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Posts Tagged ‘Vacation’

Hello 2013

Posted in 2012, Absurdly Adorable, Baby, Bride, Businesses You Should Know About, Clientele, Documented Events, Events, Family, Headshots, Her Side Project, Holiday, iPhone Photography, Katie Was Here, Kids, Personal, Professional, Scenery, Vacation, Wedding, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on January 3, 2013 | Leave a Comment »

2012 was a year of change and growth. As with every New Year, there’s something reassuring about starting anew. I’m entering 2013 feeling optimistic, calm, and forward-thinking. I can’t wait to see what this year holds! Who knows what kind of recap post I will be writing one year from now!

As always, I am thankful for your readership, your business, and your friendship. Her Side Project would not be what it is today without you.

This year:
I made new friendships (both inside and outside the office), finally set the Her Side Project Facebook Page live, started wearing new specs more often, upgraded my camera equipment to the Canon 5D Mark III (big personal/professional achievement!), celebrated the marriage of five different wonderful couples!, started running and training for my first half marathon on behalf of an extremely important person, celebrated one year with that certain special someone, attended several live music shows (noteworthy: Florence & The Machine and Joe Pug), joined and became quite active with an amazing organization (AWC Austin), cheered on the Texas Longhorns (Hook ‘Em!), attended another fab year of SXSW, met the famed Boot Whisperer!, supported my best friend as she became a mother, traveled extensively… and so much more.

Wishing you a bright year full of new beginnings.

All my love,
Katie

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Here are the highlights:

A sweet redheaded baby boy:

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 Met one of my favorite bloggers at SXSW ’12: cupcakes and cashmere.SXSW2012_2

Visited beautiful Washington, DC, Beaver Creek, CO, Charleston, SC, and NYC.

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A windy Spring day.
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Met a little girl with a flower in her hair.

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Old family & friends in the beautiful Texas Hill Country!

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Birthday twins.

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“Got Smart.”

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Hung out with some super fierce crime fighters.

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Photographed my dear cousin’s picture-perfect family.

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Celebrated some rockin’ birthday parties.

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Pretty in pink portraits.

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Nuptials in Jamaica, mon.

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Posed with the sister: graduate edition.

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Brotherly love.
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Christmas: A family affair

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2011 recap.

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Jamaica, Mon

Posted in 2012, Businesses You Should Know About, Documented Events, Family, Katie Was Here, Personal, Scenery, Vacation, Wedding, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on November 12, 2012 | 1 Comment »

Today I’d like to share some of my favorite photos from this year. I took them on a glorious vacation to Negril, Jamaica for the wedding of my beautiful friends, Ashley and Jack.

The weekend was absolutely perfect. Over 100 family and friends traveled from the U.S., so there were always familiar faces ready to share a meal, lay on the beach, dance late into the night and go explore activities on the island (catamaran, snorkeling, long walks on the beach, etc).

The ocean was incredibly breathtaking. I arrived on Thursday night, and while I could hear the ocean, it was pitch-black and I couldn’t see a thing. Imagine my shock and awe the following morning as I took in the beautiful blue ocean before me. The part that amazed me most was how close we were to the sand/water. It was merely a few steps off the sidewalk on the resort and you were in the sand and surf.

Day-to-day, I had my trusty iPhone by my side to capture the fun and my surroundings. So relaxing and fun!

I brought out my “big camera” out for the extra special moments: the wedding and reception. It was a gorgeous ceremony as the sun began to set on the ocean.

Here comes the bride!

As a small plane flew over the island, there was a quick break in the ceremony (pretty, but noisy!).

When it came time for the exchanging of the rings, there was a little problem. :) Brooke (MOH) accidentally forgot the rings in the hotel room, and had to run to get them! Haha love you, Brooke.

After the ceremony, I took many romantic couple photos for wedding guests. It was so much fun!

Best father/daughter dance ever!

Congratulations again, Ashley & Jack! I hope married life is wonderful! Miss you guys.

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One Man, One Woman, One Birthday?

Posted in 2012, Current Events, Events, Katie Was Here, Personal, Scenery, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on August 31, 2012 | 3 Comments »

Today I bring you a flashback.

Let me set the scene: We sat across from each other at a small circular table. Each with a glass of wine in hand, slowly sipping while making friendly conversation. Slyly glancing at one another while getting used to each other.

First dates. Most are awkward. This one was not. But, we were a little shy (give us a break).

Conversation was flowing well, until:
Him: “Well for my birthday, at the end of August…”
Me: (interrupting) “What day?”
Him: “August 31st.”
Me: (very inappropriately) “SHUT. UP!“

After that ridiculous outburst and dragging out my wallet, I shoved my drivers license in his face and said “OMIGOD. WE HAVE THE SAME BIRTHDAY.”

Almost a year later, here we are (miraculously, after that stunt I pulled). Sharing a birthday, two years apart. I’ve never shared my birthday with anyone I know (except for a former boss). I wasn’t sure how I’d like that… sharing MY day… but it turns out it’s not so bad. Actually, it’s better. I love sharing my birthday with my favorite, my best friend.

Looking forward to celebrating this weekend with our families. For fun, check out this cute little invitation I made for the event. Yep, those are pics of us when we were small.

Happy birthday, honey. Happy birthday to us! May this next year be the best yet.

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Memories Made in the Texas Hill Country

Posted in 2012, Clientele, Colleagues, Current Work, Family, Her Side Project, Kids, Personal, Scenery, tagged , , , , , , , , , on August 7, 2012 | 5 Comments »

After making my way down several winding country roads, I arrived at a lovely home tucked away in the Texas Hill Country. I’d been planning this photo shoot for weeks, and I was excited. Excited to capture a beautiful family on this gorgeous piece of land, and excited to see my dear friend Melissa.

Melissa and I met in 2007 as interns at the same company. We worked together on various projects until a few years ago, when she moved to Chicago with her husband to pursue new life adventures. I miss having Melissa close by, but we do a good job of keeping in touch via social networking and email. Melissa is amazing graphic designer, and the brains behind Her Side Project’s logo and Twitter background. She is such a talent and sweet soul – I’m thankful to know her!

For the 4th of July, her family rendezvoused in Wimberly, TX. As the sun set on a hot summer day, we took pictures around the property. Melissa’s nephews were so stinkin’ cute and a joy to be around. As I edited this shoot, I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. Just looking at these pictures reminds me how loving this family is, and how much positive energy they bring to those around them.

It was really fun to see the different generations and family units interact as a big group. Melissa’s parents were present, as well as her husband, her sister’s husband and their two children, her grandmother and her stunning youngest sister (I can’t get over how beautiful these women are!). It’s sweet to see how families grow over the years. :)

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Charleston, SC | Boone Hall Plantation

Posted in 2012, Animals, Businesses You Should Know About, Documented Events, Katie Was Here, Personal, Scenery, Vacation, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on August 2, 2012 | 1 Comment »

I’ve been a pretty lucky girl over the last few months. I’ve had the good fortune of taking two trips out of state with close friends and family. It’s been a busy, but wonderfully memorable, summer — with as little time in the Texas heat as possible (thank goodness!)

Our first destination was Charleston, South Carolina. I’ve always wanted to visit this quaint, historic town, and our trip did not disappoint. We spent five marvelous days at Wild Dunes on the Isle of Palms, a little beach community about 30 minutes outside the city. It was as picturesque as a sleepy beachtown can possibly be, with lots of lounging, fine dining, beach strolling, sight seeing, biking and more. Everywhere we turned there were families outside doing various activities and enjoying their summer vacations.

On the first day, we ventured over to Boone Hall Plantation.

“In 1743, the son of Major John Boone planted live oak trees, arranging them in two evenly spaced rows. This spectacular approach to his home symbolizes southern heritage and will take root in your memory for many years to come. It would take two centuries for the massive, moss-draped branches to meet overhead, forming today’s natural corridor and a scene that NBC Daytime television says is ‘a must see stop on any trip to Charleston, S.C.’”

NBC Daytime television was right! Boone Hall is well worth the visit. The grounds and spanish moss will take your breath away.

While touring the grounds, we visited “master house” and a few of the slave homes (still standing today, thanks the brick facade), listened to tour guides explain what life was like at the plantation in the 30s, walked through a tropical butterfly garden and watched a brilliant performance about Gullah culture.

Side note: did any of my peeps from the 90s (holla!) ever watch Gullah Gullah Island on Nick Jr.? I saw more than a few episodes, but I had NO idea what the show’s title, and story lines, stood for. There’s so much history in the Gullah culture, I’d encourage you to read up on it.

{Black shutters on brick and stucco is a beautiful trend in S.C. I fell head over heels.}

{A sideways walking hermit crab!}

I miss the Lowcountry with my whole heart and hope to return one day soon!

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Hellooo from Charleston!

Posted in 2012, Businesses You Should Know About, Documented Events, Events, Family, Katie Was Here, Personal, Scenery, Vacation, tagged , , , , , , on July 2, 2012 | 1 Comment »

Greetings from the Low Country. We’re in southern paradise for the next few days, enjoying the sites, exploring the area and applying sunscreen on the beach. Here’s a photo from our adventures at Boone Hall Plantation this afternoon. I was quite the little shutterbug on this beautiful property – more to come soon!

Stay cool,
Katie

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Skies So Blue

Posted in 2012, Businesses You Should Know About, Documented Events, Family, iPhone Photography, Katie Was Here, Personal, Scenery, Vacation, tagged , , , , , , , , on April 11, 2012 | Leave a Comment »

For Easter, Matthew and I traveled to Washington, DC to visit his mom and sister. It was an incredible trip and these iPhone pictures only show a small snapshot of the wonderful time had by all.

Highlights:

  • Visiting the National Cathedral: Amazing work of art/architecture with incredible attention to detail. We strolled through picturesque gardens and took in the view from the 7th floor observation deck. I really enjoyed the mini-museum that featured exhibits explaining how the building came to be, and featured quotes from contributors (artists, designers, etc).

    This was my favorite:

“You are rendering iron to your will. The idea is in your head and you need to get it out so someone else can see it. It’s a dance between your head, your heart, and your hands.” – Nol Putnam, Blacksmith, 1990

  • Standing in a crowd of pedestrians as President Obama and his motorcade sped by (witnesses say he winked at me and cleared the streets for my arrival… no big). ;)
  • Walking by as Vice President Biden and his protection detail zoomed by on Massachusetts the very next day!
  • Witnessing a real Spring. This time of year, DC is beyond beautiful, and EVERYTHING was in bloom.

  • Day-tripping to Ellicott City, MD for a lovely afternoon with a family friend. The gorgeous farmland was breathtaking and stretched for miles and miles. So much history and tranquility. I had an opportunity to see the Shrine of St. Anthony first hand.
  • Meeting up with some of my closest friends from college for dinner, drinks and fun.
  • Walking, all the walking. We hoofed it all over that city, and it was awesome (no sarcasm).
  • Using Yelp to find a wonderful organic juice bar and vegan/vegetarian restaurant. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend Hawthorne Market (and the Spiced Ginger-Agave-Lime Tea — if you can handle the heat).
  • Strolling through the beautiful neighborhoods and day-dreaming of living in such places. One can dream.

Abandoned Steps | Tulips on Every Corner | Bluer than Blue | In Bloom | Architecture | Historic Farmland | Pink Petals on the Sidewalk | Ambrosia | “Ex Nihilo” (Out of Nothing) | Ivy-covered Exteriors | Reunion with Friends

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The Broadmoor | Colorado Springs

Posted in Businesses You Should Know About, Family, Katie Was Here, Personal, Scenery, Vacation, tagged , , , , , , , , , on November 23, 2011 | 3 Comments »

Just two short weeks ago, I was here, posting about the lovely Domestic Darlin’, drinking coffee, talking with friends and taking in the breathtaking view.

I’ve written about relaxing trips before. I said it then and I’ll say it again now. Sometimes you just need to get away, and when you do, it’s like hitting the reset button on your body, mind and soul. Everything can be clear again, fresh perspective is yours.

My reset was complete thanks to:

  • cozy nights by the fire, bundled up in a blanket, reading or watching a movie
  • scenic views: mountains
  • being surrounded by wonderful women I’m privileged to call my friends
  • leisurely walks around the gorgeous lake
  • hiking with the girls
  • wine and cooking dinner at home
  • being one with nature
  • music, sharing: introducing new and learning about old
  • experiencing another city’s traditions – like The Golden Bee!

A thousand times thank you to my beautiful cousin Audrey for inviting me on this wonderful trip! More memories I’ll never forget. XOXO.

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NOLA

Posted in Documented Events, Events, Family, iPhone Photography, Katie Was Here, Personal, Vacation, tagged , , , , , , , on February 28, 2011 | 1 Comment »

On Friday I boarded a plane bound for New Orleans. I couldn’t wait to meet up with my friends and family for a weekend of all things Mardis Gras, tourism and culinary crusading (seriously, some people in the group had three full meals in the span of 5 hours on Saturday… that’s commitment). In the weeks leading up to the trip, I was torn: should I take my camera or not take my camera? I knew I was going to spend time in places that weren’t ideal conditions for carrying around my professional equipment; but I also knew I’d be inspired and want to take pictures. For the sake of protecting it, I left my Canon at home and headed to NOLA with my trusty iPhone in hand, hoping I wouldn’t have any regrets.

The weekend was amazing. Up until now, I had only visited this city as a child. As an adult, it was a completely different – and better – experience. I loved so many things about my time there, but I’ll summarize with the highlights from the trip:

  1. Black tie dinner at Galatoires, complete with masks, live music, excellent food, great company and an American flag that doubled as a cape at some point in the night.
  2. High tea at the hotel. Gorgeous flower arrangements, tiny sandwiches, scones, desserts and good old fashioned Earl Grey.
  3. Parades: particularly screaming for, catching and collecting the bright beads.
  4. Experiencing Bourbon St. Enough said.
  5. Incredible brunch feast at Surreys. The bananas foster french toast and shrimp bisque were definitely menu items to write home about.
  6. Walking down and exploring the old city streets.
  7. Admiring and photographing the beautiful architecture.
  8. The perfect weather. I was a little concerned about humidity (for my hair’s sake) but it couldn’t have been better!
  9. Getting dressed up and spending time with wonderful friends: both new and old.

Essentially it was a lot of food, fun and adventure. Thanks to my cousin William for organizing the entire trip and bringing fantastic people together for a weekend away. I’m very much looking forward to the next time!

The quality of cell phone pictures can drive me crazy sometimes, but you have to admit: if you want to capture a fun-filled weekend on-the-go, the iPhone does a pretty good job! The following is a compilation of what I found beautiful, interesting, funny or simply wanted to remember.

Sigh. I want to go back!

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