and see yourself in a completely positive and affirming light. Facilitating this feeling is, hands down, the best part of my job. So when Karla Walsh asked if I would do a boudoir shoot with her, I jumped at the chance to help her feel super powerful and at home in her body. 

I don't have a bed in my studio, so instead, we focused on what made Karla feel the strongest and most powerful. For her - that meant her lady boss, custom tailor suit jacket with a corset and a pair of tight jeans. It also meant a tight dress and bra and pantie set - but that was secondary to the first powerhouse outfit. At the end of the day, what Karla wore was hardly the sexiest part. It was her courage and vulnerability that made the real impact. 

Thank you Karla, for always taking risks. For putting yourself out there so that others will have the confidence to do so. Your courage inspires us all. 

Words from Karla:

"Thank you so much for the inspiration and push you just gave me—and more women out there just like me." 

"I hope you are moved to shift or at least reconsider your relationship with your body after reading this article." 

Comments like these made it all oh-so-worth-it to bare my empowerment photos (and the story behind them—no pun intended) on Shape.com. 

Whitney, a magician behind the camera and in front of all humans, made the experience one with zero intimidation and all the body acceptance. Finally. After more than a decade of nitpicking at any spot with a hint of curve, I was able to see my body for what it was. A powerhouse that can row for 10,000 meters. A tool that can transport me by foot for miles. A means to give the very best hugs to all I love. I only wish every individual could see her body with as much love as I did the day my story hit the site.

Amanda + Molly: Engagement Session

One of my very first in-person interactions with Amanda and Molly was our drive to Saylorville. They had a particular place in mind so I jump in their vehicle for the journey. That journey included the age old directions battle every couple is familiar with. Both know the best way, neither is conceding, eventually we get to where we're going. Amanda and Molly both apologized for fighting in front of me and I turned to them and said something along the lines of, "Ladies, this is the real stuff. You're a real couple. If you didn't fight over directions, I would think you were robots." When it came time to start shooting, I simply told them to turn towards each other, kiss like you like each other and forget the rest. 

Photoshoots invite stress. From picking the perfect outfits, to getting proper directions, to a misbehaving dog, to realizing your favorite sunset spot is roped off for a political event. They are stressful because they reflect real life. We're not painting impressions of the evening. We're capturing the real deal. The real weather. The real uncooperative dog and that's what makes every moment risky and oh, so magical. 

Here's what Amanda and Molly had to say about their engagement session:

Words from Amanda:

When Molly and I began planning for our engagement shoot, I had only two requirements: (1) at least some of the pictures had to be taken at a specific park south of Saylorville Lake, and (2) the pictures needed to be authentically “us.”

Long before I knew who would be standing next to me, I knew it was the place I wanted my engagement pictures taken. The park/campground that holds the Saylorville spillway was named for my grandpa and has always been a special place for my family. Over the years, we’ve take photos in front of the “Bob Shetler Recreation Area” sign to chart our “growth” from kids clutching teddy bears to angsty teenagers with braces and ratty converse. My grandpa passed away before I was born, but the park always felt created a personal link to him.

The second requirement - ensuring the pictures captured us authentically - would be an obvious expectation of any couple. As a gay couple, however, we knew we couldn’t truly be “us” unless we felt comfortable with our photographer and that they felt comfortable with us. Finding gay-friendly vendors in a progressive city like Des Moines didn’t seem like something we’d struggle with, but it did prove to be a realistic concern. And a photo shoot? That would put us in some pretty intimate, vulnerable positions. We needed someone who could laugh at our jokes and capture us genuinely.

Side note from Whitney: It's super important to me that every couple who walks in my door - gay or straight - experiences tons of fun, comfort and a confidence that I will take care of them. I'm so glad Amanda & Molly trusted that they were in good hands.****

Words from Molly:

Our engagement photoshoot wouldn’t be complete without our pup, Boston. She’s the center of our lives, and I thought it would be cute if she made the official “save the date” announcement. We quickly learned that she’s not the most cooperative, focused, or patient when it comes to getting her picture taken, but we were lucky enough to get one or two good pictures. (I can’t really blame her, though; there were a million new smells, people, and even wild animals roaming around to pique her curiosity.) If anything, our engagement shoot served as the perfect warm-up for our wedding day. We plan to make Boston our ringbearer/flowergal, and we are now aware of her limitations when it comes to having pictures taken. And Whitney now knows how many treats to keep in her pocket.

Empowerment Portrait Session: Kim Wall

"I don't photograph well."

I have heard this defensive line more times then I can count. It's usually one of the first things people say when they meet me. Its definitely uttered consistently on the phone when future clients are booking me for portrait sessions.

Here's the thing guys - in bad lighting, with a wide angle iPhone or in mediocre lighting with a mediocre photographer - we ALL have the potential to photograph poorly. Being the subject of a photo is NOT an easy thing to do. Our bodies were made to move. They were made to function and protect us. They were made to get us through long work days and consume beautiful meals - they were not meant to stand static in front of a lens and be frozen in time.

So when someone says, "I don't photograph well," I have only one response. "That's OK! I do!!"

I do photograph well. I have spent the last ten years photographing every single type of person you can imagine. No one's face is a challenge. No one's body is a mystery. I truly love the uniqueness of every person - of getting to show someone who "doesn't photograph well" just how untrue that mantra is.

Kim was an amazing example of this sentiment. If you have ever met Kim - even in passing, you know that she shines. She is positively vibrant with energy and beauty. Her perfect porcelain skin and gorgeous red hair, combined with her bright style and fabulous glasses make her immediately memorable. So when Kim told me she didn't photograph well, I just chuckled and thought - we'll see about that!

As you might have guessed by now - I have proven Kim wrong. Not only does she photograph well - she photographs brilliantly. Her confidence shines through in EVERY SINGLE photo. And if that's not true beauty - I don't know what is. This is exactly why I'm doing an Empowerment Portrait for one truly amazing lady. Nominate a woman who is beautiful inside and out. Tell me how she has inspired you. She could end up with a complimentary Empowerment Portrait Session!

Hear from Kim on how she felt about her portrait session:

It's amazing how empowering it can be to see yourself through someone else's eyes. Someone who doesn't share your self-doubt, but instead sees your best self.

Before my shoot with Whitney, I was nervous. While I know I'm a strong, powerful and dynamic woman, I don't usually like photos of myself. I'm not quite where I want to be fitness-wise at the moment so I beat myself up for that. I don't always like my smile because I have a noticeable-only-to-me crooked thing happening so I hold my face weird. The negative self-talk overrides my otherwise confident self in photos - and I know it. So it's no surprise that I overthink things during photos and awkwardness ensues. I'm a work in progress, actively banishing the negative from my life. But it creeps in there sometimes.

Whitney was able to guide me from start to finish in every aspect of the shoot, leaving nothing for me to overthink. The experience was actually super fun! She instinctively knows how to make what's inside shine on the outside. She understands a woman's body and accentuates what's uniquely beautiful without hiding what's real.

The result? Photos that capture me - the real me. I'm strong, I'm confident, my personality comes out and slaps you in the face and, most importantly, I see my beauty and strength both inside and out. Notice I didn't say "you see." I see it for myself which is the biggest win of all.

Peace out, self-doubt.

Empowerment Portrait Session: Taylor VanderWell

Meeting Taylor is equivalent to meeting a calm, quiet, force of nature. I learned very quickly that her power centered in a deep connection to herself and her body. This woman is grounded. Her feet are planted on the earth and she is intentional about her life and choices. So I can imagine a surprise pregnancy was a bit of a shock. 

Photographing Taylor was an amazing experience. Her confidence inspired me - her beauty overwhelmed me. Her love of this beautiful unborn baby astounded me. I can't wait to watch her become a mother. I know she'll bring every once of calm strength she has to that child's life. She is the epitome of an empowering woman. I would nominate her for an empowerment portrait in a heartbeat. (Have you nominated an inspiring woman yet?)

Read Taylor's story below. 

*** Caution - nudity ahead. But let's be cool. A woman's body is a stunning thing and I want to celebrate it every chance I get! 

I was lying on the floor of my apartment listening to a guided meditation. The woman leading it said to, “focus on the aliveness in your pelvis”. In that instant, my entire body tingled. I suddenly had this overwhelming feeling that there was, indeed, aliveness in my pelvis. But more than one preventative measure had been taken and I was pretty sure the lady beast had paid me a visit the week before...so there was just NO way that could be possible. 

Ha…ha. Ha.

No matter how many sticks I peed on the next morning, they all looked up at me with those two life-changing lines. 

There was 14 hours before the baby’s father was going to board a plane to Africa, where he’d be doing PhD research for the next 1.5 years or so (for the record, he is incredibly supportive and returned early to join baby & I for keeps). I did 32 weeks of pregnancy solo. Completely squashing my all-natural, out-of-hospital birth plan and euphoric pregnancy fantasies were bleeding, a placenta previa, pelvic rest, a vasa previa and a velementous cord insertion that landed me in the hospital for 3 weeks of observation with a c-section delivery scheduled 5 weeks early. So, it's been wildly beautiful and horrible journey all at once.

But through this entire experience, there has been a consistent theme that I keep coming back to: women are f*ing strong. Hands down, it is the strength and presence of women in my life, childless and not, that has held me together these last 7 months. This pregnancy has revealed to me an obvious physical strength--like my body just knowing how to grow and nurture my son inside of it, deliver him through it, and then continue the process of growing and nurturing him outside of it.

But it has also revealed a mental and emotional strength that comes from surrendering to the unexpected and embracing it. There has been something holy and sacred in recognizing that strength and power of my body, mind and soul. All of it. From those very first tingles that told me, “hey, there’s someone happening in here” to the stitches that will soon adorn my abdomen...my body has done something incredibly powerful, and I wanted that captured.

Wednesdays With Whitney: Dr. Rebecca Lake

You know when you meet someone at just the right time? Dr. Rebecca Lake and I met early this year, just as her business started and mine was beginning to take off. We were connected through FemCity Des Moines and I was so curious to meet the sweet, subtle voice on the other end of the phone.

Dr. Lake makes an impact. Whether she's walking into a room or putting your body back together. While some people lead with loud voices and bravado, Dr. Becca leads with grace and a quiet confidence that immediately draws you closer. Her quick laugh and stunning smile made me feel as if I've known her for years.

Her headshots were a breeze. I loved her gorgeous, detailed tattoos, that are so symbolic of the holistic caring for creatures and the world around her. Her combination of sass and style radiated in every image.

At the time I met Becca, I was in the market for a chiropractor. I could barely turn my neck and was having trouble sleeping on my shooting shoulder. This job I love can take a brutal toll on my body and I'd been ignoring my self-care for far too long. If you've ever been in the market for a chiropractor, you will understand that it can be VERY scary. These people are applying pressure to your body - and adjusting your neck. This is HUGE decision and I was not going to settle for less than amazing.

From the very first time I visited Dr. Becca at Shine Chiropractic, I knew I'd found my doctor. She moves deliberately and continuously around the body, taking her time to find the trigger points and relieving built up tension. She has always been attentive to my hesitations and points of pain, allowing the process to slow down when needed and suggesting a different course of treatment when my body required a bigger adjustment. Our weekly appointments have been a game changer for my neck and back.

Dr. Becca recently came to me to collaborate on new website images. Her vision was simple: holistic care carried out in nature. Dr. Becca's practice is so firmly rooted in the belief that we are all connected. It only made sense to take advantage of the great outdoors. The resulting images were created in an environment that was just as peaceful as it looks. Dr. Becca brings that calm wherever she goes, and I couldn't be more proud to be her patient and photographer.

Table 128: Fall Menu Reveal

I sat at the bar at Table 128 enjoying the company of owner Sarah Pritchard after our Wednesdays with Whitney session. I watched a full house arrive for lunch. Everyone who passed the hostess counter on the way to their table grabbed a famous chocolate chip cookie with sea salt, an aperatif to the delicious lunch to come. These cookies, along with amazing food and warm, responsive service are trademarks of this local West Des Moines resturant.

This winter, Table 128 catered the grand opening and one year anniversary of my business. Sarah showed up at my door with trays of delicious, pipping hot food and a smile, ready to serve in any way she could. I had fully expected her to drop off the food and head to her next event. This is the only time I would underestimate Sarah and Lynn’s immense call to host and help. Sarah stayed at the opening, pouring wine and greeting guests, making sure the trays were filled and details weren’t dropped. Her presence made that party a true success.

I desperately wanted to return the favor of hospitality to the Table 128 team and months later, I was finally able to convince Sarah and Lynn it was time for updated headshots. Like so many of my clients, they bulked. Excuses like, “I don’t photograph well,” were spoken aloud. But I am known to be very convincing and finally got this dynamic duo in front of the camera. Of course, the photos were just as beautiful as they are. Their love of people, food and wine, and each other stand out in every image. 

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of photographing the new Fall Menu. The smells and views laid before me were impeccable. I loved capturing the beautiful food, lovingly prepared by amazing people. I personally got to sample the Scallops, Cured Zucchini and Sweet Potato Panna Cotta. Every bite was an experience. The scallops were seared to perfection, laid over a nutty wheat berry concoction that had me singing praises to the fall weather. The cured zucchini had me begging for the recipe. How the heck does a person make a zucchini taste THAT GOOD? I sat protesting as the panna cotta was served with hot coffee. How could I possibly eat another bite?!  But of course, it was rich, creamy and just the right amount of sweet. I polished off the whole dish without hesitation. It was a perfect example of another amazing meal at Table 128. 

dsm Magazine: Advisors and Navigators

Thank you to dsm Magazine for inviting me to photograph these lovely humans. Below are my published photos and comments on my participation in the project:

Out of all the beauty in the world, I find myself most passionate about photographing relationships. Being a photographer allows me to bear witness to people's unique interactions. One of my greatest joys is capturing those moments in a real and authentic way. 

I found photographing the mentor/mentee relationships particularly compelling. Since returning back to Des Moines this year to start my own business, I've experienced so many small and large kindnesses from the greater Des Moines community. The mentor mentality appears deeply ingrained in the culture of our strong city. I am awed by the generations before me, who lead Des Moines into the thriving urban center we now take so much pride in. I've observed and benefited from the selflessness with which Des Moines' mentors share their diverse knowledge. The duos and trio photographed for this piece are nothing short of impressive together and separately. Each grouping presented an engaging personal history, filled with mutual respect and admiration for each other's impressive qualities. Hearing their stories, capturing their moments and honoring each or their relationships was truly inspiring. 

Mother's Day Mini Session!

Honor Mom with a Mother's Day Mini Session!

I am so lucky to have so many wonderful photos on my mom and I. Being a professional photographer has it's perks and I have many talented friends who have honored my mother's and my relationship over the years. I feel as if I'm in the minority on this. I've talked with so many mom's whose response to having their photo taken is, "Oh, no. Not me. I'm always taking the photo." 

Moms, I'm here to tell you to be in photos, by yourself and with your family. I love sitting down and flipping through our old family albums, watching the passage of time and seeing me grown up alongside a 30 year old version of my mom. Getting to witness my mom and I together is one of my greatest joys. I LOVE the photos of the two of us. The "bad" ones and the good ones. So kids, get your mom is photos. Do a little convincing. I know she may say "no" several times, but deep down she knows the importance of these images. She'll thank you for it later. 

WHAT IS A MINI SESSION?

Great question! 

My mini sessions are 30 mini sessions taking place on Mother's Day weekend, May 7th and 8th. What better way to celebrate? The mini sessions can accommodate up to 6 people and are held at Water Works Park. Mini sessions are designed to be fun, easy and low key. $100 reserves your time and date. Packages with retouched digital negatives and 3 accordion style mini albums start at $300. The digital negatives serve to update your Facebook gallery with fresh pictures of your family and the mini albums are the tangible record of your lives that you'll have for generations to come. 

I'm looking forward to capturing photos of your moms and creating amazing memories together. 

The First Look: The Positives and Negatives of this New Tradition

There is one moment of the wedding day all brides and grooms look forward to - the moment they see each other for the first time. This moment happens in so many different ways with varying degrees of tears and tradition but one thing remains consistent, there is no replacing the electricity (and the photos) of this once in a lifetime experience. 

The new tradition of seeing each other before the ceremony is called "the first look." Some will say it's bad luck to see the bride before the ceremony and many people look forward with anticipation to the public first look offered by walking down the aisle.  But as wedding days have gotten longer and guests' attention spans have gotten shorter the traditional wedding timeline has undergone some modernization. Now most guests are baffled by a long break between ceremony and reception, especially if your ceremony and reception are held in the same location. I'm not sure who the first brave souls were that bucked tradition and started their wedding day with a private "first look" moment, but I offer them my sincere thanks.  Here are my positives and negatives for this wedding day choice.

Celia and Shawn: October 2014

Positives:
1. You get to experience a real private moment. For most couples, this is the only time they spend together all day. Also, you can cry as much as you want because your stylist is still around and prepared to reapply the mascara. 

2. You actually get two big entrances! The bride still gets to walk down the aisle on the arm of her father. Your guests still get to see her for the first time as you make the walk of commitment towards each other. Double the moments, double the sensation, double the awesome photo opts.

3. You go into your ceremony UNITED. You've talked, gotten out your jitters and calmed down. I can't tell you how many couples were nervous wrecks right up until the moment they saw each other for the first time. I love seeing my brides and grooms exhale and grin like crazy when they final get to be with the one they love. After the first look, the ceremony is a piece of cake. 

4. There is more time for photos! This is a super selfish reason to love a first look, but one I find benefits the couple and their wedding party immensely.  After we capture a beautiful moment between the two of you, I usually head into the "romantics," those weddings photos you're going to hang on your wall, make your Facebook photo and generally adore for the rest of time. Doing these photos ahead of times allows us to take exactly as much time as we need and not be rushed. We also take your bridal party photos during this time,  ensuring that the groomsmen can take off their tie get to the bar as soon as they've exited the ceremony. Everyone wins! 

5. There is no need for a receiving line because you'll be at the cocktail hour! This timeline allows for maximum attention to be paid to your guests on the biggest day of your life together.

Negatives:

I've got to be honest. There are very few negatives to the first look from a photographers perspective, but I will outline some objections I've heard throughout the years.

1. It goes against tradition. For many grooms, that's right, this objection is almost always coming from the groom, seeing their bride walk down the aisle for the first time is the ONLY wedding detail they've imagined. They haven't thought about the dress, the cake or table favors. They have thought about their bride, walking arm and arm with her father towards him. I tell my couples all the time that the first look still feels special and exhilarating, and I've NEVER had a couple regretted their choice to take the more modern route, but some men have their hearts set. And what the heart wants, well you get my meaning.

Ok- so this is the only negative I could come up with, but it is completely legitimate and must be paid attention to. At the end of the day, gut feeling and a bit of scheduling are most likely going to make this decision for you. If a first look seems like the best approach to maximize photo opts and guest mingling time. then lean into it. Think of it as the only time that day you'll get to be alone together. Well, not completely alone. I'm there, but I've got my long lens on and I'm not saying a word. So you go ahead and cry if you want to.

A note from Tim:

"I forgot how totally awesome I look in these pictures. Kristen looked okay too I guess...

Obviously Whitney already knows we loved all of our pictures, and I know we both enjoyed the first look segment - though I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a nervous wreck throughout the ordeal. Probably can't see it on my face though because we were just having fun with it. Neither of us were really set on observing most of the normal wedding traditions aside from having a great time (and of course having it arftully documented), and I always thought this one was weird anyway, so no argument or coaxing needed. The most important thing I learned from my own wedding was just that - it's our own wedding. Just do what you feel comfortable doing and let everyone else do the worrying about whether the appropriate niceties and pomp are attended to. *steps off soapbox* Having supremely easygoing and understanding parents on both sides is always a plus, of course.

Anyway, we loved our pictures, had tons of fun with the first look, and I agree with all of the points in the blog post both positive and negative. Thanks again Whitney!

A note from Celia: 

As I am sure you'll recall, I was initially dead set against the idea. I am so eternally grateful that you (ever so gently!) talked us into doing this, and will happily testify to any of your new brides who might be on the fence - this was, without a doubt, one of the most treasured highlights of our entire wedding day experience. But here's a real question for the pro: Will viewing your coverage of our "first look" ever STOP making me cry? To my friends and family who are currently planning their weddings: Please check out this blog post and consider allowing your photographer to capture your "first look!"