Knowing when to expect emails and following the guidance is essential for a seamless and stress-free photography experience. As shown in the timeline from the provided guide, key milestones are outlined clearly, ensuring you stay informed and prepared at every step. From the initial booking, where you fill out a questionnaire and pay a retainer, to receiving a wardrobe guide, each email is designed to guide you through the process smoothly. Confirming wardrobe options two weeks prior, handling the final balance a week before the session, and getting packing and reminder guides ensure everything is in place. This organized approach allows you to focus on enjoying the moment, knowing that all the details are taken care of, culminating in a delightful experience on the day of the session and beyond.
About Me
Hi, I’m Mercae, the Seattle-based photographer behind Lilac & Ivy Photography. To know I seek inspiration between the pages of Pride and Prejudice while blaring Tchaikovsky is to know me. I create refined maternity and newborn portraits for nostalgic Seattle mothers who love the beautiful historic architecture of Seattle and vintage-inspired styling as much as I do.
I specialize in studio maternity and in home newborn sessions because you shouldn’t have to make the Herculean effort to drive for hours, pray for sunshine, hike into the mountains, or be forced to cancel for rain. Once you inquire, I’ll send you over a welcome guide and a link to schedule a phone call to plan our session and answer any lingering questions!
The Experience
From the very first hello to the moment you open your gallery, this experience is designed to feel thoughtful, unhurried, and deeply personal. Family photographs should feel like a pause in the noise of life, a chance to slow down, connect, and be fully present together.
Inquire
After reviewing the investment options, you’ll submit an inquiry form to get started. You’ll then receive the investment and welcome guide, which offers a clear, detailed overview of the experience. From that email you’ll also set up a brief 10-minute phone call so I can get to know you, learn about your family, and personalize your session from the very beginning.
Book Your Session
Following our phone call, you’ll receive a private booking link with the date and time we discussed. From there, you’ll sign your contract and pay the sitting fee to officially reserve your session. Everything is handled online to keep the process simple and stress-free.
The Day You Book
Once your session is confirmed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a short questionnaire. This helps me understand your family dynamics, your children’s personalities, and what you hope to preserve most. These details allow me to photograph your family with intention and care.
One Day After Booking
Your wardrobe guide will arrive in your inbox, along with access to my curated client closet. You’ll choose the dress you’ll be wearing and find inspiration for styling your family around it. The focus is on effortless coordination that feels natural, comfortable, and timeless.
Five Days Prior
You’ll receive a helpful packing guide designed to remove last-minute stress and ensure you feel prepared. It’s a simple checklist to support a smooth, calm session day.
Seven and Three Days Prior
Gentle reminders will be sent with your session date, time, and location so everything stays top of mind. No scrambling, no second-guessing, just ease.
The Day Of
Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early. This allows time for parking, small outfit adjustments, adding or removing layers, and gathering everything you’ll need before walking to the session location. When I arrive, I’ll text or call you so we can meet and begin right on time.
Two Weeks After Your Session
Your gallery will be delivered via email, beautifully set to music. This is your invitation to slow down, relive the experience, and choose the images that will live on your walls and in your hands for years to come.
Ready to Begin?
If this feels like the kind of experience you have been craving, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out to begin a session where we crank Swan Lake all the way up and create artwork focused on connection and intentionality. I’ll be your guide so you can simply show up and be present. When you’re ready, submit an inquiry to start the process, and let’s start creating something meaningful together.
