Dana Duncan Photography

{NEW BLOG ADDRESS}

2009-09-10T04:32:00.003-04:00

It's Moving Day!!!

I have some BIG NEWS everyone! My brand new blog is up and running! The new blog has been a work in progress for the past few weeks and I am so excited that it is finally ready! The new blog had a nice new fresh look, easier commenting options, and all sorts of fun stuff that I can add as time goes on. Thisalso means that you’ll have to update your bookmarks and homepages {I know many of you have my blog as your homepage,haha }

The other exciting news that comes with the launch of my new blog is that I am going to start 100 days of continuous blogging!!! That is right 100 days! I will be posting all of my weddings from this season, and so many of the great sessions I have done this year and neglected to blog.

I hope you will all be checking in over the next 100 days to check out my new blog and there just might be some random give-a-ways!

See you at the new blog!!!!

www.danaduncanphotography.com/blog

{Jessica & Chris} Sneak Peek!

2009-09-09T11:08:00.005-04:00

Here are a few favorites from the engagement session of Jessica & Chris! I hope you enjoy!

If all goes according to plan I should have some FUN news tomorrow!

xoxo!

{Sunday Snapshot} 08.30.2009

2009-08-31T00:46:00.000-04:00

{Antigua :) }

2009-08-27T22:56:00.001-04:00

{Antigua Bound!}

2009-08-26T18:16:00.002-04:00

The Hubs & I are headed to Antigua for the next week :) I plan on sitting by the pool for the next 8 days and sipping on some sort of sweet tropical drink :)

I will be back in the office on September 7th---please feel free to email any questions & I will get back to you as soon as I get home!

xoxo
dana

Here are a few pictures from our trip last year :)

The View from our AMAZING room :)

{the beach}

{Sandals Antigua!}

{The view from our Penthouse Suite, wha whaaa!}

{Spending the day laying out and swimming up to the bar :) }

Have a great week!!!!

{Sneak Peek} Elizabeth c/o 2010

2009-08-02T23:56:00.003-04:00

I know....I know…I’m so behind on blogging but I am promising some exciting stuff over the next few days!!!! Things are just really crazy busy right now and it’s tough to keep up when I’m barely in the office! Thanks to everyone for your patience!

This is one of my great family friends, Elizabeth. Two weeks ago we spent the afternoon traveling around Hampton Roads capturing the perfect senior shots :) We had such a great time and it was a ton of fun catching up. Elizabeth has also already found out that she has been accepted to her college of choice, Longwood, before her senior year has even started....Congrats!!!

I hope you enjoy the {Sneak Peek} Happy Monday!!!

{Sunday Snapshot} 08.02.2009

2009-08-02T18:20:00.001-04:00

Here is a shot from Sally & Phillips wedding yesterday! I hope you enjoyed the weekend! Lots of new blogs coming soon!

xoxo dana

2009-07-20T02:44:00.008-04:00

Last month I went down to Raleigh/Cary, NC to do an all day shoot for Sally & Philip. Sally is an old friend of Scott's from high school in Belgium, and I am so excited to get to shoot her Wedding in a little more than two weeks time :)

We started off on the NC State Campus where Sally & Philip went to school for their engagement session, before continuing on to Sally's Bridal Portraits at her parents home and the reception location at the country club {although those pictures will not be shown here :) }

I hope you guys enjoy!!!

These next couple pictures are so cool. There are two concrete chairs which serve as parabolic reflectors, amplifying and focusing sound waves so that someone sitting in one chair can easily hear the person in the other chair from across the lawn. It was so crazy to try out, all you have to do is whisper and the other person can easily hear you from at least 50 yards away {I am not quite sure about the measurement...}

{Sneak Peek} Melissa & Charlie

2009-07-17T17:48:00.004-04:00

Here is a Sneak Peek of Melissa & Charlie's engagement session! I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Dana :)

{Sunday Snapshot} 07.13.2009

2009-07-13T00:22:00.001-04:00

Trey + Staci + Baby Braggeston

2009-07-07T23:44:00.003-04:00

Meet Baby Braggeston! He has to be one of the most adorable baby boys ever! {I feel like I say that every time, but I really do mean it every time} I had the pleasure of doing a maternity session for Staci earlier this summer and I was so excited to follow up with his first baby session!

Here are a few shots from our session last week, I hope you guys enjoy them as much as I did, babies always seem to make me smile :)

Angela & David

2009-07-06T17:18:00.011-04:00

A few weeks back I meet Angela & David in downtown Portsmouth for their Engagement session and we had so much fun. I honestly don't think I have met a nicer couple to spend the day with :) I am sure that their big day, coming up at the end of the month, will be fantastic and I cannot wait!

I hope you guys enjoy a few of my favorites!

{Sunday Snapshot} 07.05.2009

2009-07-04T23:52:00.002-04:00

Here is a {Snapshot} from Diane & Jason's 4th of July wedding extravaganza!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday!

xoxo Dana :)

{Sunday Snapshot} 06.28.2009

2009-06-28T14:32:00.001-04:00

{Sneak Peek} Elizabeth & Matt

2009-06-22T23:33:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago I met Elizabeth & Matt in Charlottesville for an amazing engagement session :) Elizabeth & Matt are getting married in July and I had such a great time on this shoot that I cannot wait until their wedding!

One of the other things that was cool about this shoot is that Charlottesville is the old stomping grounds of one of my favorites bands, the Dave Matthews Band. I just walked around imagining Dave in his younger days playing all the local venues and wondering if his lyrics were as crazy back then as they are now...

Thank you so much for the wonderful tour of Charlottesville and the opportunity to be a part of your special day!

{Sunday Snapshot} 06.21.2009

2009-06-21T21:45:00.000-04:00

{Sunday Snapshot} 06.14.2009

2009-06-14T10:59:00.001-04:00

{Sneak Peek} Part II Chris & Jessi

2009-06-10T17:05:00.002-04:00

{Sneak Peek} Jessi & Chris

2009-06-10T11:41:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting up with Chris and Jessi for their engagement session in downtown Norfolk & Virgina Beach. Chris and I grew up next door to each other and it is crazy to see how we have all grown up!

Funny story about this session. When we arrived to the beach we headed to a pretty quiet beach access and I kicked my flip-flops off right when I hit the sand {I mean really, who walks in the sand with shoes?!?} We headed down to the water and spent about an hour getting some great shots. As we headed to our cars I realized that SOMEONE HAD STOLEN MY FLIP-FLOPS! Are we kidding? These were no ordinary sandals either---they were my favorite reef flip flops that I have spent the past 2 years breaking in to fit just right. I swear just the week before I was thinking how great they were for sessions.... To make matters worse, I needed to stop by the ladies room before I made the 45 minute trip home....so I headed to the local Sunsations store and ran in really quickly and grabbed a pair of $1.99 shoes to get me home. I ran to the back {as I am cringing at the thought of walking barefoot in public} and grab the first pair of size 6 shoes I see. I head the register, paid, told the lady my ridiculous story, she cuts the tags off my new shoes and I put them on....ONLY TO REALIZE THE ARE A SIZE 9!

At this point I was so defeated that I just left in my clown shoes and got in the car. I still miss those reefs....

Anyhow, Chris & Jessi, I had a great time! I hope you guys enjoy the Sneak Peek!

{Sunday Snapshot} 06.07.2009

2009-06-07T14:53:00.000-04:00

{Sunday Snapshot} 05.31.2009

2009-06-01T19:16:00.002-04:00

Ok...so I know it's Monday night....but I'm on vacation, so please let this one slide :)

Here is a shot from Matt & Elizabeth's engagement session. Enjoy!

{Sunday Snapshot} 05.24.2009

2009-05-24T09:53:00.000-04:00

{Sunday Snapshots} 05.17.2009

2009-05-17T11:16:00.000-04:00

{Tuesday Snapshot} haha

2009-05-12T15:10:00.002-04:00

So, the past two weeks around here have been CCCCRRRRAAAZZZYYYY! We've had 3 weddings, 6 portrait sessions, countless meetings and over 200 emails responded to :) This morning I woke up and started prepping for this weekends wedding---which for some reason I thought was today {thank goodness for my amazing husband, Scott}. I started packing my bag and double checking equipment when I realized that I would be a few days early :) In high school/college I used to do this all of thetime--- I would wake up, get a shower, get ready and then realize it was like 1am in the morning. I must have some wicked dreams :)

I have so much to blog--- I honestly think I have 20+ posts just waiting for me to set the pictures---where does all of the time go!?!??! I need someone just to help me blog. Speaking of which, I am going to hosting a summer intern {as soon as I get a picture of her, I will introduce her to the blog :) }maybe I can convince her that uploading and organizing pictures is fun :)

Below is a picture from Sarah & Nick's wedding. I thought I would give everyone something fun to look at :)

I hope everyone is having a wonderful week---

xoxo dana

{Sneak Peek: Casey & Greg}

2009-05-04T23:27:00.002-04:00

Last week I was able to meet up with Casey & Greg for their engagement pictures at Fort Story Beach in Virginia Beach :) I have never been to that part of the beach and I immediately fell in love with all of the great details :) Although we weren't able to make it into the lighthouse like we originally hoped, I think we got some really great shots :)

Here are a few of my favorites :)

xoxo dana

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

{Sunday Snapshot} 05.03.2009

2009-05-03T12:20:00.000-04:00

{Sneak Peek} Ashley & Jeff

2009-04-28T23:55:00.002-04:00

Here is a few of my many favorites from Ashley & Jeff's engagement session at the Botanical Gardens. Ashley & Jeff were so much fun to work with and I am really looking forward to their wedding in June at the Williamsburg Winery :)

I hope you enjoy!

xoxo dana

{Sunday Snapshots} 04.26.2009

2009-04-26T11:56:00.000-04:00

{Sneak Peek: Diane & Jason}

2009-04-24T04:36:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago I was able to shoot this wonderful engagement session for some close friends of mine, Diane and Jason! It's always fun shooting your friends because they will pretty much do ANYTHING you ask! :) Diane and Jason are celebrating their big day complete with fireworks on July 4th, 2009 :) Jason just adores Diane and she is just as crazy about him! These two will certainly have a long and happy life together! I can't wait for the big day!

{Ahhhhhh :) }

2009-04-22T00:37:00.002-04:00

So, I know I've been a little M-I-A lately, but with wedding season kicking off this Saturday, I've been taking the past week {or two} to get rested up and get those creative juices flowing :)

{I can't imagine that this is actually comfortable....but I'm sure I've looked weird on the couch this week too..}

So, a few weeks ago I finally took the time to get organized and order all of the new gear that I will need this year. Most of the items were small replacement items or backup gear, but I was SUPER excited about my new Canon 5d Mark II. I spent about 2 hours sifting through the website--adding way more that I had originally expected and becoming easily distracted by shiny objects :) As soon as I was finished browsing, I went to check out and noticed it was SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper than expected. I went to my shopping cart and noticed that my 5d {camera body} was missing. I headed back to add it to the shopping card and IT WAS BACK ORDERED! I was devastated. I called the customer service number and tried to get a little information on when I could expect more to arrive and the guy told me it could be weeks....or even. months. what.a.drag.

Long story short, the company received a shipment early last week and it has already been delivered to the Duncan's doorstep.

Introducing my new obsession, the Canon 5D Mark II: {insert ahhhhhhhhh}

21.1 Megapixel, Full-Frame Sensor, 3" Display, Live View Mode & 1080p Movie Mode = AMAZING.

Since the arrival of my new camera, I have noticed that I have started neglecting my first 5d. I am sure that I will retract this statement after Saturday--but it is still very sad :(

Now, this is where I need your help :)

Instead of referring to the cameras as the 5d, and the 5d Mark II {which can get confusing when there are 6 lenses floating around} I want to come up with some fun/short/socially acceptable nick names for them. Please leave your suggestions in the comment box and maybe you will be the lucky ones to choose the winning names :)

I hope everyone is having a great week!

xoxo dana

{Sunday Snapshot} They're back!

2009-04-19T17:36:00.004-04:00

With a 26+ wedding season beginning next Saturday, I thought it would be nice to bring back the {Sunday Snapshot}. I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend :)

xoxo dana :)

{Happy Easter!}

2009-04-12T20:49:00.004-04:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter :) Scott & I spent a majority of the day priming/painting/prepping our master bathroom for the final steps of the demo process :) I also managed to take a nice nap and get some work done around the house. I love the spring :)

On a lighter note-- I wanted to share some pictures that I took the other day when Jacob was in town. One of our main adventures that day was getting Jacob downtown for a midday session , but keep him awake long enough to get home before he fell asleep for his nap. After the session we noticed that he was dozing off in the car--- so we made a pit stop to McDonald's and got him some ice cream! There is nothing better than giving your nephew ice cream and then taking him back home :)

Here are few of my favorites from our session . I am particularly fond of the one with Jacob in his Easter basket :) Although it took many tries; as you might imagine, he did not like having his legs folded inside the basket :)

I love the picture on the right--- Jacob did not like that I was following behind, so he kept motioning me to hurry up! What a sweetheart :)

He is getting so big! I cannot believe that he will be 2 next month!!!

{Yay Jane!}

2009-04-08T22:47:00.007-04:00

Back in November a good friend of mine from high school and former client, Jane, approached me about doing another shoot for her. I was more than a little curious about why she wanted another shoot, but of course I was up for it. She was asked me to keep everything very quiet because she didn't want everyone knowing what was going on quite yet. Jane was trying out for the Baltimore Ravens Cheerleading Squad!!!

The application asked for some very particular shots, so we spent the day taking as many pictures in as many different poses as we could think ok. When it was all said and done, we ended up with over 100 pictures that we had to narrow down to two, which was pretty tough to do since so many of them were gorgeous :) Over the next couple months we were able to choose our two favorites and Jane got everything ready to turn in her application in February.

Here is our top 3 favorites :) I am pretty sure Jane used #2 & #3, but I'm not positive.

Tryouts started in the beginning of March, where hundreds of women piled in a gym for the open auditions. The entire process of cuts, interviews, more cuts, physicals, more cuts, more interviews, more cuts {you get the picture} took a couple weeks, but at the end of it all Jane became one of 15 girls to make the squad and one of six rookies! Congratulations Jane, we are so proud of you and we always knew you would make it!!!

Check out this video of the tryouts. Around 20 seconds in you can see just how many girls there trying out and at 54 seconds there is great clip with the camera right on Jane learning the dance {nice moves girl!}

Congrats Jane! We are so excited for you! xoxo

Fun with Jacob!

2009-04-07T23:01:00.005-04:00

Today Jacob spent the day with his awesome Aunt Dana & Uncle Scott :) We hung out, watched Shrek 2, went to the gardens for a photo shoot, took him to McDonalds for a yummy happy meal and ice cream cone & then we all took a very long nap :)

When Jacob first arrived we were all running around the house chasing each other and all of the sudden Jacob was running towards me with something in his hand. It took me a second to realize what was happening...but then I noticed I had just been KNOBLICH'd! Are we kidding?!?! Scott used our poor nephew to Knoblich me!

Ok, so I admit that it was one of the better Knoblich's we've had, but he has no idea what I have in store for him :)

Here is one picture from our session today. I was trying to get Jakey to lay on the ground, and while Uncle Scott was fixing his outfit, I captured this expression--- How adorable :) it has been my background on my laptop all evening and I keep cracking up everytime I look at it. Normally I'm not a huge conversation-bubble-person; however, I felt this was necessary :)

Enjoy!

{Wedding Fun!}

2009-04-06T23:51:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite things about being a Wedding Photographer and is that it gives me an excuse to blog-stalk! Every morning I get into my office {just down the hall from my bedroom :) } and start my daily routine of internet surfing/emails/editing/phone calls. Blog stalking is usually first in line---and I just love the progression of how I get from one blog to another and all the interesting things I find.

Today I got a HOT TIP from one of my best friends, Angela. She told me about this girl that she went to high school with and this super funny wedding video they made to inform their friends/family about who was going to be in their wedding party. I think I've watched this video about 6 times today and I am sure that I will see them on the Today show any day now--- These two are super funny and I love how creative they are!

Hope you guys enjoy it too :)

xoxo- dana
ps- I have disabled the music for the next 24 hrs so you can easily view the video. I know that 5+ minutes seems long---but I promise you it is worth it!

Wedding Party Video from Jared Knight on Vimeo.

Skirt Magazine!

2009-04-01T20:53:00.004-04:00

One of the most exciting parts of my job is having my work published, whether it be in a magazine or newspaper, there is just something really cool about seeing my own work in a print publication. Over the winter I was approached by a local dentists office to do a couple of shoots of their patients for their new ad. Today was the first release of that ad in Skirt Magazine. Skirt is a local monthly publication that is all about women, in their own words "their work, play, families, creativity, style, health and wealth, bodies and souls." Below are a couple shots of the magazine spread, a full, 10"x18", page ad.

April 2009

ahhhhh :) What an exciting moment! There is nothing like seeing your name in print :)

Shane + Kim + Trevor Part II

2009-03-31T21:42:00.005-04:00

I'm sure everyone remembers Kim & Shane from their maternity shoot back in February--- Just ten days ago they proudly welcomed Trevor Francis into this world. The sweet bundle of joy made his appearance on Saturday, March 21st at 11:48 a.m. He weighed 8 lbs. 2 oz. and measured 20 1/2 inches long.

Here is a flash back to Kim & Shane {and Trevor too!}

Now met Trevor---Isn't he ADORABLE?!

Trevor in his milk coma :) Every few minutes he would drift off into a sweet dream and would start smiling---so cute!

Kim & Shane looked like pros taking care of this little man! They have only be home for a few days, but they make this parenting thing look easy!

By the end of the session Trevor was smiling like crazy--- Yawning on the other hand, was not as easy. I think we waited about 20 minutes for him to yawn...and of course he let out a big one right after I packed up my camera!

{ Sweet Dreaming}

Thanks to Shane + Kim + Trevor for letting me capture this great time in your lives. I had a blast and I cannot wait until our next session!

xoxo Dana

Dear Friends,

2009-03-30T08:44:00.004-04:00

Dear Friends,

I cannot believe that I have neglected my blog for this long. For 30 sweet days I was faithful and now nothing. You deserve more than this :)

I am promising new blogs asap.

xoxo Dana

Happy 8 Years!

2009-03-23T22:23:00.002-04:00

Today Scott & I celebrated 8 years of being together---
The entire day was perfect....We slept in until 10 ish, went on a nice walk, crashed on the couch for a movie, took a nap, made some shrimp scampi for dinner, and just spent some time together. Now we are going to go enjoy a bottle of wine.

I'll be back for some real blogging tomorrow :)

{ 30 Days of Blogging} COMPLETE :)

2009-03-22T19:19:00.004-04:00

So I completely missed it, but yesterday was the last day of {30 days of continuous blogging }! When I started this project, I thought this was going to be really difficult to come up with so many topics---not to mention how much work it would be---but I was pleasantly surprised with how easy it was to get started and how much I really enjoyed the daily updates :) So above is a small {or not so small} collage I put together to commemorate my {30 days of continuous blogging}, I really hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did!

Over the past few weeks I have received numerous emails from friends, family & clients of support and encouraging me to keep up the blogs. With this in mind....I have decided to keep up the daily blogging!!!! I am not putting a time frame on it this time, but I can tell you will have a daily update way more often than not.

In a related story: Wedding season kicks off in FULL gear starting next month and the posts are going to get more and more exciting! We will have engagement sessions, bridal portraits, {Get Glam!} sessions, weddings, seniors, newborn, families and SO MUCH MORE! Keep checking back for all of the fun updates and some really awesome Sneak Peeks!

I hope you had a great weekend! xoxo Dana

You've been Knoblich'd!

2009-03-21T19:18:00.003-04:00

Sometime in late fall of last year Scott and I were given a business card by a member of our property owners association because the board thought my husband should run for a position. We were already acquainted with this gentleman, but when we got his business card and looked at his name, Knoblich {pronounced KNOB LOCK} , we felt it should be more of an adjective, as in "you just got knoblich'd!"

Meet "The Knoblich"
{Information has been blurred to protect all innocent parties.}

We decided to turn this into a little game, where we each attempted to knoblich each other in the most random ways possible! It would be a subtle way--in a crazy world--to say that, "I'm thinking about you" and hopefully to provide some entertainment :)

To "Knoblich" someone is to leave this business card in a place where the opposite spouse would find at some point. It can be as simple as leaving it in the refrigerator...or as complex as having it served to me at a restaurant {yup--that just happened}. It doesn't have to be done every day, or even every week-- Heck, sometimes we have gone weeks without finding the Knoblich---and it just makes it that much better!

Once you have been Knoblich'd the rules are simple: 1st- Do not discuss the Knoblich. {It is kind of like Fight Club} We both know what just happened. Often after being Knoblich'd, Scott & I exchange a glance--we both chuckle a little bit---and then move on. 2nd: You must now take on the responsibility of the next Knoblich---and it better be good. 3rd: Do not lose the Knoblich. This rule is pretty cut and dry...but we would be devastated if this game came to an end...and how in the world would we explain this to Mr. Knoblich if we needed another card? "Excuse me Ed....My husband and I have spent the past year cracking up over your business card....Can I have another?!"

Although we are not really allowed to discuss the Knoblich's....Scott and I thought it would be fun to explore some of our favorites from the past....purely for the benefit of the blog, of course!

Back in September, Scott & I took a nice trip to Antigua--One day I was lounging out by the pool and I turned to the next page in my book, only to find the business card. I think I spent the next few hours trying to figure out how to get him back.....Then there was the time Scott was at the grocery store and pulled his wallet out to pay---only to see the business card in place of his check card! BooYA!

The book Knoblich really caught me off guard :)

Simple---yet effective!

So we went around re-creating a some of our favorite knoblich moments for everyone to see. I have a few more great ones up my sleeve and Scott said he does too, this should get very interesting in the coming weeks! Enjoy!

Left: There is nothing like waiting at the refrigerator while you are filling up a glass with water----then BAM--You just got Knoblich'd! Right: There is nothing like heading into the studio in the morning only to find this looking at me. What an amazing way to start the day :)

Scott & I play cards ALL of the time. It is one of our favorite things to do while we are just lounging around the house watching movies or catching up on our DVR. This one was one of my personal favorites :)

Good Morning Sunshine!

I hope you have enjoyed a glimpse into the world of the Duncans. We are always exploring new ways to keep ourselves entertained, however goofy they may be, I am sure we'll come up with something else next week!

Enjoy your weekend! xoxo

{I <3 Edward Cullen }

2009-03-20T21:15:00.003-04:00

Tonight I stood in line with my hubby & friends to get the midnight release of Twilight :) I know we sound a little obsessed....but we are totally addicted to the series and we have been waiting FOREVER to have the dvd! Scott thinks we are total dorks---but I think he gets a kick out of how funny we are :) I also managed to get a TEAM EDWARD shirt---wahoooo!

They are at the ballet studio now---I'm going to go watch more Edward :)

xoxo ~~Mrs. Edward Cullen~~ Dana

Updates :)

2009-03-19T23:36:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone :)

Happy Friday!!!

I wanted to make sure that I kept up the blog for today; however, Andy & Meg's pictures were so much fun and I really wanted to keep them towards the top for a few more hours. This afternoon's blog is super long---so make sure to check back :)

On a slightly more random note---I think I am allergic to BBQ sauce. Kind of random update, but Scott & I had barbecue chicken for dinner last night and I am pretty sure I had a really bad reaction to it. When I got up this morning my fingers/ankles were so swollen I had to remove my rings and take a Benadryl. I have never really had an allergic reaction before...so I thought that I would take this medicine and the swelling would go down---but it knocked me out for a solid 5 hours---CRAZY.

Other than that---it has been pretty quiet here at the Duncan house :) See you in a few hours!

xoxo
Dana

{Andy & Meg Sneak Peek}

2009-03-18T22:58:00.004-04:00

Last week I headed up to DC for Andy & Meg's engagement session. For a while now I have wanted to get up to Georgetown for a shoot and I was really excited about spending the day with such an awesome couple :) Andy & Meg were awesome hosts and had so many fun ideas for the session :) We spent the majority of our day on "M" street just looking for fun walls/alleys---and boy did we find some great stuff!

After the session I got to have dinner with Ashley R :) at the amazing Ted's Montana Grill---yummmmy----and then I headed to IKEA for some studio needs. While I was shopping at IKEA I got an email from Meg informing me that Brad Pitt & his daughters had spent the day shopping just TWO STREETS OVER from us! I would go into futher detail..but it acutally makes me sad becuase we were SOOO CLOSE! I digress...

Below are a few of my favorites from the session :) Enjoy!

This picture cracks me up-- This guy was very interested in what was going on...

Happy Thursday :)

xoxo

Casting Call!

2009-03-17T22:41:00.004-04:00

I am in search for an energetic & fun couple for an upcoming engagement/couples shoot. Session will be 2-3 hours and will be in numerous Hampton Roads locations. Couple must be outgoing and up for some crazy stuff! Please leave a comment/email if interested!

xoxo
Dana

Yummy!

2009-03-16T23:04:00.003-04:00

One of my favorite things in the entire world is the 2+ Pottery Barn catalogs that arrive in my lovely mailbox every month. I literally stockpile them all on my desk and save them for a rainy day when I need some inspiration :) Then--once that inevitable day arrives--I will sit and flip through them for HOURS.

Today my fascination has turned to my studio. Right now I'm working with a bunch of mismatched items that we have collected over the past 8 years---but I'm really ready for a nice new fresh look :) Then---today......I found it :)

My lovely eyes have fallen in love with this:

Of course I want EVERY piece including the giant shelf, dry erase board and the red phone, DUH! {We can nix the rug!}

Am I am the only crazy lady that looks through all of these catalogs?

{Home Sweet Home}

2009-03-16T00:11:00.003-04:00

Two years ago today Scott & I purchased our first home :) "1702" has been such an awesome first home for us even though sometimes homeownership has its ups & downs. It has given us a wonderful place to make our own and entertain our friends and family. We are currently in the process of turning the 3rd bedroom into my Studio, and I hope to have it exactly the way I want it in the next couple of weeks!

I hope everyone had a great weekend :)

xoxo Dana

{Flowers}

2009-03-14T17:48:00.002-04:00

One of my favorite things about weddings is all of the little details that go into the planning to make each wedding different & BEAUTIFUL! One of my favorite details is the flowers. I think flowers and make such a HUGE statement---and the possibilities are endless :)

One of the biggest trends that I am noticing is that brides are beginning to GO BOLD! - I love that they are choosing exotic flowers and bright colors. I have also noticed that brides are choosing to use several types of flowers in the bouquets---I LOVE this! I think it makes the bouquets look so unique and they are like they own pieces of art! If they didn't weigh 25lbs, I would suggest holding it all night :)

Enjoy a few of my favorite bouquets courtesy of theknot :)

I hope you are enjoying your weekend!

xoxo Dana

{Contest Winner!}

2009-03-13T23:30:00.002-04:00

Congrats to Justine for winning the 1st blog contest :) Justine is going to win a nice prize towards her upcoming summer session---YaaaY!

Get-glam-a-thon begins first thing in the morning :)

xoxo
Dana

Duncan Fun Night!

2009-03-12T22:52:00.003-04:00

In case you didn't already know, my husband and I are kinda big dorks! Sometimes we feel like we haven't really grown up at all and a couple weeks ago {ok, right after Christmas :) }was a perfect example of that.

We were all set to go out for dinner and a movie, when we noticed it was now pouring down rain and decided against it. Instead we stayed in and did something that brought us both back to our childhoods------ we built a tent!!!! And I'm not talking about a little dinky-pre-made-tent...we made a MEGA tent :) We started by gathering all the blankets and sheets and tent building supplies we could get our hands on. It started in the sunroom before eventually spilling over into the kitchen and living room.

So here are some pictures of our awesome tent and all the great memories it brought back from our childhoods!! Hope you guys enjoy!

Our Masterpiece :)

Entering from the kitchen:

We had to bring in some lighting..impressive, huh?

The Duncans :)

Our backup lighting...Why we have glow sticks....I'm not sure :/

Building tents takes a lot of work----and it still sucks cleaning them up :(

Happy Friday!

Dana

ALSO---TODAY IS THE LAST DAY FOR THE BLOG CONTEST! CHECK BACK TOMORROW FOR THE WINNER :)

{Happy Birthday Brittany!}

2009-03-11T13:09:00.002-04:00

Today is Brittany's 25th birthday-----Waaaaahooo!

I hope you have a wonderful day :) xoxo dd

{Contest Time}

2009-03-10T21:04:00.002-04:00

Since I'm having trouble uploading pictures at the moment---I thought now would be a great time to tell you about Dana Duncan Photography's first CONTEST! Beginning TODAY all you have to do is leave a comment under any blog post-- and one lucky commenter will win some free goodies from a previous session, or a credit towards a new session. I have a lucky number in my head and the lucky winner will be announced FRIDAY.

xoxo Dana

{Photo server down :( }

2009-03-09T23:08:00.002-04:00

My photo server is down...Monday's post will be up as soon as possible.

xoxo Dana

{Become a Fan!}

2009-03-08T23:25:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday everyone :) Dana Duncan Photography now has a fan page on Facebook and would LOVE to have you join! Just click the above link--or search Dana Duncan Photography.

I'll be back this afternoon for some weekend updates!

xoxo

Daylight Savings Time!

2009-03-07T22:38:00.002-05:00

Make sure to move your clocks forward 1 hour :( This time of the year is bittersweet to me---I love moving my clock forward because I really like that it is light outside later---but I HATE the Sunday morning where we feel the effects of a lost hour.

Either way---make sure to check your clocks!

xoxo Dana

{ Friday Snapshot }

2009-03-06T21:14:00.003-05:00

Here is a snapshot from today's AMAZING engagement session in Georgetown. Isn't this ring just beautiful?!?! Full {Sneak Peek} coming this weekend!

xoxo Dana

I have awesome clients :)

2009-03-05T22:55:00.002-05:00

Have you ever noticed that when you were a kid you LOVED getting mail---but now that you are an adult going to the mailbox can be kind of a drag? Well yesterday I went to the mailbox and I noticed a peculiar package sitting in my box. On average I get about 5 packages a week--- but they are almost always delivered to my door and they always come in the same boxes---so I knew there was something fun in store.

Something from Nordstroms---yummy!

ahhhhhhhhhh--- Isn't this packaging beautiful? By this point I'm practically jumping :)

Then I read a super sweet card and it all made sense! A few weeks ago I met with a client and I mentioned that I really liked her jeans. We got to talking about how I want to start buying really nice jeans and how I had fallen in love with a few pair of True Religion jeans at Nordstrom---but that spending $200 on a pair would cause Scott to probably stop breathing :) The card thanked me for the pictures--and told me to treat myself to a pair of jeans----How freaking awesome is that?!?!

I am privileged enough to have the best job in the world, and that in itself is enough to make every day so great; this sort of thing just makes some of them a little better :)

Soooo many choices----Maybe I'll get them all! hahahah just kidding Scott!

I'm off to a shoot in DC-- I'm so excited about tomorrow---it is going to be such an awesome day! Plus, isn't this spring weather AMAZING? :)

{Mr. Ryan}

2009-03-04T22:32:00.002-05:00

What a handsome little man! I met with Ryan and my best friend Ashley right before Christmas for a fun photo shoot. One of things that I love about my job is that every session is so different from the last. I often have no idea how my subjects will react in front of a camera---and this session was such a pleasant surprise! Ryan was HILARIOUS. I was laughing from the first frame until the time I got into my car----and I still crack up every time I look at his pictures. Aside from being a riot, Ryan LOVED the camera :) He would be running/laughing/joking----and then WHAM, he'd be cheesing for the camera! I just love it :)

I hope you guys enjoy the pictures as much as I did....and I'll see you in the spring Ryan :)

Ryan & Ashley---Yay Redskins :)

ps- This is post #15 of our {30 days of continuous blogging}! I hope you guys are enjoying the updates!

xoxo Dana

{Weekday Updates}

2009-03-03T22:28:00.002-05:00

Ohh..what an interesting week. Today's blog was suppose to be Andy & Meg's engagement session, but some things came up last weekend and we have rescheduled for this Friday. I'm going to head up to DC/Georgetown Friday morning and I could not be more excited about all of the fun ideas I have cooked up :) I checked the weather on Monday---and it said 40 degrees and raining---YUCK----but I just checked again and now it says 60 degrees and sunny----YAY!

On another note, demo on our master bathroom began today! We are having the floors pulled up, some electrical work and we are updating all of our 'standard grade' fixtures to beautiful updated ones that will match our house much better. Then we are having them put in new beautiful tile flooring, new mirrors & lights, then painted to the perfect shade of Restoration Hardware blue :) How soothing...SIKE

When we met with our contractor I had NO idea how much of a mess this would all make. Don't get me wrong----I think Kevin is amazing....but, our master bedroom area is a disaster---and after all of this organizing that I have been up to lately....I really just want to go into my room and organize all of their equipment! How can guys been so messy?!

I feel like this is what my bathroom looks like at the moment:

(DISCLAIMER---THIS IS NOT MY BATHROOM---I can already hear my mother calling me....)

haha, the actual sight is much better--it is just really hard to see your home in shambles :/. Before/After pictures to come this weekend :)

Also, after my huge rant about The Bachelor last night---I totally watched the follow up tonight.... I am so disappointed in myself. If Jason does not walk down the aisle with Molly, I am seriously going to lose it. On a lighter note I am really excited about Jillian being the next Bachelorette. ABC really knows how to suck us in.... and I plan to only watch the last episode next season.

Ok--I'm off to bed....Loud construction begins at 8am---ekk!

The Bachelor!

2009-03-02T23:28:00.002-05:00

So I’m sitting here with my favorite ladies watching the THREE HOUR season finale of The Bachelor! I don’t normally get hooked on all of this drama----but this season was exceptionally good :) My favorite girl was Jillian but she was booted last week. I hope she becomes the next Bachelorette!

So here are some play by plays I have from the episode. I’m trying to keep

So far- WHY DO THEY ALL HAVE SUPER WHITE BLEACHED TEETH? I'm not sure why it is bothering me so much---but they need to tone it down just a little.

I think the whole interaction with Ty is super fake. It actually makes me uncomfortable.

HOLY CRAP--- DeAnna….come-on girl. You broke his heart last season…now you show up the day before the rose ceremony and want him to take you back. Are we kidding? Cute lip-gloss though :) ...Not to mention I waited all season for you to come back and you were only there for like 2 minutes. Boo.

Awww Snap---the girls are getting dressed. The ring is picked {beautiful!} and they are getting dressed…YAY! They are riding in the car---how freaking emotional!

Molly gets out of the car. Cute dress, but I don’t think it really fits. I think you need something less formal I’m pretty sure he is going to break her heart. Yup, he dumped her. I’m pretty sure they end up together though--- This is just my prediction. Oh crap, Molly just gave him the STINK EYE….aw crap!

It’s the moment we have all been waiting for…..

Melissa arrives.

Can we discuss how Melissa always runs up and wraps her legs around Jason---do you think that she will do it in the formal dress?

These girls need a stylist---not feeling the dresses.

Jason proposes to Melissa. Out comes Ty. Everyone jumps in the pool.

Interesting proposal---- I’m still feeling a little uncomfortable. I think there is a big twist coming… we shall see.

AFTER THE FINAL ROSE----

Ut oh, things are getting interesting. Jason says that things have been CRAZY. He says Melissa is sweet and nice. He has said that the chemistry is gone---and that he…

CAN”T STOP THINKING ABOUT MOLLLYYYYYYY! WOW!

Does Molly take him back? Humiliated on TV and then you take him back?

HOLY CRAP---Chris just asked Jason if he has told Molly this---and he said NO! OMG, so first you break her heart, then you don’t talk to her for 3 months, then you bring her back on TV to tell her that you made a mistake and that you want her back?

This should be interesting….

So, now Melissa is getting dumped on national television---classy.

Melissa comes out…she seems TICKED. Please note, she is not wearing her ring….or even looking at him. Jason is rambling….rambling…rambling…..Jason…I think you should stop talking…just shoot it straight.

Now Jason drops the bomb and tells her that he’s digging Molly.

Now Melissa is talking in third person? Odd turn of events.

Melissa (in 1^st person) just called him a bastard. YOU GO GIRL! She just returned the ring to Jason. He doesn’t even look upset.

Maybe he isn’t meant to be married? Maybe he’s the problem? I mean, all along I’ve been feeling bad for this poor man who just has crappy luck with women, but he is really not good with the ladies. I think his ex-wife is getting a good laugh out of this. She’s looked like the total loser for the past two years---now I’m not so sure about her.

We are back from commercial. Jason + Chris + Melissa are still on stage and Chris makes the announcement that we are bringing on Molly to see if there is a chance for them to work things out. Melissa and Jason have a moment to say goodbye. She says LEAVE ME ALONE, DON'T CALL, DON'T TEXT…and then she gets into the limo. I mean, what else do you say?

Camera in the limo---come on ABC---hasn’t she been through enough?

Lots of blabbing---we have heard it all before. How much you wanna bet that she's the next Bachelorette?

Omg, Jason, please stop crying. PPPPLLLEASE.

Next up, Molly comes out (alone). I wonder how she will take all of this news. I wonder if she has tamed down the eye shadow. 25 minutes left….this must get good.

She looks light Aubrey O’day. Eye shadow is better. Yay Molly!

Now we see the 2 minute reel of their relationship. Since she doesn’t know that he is still in love with her —that has to be AWKWARD!!!

How come they never have tissues?

Molly says she still loves Jason and that he hopes every night that he still wants her. She still has questions for him though----

Now Jason comes back--- he’s super happy to see her. Obvi.

Molly drills Jason—bla bla bla, all of it is pretty irreverent because we all know what is about to happen.

Jason tells Molly that he just dumped Melissa b/c he's been thinking about her--- Molly looks like shes going to vomit—or punch someone.

Molly is speechless. She doesn’t look impressed. Jason keeps talking and it just gets worse and worse. I think he talks too much.

Molly agrees to try things again with Jason----what a joke. They kiss. I can’t believe I wasted 3 hours of my life.

Finally, ABC just announced that tomorrow night there will be a 1 hr episode of PART 2 of after the rose ceremony. Are we kidding?

I decided that after tonight I am no longer watching the Bachelor/Bachelorette. This show has gotten out of control and they need to take a few seasons off {Unless Jillian wants to come back, of course!}. How did everyone else feel about the episode?

Happy Tuesday!
Dana

ps: we start demo on our master bathroom today---Yay!!!!

{SNOW DAY!} Hampton Roads

2009-03-02T15:47:00.003-05:00

I was super excited about a snow day---but then I realized that I work for myself and that doesn't really make a difference. whomp whomp :(

Living in Hampton Roads my whole life I have come to understand that we cannot drive in the snow. Literally 1/4" of snow and the entire city shuts down. For instance, last month, weather forecasters were predicting a MAJOR snow storm...I mean, they were shutting schools & offices the night before...WITH NO SNOW ON THE GROUND. Much to everyone's surprise, we all woke up with not a single snowflake---no dusting, no rain, NOTHING. So when I heard last night that we were getting snow I didn't believe it for a second! Much to my surprise I woke up to a nice sheet of snow--- Yay!!!

Scott & I did not venture out into the snow--I mean, we don't have any kids, and I worried that if I let Scott in the snow he would try to put on his snowboard and then we would have big problems....we just stayed snuggled up in the house & I made my mothers famous chicken salad---yum!

Even though we didn't go out in the snow, my nephew, Jacob ventured out into the snow for the first time!! Sarah & Dan took him out to play with his friend Brandon...and it was an interesting experience to say the least :)

Here is a picture of Dan & Jacob--- How sweet :)

This is not long after----

This could seriously be one of the best pictures I have ever seen. Aunt Dana is going to pack this one up nice and safe so we can show it at your wedding :)

I hope everyone had a wonderful snow day! I'm off to go out to dinner and watch the finale of The Bachelor, ow ow!

ps: after all of this talk of snow, can we just discuss how it suppose to be 72 on Saturday?

{Ryan + Conner} Family Pictures

2009-03-01T22:34:00.005-05:00

I was just browsing through my hard drive{s} the other day and came across these shots from a wonderful session that I did at Christmas time for my cousin and her two kids, Ryan & Conner. I have no idea how these two cuties could have slipped through the cracks and not made my blog, so I had to right that wrong.

I had so much fun on this shoot because these two had tons of personality and the most infectious smiles :) {They are also two of the biggest hams you'll ever meet, Conner was all about giving me the most GQ poses!} Although it is 3 months late, I give you Ryan & Conner!!!

I have 7 more amazing blogs coming these week as we continue the {30 Days of Continuous Blogging}! Send me a message if there is something you want to see!

Mac Book/iMac

2009-02-28T19:05:00.003-05:00

So I have decided that it is time for me to switch all of my computers to Macs. I am super excited because I think it is going to make my life SO much easier, but I am a little nervous about the conversion process. For those who have switched from PC's to Mac's---what was the most difficult part of the process for you? Are there any options/accessories that you can't live without now?

If there are any hardcore Mac users out there---shoot me a message...I would LOOOVE to be able to pick your brain!

xoxo
Dana

{Cake Wrecks}

2009-02-28T00:07:00.003-05:00

A few months ago I featured a website called Cake Wrecks on my blog because I just LOVE checking out all the terrible cake they showcase. The site is constantly being updated with new submissions by readers and their terrible cakes. The only guideline is that you can only submit a cake that you have paid for, not something you made yourself.

My personal favorites are the submissions that have a picture of the cake the client asked for and what they received in return. They are so funny!!! Often times the decorator will write words on the cake that were just instructions, not meant to be written {like above, or below, or finally}

This site has now become one of my daily must reads and I think you should definitely check it out for a good laugh! I have posted a few of my favorites here for you guys to take a look, I hope you enjoy them!

This cake was later dubbed the 'poop' cake. Ahhh!

This whole cake is just a mess!

Poor Vernon :(

Just being honest....

What is the world coming to!?!?! Dont' get me wrong, I love the Girls Next Door---but 12 years old?!?!?!?

Just covering all of our bases....

This reminds me of Dog the Bounty Hunter...

I hope these pictures provided you with a few laughs....Check out Cake Wrecks for daily updates!

Have a great weekend!

Dana :)

{Product Spotlight}

2009-02-26T23:01:00.003-05:00

I am going to start a new section of my blog that features all of the fantastic products that our studio offers. This week we are featuring our beautiful canvas wraps.

Canvas wraps are one of the most popular new additions to the photography world...and I LOOOVE them! I have started recreating all of my framed pictures in my house and it is just amazing to see how much of a difference they make. One of the biggest benefits I have started to notice that pictures really POP when they are on the canvas---and the bigger, the better.

With the canvas wraps your portrait will be printed on to museum quality canvas and had stretched onto a custom built, 1.5" thick wood frame. The image will be gallery-wrapped, continuing around the sides of the frame for a beautiful print, ready to hang on your wall. No additional framing is needed. Your print is made with the highest quality archival inks that will never fade or discolor. Each print is sprayed with a UV coating for added protection and glossy finish.

One of the other great things about the print lab that I work with is that they can create any size you desire from 6"x6" to 60"x100"! Isn't that amazing? I mean, if you have a really unique wall that won't fit a 'normal' sized print---then you could order an 18"x39"...or a 12"x90"!

Below are two canvases that I created this summer :) If you look closely you can see how the canvas is wrapped around the frame--- isn't it great that the image continues around the side? Just for reference...the canvas on the left is a 16x20 and the one on the right is an 11x14.

Canvases can be purchased with any portrait session and will be 15% off through March 6th. Email danaduncanphotography@gmail.com if you are interested!

Dana :)

{Jason & Makenzie} 1 more from the Sneak Peek :)

2009-02-26T19:46:00.001-05:00

How in the world did this picture miss the {Sneak Peek?}

{Jason + Jannah + Makenzie}

2009-02-26T00:31:00.003-05:00

They're back :)

Last week I met up with Jason, Jannah and Makenzie for a family photo shoot at our favorite garden in Norfolk! I absolutely loooovee taking pictures for this
family....they are some of the nicest people I have ever met and I truly enjoy capturing moments for their family.

I hope you guys enjoy the pictures!

Dana :)

1 Spot Left for the Get Glam-a-thon!

2009-02-25T18:52:00.002-05:00

Happy Wednesday! We have 1 spot left for the Get Glam-a-thon coming up in March. The session will begin at 10 on Sunday March 15th and will last about 90 minutes. Please email me at danaduncanphotography@gmail.com if you are interested!

{A few of my favorite things}

2009-02-25T01:40:00.006-05:00

With wedding season quickly approaching I thought it would be fun to blog a little about the art of registering and some of my favorite wedding gifts. When it came time to register I thought it would be one of my favorite parts of wedding planning----BOY, was I wrong! I found the entire process to be extremely overwhelming and stressful. I mean, I thought I would just add anything I wanted and wha-laaa! Wrong.

The first stop we made was to Williams Sonoma. I remember the employee helping us handing Scott and registry 'gun' and the rest was history. I spent the next few days removing a ton of random stuff... First rule---don't let your fiancée hold the registry gun!

As engagement parties and wedding showers approached I realized that I needed to reevaluate our registry. My husband and I got married right out of college---so, we needed to decide if we were trying to stock our house----or begin a collection of nice items that we could add to over time. We decided that instead of trying to fill our apartment with everything----we wanted to register for the good stuff :) ...at the same time, we wanted to be practical....I mean, nobody is going to buy you a $799 set of pans....

After it was all said and done...I was really happy with how things turned out :) We received all of the items from our three registries and I still use most of the items to this day. Below is a list of my 'must register' items. I LLLOVE these items and I use them at least on a weekly basis {some of them I use daily!}.

Did I mention I loved Williams Sonoma?

My 1st favorite item is the infamous KitchenAid mixer :) As a master baker {hahah} I would not know what to do without this thing! When I was still eating sweets I would whip up a batch of chocolate chip cookies in 22 minutes flat---that includes preparation, clean up, and having the first pan of them served :) It is such a time saver and I swear everything tastes better when you use the mixer :) The standard mixer also comes with a dough hook so it is really easy to mix up some cinnamon buns or fresh bread...

This is a registry MUST HAVE :)

Next up is the Williams Sonoma 10 piece glass bowl set. I use at least one of these bowls a day. They are so convenient and it seems like I never run out of them :) The other great thing about the set is that there is a bowl FOR EVERYTHING! When I am making a new dish I can literally measure out every ingredient and put them in a different bowl---then I can mix them like I'm on the Food Network. I almost always give this gift as an engagement present--they are my favorite :)

Williams Sonoma wineglasses--need I say more?

Next up, the Williams Sonoma 4 piece bowl set. These bowls are great for pancakes/waffles/anything Scott will whip up for breakfast and I love having them in my kitchen. They have a awesome grip on the bottom of each bowl and they are super easy to pour---even when they are super heavy and you only have one hand.

Plus, what would I do if I ran out of the other 10?

These are my FAVORITE cake stands. There are three sizes and they stack perfectly on top of each other for so many options! In the summer I will use the large stand alone for a nice cake---and then during baby/bridal/engagement showers I'll place all three together and fill it with ham biscuits/cupcakes.
These can also be found at the fabulous Williams Sonoma.

Next up is our wine fridge. I think it is really important to always have a few bottles of wine ready---especially with our group of friends! We also have a really great winery in Williamsburg and we just love the Governors White so we always have a few extra bottles in the house!

This item is one we did not register for because we completely forgot about knives---but my in-laws were so thoughtful to think of them for us. I am so glad they did because I LLLOVE them! My favorite thing to do is to use the biggest knife in the block to cut something simple like carrots J I don’t think you have to have a particular brand----I would just make sure to register for a nice set of knives.

Most people already have a good set of bake ware before they get married, but since Scott & I were starting from scratch we really needed almost everything. We registered for a full set of regular bake ware and then we also registered for AirBake pans---and I would say I use my AirBake 3:1 EASY. There is something about these things, I think it is almost impossible to burn things and everything seems to come out of the oven pppperfect!

Here are my everyday glasses. Although only four are pictured, the glasses come in five convenient sizes and they are practically indestructible! When Scott & I first were married {and we would make a fun breakfast every morning} we would try to see how many glasses we could use in one meal. For instance, we would make waffles and have a different size cup for milk, juice and water…hhahah

This set of bake ware by Emile Henry is one of my most used items in my kitchen. These pans can be used for almost anything and are safe in the oven, microwave, freezer & dishwasher....indestructible items are good in the Duncan house :) They also come in a variety of really fun colors so it is easy to add a pop of color to the table.

My last favorite item is my trusty Dyson. I don’t know what I did before it----

but it makes me sad to think my floors have not always been this clean. It amazes me how much stuff will end up in the canister---even if I have vacuumed just a day or two before. We will seriously empty the canister and vacuum just to see how much stuff it finds----we have such exciting lives!

Also, Scott and I don’t have any pets, but I think this is a no brainer if you have a pet that sheds a lot---and dyson makes a series of vacuums created especially for pet lovers. Dyson also has a pink vacuum that promotes breast cancer awareness and donates a portion of the proceeds to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation---yay!

Sidenote: I heard Dyson was coming out with a washer/dryer....About time!

After writing this post I really want to go into my kitchen and use all of these great products.....Maybe I'll grab a glass of wine, mix something up--spill it on the floor, and then vacuum it up. Or maybe I'll just go to bed :)

Please feel free to add any items that you think are registry worth to the comment section and maybe I'll create a volume 2 of 'must register' items :)

Dana :)

Opps :)

2009-02-24T22:20:00.002-05:00

So I went out to dinner tonight and I got a flat tire :( I'm not sure I'll be home by midnight for today's blog post----but it will be posted before everyone goes to work :(

On a more positive note---My friend Brittany watched our copy of Twilight tonight and shes hooked :) She told me that she refused to read the books and she just doesn't understand why we love Edward so much. This past week I convinced her just to read a few pages of the first book---and today she finished the second book. I am so glad that people are finally starting to understand the obsession.

See you in a little bit!

xoxo
Dana

Jake the Snake :)

2009-02-23T23:11:00.002-05:00

Today Scott, my mother & myself went up to Richmond to spend the day with Jacob :) It has been WAAAAAYYYY too long since he has been featured on the blog and he was so excited when he saw my camera :) He is such a smart little boy and it is so exciting to see all of his new accomplishments. It also amazing me how much they absorb at that age....Scott and I could get him to repeat almost anything we said---how dangerous!!!

Here are my two favorite pictures from the day :)

I have 6 more great blogs lined up for the week....So keep checking back!

Dana :)

Sarah & Scott {Sneak Peek}

2009-02-22T23:14:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago I met Sarah & Scott at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens for their engagement session :) We had such a cold weekend----but they were such troopers! Sarah & Scott are getting married in April and I can't wait for their big day!

Thanks for letting me be a part of your big day---I can't wait!

Dana :)

Have a super Monday :)

.....I want candy.........No, really.

2009-02-21T16:56:00.003-05:00

As of today it has been 1 month and 4 days since I have had any sweets/desserts/yummy stuff. Scott and I gave up sweets 11 months before our wedding because we have no self-control and we would both eat ridiculous amounts of sweets...I mean, we seriously could consume a ridiculous amount of candy. We did so great for 11 solid months....then on our wedding day we managed to devour tons of wedding cake and we ate SO many sweets on our honeymoon!

After the holidays I decided that it might be a good idea to give it a try again---
The past month really hasn't been too hard---I've definitely wanted dessert here in there, but I am holding strong! Scott had to re-start his days {he is now on day 2} because his mother made his favorite birthday dessert and he ate the whole pan...

Anyway....My goal is to make it ONE FULL YEAR without the good stuff. See everyone at Cinnabon on January 16, 2010!

xoxo~Dana

{Oprah's Clean Up Your Messy House}

2009-02-20T16:52:00.003-05:00

Last week when I was stuck in bed with the flu I decided that I wanted to do a MAJOR overhaul of our house as soon as I was feeling better. I wanted to go in every room--- empty every drawer/closet/cabinet/box/bag and purge all of the stuff we don't need. Then I wanted to SUPER CLEAN everything----I'm talking scrubbing baseboards, dusting every nook & cranny and disinfecting everything we own :) Scott has most of the week off---so we decided that we would spend all day Tuesday & Wednesday completing our big project :) Our goal was to purge/clean/organize our garage on Tuesday and then take care of the the house on Wednesday. We woke up bright and early on Tuesday {ok, it was more like 11am } only to find it was raining :( We decided that it may be difficult organizing the garage in the rain---so we rearranged our plan and stayed inside. While we were cleaning I turned on Oprah and it happened to be her "Oprah's Clean Up Your Messy House Tour!!!" They shared some really helpful hints about keeping your life organized---especially the idea that you should organize for 10 minutes every day....just pick a small project { your pantry, a closet, or under the sink} and purge the stuff you don't need---regroup, and WhhhaLaaa! They say by doing this----you can keep your house clutter free in no time!

So---after hearing this great piece of advice, I decided to tackle my linen closet. When we bought our house almost 2 years ago, this closet had very little purpose. I placed a few towels in there---and that was it! Over the years it has been "that space" in our house where we dump something when it doesn't have a home. Below is the 'before' & 'after' pictures of my little project----and it only took 10 minutes!!!!

Also, The Container Store is offering 20% off everything in their store until March 1st. I LOVE this store for my organizing needs!

Finally, I'm sure you are also wondering what our progress is with the rest of the house.....As of Friday at 6:00pm we are about 75% done with the house---and 0% on the garage! It's going to be a fun weekend....

Have a great one!
~Dana