I was that awkward new girl on my first day of 10th grade, nervous about making new friends because for sure everyone in my grade would’ve found a clique during freshman year and I wouldn’t find anywhere to fit in. I was the new girl who, for the first time after 7 years of Catholic school uniforms, got to wear normal clothes to school — AKA my style was uh…still forming. A mix of hip hop and punk rocker (yes I had those spiky bracelets) and preppy jean skirts and frizzy curly hair.

 

I was a walking awkward mess full of nervous emotions.

 

Unfortunately for Chris, he got stuck with the locker right next to mine. But he also became one of my first new friends and locker bestie for the next 3 years of high school. 

 

(In case you’re wondering, yes, I’m still awkward…we just have a lot more fun with it at our sessions!)

 

Fast forward to today, I’m honored to be able to *still* call Chris one of my friends. So when Chris wanted to surprise his family with a photo session on their beach vacation, I was thrilled to be a part of the surprise! Every year, Chris and Tanya live for a week with ocean front views, BBQ’s, pool daze, and hot tub nights. They’ve been growing their family for the past several years in a small town in northeast Pennsylvania. Tanya is originally from Brooklyn (my dad was too!), had her first two children, Desiree and Anthony, and moved to Pennsylvania where she and Chris met. Back in my college years, I coached for a competitive cheerleading organization where Desiree was also one of the athletes on another team. Small world, right?! Now, Desiree is cheer captain in her senior year! *woot woot* After high school, Desiree wants to become a PA. I *love* her big dreams!

 

Chris and Tanya, it was a joy meeting your whole family and playing celebrity photoshoot on the beach! Your fun personalities are infectious and Florida is lucky to have you here. The world needs more of your beauty! I can’t wait to see what this next year has in store for you! I hope you enjoy your highlights from your photo session as much as I do!