Jones Cottrell - Newborn Session

I'm pretty sure Jones' newborn session is one I will never forget. Not only was I able to photograph this sweet boy's 17th day of life, but I was able to document his mom and dad's surprise engagement!

Ryan had filled me in on the phone a few days prior about his plans to pop the question. I promised him that my lips were sealed - what a fun secret! I arrived at their home early on a Friday morning with nervous anticipation. I hadn't even finished prepping the room before Ryan was down on one knee, asking Brooke to marry him. Brooke's expression says it all. I think it's safe to say that she was not expecting a proposal during Jones' photo shoot! Through teary, laughing eyes, Brooke exclaimed, "Yes!" She had me giggling with her next words: "I wish I had on different shoes!" I think she had anticipated wearing a swankier pair of shoes than her birkenstocks for her engagement. Birkenstocks and all, it was the sweetest, most genuine, in-home proposal. I couldn't be more thrilled for the Cottrell family. 

Ryan and Brooke designed Jones' whimsical nursery around Maurice Sendak's 1962 classic children's book, Where The Wild Things Are. From the woodsy textures and geometric patterns to the fur blankets and "crowning" light fixture, every detail was meticulously considered. Brooke even handcrafted a beautiful mobile with Sendak's colorful illustrations.  

I couldn't help but pull up Karen O and The Kids on spotify - the perfect background music for our session. 

Ryan and Brooke, thank you for inviting me into your beautiful home and family on this momentous day. Congratulations on BOTH your engagement and the birth of your precious son. I have a feeling the adventures for your new family of three are just beginning. Let the wild rumpus start!