the soubrette brunette: sunflowers

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

Sunflower

All images by Emma Rizzo Photo

Last month, Emma and I drove out to Clifton Springs for our now-annual trip to see these incredible sunflower fields. We made the pilgrimage for the first time last year and we knew we had to come back again once August rolled around. The weather proved to be a bit tricky, but Emma came through (as always) with some stunning shots.

While we were traipsing through the fields, I couldn't help but think back to the last time we were there. It was a truly magical experience and we had a great day exploring the area. But that little escape (and others like it) was definitely necessary at the time. In retrospect, I can admit how sad and stressed I was then. It's hard to keep that in mind sometimes, particularly when my heart is hurting and I just want to view the past in a rosy light. But it's moments like these when things really come into focus and I can see that – in spite of all the darkness – the sun still shines... and maybe it's much brighter than it once was. I really do feel like a little sunflower looking towards the light.

Speaking of sunflowers... I know a lot of other people would love nothing more than to capture some special memories in a field like this. If you live in Rochester or the surrounding area, you're in luck: Emma will be having sunflower field mini-sessions a little later this month! If you're interested you can book your slot here – and don't dawdle, as sign-ups are limited and spots will go quickly!

Outfit Details

Arina Dress: Gal Meets Glam (similar here and here)

Boater hat: similar || Flats: Jessica Simpson

Hope your day is a sunny one!

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Stripes and Sunflowers

These photos are a few weeks old, but posting them now gives me the chance to relive a perfect afternoon! My dear friend Rusty came home for a few days, and I felt so lucky to spend some time with him. We were determined to take photos in this big sunflower field – and we got there just in time. Most of the sunflowers were past their prime, but we managed to find a section of late-bloomers... which is sort of appropriate for Rusty and me, actually. We've talked about (and bonded over) how we each have needed a bit more time than other people might in order to find our place and our stride. But once we find it, we tend to bloom beautifully.

After spending the golden hour amongst golden flowers, we enjoyed a delicious dinner at a pizzeria Rusty recommended. I could (and often do) spend hours catching up with Rusty when we've been apart. Although I have a fairly large circle of acquaintances from the theatre community, it's rare for me to find such a supportive friend with whom I connect so deeply. Three of my closest theatre friends aren't living in Rochester right now, so what time I do get to spend with them is precious. Rusty recently figured out that he's a fellow Highly Sensitive Person, and I love being able to relate to him on that level, too. I wish he was here all the time, but he's off doing wonderful things with an equally wonderful theatre company down in Virginia. I'm so proud of everything he's accomplishing, and I'm grateful to know that he feels the same way about what I'm doing here.