“This experience was unlike anything I could have ever imagined. During the entire photoshoot, there was endless laughter and it made me realize how incredibly precious the bond with my daughter truly is. The weather was wonderful, the dress was perfect for the setting and Laura captured some of the most gorgeous images of my daughter and me together.

Motherhood is never going to the bathroom alone. It’s cooking multiple meals and sharing your bed with a restless little human. It’s hearing, ‘Mom’ hundreds of times each day and never knowing what to expect when you answer. It’s tantrums in public, nonstop chatter, and repeating yourself – again and again. And again. Again. And again. It’s about tripping over toys, cajoling your kid to eat, dragging your kid out of bed so they can get ready for school, and did I mention repeating yourself?

But motherhood is also about creating memories and witnessing every “first”. It’s endless hugs, the sweetest kisses you ever knew, angelic smiles, constant snuggles, loving someone more than you ever knew was possible, and having dreams that are for others rather than yourself.

Motherhood is learning how to see the world in a whole new way. It’s about learning to appreciate the little moments, and having your heart broken every time your child cries. Its a wild roller coaster ride full of ups and downs, and it’s the most wonderful, amazing, aggravating, and joyous ride you can ever find yourself on. It’s every little moment, and every big moment, and every second in between adding up to create the most perfect existence you could ever imagine.” Ashley, Expectant Mother

“Working with Ashley was such an unexpected blessing. I had recently moved to Charleston, SC from Seattle, WA and one day while working, I was scrolling one of the local mom hashtags. We ended up connecting over the good ol’ Instagram, but what came next was pretty special. Social media can get a bad rap, and in some ways it’s valid, but I am learning that it also does SO much good and can truly cultivate genuine friendships.

Ashley and I come to realize that we didn’t just share a bond for motherhood, but people we loved were battling the same illness. That’s not something a lot of people understand or can relate to, but we did. I truly believe we met when we did for a reason and for that, Ashley’s maternity session became so much more. It was truly about creating a space for this Mama and her little girl to celebrate their bond and the blessing that is about to come, despite being in the midst of a really tough season for their family.

As mothers we often get wrapped up in the day to day and don’t always take the time to just be, to celebrate and be IN the moment, much less have those moments documented. Being able to encourage and photograph mothers in their own motherhood space is an honor and a role that I don’t take for granted.” Laura, Photographer

LAURA RYAN PHOTOGRAPHY
Additional Vendors: Maternity Dress: ASOS Maternity