I’m a summer-lovin’, milk chocolate obsessed, multi-passionate kinda gal. I feel most at peace if I have a day at the beach, a hike in the mountains, or a simple breezy afternoon on my back porch rocker. So probably just being outside, yep. That’s it ;)

I’ve been married to my best friend for going on 12 years and am so thankful the Lord brought that California boy into my world almost 14 years ago. We now have 4 kiddos between the ages of 2-7 so ya girl feels a lil C-R-A-Z-Y!! But it’s fun, and it’s filled with adventure! Adventures being, heading to the park + grocery store with all the kiddos in tow! (If you know, you know!) But even in the chaos, I am *learning* how to see the beauty in it all.

These precious family photos were taken by my amazing and talented friend Bonnie. Check her out at www.bonniewidphotography.com

I LOVE LOVE LOOOOOVE the type of photos that you find in an old dusty box digging through your grandparents attic. You know, the kind where nobody is looking at the camera and you can see the joy they feel in that candid moment! My entire goal for the time we spend together is to make those moments happen, then capture them for you and your future generations to come!

“She can draw out the cutest expressions from kids with her signature playfulness and patience.”

“Melissa is an absolute gem! She is adept at creating space for families to be themselves, while also capturing the most gorgeous, meaningful shots! She can draw out the cutest expressions from kids with her signature playfulness and patience. I am always blown away by Melissa's work, and can’t recommend her highly enough!”

A few random Mel facts:

  • Water or Coffee = the only liquids I like to drink.

  • Did I say I like chocolate? WRONG. I NEED chocolate.

  • I’m the voice of an Australian Wildlife Ranger in a children’s audio series called Base Camp Adventures! Think Steve Irwin enthusiasm!!

  • Even though I love the beach, the mountains are home.

  • I’ll gobble up any Jane Austen film adaptation and never tire of a good Parks & Rec rewatch. (So far I’ve only watched it 5 times through.. ok 6…)

  • I love Justin Bieber and The Jonas Brothers. I cannot, nor will I apologize for my passion in these such matters.

Am I sounding like the kinda gal you wanna work with??