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!

Getting (and Staying!) Organized with the Neat Method

My name is Sophie Gillotti, and I own Neat Method Des Moines, a luxury home organizing company that serves over 45 markets. We work closely with our customers to make bathrooms, kitchens, closets, nurseries, offices, pantries, and playrooms NEAT! We also specialize in moves and relocates. 

With a passion for detail and display, I personally enjoy creating shoppable spaces that are suitable for each client's specific needs. When we're finished with your space, it should feel like your own personal showroom. Being organized creates a more functional lifestyle.

Whitney came to me because she felt like none of the things in her studio had a home, and the clutter was taking over her workspace. I was delighted by the opportunity to help her get organized in order to establish a space that is functional for not only herself and her staff, but for all the clients coming through her doors.

I began by taking inventory of her things, where they were located and why.

Before photos of the snack area

I then removed all products and supplies from shelves, drawers, and the cubbies in her production area. (We made a huge mess, but that's the first step to becoming neat!) The next phase was to categorize, edit, and sort.

Sorting and editing everything is the scariest part, but it's all worth it in the end.

Once we had established the items that Whitney needed, we talked about how often each item was used so that I could lay out a plan where everything would have a home. After that, I went shopping for organizational items like boxes, folders, and card holders. 

The last step was to create cute labels to make it easy to identify where things go! These are great when there may be several different people putting things away at different times. It also helps to hold everyone accountable for putting things back in their proper place.

After photos of her snack area, cabinet drawer, shooting area, and production area cubbies

Working with Whitney was an incredible experience! She is very talented, her clients are extraordinary, and now she has a neat and tidy space that accurately reflects her business.

Convinced it's time to get Neat? Contact us at 515-326-0762 to set up a consultation! 

A note from Whitney:

Sophie came into my life at the perfect time. I was drowning in paperwork, office supplies, snacks, disposable silverware, Winston's paraphernalia, you name it! She was able to help me identify the things I could part with and the things that were truly benefitting my business and my space. It took a little bit to admit that I needed someone to save me from myself, but once I talked with Sophie about how to improve the situation, I was beyond thrilled. 

Sophie took the time and really invested herself in implementing a streamlined system for me. Her thoughtful details (like the labels!) make it so easy for everyone to keep things organized. I could never have accomplished this without her.

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: Kim Wall

Kim Wall has been creating tech solutions since childhood. It is no shock that her professional passions revolve around inclusivity in the tech industry. The fabulous fem is the President and Co-Founder of dsmHack, a non-profit focused on bringing technical solutions to other non-profits who desperately need the help, but often can't afford the high price tag of developing software. Kim, along with her team of tech wizards found a way to help solve problems from the inside out through a yearly weekend hackathon. 

Read what Kim has to say about the dsmHack journey: 

Nonprofit organizations face many barriers as they work to further their missions and support their clients. Often, budgets are tight and the allowance for technology help is unobtainable. This problem is what led to the launch of dsmHack with our signature event: the Des Moines Charity Hackathon, an annual event that brings together technical resources with the nonprofits that make our community great.

For those not familiar with a hackathon, generally speaking it's where tech professionals spend 48 hours focused on the task of solving a problem or coming up with a cool new piece of technology. Usually, it's a competition with winners often getting a nice sized check or even a job. Our hackathon is different. dsmHack isn't a competition. It's about the community coming together to make Des Moines shine brighter.

Each year, the dsmHack committee solicits applications from nonprofit organizations in the Greater Des Moines area and beyond who need help overcoming a technology problem. Project submissions vary from digitizing paper processes, streamlining donor databases, to helping an organization organize a web presence.

While nonprofits prepare their dream projects, volunteers sign up to commit a weekend of their time to help these organizations. They go in sight unseen, with no idea what they’ll be working on or who they’ll be helping—which is part of the fun for many participants!

During last year's event we provided nearly $160,000 in in-kind technology services to 10 local nonprofits. That's $160,000 that doesn't have to taken from other important projects and initiatives.

This year's event is being held March 22-24 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny, IA. Our tech pro spots sold out in a record 48 hours, but applications for nonprofit projects are currently open through March 6th. 10 nonprofits will be selected from the pool of applicants to receive FREE technical help during the event.

If you're a nonprofit that could use a little tech TLC or you know of one that does, please head to our Nonprofits page to learn more and to apply. If you have any questions about the process or whether your project is a good candidate for the hack, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at nonprofits@dsmhack.org.

If you're interested in learning more about dsmHack, please visit our website!

Sarah Brown Wessling: Educator for Life

Sarah Brown Wessling makes an IMPACT.

I was a quiet high schooler, unsure of my mind and my place in the world. I participated on the periphery, preferring to watch rather than act. I spent my time reading and writing. My journals from these years are epic and hilarious and my book shelves were packed with well loved paperbacks. 

I entered Sarah's AP English class apprehensively. Her classroom was not a place to hide. Students will often say, "Ms. Wessling was the first person to SEE me," and I could not agree more with that statement. Outside of my family, who knew my sassy self to the core, Ms. Wessling was the first person to identify me as a strong thinking, a leader, and someone who could create for myself. 

Years later, while I was living in Rochester, NY and working as a photographer, Sarah contacted me via Facebook. She wanted my permission to share my journey and profession with her classroom. Again, my first reaction was, "Why me?" and again, Sarah was the first person to tell me that what I was doing was important and different. 

Sarah gave me the tools I need to think critically about my life and choices. Now that I own my own business, Sarah is right by my side, but now she occasionally asks my advice and seeks my guidance. I am able to walk beside her, giving knowledge as I receive. She is my cheerleader, challenger, thought provoker and festival buddy. She is my inspiration, my foundation and my reflection.

Words from Molly Hanson, Executive Director of Iowa River Revival: Class of 2005

Sarah is an amazing person for so many reasons. One of my favorite aspects of our relationship is how it has changed over and over again and will most definitely continue on that trajectory. 

I first met her as a student in her AP English class at Johnston High School. Being a recovering high school over-achiever, it still irks me a little bit to call her Sarah rather than Ms. Wessling.  I was an English nerd obsessed with moody beats writers. Sarah took an interest, always making a point of noticing me and whatever book I happened to be reading at the time.  I was always flattered that she cared and was impressed by my selections.  Her classroom pushed me out of my comfort zone, expanding not just my thoughts - but the way I thought. With her leadership, I was introduced to poetry, Shakespeare, symbolism, the male-dominated cannon, and perhaps most importantly for my career,  grant writing. I loved her AP English class and have since been back to help teach lessons in grant writing. 

With curiosity and adventure as two of my dominant forces, I went on to become a well-read science major. I am constantly in awe of the magnificence of the planet and our universe.  But even with my outdoorsy side, I still relish any opportunity to escape into a good book.  And I still love talking about them with Sarah.  Since high school, we have become friends.  We've danced at each others' birthday parties, gone on long runs to work through the stresses of adult life, swapped graphic novels, hung out with each others' families, and have motivated each other to push through challenges and examine what it means to be on the other side. She is still a mentor, but now she is also a peer, inspiration, confidant and a dear friend.  

At her 40th birthday party, Sarah made cards for each attendee containing the word that came to mind when she thought of them.  The word on my card was fearless.  Everyday, I try to live that truth she has seen in me for the last decade.  Her students, as well as her friends, are lucky to have her.  I am lucky to have her. 

Words from Meredith Luksetich, Animal Lover and Administrative Assistant at ISG, Class of 2009

Photographer: Polka-Dot-Photography by Annie Mitchell

I see myself as an articulate, big picture thinker. With every decision, I consider the whole scope of the problem. Where am I? Where do I want to go? Who do I want to be and how am I going to get there? Or, perhaps most importantly, am I already there? I attribute these bigger picture thoughts and questions directly towards Ms. Wessling's challenging classroom. 

Ms. Wessling always had a different way of teaching. I remember walking into her classroom and feeling as though I was finally breathing fresh air. In her space, I knew my ideas and my work were never wrong, but I could challenge myself to improve upon them. Now that I'm older and navigating adulthood, I find I find my brain multi-tasking and working through the best way to approach something or someone.

The biggest impact Mrs. Wessling made on me is how I think and create now that I'm an adult. I am more confident in public speaking, writing, and the way I read and comprehend not only the words on the page, but the world around me. She isn’t just teaching English at Johnston High School, she is teaching students how to think for themselves in the most creative and challenging ways - ensuring our future successful. I can say with confidence, that every student of Ms. Wessling is going to have a  strong, positive memory of Mrs. Wessling, whatever their ‘success’ might be.

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!

Wednesdays With Whitney: Empowerment Session Winner

I was overwhelmed by the beautiful nominations received for the Empowerment Session Campaign. The idea, to give one deserving woman her day in the sun. Show one stunning woman how beautiful she is, inside and out. What started out as awarding a complimentary creative portrait session, quickly morphed into something bigger. More women wanted to contribute to the contest and give away their time and talents. 

The Empowerment Session team consists of Ivy Boyd, makeup artist extraordinaire; Sarah Noll Wilson, leadership coach powerhouse; and Christina Davis, personal stylist and Cabi consultant. The grand prize package: a complimentary two-hour clothing session with Christina, makeup application with Ivy prior to the photo shoot, and a 90 minute creative portrait session with me.

The lucky winner, Mary Bacon, was nominated by her daughter Angela Ames. Mary is a fighter, survivor and the epitome of selfless. In her daughter's words:

"My mother is so beautiful...let's start by in 2005 she beat stage IV breast cancer. She is legally blind but spends endless days making blankets for those in need. She has a rare form of leukemia that fights against her healthy blood cells as well as her good, in addition to currently waiting her chance for a new kidney and finally beating colon cancer. To say my mother is strong would be an understatement. A woman that should be full of life resentment, she actually just wants to do what she can to get back home to keep working on blankets! This woman is incredible!!! She doesn't fuss over the little things, because to her "that's life" and "well that's the stuff that God gave her to deal with." She's so beautiful, her eyes are a stunning blue, and she could really use a day about her, to highlight how amazing she is."

"She is a true definition of humanitarian , a warrior, but above those an amazing mother. Because she never gives up. She sees ten paths to a way out of a dead end. Her girls mean everything to her, nothing, not even being told that she has a few short months to live would keep her from encouraging her girls to do what makes them truly happy."

"I recently moved to California, taking her beloved grandchildren (boys 8 & 7) 1600 miles away. My husband took a new job. My mom would never stand in the way of someone wanting to move closer to their dreams. Most grandmas would be devastated but not my mom. She put her own feelings aside! She misses my husband (who she loves very much, she misses her grandsons but she just says, 'I have to get better so I can come visit.' This woman is truly a blessing to anyone that has her in their lives!"

I drew additional names for extra prizes. Amanda is the winner of a Professional Portrait Session. She was nominated by her sister-in-law. A snippet from her nomination:

"I have known Amanda (my sister-in-law) since she was in high school. She nearly died when I was dating her brother (now my husband) due to long-qt syndrome, which is a heart issue. She had a pacemaker put in when she was 16. It completely changed her trajectory in life. She has always been an active, giving and outgoing individual but has had many obstacles put in her way. On her journey to realizing how strong she is, she built her life up around what she can and can not do (physically) given her heart condition. In the last year, she also has been diagnosed with alopecia. Amanda’s beauty comes from her love of others and her beautiful smile. When she smiles you can’t unsee how beautiful she is. It’s incredible contagious. As a case worker for Broadlawns, she brings her beauty and strength to the lives of those who are less fortunate. While this work is difficult and challenging, she manages to do it with extreme care and grace, that most can not. This is exactly what makes her beautiful and strong at the same time- her very giving heart."

Last but not least, Teresa Tomka is the winner of a $100 Cabi gift card. She was nominated by a friend. The three adjectives used to describe Teresa:

"1) Strong - so strong. She lost her husband in a sudden, tragic accident. She has five children. She owns a business. STRONG. 2) Giving. She gives back her resources, her time, her laughter. 3) And speaking of laughter, this lady is F-U-N! An evening with her is an evening laughing."

Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate a woman. You are incredible for taking the time and recognizing the powerful women in your life. All participants, nominees and nominators, are receiving the opportunity to participate in a Championing Workshop. 

Words from Sarah Noll Wilson on the workshop: 

"Do you build up or break down? Learn how to powerfully acknowledge and build up those around you. 

Everyone is capable of greatness and everyone is capable of revealing greatness in others.  Think about this, in every moment you impact those around you, is it the impact you want? By being a powerful champion for others you help others see their most powerful self even when they can't see it themselves. Join us for this transformative workshop where you will learn and practice the skills to be a champion for others and yourself too!

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.

Empowerment Portrait Session: Christina Davis

My first encounter of the amazing Christina Davis was at a "First Impressions" workshop she delivered at my very first FemCity Des Moines event. To no surprise, she made an excellent impression and I knew instantly that I wanted to work with her. Christina is dynamic. She draws people in with her immense confidence and kindness. She practices what she preaches in every way. Her business, Outside-In Consulting specializes in defining personal branding for her clients and offering a streamlines presentation of self, both in business and life. Christina also has a big heart and will be contributing her styling talents to her the winner of our Empowerment Portrait Session and I can't wait to see how her way of empowering women influences our winner. Nominate your empower women here! 

As a mom to two delightful daughters, I find myself talking a lot about what others see.  "Mind your table manners, say please and thank you, look people in the eyes when you speak to them, people before technology, brush your hair, brush your teeth and finally, YES, if that makes you feel beautiful, you should wear it."

If an outsider were to listen in on this dialogue, they might begin to think I'm teaching my children to focus on what others think - that the world is judgmental or we should work hard to impress others.  I believe there is another important truth to all of this.  

My children's funny, engaging personalities are huge and attractive parts of who they are. But other than my core job of teaching them to be good people, I am also teaching them how to best communicate who they are.  What we say, how we look and act, sends a message to the world.  Others are deciding, do I want to know them more or not?  Are they "my people"?  Are they kind, thoughtful or not? Are they genuine? Do they LOVE non matching socks? When I coach my kids, I call this parenting. As we get older, this attention to detail is called personal branding. 

Kelly Marble, Outside-In Consulting Client

Our image, what we convey outwardly, otherwise known as our brand, provides these future opportunities to connect. Setting intention behind our personal brand is empowering and gives us control over who we draw to us. Clothing is a huge part of personal branding. A unique and authentic look is empowering, not just for ourselves but for others to witness. We are able to send a message about who we are by how we are put together. What do people see? Creativity, spunk, attention to detail? Someone happy and alive? Someone tired and haphazard?

Sommer Sharon, Outside-In Consulting Client

If we use personal branding to reflect our true selves accurately to others, we have a high likelihood of attracting those with whom we can have true and meaningful relationships, both in our professional and personal lives.

I am SO excited to offer a two hour clothing consultation to the winner of Ivory House Photography's Empowerment Portrait Session giveaway. I think this is the perfect opportunity for a deserving woman to pamper herself head to toe and really take a moment to take inventory of her power to enable her to design her ideal personal brand for the camera!

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: Michelle Book

“I’m so proud of you.”

My mom voiced this sentiment thousands of times in my life. Every time my brother and I would experience success, or struggle through a life event that eventually became an achievement, we could rely on mom to show up with her pride. This phrase was uttered so many times, it eventually became a household joke. Now Hunter and I tell each other about the pride we experience for each other’s achievements both in jest and true sincerity. 

My mother taught me pride. She taught me to stand up tall. To be no one but myself, make decisions and move forward. She taught us that we could do anything, and would have to do most things by ourselves. She gave us the confidence to achieve without reservations. 

My mother is my safety net, but she raised Hunter and I to be so strong, that we rarely need it. My brother and I are good people. We value helping others, giving to those who are less fortunate and working really really hard for every dollar in our lives. We knew how to do all of this, because we watched our mother’s commitment to her work and to herself. 

My mom is amazing- by the real definition of the word. She built herself piece by piece, one life experience at a time, into a person Hunter and I are so proud to claim. She shows up to the task of self improvement and accomplishment everyday. She has fought through more personal struggles and roadblocks than I would wish on a stranger. And every single time, I watch her come out stronger, more amazing, more giving, and more impactful. 

Moving back to Des Moines has allowed me the greatest joy of building a life along side my mom. We are able to be each other’s dates at events. I’ll walk past Centro on a Thursday night and have the unexpected pleasure of waving at my mom and popping in for a hug. There was one day earlier this year when we were both interviewed for the same news segment, by the same reporter. While our accomplishments are different, she is fighting to end food insecurity in Iowa and I am fighting to give everyone the feeling of confidence and self love I am so fortunate to hold, we walk together on this long and complicated path of life. 

She is my mentor, even when I fight her. She is my rock, even when I’m holding her. She is my vault, even when I can’t find the words to express my feelings. Mom, I’m so proud of you. Hunter and I are all of the good things because you were there to show us what good is. Love you tons. 

My mother is who I would nominate for our newest campaign, Empowerment Portrait. I want to gift one inspiring woman the feeling of beauty and empowerment with a complimentary portrait session with hair and makeup services. Who has lifted you up, helped you in an immeasurable way? Nominate her for an empowerment portrait here!

Natalie Gendle: Badass Business Momma

A Note from Whitney:

I met Natalie just as she was opening ACADEMIC lash & beauty. We bonded instantly over our mutual desire to help people find and claim their beauty. Natalie applies lash extensions and performs lash lifts and tints while I photograph people and help them look and feel confident. We often talked about the nervous energy our clients feel before working with us. They are taking a risk, stepping out of their comfort zone and choosing to see themselves in the most positive light. After leaping into our respective services, our clients reflect on how amazing, beautiful and confident they feel. 

In addition to being business buddies, we are both huge fans of each other's talents. I get my lashes done every 3 weeks with Natalie and look forward to seeing my face as it's fully brightened by her beautiful work. Natalie has done headshots and a family shoot with me - and we both loved every second of collaborating to create moments she'll cherish forever. 

I asked Natalie to share her story of starting a business in the midst of motherhood. I know her struggle is so familiar to so many, and I greatly admire the courage she displays every day as she moves her business and family forward.

Here's the truth: I was not thriving as a stay-at-home mom. With three kids 5 and under, I was struggling to find fulfillment from an existence where I never felt I could achieve success. I worked hard to be disciplined enough to create good days but there was always another load of laundry, another load of dishes, another meal to create, another diaper to change. It felt as if there was no end in sight - no end of the workday and no break in sight. 

Taking the leap and opening ACADEMIC lash & beauty changed everything for me. Having a full-time career forces me to be more disciplined. I now thrive on the variety of my workday and in turn, this has made me a more fulfilled person. Now that I work outside the home, my family's world has delightfully expanded as well. My children have more friends, caring teachers, new experiences, time away from their parents to gain autonomy, and a bigger world. This has proven to be a very happy experience for the whole family.

Don't let me fool you, I don't do it all. Its crazy to attempt to! I am still figuring out how to delegate my old duties to ensure that I thrive in my workday and still enjoy my family time when I’m home. I have a great husband who stepped up to the challenge. He is an incredible dad and partner and his flexible work schedule allows him to pick up the slack when I can't. We sometimes hire the amazing ladies at my local laundry mat. Their “fluff and fold” services help me tackle the ever-mounting piles of laundry. We have cleaners every two weeks which take the edge off the house maintenance.  With these decisions, I've given myself the freedom to focus on how I'm best suited to serve my family and community. Leaning on the strengths and services of other businesses has proven to be a good philosophy for us as we navigate the terrain of our daily life. 

I often think of the legacy I am creating, for my family and community. I am always striving to better myself, to help as many people as I can and have the biggest, positive impact possible. Being a business owner allows me so many new and exciting opportunities, challenges, and friendships. Growing a business allows me to miss my family a little and come home to them at the end of the day, excited to hear their stories and reconnect. It has given me the opportunity to be a larger part of my community and has allowed me to positively impact the lives of others.  

The biggest change I've seen is within myself. This amazing adventure has given me the opportunity to grow into a better version of myself.  The long days, missed family meals and stressful challenges of entrepreneurship don't always seem worth it in the moment, but I know that by striving to be the best version of myself, I am also becoming a better wife, mom, community member, friend and ultimately, someone I truly like, when I look in the mirror.

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.

Albums are forever: Capturing your always in print

I have dozens of personal photo albums. My mom kept an excellent record of the first 10 years of my life. There are hundreds of printed 4x6 images delicately placed in plastic sleeves and enclosed in a leather 3 ring binder. I kept scrapbooks all through middle school, cutting up my precious prints and creating my own layout and story with Elmer's Glue and craft paper.

A peak into my past. 

Somewhere along the way, my mom and I both stopped making albums. Although photography and family are important to both of us, our photographic records cease to exist after a certain point - can you guess when that was? If you said "when you got digital cameras" you are correct.

Neither my mom or I stopped taking photos. The photos we took on point and shoot cameras, downloaded to computers before our phones kept everything in one place, well I challenge her to find those images. There are years of my life that were documented and discarded with an accidental right click.

I am a crusader for the printed image. I print 4x6's like they're going or of style - because they are. I make albums from my photos, all the time, obsessively just like I used to. These albums are my records - they are what I'll have when my USB no longer plugs in to my future space age computer or my current computer crashes. The printed 4x6's mostly get thrown in a box. That's right - I don't treat them as precious objects. I treat them like my grandparents treated their prints. They new they should keep them in anyway they could and keeping them was more important then preserving their perfection.

This is why I decided to deliver more the just digital files. I get it. Facebook is the modern photo album. But Facebook shouldn't be the only keeper of your memories. I beg you to make prints and books. Maybe you don't love them now and maybe you only look at them once a year around the holidays - but I can guarantee your grandchildren and going to treasure having amazing photos of the people they love from times they never knew.

Ivory House Photography provide custom designed, retouched albums to all portrait and wedding clients. 

Church Ceremonies: The Positives and Negatives of the Classic Choice

I did a little math and I have shot over 150 weddings in my career. As the photographer and trusted advisor for my bride and groom, I am often privy to the best and worst moments of my couple's wedding experience. I get to hear all the dirt leading up to the day of the wedding; the family drama, the vendor drama, the double bookings, the broken deals, the difficulty finding the right undergarments, the awesome cake tastings and the weird DJs they met before finding the perfect fit. I have unparalleled access to what can go right and wrong on a wedding day. On this blog I will offer one photographer's perspective on the wedding industry, wedding day and wedding dream.

Choosing a Church                                                                      
There are so many options now for ceremony sights - backyards, lakeside patios, museums, state parks, the family yacht (lucky you). With so many options, we tend to forget the classic standard - the church wedding. As with any choice, a church wedding has it's positives and negatives. Below I detail my thoughts on the subject from my experience as a photographer. 

Positives
1.) As a general rule churches are air conditioned and climate controlled. This shelter is a huge plus on steamy summer days when backyard wedding guests would normally be melting through their glamorous attire. 

2.) Not all churches are aesthetically created equal but a strong pro is the stunning architectural backdrop a church can provide to a wedding day. The older the better. Some churches really light my artist eye on fire but others look like a board room with a few additional seats. So let me be clear - when I say I like churches - I mean I like GORGEOUS, amazing churches. But even simple churches usually have amazing elements of stained glass and authentic elegance. 

3.) There is plenty of space and your guests know the drill. Most of your guests have practiced walking down a similar aisle every Sunday of their lives, so they are comfortable and know where to sit. It's all very orderly and easy to navigate - a huge plus in my book. 

4.) My favorite moment is when the doors open at the end of the aisle and the light streams in behind the bride. For a second you're blinded while your eyes adjust to the light, and then she comes into focus. Yeah - it's pretty perfect. Even though I'm lucky enough to have seen the bride and I know how wonderful she looks, I still get chills when she walks down the aisle, seeing her groom for the first time.

Negatives

1.) There are rules, and sometimes there are a lot of them. Most frequently there is a "no flash" rule. If you are in the process of booking a church and they say flash photography is strictly prohibited - run. Your photographer is going to be mighty upset when they hear about this condition. While I don't always use flash during a ceremony - and certainly try to get away with not using it, you are running a huge risk not having it at all. Most churches are caves of stained glass and stone and if it's cloudy out, you're going to want to give your photographer the opportunity to use their flash light.

2.) What is classic is also standard. Most church ceremonies are going to look fairly similar. The angles a photographer has access to are limited by the previously mentioned rules and there are only so many places we can stand without interrupting guests. So we do our best. We move around, get both sides and the balcony, but the boundaries set by the church must be respected. 

While I love a good cry during the vows and a passionate first kiss, it's after the ceremony, when it's just me, the bride and the groom when the church fun really begins.

Capturing Your Always: The Lovely Langs

One of the greatest honors as a photographer is being able to watch families come together and grow. Nick and Allie have created a beautiful family that exudes happiness and gratitude. It has been a pleasure to get to know them individually and as a unit. Below, Allie share's a few words on her journey as a wife and mother. Thank you both for allowing me into your home and hearts.

"I feel as though when I became a mother, the world began spinning faster. Days, weeks, and months fly by so much more quickly than they did before. This new fast-paced way of life has not been easy on me with my slow and steady, sentimental nature. I find myself grasping at all of these new, little moments, trying to commit them to memory. Having a family photographer in Whitney has allowed me to freeze and capture the most important moments in the lives of my ever-changing family. 

When we decided to get married, Nick and I did not want a big, complicated event. We chose a more intimate setting and only invited our closest family members to witness our vows. It was important to us that our wedding photos be able to capture not only the actual event, but also the emotion and beauty of each moment and that is exactly what we found in the work that Whitney did for us. She was able to make us and our family members comfortable in front of the camera with her encouragement and simple direction and was in turn able to obtain some very beautiful and meaningful photographs. Not only have our family and friends complimented our photos, but I feel that they have been able to experience our wedding through them as well."

"Not long after our wedding, we welcomed Miles into our family. Those first few weeks home were spent learning about him, as well as discovering who we were now as parents. That time in my memory is a blur of feeding, rocking, swaddling, and catching sleep while we could. It was in the middle of all this that Whitney was able to capture another set of photographs for us. The morning she arrived at our house, we felt tired and disorganized and I was still having trouble finding clothes that fit correctly. I know I wondered to myself once or twice while Miles cried and we needed to take nursing breaks if maybe we should’ve done this a different time. Whitney was once again a positive and encouraging presence. Viewing those photos now, I am so grateful for them. They depict our little family at a time that we could never recreate. I look back at them in awe of how tiny and new Miles was. And even as we were overwhelmed by our new responsibilities, those photos allow me to tangibly remember how overwhelmed by love we were as well."

"Miles managed to grow from that tiny newborn to a smiling, babbling, crawling baby overnight. I can and have tried to document his amazing growth through taking a million and one cell phone pictures. However, not only do these do little justice to the fullness of his personality, but my husband and I are more often than not absent from them. And in truth, as much as our baby has changed each month, so have we grown and evolved right along with him. We had another set of photos done just after Miles turned six months old. It was a brisk Fall morning when we got to the park, but Whitney was ready to go and quickly found a great area to use as our backdrop. I can’t imagine that it’s easy to pull together two adults, a distractible baby, and an anxious dog to form a cohesive image, but Whitney managed it easily and we were out of the cold and back in the warm car faster than I would have ever expected. As I have now come to expect, we loved these photographs as well. With a family photographer, we have gained the unique perspective of documenting how our family has grown together."

"The images we have received from Whitney have been beautiful. They are something I know that we will treasure for many years. Not only do they document the important moments of our lives, but they have also been displayed as art in our home. I love that I can walk into our bedroom and be reminded of the promises and anticipation of our wedding day or look up at the living room wall to see the family we have become. Thanks Whitney!"

COMING HOME TO CAPTURE YOUR ALWAYS

Always: Every time, for every occasion - without exception.

The word always conjures certain nostalgia in my life. I am guilty of using this large and powerful word without proper distinction. Growing up, my mother would frequently retort, “Always? Your brother always starts the fight?” This happened so frequently that when I turned 18 and left home for college, the thought of tattooing the word always on my body crossed my mind more than once. The medium seemed poetically fitting. 

This idea of always propelled my return home to start Ivory House Photography in Des Moines, IA. I want to grow my life and business near the people who I know will always support me. It is with this commitment to my own legacy of always and passion for my clients' version of always that I open the proverbial doors of Ivory House Photography and welcome you with open arms. I can’t wait to meet you, your spouse and your family members. Together we are going to capture memories that will last for your lifetime and beyond.

In honor of the importance photos play in my own life, I thought it was only fitting to share a few of my favorite images. Over the past few years I've had the opportunity to work with the best photographers in Rochester. Thanks to Natalie Sinisgalli and Rachel Liz for capturing the people I love most in such a beautiful and honest way.