Posts tagged inspiring stories
Redefining Stereotypes | Naijla's Headshot Session
I want to show people that Muslim women do not need to be dark, drab and hidden in the background. They can be vibrant and full of life.
— Naijla F

Meet Naijla, whose radiance captivates everyone she encounters. We were fortunate to meet through her participation in the Women's Emerging Leaders program held by HandsOnWSNC. With an undeniable aura of professionalism and warmth, Naijla effortlessly embodies the qualities of someone you can't help but be interested in engaging with. Her confidence is evident in the way she carries herself, a testament to her unwavering belief in her abilities and the value she brings to any conversation or setting.

As a Muslim woman, Naijla fearlessly challenges stereotypes, breaking free from the misconceptions that often surround her identity. With her choice of vibrant clothing and hijabs, she stands testament to the fact that Muslim women need not be confined to dark, drab colors or hidden in the background. Instead, she boldly embraces her faith and cultural heritage, showcasing the beauty and diversity that exists within her community.

Naijla's infectious smile and laughter are windows into her genuine joy and zest for life. Her laughter resonates with an undeniable authenticity, revealing her inner light and uplifting those around her. Approaching Naijla feels natural and effortless, as her kind nature instantly puts others at ease. Whether engaging in discussions about leadership, diversity, or the challenges faced by women, Naijla's unique perspective and unwavering positivity make her an inspiring voice worth listening to.

Naijla serves as a beacon of inspiration. Through her unapologetic presence, she breaks down barriers and opens doors for others to follow. Her professional demeanor, combined with her vibrant spirit, exemplify the power of embracing one's true self and refusing to be defined by societal norms giving true empowerment to our differences and embracing the full spectrum of our identities.

Kismet. Seriously.... kismet. | Winston Salem Portrait Photographer Jasper & Fern

Do you remember us sharing about the lavender field portrait session? You know, the one where all the dominos fell perfectly into place in a whirlwind even though it was raining and I was learning to dye material for the first time?? (Click here if you want to read that story) WELL…. you’re not going to believe THIS then - because the story continues and gets EVEN BETTER!

So, as you know, we were invited back to Frogholler Lavender Farm for their Harvest Day celebration to take portraits of their patrons and anyone else who wanted to participate. Well, it was an AMAZING day and all those dominos popped up again and turned into an incredible tale.

Meet Jonothan and Esther. They are getting married next month.

As part of their wedding planning, they wanted to pick all the lavender for their wedding decorations and gifts - plus use the day as a fun date. They’d set aside this past Saturday, June 15th, to go to a lavender farm in Charlotte, NC and pick all day.

The day, however, had other plans.

When Esther and Jonothan showed up to the Charlotte lavender farm, it was closed. Disappointed but not discouraged, they searched for another lavender farm - which took them THREE HOURS away to Raleigh, NC.

After driving to the lavender farm in Raleigh, they began to worry. It wasn’t what it had seemed online and it wasn’t going to fit their needs. Alas, they turned to Google once more and found Frogholler Lavender Farm’s Harvest Day celebration.

Upon arriving at the farm a mere 45 minutes before the Harvest Day closed, Esther and Jonothan were warmly welcomed by Dorthea. She gave them a tour and told them that the official farm photographer (me) was there if they wanted to have their portraits made. As Dorthea introduced me, Esther’s eyes lit up. Esther then excitedly explained that she and Jonothan never had engagement portraits done and they’d given up on the prospects and resigned to taking a selfie in the lavender field to print as a large canvas for their wedding reception. Coincidentally, this meant they’d brought their traditional attire with them.

See - KISMET! All these dominos falling into place far in advance for so many awesome moments to happen! I. Love. This.

In the end after a discouraging day for Esther and Jonothan, coupled with the dominos falling into place for me weeks earlier, Jonothan and Esther were able to have professional portraits made and have a beautiful experience together.

It all goes to show that sometimes the plans set in place for our lives are bigger and better than we could imagine.

Esther and Jonothan dressed in their culture's traditional wedding attire standing in a lavender field | Winston Salem Portrait Photographer Jasper & Fern | traditional wedding headdress | lavender farm outdoor portraits | engagement session | l…

Esther and Jonothan dressed in their culture's traditional wedding attire standing in a lavender field | Winston Salem Portrait Photographer Jasper & Fern | traditional wedding headdress | lavender farm outdoor portraits | engagement session | lifestyle photographer | professional photographer |photography studio

Esther and Jonothan dressed in their culture's traditional wedding attire standing in a lavender field | Winston Salem Portrait Photographer Jasper & Fern | traditional wedding headdress | lavender farm outdoor portraits | engagement session | l…

Esther and Jonothan dressed in their culture's traditional wedding attire standing in a lavender field | Winston Salem Portrait Photographer Jasper & Fern | traditional wedding headdress | lavender farm outdoor portraits | engagement session | lifestyle photographer | professional photographer |photography studio

Esther and Jonothan dressed in their culture's traditional wedding attire standing in a lavender field | Winston Salem Portrait Photographer Jasper & Fern | traditional wedding headdress | lavender farm outdoor portraits | engagement session | l…

Esther and Jonothan dressed in their culture's traditional wedding attire standing in a lavender field | Winston Salem Portrait Photographer Jasper & Fern | traditional wedding headdress | lavender farm outdoor portraits | engagement session | lifestyle photographer | professional photographer |photography studio

Esther and Jonothan dressed in their culture's traditional wedding attire standing in a lavender field | Winston Salem Portrait Photographer Jasper & Fern | traditional wedding headdress | lavender farm outdoor portraits | engagement session | l…

Esther and Jonothan dressed in their culture's traditional wedding attire standing in a lavender field | Winston Salem Portrait Photographer Jasper & Fern | traditional wedding headdress | lavender farm outdoor portraits | engagement session | lifestyle photographer | professional photographer |photography studio