Our Maternity Session | Chelsea Ruger Photography

Now that our “little one” is officially two days late to their own birthday party, we figured what better time than to share our maternity photos?

Last month, we met up with our long-time friend and fellow photographer, Chelsea Ruger, at Regent University for our maternity shoot. We’ve known Chelsea as long as we’ve known one another, as the three of us met when we were doing local concert photography back in 2009-2010. If you’ve never heard the story of how we met before, Michael and I met in the photo pit at the NorVa when we were both shooting a local show. Ironically enough, Chelsea was there that night as well and perhaps even witnessed the moment that Michael looked over at me for the first time. Little did any of us know, we would be here 8 years later.

Regent University was the location of our “first date,” 8 years ago when Michael and I were “just photographer friends” and wandered the grounds, taking photos of one another. It was also where Michael played guitar for me for the first time and I nearly married him right then. Regent has always been a favorite of ours when it comes to engagement sessions and wedding portraits because of it’s dreamy light that comes through the trees and the beautiful brick buildings with tall, white pillars. It only made sense for us to return to the place that kickstarted our relationship, as we step into the next season of our life together.

Very early on in our relationship, I realized that Michael was not like other guys his age. Having met him when he was just 17 years old, I couldn’t believe that he was as mature as he was and how much he truly cared about his family and the people in his life. It was very clear from the start that Michael was very intentional and had dreams of becoming a husband and a father. 3 years ago, I had the blessing of making him my husband and now we are just days away from him becoming a father. This is a moment I have looked forward to since the beginning of our relationship; watching as he becomes a father to our children. He is going to be so amazing and I can’t wait to fall even deeper in love with him as he totally melts as a dad.

Little One, you are so loved. The anticipation and excitement we have to meet you is out of control. You are already everything that we’ve ever dreamed of and we can’t wait to hold you tight and watch you grow. You’ve been prayed over since before we knew you existed and now, you are so close to being in our arms. This time with you in my belly has been so, so sweet, but I could not be more excited to look you in the eyes, hold your little body and count your fingers and toes. I know it’s super comfy in there, but we’re pretty anxious to meet you, so whenever you’re ready to join us, we are ready to welcome you into our family.

A big thank you to Chelsea Ruger Photography for these beautiful maternity photos that we will look back on and cherish for years to come 🙂

All photos by Chelsea Ruger Photography

Blessings,

Michael & Chelsea

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