Family traditions feel a bit like something from days gone by. It was much easier in the slower pace of life before smartphones and hectic schedules, when family dinners and beautiful holidays were something everyone did. As we approach the holidays, I began thinking about holidays and traditions, and how important it is to maintain beautiful and meaningful days for our children and grandchildren. As a wife, mother, and grandmother, I know the pressure can feel immense to put on the “perfect” day, but I hope you can hear my heart that it doesn’t have to be perfect, it just requires intention and a little bit of love! Here are a few tips to build and maintain your own traditions:

• Traditions build gratitude: No matter how fast paced our lives are, stopping to give thanks and celebrate family and friends will always keep our hearts moved to thankfulness instead of discontent. Traditions like family dinners, christmas morning stories, or serving at a homeless shelter on thanksgiving are some examples of ways that take our eyes off ourselves and help us remember to be grateful. It’s a beautiful lesson for everyone, especially our children.
• Traditions and holidays bring joy: Even when you are going through hard times, looking forward to special family days or events like trips to the pumpkin patch or a Christmas tree lot can bring you happiness even during difficulties. It is something you can mentally anticipate and be excited for, and it can help bring light to dark times in your family.
• Holidays and Traditions are valuable: Yes, I know it takes time and effort and even money to put together thanksgiving dinner, or Christmas morning memories.  It can feel overwhelming to be the one responsible for organizing things or leading the charge, so to speak! But, you are creating important and valuable moments that your children and grandchildren will cherish forever, and will look back on with fondness.

• One way to uphold traditions is with family photos: Many of my clients do family photos annually, or even twice a year. It’s because if you’re a parent or grandparent of little ones, you know even a six month difference between sessions can hold so many changes in a baby or toddler! I offer many different types of sessions throughout the year, in order to provide maximum opportunities for my families to schedule what works best for them. Making family photos a tradition is a way to keep a legacy alive and well for generations.

Are you ready to begin building your own family tradition? We can get started right away. Simply send us a message to get your session scheduled!