A few months back, I received a message from a mother inquiring about a maternity session and newborn session. It was something meaningful to her, of this I could tell, but I was unsure why she was so adamant about going all out for this. We set up a time to meet and go over the specifics and to get acquainted with one another. When I arrived, I did not know the impact this mother would have on me or I on her. 

I met Maya one morning at Starbucks (coffee, coffee, coffee) and as we sat outside and talked, we began a friendship. We spoke for more than an hour that morning about life and love and loss. 

Both of them individually are business owners and that alone takes a lot of consistent prayer, patience, and planning. Nazmi owns the Tropical Smoothie and Island Grill and Wings Co. and Maya owns the U&I Boutique in Mobile. (All three are incredible and you MUST try them all!) 

Maya was a baby of war. She and her family survived on nothing for a very long time. Her mother and grandmother did everything possible to always supply for the needs of her family. They are some of the kindest, softhearted, people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. She used her past to propel her into her future. 

Maya and Nazmi had a heart wrenching story of suffering a miscarriage.  This would be enough reason to give up for most, but they believed that God had a purpose and a plan and they trusted that. They prayed over their desired child. Planned for it. Had a purpose for it. HOPED for it. THEY NEVER GAVE UP HOPE. 

(Do you have chills yet-because I do.) 

When they found out they were expecting again, they decided to have a purpose for everything that their child would have. From her nursery to her going home outfit, everything has a story. Though they naturally had worries and concerns, they see every step- the morning sickness, heartburn, indigestion, discomfort- as a blessing. 

There is no one in this world who has been prayed for and hoped for and loved more than little Una Lou. I cannot wait to be there when this sweet, precious, perfect baby girl makes her entrance into this family who have dreamt of her for so long. 

Until then, here are some images of their in-home maternity session.

Hair: Christine Bedgood

MU: Daniella Vasquez Shaw

Dress: Her grandmother hand sewed her gown the night before. Seriously, the sweetest lady ever.