Another year of holiday portraits is officially finished, and my heart is so full! Our annual Deck the Halls Portrait Event is one of my favorite traditions in the studio, and this year was truly something special. I absolutely love welcoming families back each December and watching little ones grow from tiny newborns into big kids full of personality, confidence, and holiday excitement is one of the greatest joys of my work. Fun fact: 78% of my holiday mini sessions were returning clients!  Some of you have been with me for NINE consecutive years of holiday sessions!  

I am beyond grateful for the most amazing and loyal clients who have become friends over the years. It is such an honor to watch your families grow and to document these memories for you year after year. I also loved meeting the sweetest new families! I am looking forward to seeing them again and building a relationship with them and their little ones as we get together to document more of their memories and milestones in 2026.

Present Arch Setup 

This year’s holiday mini session setup, I went with two different designs. However, I think the Present Arch is hands-down my favorite holiday setup I’ve created, not just this year, but in my 13 years as a photographer.

I was inspired to create this months before our big event. I loved sourcing all of the different wrapping papers and ribbons. My neighborhood pitched in and donated all of their shipping boxes. Then, I spent a few days wrapping in the studio, which was completely worth it as the end result was better than I imagined. 

When my daughter came to see it for the first time, she exclaimed: “PRESENTS!!!” and she was ready to open them. She was a little disappointed to learn that there was nothing inside of them! It’s so pretty, and I love having this in the studio. I’m going to have a hard time taking it down when the season is over.

 

Trio of Wreaths Setup

The second setup, a trio of wreaths, is a timeless, simple setup that complemented our more detailed present arch. I always love incorporating a bit of greenery into holiday sessions, and these cypress wreaths with white ribbon bows were the perfect fit. Using greenery brings in that fresh, natural holiday feel that I love. The wreaths were inspired by 2025 trends (hello bows!), while still remaining absolutely timeless. 

This setup photographed so beautifully, and was wonderful for families wanting something more natural and minimal.  Both setups turned out better than I envisioned and I had the most amazing time capturing all the families who visited my Saratoga Springs Studio for holiday mini sessions. 

To every family who came through the studio this year, whether this was your first holiday session or your ninth – THANK YOU! Photographing your family is such an honor, and your trust and loyalty mean the world to me.

Wishing you all a season filled with warmth, laughter, cozy moments, and memories you’ll treasure forever.

Ready to schedule your Family session? I’d love to connect. Contact me today to schedule your session.