There’s just something magical about maternity sessions.

I think it’s because of the eye twinkling excitement the parents share as they look forward to welcoming their baby. Or maybe it’s that feeling of utter amazement they have, that this is real life… They’re going to be parents. Or maybe it’s simply because I love getting to celebrate the anticipation of new life with the mom and dad.

I’m not sure what it is, but either way, maternity sessions are seriously the best!

Especially when they involve people like Ashley and Cody.

I have known Ashley for a couple of years now. She was one of the first people who believed in my photography and posed in front of my camera. I have always loved her sweet, genuine spirit, and passion for health and fitness. We met a few years back at a workout on a rooftop in Dallas one hot summer’s day, and since then it’s been so fun to get to know her and to now consider her as a friend.

And I still remember the day I found out she and Cody were expecting their sweet baby. Ashley messaged me asking to take pictures for their announcement and I was beyond excited.

And by beyond excited, I mean I was wearing a grin from ear to ear the rest of the day.

The day of their maternity session couldn’t have been better. The sun was flirting with the clouds, and the storms of the previous day had finally blown away, leaving a fresh smell in the air and baby green grass poking its head out of the ground. It was one of those end-of-winter days, where the sun warmed the air and beckoned spring to come.

It was magical.

And then there was Ashley and Cody. Dressed to the nines and glowing with excitement.

And so much in love.

One of the beauties of pregnancy is its ability to bring a husband and wife closer than ever. As they prepare for their baby and embrace every change (good and bad), the relationship deepens and sweetens. I love getting to see that!

Throughout the session, I caught Cody gazing with love in his eyes at his bride, who was giving life to their baby girl. And as Ashley held Cody close she smiled, because she knew how much in love he already was with his tiny daughter, and how much he had done to support Ashley during this time. Pregnancy brings out the best and the worst in people.

But the beauty of marriage is that through all that, you love and forgive, day after day, because you’re in it together and know that new life waits on the other side.

I can’t wait to meet little Everly in just a few short weeks! Cody and Ashley, thank you for asking me to capture this life changing moment in your lives. I am forever grateful, and oh so excited to see your family continue to grow!