Heaven Sent

I've known Grace since she was born. A hundred years ago, when I was a teacher, I worked with her Mama.  Our friendship is still strong, although it seems like the impossible to get together. We are way overdue and missed our October Getty. Definitely need to make more effort in hanging out with my peeps.  In any case, I had taken her son's Communion portraits a couple of years ago, so I felt delighted when she asked me to capture her daughter's First Holy Communion.  

Since Grace hadn't seen me in a while, she was very timid at first.  I knew eventually, she would come out of her shell.  She is like her mother, an extrovert, which is why I get along with her Mama so well. Ok, we also thrive as frieCancelnds because we both enjoy a special interest, WINE🍷. 

When we spoke on the phone, she gave me the heads up and expressed that Grace was not going to wear a dress that I had seen before, but instead, was going to wear her authentic Communion dress from when she was a child.  I paused for what felt an hour but probably was only 0001. of a second and reflected on my Communion dress, and I was like, oh no... there is no way my daughter, if I had one, would ever wear my dress (sorry mom).  She probably detected my hesitancy and quickly blurted out, "Adri, I know you are going to love it", and to my surprise, she was UNQUESTIONABLY correct.  

We scheduled the shoot on a weekday, which is always a pleasure since I don't have to deal with the park being packed to the gills with people and photographers.  As I walked up to Grace to begin our session, I immediately noticed her dress. Without delay, I was stunned.  My attention narrowed in on the detail and craftsmanship of her dress. It was covered in lace from top to bottom.  The delicate fabric that hung so nicely made her look innocent and angel like.  What a sentimental value and sense of history, which comes along with wearing a mother's dress.  I hope Grace's daughter will carry on the tradition.   As I took her photos, I could see it in my friend's eyes how she recalled her own special day. The smile she had on her face was priceless.  I am honored to have been able to capture Grace's life and precious event and I will never forget her attire. Although my friend always claims to be Mrs. simple, yet her simplicity was the ultimate and keynote of pure elegance. 

Best decision ever!