Christmas Couture for Holiday Divas

I just have to share these Christmas pictures of my little princess!!

Christmas Fairies

These great pics of my Snow Fairy Set and Holly Fairy Set were sent to me courtesy of Allyson from Picture the Moment Photography. Allyson really is amazing and I loved making these sets for her holiday portrait sessions. I am always so excited to see my designs on such pretty princesses and in the hands of talented photographers. Thank you to the special fairies who brought these costumes to life!!

Gourmet Candy

I am not above bribing my daughter with candy. There! I admit it. I would say you can strip me of my mother of the year award but I lost that honor years ago. If you are going to bribe your kids with candy go gorgeous, go gourmet!! This rock candy really is as stunning as it is tasty. I like it so much hubby can now bribe ME with candy!! I would take more pictures but it's already gone and it was delicious. mmmmmmmm

http://www.survivorsoasiscrafting.com/

Do I look like a glass of MILK to you?!

The baby has a serious sense of humor. Today while eating one of her baby biscuits she pulled down my top and dunked her biscuit!! At least we weren't in public, this time. Just call me by my new name, Mommy Moo. Do you think this is a sign it is time to wean the little comedian?

A Royal Exchange

Hello my fellow crafting princesses!! I'm selling everything but the kitchen sink including photo editing and graphic design!!! Go ahead and post your best offers! Hugs, Jen

Wedding Vows and Wedding Pictures

My wedding was perfect. I loved every second of it and wouldn't change a thing except the vows. We used the traditional vows and added our own touch of sentimental fluff.

WHAT I SHOULD HAVE SAID.....

I, Jen, take you to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward (until the kids are born and then we will be two children apart until college, deal with it) , for better or for worse (but I don't have to like it) , for richer, for poorer (as long as we have separate accounts) , in sickness and in health (yes, even when you suffer from severe ASSicitis), to love and to cherish (most of the time but when you fart in your sleep it will be a challenge); from this day forward until death do us part (Please note: death is still an option so don't think marriage puts you in the clear).

Feel free to use these vows in your own ceremony. People told me marriage would be hard but they failed to mention there would be times I would want to bury him in the backyard. I have an amazing and wonderful husband but we are two separate people learning to share everything and that is just plain tough. Sometimes thumbing through pictures encourages me to lay down the shovel and kiss like the day we were first married.

The Power of Photo Props

First things first…a happy child is key to the perfect portrait and is more important than angle, shutter speed, backdrop or even lighting. Props not only add that special something to a portrait they can also help shy children forget the camera and get rambunctious children to stay right where you want them...

To get your child to "stand here", never say, "stand here".

Instead scatter something of interest in the direction you want your child to go and get the camera ready. A favorite tree, bush or backdrop?? Scatter seashells, flowers (real or silk), treats, prizes, jewels or Easter eggs in front of it and hand them a coordinating bag , basket or satchel.

Cameras are portable so move around and follow.. instead of trying to get your child to change position, change YOUR position and follow THEIR movements for "natural" poses and expressions. Click away! Your child does NOT have to be looking at the camera. Some of the best shots will be when your child is oblivious to you and the camera.

For this shot I scattered shells in the front yard and we went on a seashell hunt. We also go to the beach for treasure hunts and I hide prizes and toys in the sand. If you have snowy winters you can bury jewels, shells, money and other prizes in the snow for a winter treasure hunt. Remember treasure does not have to be expensive to excite your child. It actually helps to sneak in silly things when they aren't looking like an old sock to get them laughing and catch them by surprise. Be sure to have the camera ready. I hope you enjoyed the photo tips!