Happy Days at the McLaughlin House

Some of my recent wedding clients have known about our miracle baby. But for those of you that don't, this week was a momentous occasion for our family.

Ava was suppose to be born on November 10th, but due to some complications was born on July 25th, 16 weeks early. At a mere 1 pound 4 ounces she began her 101 days at St. David's NICU.


Happy Holloween Ava Marie, After her fifth day at home, she finally got to wear her first holloween costume.


After 101 days at the NICU, my wonderful wife and I were able to bring Ava home!

10/15 at just over 5 pounds, we were able to particpate in bottle feedings. Nasal canula removed Ava was finally breathing room air.

Just before the nasal canula was removed. Seems Ava is not quite use to me taking her picture. I am sure it won't take long until she is hamming it up for ole Dad!

9/13 Ava finally was put on the nasal canula, it was so nice to be able to see her sweet face.

We were able to do "Kanagroo Care" getting to hold our daughter against our bare skin. This therapy has proven to really provide a bond and help them keep growing.

One of our favorite nurses paused for a second so we could snap a photo of our growing little girl. Here she is about 2.4 pounds.

8/19 The first time Mom was able to hold Ava. Weighing less than two pounds. Ava graduated to the CPAP (Coninuous Positive Airway Pressure) breathing apperatus.

Ava donning her preemie donna cap made exlusively for her by Vickie Howell. I shot Vickie and Daves wedding celebration. See there party in my blog (July Section).

The first two weeks were a very scary time. Lots of time spent at the NICU just praying and hoping our little girl was a fighter.

Four days after her birth, weighing 1 pound 4 ounces. Ava was intubated to aid in her breathing. Such a frail child, but such a fighter from day one!

Andrea and Harold

Andrea and Harold had their ceremony and reception at Fair Oaks Manor. This venue was new to us although they have been hosting events like this for quite some time. A very spacious venue on some beautiful land. The weather did not dissapoint this outgoing couple. Their outdoor wedding was almost like a theatrical presentation with antics and suprises that made for some great photos. Its always fun when someone has their wedding "their" way.

Please take a look at their album Pre Design,
or thier Album Update

American Cancer Society - Holiday Shopping Card Kick Off Party

The American Cancer Society holiday shopping card kick off party took place at the Domain. The Holiday Shopping Card is a unique program benefiting the American Cancer Society that brings together Austin Merchants, Restaurants, Media and Supporters to help raise funds to battle cancer.

This kick off party was a great experience to be a part of. There were cancer survivors modeling in the participating stores along with live music and a host of enthusiastic shoppers!

A special thanks to the crew at PR Ink for allowing me to volunteer at this great party.

Zoe's Urban Senior Portraits

This is the 3rd time I have shot with Zoe. Since last year I helped put together her modeling portfolio. I recently learned that she has since done some runway modeling. She has stunning beauty and is so much fun to work with. Since she is in her senior year I felt it only appropriate to schedule another shoot to capture some unique "urban" shots. Once again, Zoe did not dissapoint! Thanks Zoe!

Carolyn and Glenn

Carolyn and Glenn's ceremony and reception were at Wild Rose Hall. This intimate ceremony had a first for us. During the ceremony, Glenn performed a song he had wrote for his soon to be wife. Glenn is a very accomplished musician who has toured with the likes of BB King. He even performed for everyone with some friends of his. It was a great time had by all.

Please take a look at Carolyn and Glenn's Album Pre Design.

Brenda and Rhet

Brenda and Rhet had their ceremony at Terra Vista Ranch House which was a first for us. They hired the awesome services of Kelly with Own Fairy Godmother to be their wedding coordinating team. Kelly and her crew left a great lasting impression. Shannon with Boquets of Austin was the floral designer at this amazing celebration.

Catering was handled by The Catering Company and their amazing cake was baked by Allison at Wildflower Bakery. I am not joking when I say that "That was the absolute best wedding cake I have ever eaten!" As you can imagine I have tried quite a few! Please take a look at this cake, it is gorgeous! Mariachi En Fuego performed and Dexter with DJ For Hire kept the tunes pumpin' and the crowd dancing all night long! Sean captured what is now my favorite wedding image, check it out on the first page I posted below. He is an amazing photographer and I feel very fortunate to have him on my team!

Please take a look at Brenda and Rhet's Album Pre Design

Dave,

God has truly given you a gift. Thank you for capturing such incredible moments. I am speechless.

Thank you!
Brenda

A pat on the back

Dave,

I just got the album today and it looks fantastic!!! You and your team did a wonderful job and you really captured some beautiful moments at the wedding. I'm so pleased with the album and I know the whole family will be, we couldn't have asked for anything better. I will definitely recommend you to anyone that I know is getting married because it was so wonderful working with you, and the album is something that Jeff and I will cherish and enjoy reminiscing about in our many years to come.

Thanks again for doing such an amazing job!

-Sarah and Jeff Hummel-