Each time I enter a home for a newborn session, I can feel a sense of the change that has happened as a new baby has been brought home. The feeling is different every time; for this in-home newborn session in Lexington, SC, there was an overwhelming sense of calm and peace. As I watched Kate and Chris with their daughter, I kept thinking how natural they both were in their new role. You could feel the joy of their answered prayer in every interaction with their daughter: the way they held her so gently, spoke to her so soothingly, calmly reassured her when she cried. It was impossible not to feel their amazement over finally being able to hold their little girl in their arms!
This was my first newborn session with a rainbow baby after welcoming our own this past January, and it was so special to capture the joy for another family who had experienced pregnancy loss. I asked Kate and Chris if it was surreal to finally be holding their daughter after waiting for her for so long, and they agreed that it absolutely was!
I also can’t talk about this session without mentioning their daughter’s Harry Potter themed nursery! It’s so fun to see the thought and detail that parents put into creating a space for their babies, especially when they incorporate their own passions and interests! Kate, in her words, is a huge Harry Potter nerd. She incorporated so many little nods to the books throughout the room—from the stuffed owls to a miniature Mirror of Erised to prints of the Hogwarts castle! I think my favorite detail was the stunning handmade quilt and pillow embroidered with quotes from the books. A sweet friend made it for them, and I know it will be something their daughter treasures for years to come!
Kate and Chris—I cannot express what an honor it was to be able to capture some of your first days with your rainbow baby. Thank you for welcoming me into your home and for so openly sharing your story of loss with me. I know how special rainbow babies are, and your sweet girl is so fortunate to have such loving parents as you to teach her and show her the world! Enjoy this sweet season and this new chapter—big hugs to all three of you!
