Well, it’s time.  It’s been almost ten years since I began this journey – Paperhearts was born in the fall of 2011 after a friend insisted that I start this little gig.  After a lot of work and a lot of patience, some sweat and some tears, my business and photos have evolved into something I never imagined it could.  I’ve photographed friends who have become clients, clients who have become friends.  I have photographed families, high school seniors, entrepreneurs, book authors, babies, and more.  I have sat going through images over the last several weeks and can’t believe how big this seed his grown.  Paperhearts exploded, and I cannot express to you my gratitude enough.  So many of you have booked with me year after year, trusting me with your family’s images and your graduate’s images too.  My heart grows bigger with each of you.  All that trust has built this little biz of mine, and now it’s time to go bigger.  With a renewed focus on high school seniors and headshots, I have created a new brand and a new website to support my vision.  Paperhearts was a sweet little name to a sweet little start as I began photographing families.  Moving forward, I enter this phase with a passion for photographing your high schoolers, a desire to escalate your business and work, and enthusiasm for what’s to come!  And don’t worry—I’m still photographing families!    Be on the lookout Friday for my new logo and new website!  Thank you for your consistent support, love, and encouragement over the last ten years and beyond!  XOXO

Dear Charlotte,

SIX!  I want to wrap you up, squish you into a swaddle, and rock you forever!  I can’t believe you are 6!  I’ve been spending the last week going through lots of pictures of you from when you were born until now.  You were born with dark brown hair, then your hair turned red (we thought you’d be a redhead like your Poppy!), and then magically you became a blonde!  Your teachers at your preschool called you SUNSHINE because you’re just that—big bright smiles with twinkling blue eyes.

You have grown so much in this last year—you are a lover, a good friend, you’re respectful to teachers.  You’ve found your inner sass too!  You love your family, tennis is your sport, and you continue to enjoy dance and express yourself through movement.  You are greatly attached to your sister whom you adore and look up to.  Your favorite singer is Taylor Swift (according to you), but you’ll listen and dance to the Wiggles any day of the week!  Charlotte, your heart is big and your motherly instinct has grown stronger over the last year.  You’re loved by so many and it was so obvious and clear during your birthday parade.

This year comes big changes with Kindergarten at a new school.  With a new school, comes a new environment, new teachers, and new friends.  New routines have never been your thing, but I know this year you can conquer your fears.  Your dad and I are so proud of you and how far you’ve come over the last several months.  Covid hasn’t slowed you down at all.  Your tennis skills have improved and you’re ready to attack the new school year!  You got this, Char!  We love you!

Cheers to you and your amazing self!  Happy sweet 6!

XOXO,

Momma

6-year-old pictures taken in Aspen

Dear Mia,

HOLY COW.  A 10-year-old?  I don’t believe it.  It sounds SO old!  I have been trying to process all that’s been on our plate lately–school ending early, quarantine, Covid-19, and now you becoming a decade old.  You’ve handled all this like a champ.  We had some bumps at the beginning, but you pulled through, demonstrating your independence, resilience, and honesty, and more.  Yes, you’ve missed your two incredible teachers beyond words and yes, you had to spend way more time with your sister than you’d like to, but WOW.  You did it.  And just two days ago you began your own camp for Charlotte and her friend–you sat down, planned, pulled materials together, and led the girls like a real camp counselor.  You’re becoming quite the tween, a tiny teacher (like your mama!)!  In addition, I’ve noticed you enter conversations with adults without hesitation, where as before you’d stand next to me and wait patiently for me to finish chatting.  Your confidence is blooming.

Over the course of the last year, you’ve developed a love for a new sport–tennis!  You can began lessons, and right away, we saw you had some skills!  You’ve decided to say adios to dance for a while (tear tear), and make tennis your “thing” for the near future.

You’re really growing up, Mia!  I wish time would slow down.

I can say today, without a doubt, this WILL be your BEST birthday yet!  We’ve planned so many surprises and fun things for you–I think you’ll be really happy!

Mia, you are a kind, generous, caring, mature, and engaging gal with a huge heart.  I wish for you a new decade full of heart, sunny skies, big hugs, laughter, lots of tennis, good health, and most importantly, love for yourself, who you are, and all those around you.  Keep working hard and playing hard—only good things are coming your way!

Hope you’ll always cherish these images we took to celebrate your “TEN”nis DOUBLE DIGIT birthday!

Love always,

Mommy

I am SO excited to announce Paperhearts’ mini session dates, and locations!  I’ve added a new spot this year too—can’t wait!

Please email me at jlaviage@paperhearts-photography.com for pricing.  Dates will be booked on a first-come/first-serve basis.  Payment is due within 3 DAYS of booking via email, or date will be released to the next person.

**Please note times below are tentative.  With heavy clouds, we may begin sooner to accommodate lighting for all families scheduled for that day.  But more than likely, we will plan to begin at the time listed below!

Session Details:
15 minutes
Up to four people (no pets please)
5 digitals
Black and white versions of your five digitals will also be available for an additional $40.

Sunday, October 14–Centennial Gardens
5:15p.m.  BOOKED
5:30p.m.  BOOKED
5:45p.m.  BOOKED
6:00p.m.  BOOKED
6:15p.m.  BOOKED

Saturday, November 10–Memorial Park
3:45p.m.  BOOKED
4:00p.m.  BOOKED
4:15p.m.  BOOKED
4:30p.m.  BOOKED
4:45p.m.  BOOKED

Sunday, November 11–Memorial Park
3:45p.m.  BOOKED
4:00p.m.  BOOKED
4:15p.m.  BOOKED
4:30p.m.  BOOKED
4:45p.m.  BOOKED

Saturday, December 1– Zipper Graffiti Wall in EaDo
3:00p.m.  BOOKED
3:15p.m.
3:30p.m.  BOOKED
3:45p.m.  BOOKED

Can’t wait!  Please email me with your preference, and I’ll reply with pricing as well!  jlaviage@paperhearts-photography.com

XO

Dear Charlotte,

How it possible that tomorrow you are 4!!!!  Your Daddy and I were just talking about how you’re the age Mia was when when you were born.  Time is going WAY too fast—if only we could slow things down.  I really never thought you’d leave the toddler stage–those baby cheeks were my fav!

Four years ago tomorrow you entered this world with dark hair and gray eyes.  By 9 months old, you had strawberry blonde hair, so we for sure thought you’d have red hair like your Poppy and Momo.  But sure enough, that red hair turned blonde—–the blondest hair I ever did see!  We’re still scratching our heads, trying to figure out where you came from.   But you do look like your Papa and Mommy (we think), so I guess you really are mine after all!

Char, you’ve grown up so much over the last year in many ways.  You are talking non-stop, you’re a true showman, you love ballet, and enjoy taking care of your baby Peaches Elena.  You have a strong motherly instinct and show great concern for others when they’re hurt.  You idolize your big sis and want to do whatever she is doing.  You enjoy books and singing songs.  Your thirst for excitement and knowledge makes me smile.  And your kindness and genteel character are beyond.

We kicked off your birthday celebration last week with a Pinkalicious photo shoot!  Thanks to Esther Freedman with Cuteheads for creating the perfect and softest dress for Char to wear!  She loves it!

Charlotte, we love to the moon and back, little girl.  May your fourth year be one full of good health, love, and happiness.

XOXO,
Mommy

P.S. If anyone is interested in a customized birthday shoot for their kiddo, holler!  These are SO much fun and simple to do!

Dear Mia,

Today you turn 8.  Eight years.  Time is moving waaaay too fast—-yesterday I was changing your diapers and today you’re changing your earrings to match every outfit.  I don’t understand how this happens!

Something has really changed in you, Mia, over the last few months.  You’ve matured in ways I could have never imagined.  You understand things that most kids do not.  You’re caring, empathetic, always concerned for others, a super helper at school, and a good friend.  You are honest and compassionate, and really just an all-around good girl.  You’ve become interested in fashion, having an opinion on how to put your outfits together, and often incorporated the “front-tuck” into your ensemble.  You’re currently my new shopping buddy too!  I love having you at my side–you’re my daughter and my friend.  I admire your strength and bravery when handling situations at school, that have been challenging to say the least.  You head to summer camp for three weeks this summer—WOW.  If someone asked me two years ago if you’d attend sleep-away camp, I would have told them, “Nope!”  But here we are, at age 8, blossomed, bright, and ready to attack whatever comes your way.

This photo shoot is super special—you’re obsession with American Girl dolls, their detail, and care is beyond.  Thank you to Esther Freedman with Cuteheads for making your dress design come to life for both you and your doll, Mary Ellen.  I think you’ll treasure these images forever!

And once more, happy birthday, my sweet girl.  Your family and I love you more than words, and we’re beyond proud of you and everything you’ve accomplished.  I know Papa is looking down on you, wrapping his arms around you, his first grandchild, today and always, with such pride.  Your future is most certainly a bright one, my girl.  It is indeed.

XOXO,

Mommy

I’m excited to say that several slots have been filled for minis but I still have availability!  Please see my previous post here for details!   Please email me at jlaviage@gmail.com to book.

Sunday, October 22-Memorial Park
5:15p.m. BOOKED
5:40p.m.  BOOKED
6:05p.m. BOOKED

Sunday, November 12-Graffiti Wall Downtown
4:00p.m.
4:25p.m.  BOOKED
4:50p.m. BOOKED

Sunday, November 19-North/South Blvd
4:00p.m.  BOOKED
4:25p.m.  BOOKED
4:50p.m.  BOOKED

Sunday, December 3-Memorial Park
4:00p.m.  BOOKED
4:25p.m.  BOOKED
4:50p.m.

Thanks and see you soon! XO

It’s that time of year again!

I’m baaaaaack!!!!  This fall, Paperhearts is scheduling mini sessions!  After several inquiries, I’ve decided to publish some options.  Below are dates and times.  Please email me at jlaviage@paperhearts-photography.com for pricing.  Dates will be booked on first-come/first-serve basis.  Payment is due within 5 days of booking via email or date will be released to the next person.

**Please note times below are rough.  With heavy clouds, we may begin sooner to accommodate lighting for all families scheduled for that day.  But more than likely, we will plan to begin at the time listed below!

Please note the final date is an early morning option.

Session Details:
25 minutes
Up to four people
5 digitals
Black and white versions of your five digitals will also be available for an additional $40.

Sunday, October 22-Memorial Park
5:15p.m.
5:40p.m.
6:05p.m.

Sunday, November 12-Graffiti Wall Downtown
4:00p.m.
4:25p.m.
4:50p.m.

Sunday, November 19-North/South Blvd
4:00p.m.
4:25p.m.
4:50p.m.

Sunday, December 3-Biscuit Home Wall (morning session)
7:15a.m.
7:40a.m.
8:05a.m.

Can’t wait!  Please email me with your preference!  jlaviage@paperhearts-photography.com

XO

Dear Charlotte,

To my spunky, bright-eyed little Leo, HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY!  I can’t believe you’re already three!!!  I’ve spent the last few days going through your baby photos and videos and am in awe of your growth.  Born with dark brown hair, you eventually became a red head and now you’re blonde!  I am still puzzled by how I got such a blondie!

You’re the sweetest, most loving, kind-hearted daughter and sister.  You speak with such heart, people can’t help but fall in love with you.  That smile is beautiful and bright, so bright that I get stopped just about everywhere because of it.  Your waddle and stomp is to be admired–you walk with confidence, grit, and sass.  You know what you want when you want it.  I am proud of how kind and compassionate you are, especially at such a young age.  Also, you’re a little social butterfly and savvy like your sister.  Your heart is big and full of cheer.  You’re one remarkable little darlin’.

Char, your daddy and I believe your arrival into this world was timely and with purpose.  You were almost one when your Papa was diagnosed with cancer.  In fact, we celebrated your first birthday as he prepared to begin treatment here in Houston.  Your adorable grin brought me back time and time again from the sad place I often was.  Not only did your brightness help me, but Papa ate it up.  You gave him so much sunshine in some of his most difficult moments.  Even today, four months after Papa left this earth, I need your cheer to lift me up on days when I’m feeling pretty down.  You’re a beautiful little soul, Charlotte Gray, and I am so thankful that G-d gave you to us.

And so finally, since your favorite color is yellow (ironically because you truly are our sunshine), we had a lemon-filled photo shoot topped off with the most delicious cupcake.*

To my sweet sunshine, little nugget, Cha Cha, Booba, and whatever else we call you, happy birthday.  We love you more than anything.

XO,
Mommy

*Cupcake by Eats by Drake.