Last week I told you about the first half of our mother's day weekend extravaganza. Cliff's mom stopped by for a long weekend and on Saturday we drove up to Cumberland. On Sunday, we took Irene down by the ocean (well, what seems like an ocean to us) to Annapolis.

Annapolis is another charming town that Cliff and I absolutely adore! Not only is the bay-side town quaint and picturesque, but this community holds so much amazing history! It's home to the U.S. Naval Academy, played a prominent role in the revolutionary war, and has more original, still-standing 18th century structures than any other American city. One of our favorites is the Maryland State House. Every time we visit, we just can't help ourselves: we make it a point to tour this storied, historic building. 

If you don't already know, Maryland's State House is one of the most unique structures in the country. Not only did it serve as the Capital of the U.S. for a very brief period, but it is the oldest building in consecutive legislative use in the nation. But wait! There's more! (Guys, are you paying attention? This is my favorite part!) It also boasts the largest wooden dome in the U.S. constructed without nails. I'm not sure why, but that fun fact gets me every time. It's just so special!

In addition to our State House tour, Cliff, Irene and I did some window shopping and visited the William Paca House and Gardens. We couldn't have asked for better weather. The day was just beautiful!

This year, Cliff and I got to celebrate Mother's Day in a very special way. Cliff's mom, Irene, came for a weekend visit!

Because she lives in Nebraska, we only get to see each other a few times a year. Cliff and I took advantage of the beautiful weekend weather and showed Irene two of our favorite places in Maryland.

This one's for the ladies: I always, always tell clients to wear things that make them feel fabulous. At the end of the day, my goal is to have my clients feeling completely comfortable, confident, and natural so that I can capture their true beauty. Looking fierce is a great place to start!

I realize, though, that "fierce" means something different to everyone. When clients ask me for my opinion about what to wear, they're looking for solid answers. So, without further ado, I offer 4 can't-go-wrong styling tips that will help make you look and feel fabulous at your next photo session. 

1. Bold solids.
Patterns can be tricky. If not done correctly, they can sometimes detract from your face. If you're confident with patterns, great! Rock that leopard print/plaid/chevron stripe. If you're unsure about patterns or generally don't wear them, bold solids are an excellent alternative. Go with jewel-toned colors that compliment your skin tone and make you feel happy.

2. Statement Accessories.
Details can really make an outfit pop--especially against bold solids. Play up your solids with statement accessories like a chunky necklace, patterned scarf, or bright handbag. 

3. Sleek layers.
Adding simple layers to your outfit with a fitted jacket or blazer can add great visual interest, and makes for a clean, sophisticated look. 

4. Happy Feet.
Oh my gosh. Where do I begin? Sore, blistered, aching feet can ruin your mood. It's so important to be good to your feet--even when you're getting your photo taken! If you're set on wearing shoes that aren't the most comfortable for photos, bring flip flops or sneakers for those in between moments when we're walking from the car to the park or going all around the National Mall. I promise--you'll be glad you did!

5. Professional Makeup.
I encourage clients to have their hair and makeup professionally done before a photo session. After all, you want to look and feel your best. Splurging on a little "me time" is a great way to do that! 

Don't have the time or resources for professional makeup? Don't worry, girl. I got you covered. I asked professional makeup artist Sev Gedra to help out. Check out these pointers she has about camera-ready makeup!

Earlier this week, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph Taste the World in Fenton Village. While I was out and about, I ran into a good friend who I haven't seen in years! 

Larry and I worked together on Capital Hill and have shared some really unique experiences! We both marched in President Obama's first inaugural parade, we attended an inaugural ball together, and we even spoke at Frostburg University together!

Since we left our jobs, we don't see each other nearly as often as we used to, so it was wonderful running into Larry and his girlfriend, Flor! At the spur of the moment, we did this impromptu couples session. Aren't Larry and Flor just the cutest? 

Those who know me well know I have three passions in life: Food, my community, and photography. My three loves recently came together in Silver Spring at Taste the World in Fenton Village! I had a blast photographing the event. I couldn't have asked for better weather, better food, or better friends to share the experience with!

Highlights from the event are in this blog post, and all photos from the #TTWFV are available for purchase for the next two weeks ONLY. Digital downloads are $10 and high-quality, premium 8 x 10 prints, which will be delivered to you in my special packaging, are $20. $5 from every sale will be donated back to the community.

Don't see what you're looking for? Email me.

Special thanks goes to Sponsors:

• Montgomery County
  
• Silver Spring Town Center Inc
  
• The Blairs
  
• Spotluck
  
• Linowes & Blocher
  
• Landex
  
• Dr. Glee
  
• Pepco
  
• United Therapeutics
  
• Grosvenor Americas
  
• Fenwick Apartments
  

Restaurants:

• Abyssinia
  
• Big Greek Cafe
  
• Fenton Cafe
  
• Firestation 1
  
• Ghar-E-Kabab
  
• The Greek Grill
  
• Kaldi’s
  
• Kefa Cafe
  
• Jackie’s
  
• La Madeleine
  
• Langano
  
• Lesaac
  
• Lotus Cafe
  
• Lucy
  
• Manny & Olga’s
  
• Odalis
  
• Pete’s Apizza
  
• Roger Miller
  
• Sligo Cafe
  
• Society
  
• Thai Derm
  
• Urban Butcher
  
• Vicino
  
• Zed’s
  

Non-Profits:

• Urban Artistry
  
• The Highwood Theater
  
• The Meditation Museum
  
• Sky House Yoga
  

Entertainment:

• Rainbow Joe
  
• The Light
  
• PanLara
  
• Bliss & Friends
  
• Nolan The Magician
  
• Crush Funk Brass Band
  

Looking for some family fun this weekend? I encourage anyone who loves food (and who doesn't?) to visit to Silver Spring for our annual Taste the World in Fenton Village Festival! 

This is truly one of the most unique events I've ever experienced and this year, I have the honor of photographing it! 

For those who aren't familiar, Fenton Village is a neighborhood in Downtown Silver Spring that boasts some of the best family-owned, ethnic restaurants in the country. Yeah, you read that right. IN. THE. COUNTRY. These awesome establishments are part of what makes Silver Spring so special, and during this festival, patrons will have the opportunity to sample select dishes from each restaurant.

But wait! There's more! In addition to great food, the festival boasts a variety of live entertainment and prizes for people of all ages. Seriously. You can't go wrong. 

You can learn everything you need to know about Taste the World, including which restaurants are participating, by visiting this website: 
http://tastetheworld.fentonvillage.org/

I hope to see you there!