Ashlea & Drew | Chesapeake, Virginia

Before You Were Born

I'm not sure how it all started. Maybe it was the way he looked at her or maybe they just casually bumped into each other one day getting coffee, it doesn't really matter. What matters now is that these two fell in love and have built a life together. And now, their love is bringing a new little soul into this world.

And for now, they wait on that sweet little boy to arrive. Babies have a way of shaking things up in your life and routine. They bring about change in ways you can't even begin to prepare for. The overwhelming, unconditional love that flows through your veins is one of the most powerful feelings you will ever have, I'd even say the most powerful. The void in your heart that you didn't even know existed is filled. Sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, triumphs, trials, frustrations, joy...all of that awaits them in a few short weeks. But that overwhelming love makes every single bit of it worth it. She's about to embark on a journey that generations and generations of women have gone on before her. She will be forever intertwined in their journey as she gives birth to this baby. And Drew will fall in love with his wife all over again. And again and again and again.

Ashlea and Drew decided to plan their session around the things that represented them most as a couple: their energetic dogs and the beach. In the Hampton Roads, Virginia area, our lives are all so intertwined with the beach. It's apart of us, runs in our blood. And there's nothing quite like watching an amazing sunset over the ocean. Virginia has amazing sunsets and I love the way the bright, vibrant colors of the sky reflect on the ocean. It's breathtaking. So, I tagged along to document their (exciting!) last days together as a family of 2. A new chapter will begin soon and oh! sweet baby, what an adventure you will be!

I've tried to think of some words of wisdom to give to these first-time parents, beyond all the "stuff" our society says that parents need. I've come up with this: Trust that God has a plan for your life. Don't worry about the small things, give grace where it's needed. Make memories (and document them!). Laugh and love freely.

I'd love for you to write them a little wisdom in the comments so they can read it!