There are moments in this job that feel more like fate than chance, and meeting Chelsea was one of them.

Our story began over email and then coffee—literally. We first met at a local coffee shop when she joined her brother and his bride-to-be to chat about their upcoming October wedding. She was warm, a little quiet, and sweet in that gentle, sincere kind of way. We talked about wedding plans, but I had no idea that only a few days later, she’d reach out again with some beautiful news: she and her significant other, Jericho were expecting their first baby.

She asked if I would capture this season of their lives in a maternity session and I was absolutely thrilled with the news and of course said yes!

We met at the beach on a sunny day that was made for memory-making. The sky was soft and golden, the breeze was light—and while the gnats were a bit too excited to join the party (seriously, they were everywhere), nothing could take away from the magic of the moment.

Chelsea was glowing at 35 weeks pregnant. Every move she made radiated strength, grace, and a quiet joy that only a mother-to-be can truly carry. Jericho, her partner in all things, kept her smiling the entire time. These two were silly, tender, and so clearly in love. Watching them laugh together, hold each other close, and dream about their son—it was like being let in on a beautiful secret.

They’re naming their baby boy after Jericho and calling him JJ, their first baby! It’s such a sweet tribute, and you can already feel how deeply loved this little one is going to be. I caught them sharing whispers between poses, little inside jokes, and those candid glances that speak louder than words.

It was such a gift to document this special time for them. I’ll never forget the light on the water, the laughter echoing off the shoreline, or the love that hung in the air like sunshine.

Chelsea and Jericho—thank you for trusting me to freeze this moment in time. I already can’t wait to see you both again at the wedding in October and finally meet baby JJ in your arms.

Wishing you a smooth delivery, endless love, and all the sweet newborn snuggles your hearts can hold.

With love and light,
Lacey