It's me, The girl behind the lens
EEeekkkKKKkkk!!! You’re here and I am SO stoked to welcome you to my creative corner! I’m Melissa, one of the very few Florida natives left in the Sunshine State, with no plans of ever leaving. And why would I? I mean, have you seen the sunsets we get here year-round?!
Anyway, let’s talk pictures. As a momma to four, I know first-hand the struggle associated with family pictures. Ready, let me paint the #realreel picture from the mom’s perspective – your social media feed is filled with all of these magazine cover-worthy family pictures, and you realize how much you want some of those of your own adorable tribe. You immediately hit up Pinterest and scour the feed to get inspiration. Boom, there it is! Let’s goooo!!!
You’re sitting there thinking of how amazing the experience is going to be, sitting on Cloud-Nine with rainbows and butterflies. Your kids are going to be on their best behavior and smile right at the camera… with their real smiles at that; not the cheesy versions. Your husband is going do everything you ask him to do, the first time you ask him to do it, without complaining, and when your high school nemesis sees these pictures, she’s going to know you won. Because, let’s be real, you totally won. It’s going to be great.
Except.
You’re dreaming, you know you’re dreaming.
Psssttttt… it’s time to wake up.
Mornin’, sunshine!
Welcome to reality where your man cringes at the mere thought of pictures and tries every trick in the book to convince you it’s a waste of money. Finally, bribery ensues and he begrudgingly agrees but boy, is he not happy about it. Fast forward to picture day, half of your kids are refusing to wear the outfits you picked out, the other half is running in every single direction except the one you need them in. Where is the baby’s other shoe? And omggggg what is all over Johnny’s shirt? You’re stressed out, running late, fighting with everyone and now you have to smile in pictures with these people? The precious little creatures you adore but were definitely screaming at mere seconds before?! Sis, I feel you. I’m not saying I’m 100% speaking from experience or anything (I’m lying, I totally am … except Johnny’s real name is Carter) but I’ll be the first to admit it’s no fairytale.
And that right there?! THAT, is why I’m your girl. Heyyyy guys, I’m Melissa.
Your family is the most important thing in the world, and I know you want portraits you can treasure and hold close to your heart for the rest of your life … but, I also know you want pictures you can look back on remember how genuinely happy you were the day those picture were taken. The worst thing in the world is having pictures that tell the story of frustration. So, let’s just not, ok?
Let’s do this instead – book a session with the clear expectation of knowing that during our session you’re going to play with your adorable kiddos, and love on your sexy man while I document it. Go into this knowing I’m going to get those genuine happy smiles, and not from bribery but instead because you and I have taken the time to connect and I know what makes those babies smile. So, get your crew prettied up, meet me at a bomb-ass location and let’s have some fun. All you have to do is show up and I’ll take it from there. Relax and just be yourself while I create the most amazing portraits you can imagine.
Seriously, I can’t wait to get to know you and your crew! It’s going to be epic.
hi, im melissa
Learn a Little More About Me
Can’t Live Without:
Chick Fil A, Diet Coke & 90s Pop/Hip Hop
Favorite Travel Spot:
Take to me alllll the places
Must Have Accessory:
Monogram Necklace
Best Advice:
Even baby steps still move you forward
Describe Yourself in One Word:
Creative
Secret Talent:
I can list the 50 states…in alphabetical order.
Name is Melissa
I am the photographer behind the lens here at SugarBrooke Designs
let's catch up!
I started photography years ago simply to keep up with my own kiddos and fell in love with the art behind it. I love capturing memories that families with treasure for a lifetime!
I’m a momma to four of the coolest kids on earth. They remind me every day how blessed I am … even when they make me pull my hair out.
Cole is the oldest at 14 years old, and the brains of the operation. He’s got the most tender heart in the family and has proven to be the best big brother we could ever dream of having for the others.
Hailey, also 14, slays at anything she puts her mind to … except her chores, that is, BUT she makes up for it in other areas- like taking this picture for her mom for instance. She loves getting her nails done and enjoys looking pretty but is obsessed with sports and cars. What can I say? She’s a jack of all trades.
Carter is 11 and is solely responsible for every gray hair my stylist has to cover up on this head of mine. I call him “Sparky” because, well, the kid has spark. He’s a natural born athlete that you’ll for sure see on ESPN one day. Always eager and willing to help with anything and everything, no matter what.
And then there’s Kennedy, our rainbow baby, and hip dysplasia warrior. This girl, man, I’ll tell you what, she’s lived a crazy full life in her mere four years BUT she’s proven that nothing is impossible and her strength, y’all?! It’s inspiring, which is exactly why she’s spoiled rotten. What can I say? She’s the baby!
I love, love, love being crafty and creative. I’m HERE for this farmhouse trend and basically aspire to be the next Joanna Gaines.
I hope that sheds some light on my side of things. I’m happy you’re here and would LOVE to get to know you!!