Oh, hey there. I’m glad you’re here because the story I’m sharing today is one that’s very near and dear to my heart.

I have so much to say about this one, this is actually part one of two. I hope you’ll stay awhile and join me on this journey.

I’d love to introduce you to Matty and Kendra (and their wild pup Hazel!). Long before they became my clients, these two sweet people became my friends. They are some of the kindest, warmest people in my life… they just stopped by and watered my dang Christmas tree while I’m out of town, that’s how lovely they are.

After years of friendship, laughter, and some really epic New Year’s Eve gatherings, these two asked me to do some photos to help launch their adoption journey. We had an absolute blast, and there is something so special about telling the story of people you know this well as they start such a tender and personal journey.

And did you know that November is National Adoption Awareness Month?

It’s so timely that I’m sharing these photos right now, but here’s the thing: we actually took these photos a full year ago. An adoption journey can be longer and more anxiety-ridden than most people know, and I have enormous respect for Matty and Kendra’s steadfast faith and optimism as they continue on their journey. As someone who loves them both dearly, there’s nothing I want more than to see them welcome home the world’s luckiest child.

They are going to be incredible parents, and it’s an honor to share in this chapter with them.

And that’s the thing, actually: sharing is a really important part of this process. As Matty and Kendra pray for an expectant mother to choose them, we (their friends) can help get their story out to the world, and I can help give you a glimpse into their home and hearts. You never know who you know; this world works in mysterious ways.

So, I’m here to tell you both in photos and in words that these two people are an absolute blessing to this world, and they’ve built a loving home filled with warmth, hope, and kindness.

Now that I’ve introduced the story behind these photos, I’ll let Matty and Kendra’s home and love speak for themselves, and next time I’ll tell you a bit about them as my friends and share our photos from this year’s adoption portfolio shoot.