Milestones are traditional and monumental, not just for a child, but for their family. It can sometimes feel overwhelming with all the moving parts it takes to create a memorable day. After over ten years of capturing events, I have laid out some dos and don'ts to help give some guidance, and hopefully, inspiration to get your creative juices flowing in planning your child's special milestone.
Do...
...add personal touches to your details. Whether it be your little one's monogramed bib, your child's rosary in their favorite color or the theme of the event tailored to their love of books, be creative. It doesn't have to be bold or a grand display; it just has to represent your child's uniqueness in combination with an event that will be forever part of them.
DON't...
...forget to ask for your child's opinion. Granted, under the age of 3, your little one will have little interest in clothes and cakes and decorations. However, milestones are about them and their journeys. Create a Pinterest board with your child and put together a number of inspiration pieces that get your creative juices flowing. Even if they don't have much interest, choose an aspect of the event that appeals to them. With boys, it could be the shoes - sneakers instead of dress shoes - or incorporating their love of music, and with girls it could be the accessories and hairstyle. Whatever it may be, allow their milestone to be a joint venture.
Do...
...get angles photographed. What does that mean exactly? I mean, turn the spotlight on aspects of the day or details that can be overlooked, but hold beauty nonetheless. If your child is having a portrait session done, make sure that some focus is put on the details of the outfit - the back, the shoes, the cuffs. These little bits make up a whole that would not be complete without them. Have your photographer capture some "behind the scenes" images that make you catch your breath and smile when you see them. Those are just as important as the big moments.
Don't...
...overlook older sacraments or milestones. Your children might be older and find the attention embarrassing, but one day, they will be thankful for it. They have grown from little babies to young adults and the transition may be quick, but the feelings each memory evokes is profound and poignant. If not photographing the event, invest in a portrait session, away from the attention of guests and in a controlled environment to pay homage to the incredible person they have become.
Do...
...enjoy yourself. Planning is definitely necessary and exciting, but when the day comes, try to be in the moment. Treat yourself to a quiet cup of coffee or tea before the household wakes up and the flurry begins. Give your baby some extra cuddles before he or she is passed along between family members. Squeeze your child's hand and give them a wink or funny face to know that, although it is a big day, they will do just fine. Let your young man or lady know that you love them and plant a kiss on their cheek. No matter how embarrassing they say it is, they secretly love it. And most importantly, give yourself some grace. Nothing is ever perfect, but that is what makes life, and these special days, that much more interesting and memorable.
