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Towards the end of May this year I was approached by one of my good friends, she ask if I'd be interested in photographing a charity event that she and some friends were going to be running. Of course I made sure I was free and agreed at once. A few weeks before the event was due to take place, I bumped in to her in the local supermarket, we got chatting about the upcoming event and said how we were looking forwards to the day. It was then, it became apparent to me, this wasn't just a event running to make money for a charity there and then, it was in fact a 'calendar shoot! To me a photographer, who photographs mainly families and weddings, this was the most terrifying but exciting news ever! It had totally not occurred to me what I had signed up to do a few month prior. When the day arrived at the beginning of July, I was greeted by some extremely nervous models. Some of which were so dedicated to the cause, that they were there extra early and then dashing off to work or one, to get going with her son's birthday party. We didn't have a lot to work with either, some people brought props with them, some came with no ideas what-so-ever, nevertheless we managed to photograph the two calendars all with in the space of one back garden. It was incredible to see this wonderful, friendly and kind-hearted bunch of people come together at such a low moment in their lives. After to finding out that one of their nearest and dearest had just been diagnosed with Cancer, they decided to take that dreadful piece of news and do something positive with it. They decided that the best way to help him beat Cancer was to standup and do something about it and in this case, they stood up, they stood (some layed, some sat) there butt naked in front of a camera. They didn't do this to glorify or glamourise themselves, they did this because they believed doing something, no matter how big or how little, was worth it. They did this to help create a calendar (which was put together by Gemma Mills @ Big Boolies, a printing and sign writing local business, Gemma did everything at cost!), one for the boys and one for the girls. The Girls The Boys The calendars are now on sale, you can contact Rob Mackie directly to purchase one or they are indeed for sale in a local pub- The Royal Oak, Malton. When Rob set out to make this idea a reality, he had a target of £5000 in mind to raise for this charity. He launched the calendar last Saturday evening and from what I gathered, he's already S M A S H E D that figure! And you'll be pleased to know that Rob has received treatment now and although he's not full recovered he's on the road to it. He also became a Dad too. So I hope you'll join me in wishing him lucky and the best of health in the future! Maybe next year we'll do another one, who knows ;)

Becky and Andy met at a new years eve party in 2014, which Andy's brother was hosting. Andy arrived on the cold winters evening wearing 'crazy' socks and shorts, which clearly drew Becky straight to him that night, Becky being Becky couldn't resist making a smart remark about the socks. And Andy being Andy couldn't help but retort with and equally smart remark, in a extremely Yorkshire accent, "you should see my pants love," nevertheless, it clearly did the trick. A chat up line and a half! Obviously it would make the speeches 4 years later.... Shot through their champagne flutes as they walked away. I however, met Becky and Andy whilst photographing their friends' wedding (here they are having little boogie) and when they saw the photos I was extremely pleased to hear, they like them so much that they would decide to book me to shoot their wedding too. From the beginning Becky and Andy were passionate about their day, Becky had been to a lot of weddings and was determined that theirs would be different, together they thought about: details, family heritage and ways the wow and entertain their guest to make it a day to remember. From the accessories to the table decorations they had it covered, with Becky's sister Jen personally designing and handcrafting her own maid-of-honour dress and the flower girl's along with Becky's hair accessory and the Groomsmens' paper-flower button holes and pocket handkerchief. Luckily for Becky her sister is already a professional working in the costume industry, so everything she did was stunning and made to exceptional standards! Becky's bouquet contained the most stunning deep-red Peony flowers, to match the bridal party's dresses , and the most delicate Nigella flowers were sprinkled through it: Her mother-in-law is called Nigella, a lovely way to honour her name. Becky also deigned the table runners to each have the star constellations hand embroidered (by Jen again) on each of them because Andy taught and showed her each one as they relaxed under the stars when they meet-so romantic! Pocket watch gifted to Andy by his parental Grandfather. For Andy the day started on a real high as Becky had a few surprises in store for him: He thought he was driving himself to the venue, but no, a stunning 1966 cherry red Ford Mustang turned up to collect him. I'd have loved to have seen his face because his face as he got out of the car was beaming as he greeted his mum and in-laws to be. As if that wasn't enough, Becky knows how much into biking Andy is, so she had arrange for 2 of them to send prerecorded messages to her, which she sent to him the morning of the wedding, wishing them the best of luck in their new venture. They got married outside, at the Morrit Hotel at Geta Bridge, overlooking a grass meadow which was simply stunning and one of the reasons that they chose to tie-the-knot here. To make this even more perfect, Becky was 'piped' in to the ceremony by a fellow bagpiper, you guested it, because she has Scottish heritage in her family background. The after the ceremony they enjoyed bubbly in the garden, each garnished with a Hibiscus flower. THE BRIDES FONDEST MOMENT "Hearing Andy say the personal vows he had written for me." THE GROOMS FAVOURITE MOMENT "Walking back down the aisle as husband and wife, past all of our friends and family to the Start Wars title music." Following the meal, the speeches kicked off, they were absolutely hilarious as you can imagine! The Groom and the Best man did everyone proud, reminiscing the good old days and the meeting of Andy and his wonderful wife Becky. Later on they cut the cake, made entirely of cheese and then they kicked off the evening with their choreographed first dance to Rod Steward, Have I told you lately. With Becky previously teaching Salsa, it was bound to be amazing and it was, again she had covered every detail going to the trouble of custom designing and decorating a pair of shoes for the occasion. Then following already a load of fun energetic dancing, the pair prepared for their (or Andy's) biggest surprise of the day-they were both so excited about this part of the day! Northumberland Cheeses & Cassette, Corsica So at around 9.30pm Andy picked up his beautiful, Les Paul guitar, that Becky has bought him for their engagement and he rocked it with the band (The Crazy Knights Party Band) to The Summer Of 69. I knew Andy was pretty nervous about this, so I had no idea what he'd be like, but WOW! I learnt something about Andy that night too: he'd been in the school band and it just so happened that some of his closest friends had once been his biggest fans once up on a time at school. They loved it! They were on their knees going wild, Andy's face! I have never seen a Bride look so admiringly and proudly at their newly wed hubby, I'm not sure words do it justice. I feel so lucky to have had the chance to photograph their wedding and I really hope I can spread the joy and let more people see just how fabulous their day was. CREDITS Make up artist: Lauren Jane MUA Lashes: Amanda Patterson Hair stylist: Emily Nealon, Jem Hair Design The Dress: Harlem, by Q'nique Bridal, Accent Original Bridal Wear. The Suits: Moss Bros Florist: Denise Marmont, Muscari Floristry Venue: The Morritt Hotel and Garage Spa #Foxglove #portait #wedding #Themorritthotel #thestory

Here’s to 2017, a year to remember, a year full of love, family and some new experiences! What can I say? I’ve been on fire, literally! (Some of you will know more about this than others :) ) I’ve witnessed some wonderful couples declare their love and tie-the-knot, in some truly wonderful places and I’ve snapped couples who have just committed to one another, having said…I will! I’ve heard how he and she have met, where they got engaged and the tale of plans for their future day, before watching them unfold. I’ve watched new families in their first few days together; captured families that are fully formed throughout their generations and I’ve been given the opportunity the freeze this in time. I’ve even framed families before they’re here and captured the 4 legged extensions of them too and whilst doing so, I’ve made friends and got to know people from all walks of life. As if this isn’t good enough, I’ve been contacted with different opportunities from product photography to architect portfolios and holiday cottage advertising, giving life a really rich flavour. I’ve managed to drop a day at my day job to concentrate on my business and have already some exciting dates in my diary to look forwards to for 2018. I’d like to thank everyone who has chosen to use my services and who have walked through my life this year, you’ve all been an absolute pleasure to work with, some of you I know I will see again soon under extremely exciting circumstances and I’m as enthusiastic as you! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

A few days ago, I was given the opportunity to revisit the stunning location of Harwood Dale, near Scarborough. A place I once spent many the Sunday afternoon exploring the barely trodden tracks of the woodland, whilst my dad’s adrenaline pumped furiously through his veins, as he competed on his trusty old Honda, moto-crossing. This time though the reason for my visiting was slightly different; a tad more glamorous should I say? Because this time I was visiting to photograph a beautifully renovated barn conversion and my goodness when I say beautiful I really mean it… Simon and Julie were lucky enough to have the chance to purchase Roadside Farm, at Harwood Dale a few years ago and with Julie having a background of dabbling periodically within the genre of property, the barn had landed in the perfect hands. After spending time, deliberating over what their visions were for the old building, they corresponded with a local architect (protect design) who thoughtfully and tastefully put pen to paper, drawing Simon and Julie’s ideas and bringing them to life for the first time. Once through planning, Julie and Simon where determined to crack on and complete the project, starting only in January 2017. Despite soldiering on, they have formed a compassionate and charming barn conversion full of character. They’ve managed to retain and reinvent as many original features as possible, even to the point of up-cycling the old, battered barn door, converting it to function once again, this time though, not as a door but as a coffee table. Regardless of all this, they have brought the barn kicking and screaming into the 21st century, adding a carbon-friendly air source heat pump, which warms the underfloor heating running throughout the building. Keeping everything toasty and warm. Now complete, they are ready to begin their next venture of becoming the proud owners of Harewood Dales latest holiday cottage and this isn’t any normal 5 bedroomed holiday let by any stretch of the imagination. Lots of people take their dogs on holiday with them, this is pretty standard, so obviously Julie and Simon are keyed up for this as the barn comes complete with: outdoor wash down and impressive, raised indoor shower areas for our canine friends-keeping you warm in the winter months whilst you clean them off. I was impressed with this at any rate; nevertheless, they’ve topped this good and proper... So, why not take your HORSE on holiday with you? What? You might ask! But yes, a horse! Julie and Simon also own a fabulously put together barn containing 6 roomy stables where you could opt to keep your horse (full board or DIY) whilst your stay. And with Harewood Dale being set in the North York Moors National Park, it’s an idilic setting to take any horse to ride and roam through the endless bridleways that lay within it. If you’re intrigued get yourself a look at the website: www.thebarnharwooddale.co.uk Some of the contractors who helped Julie and Simon to complete this beautiful project... Main contractor was AJP Civils Ltd, Scarborough 01723 369954 Windows and finishing joiner was Jack Hallam Joiner, Egton Bridge www.jhallamjoinery.co.uk Kitchen & Sanitaryware supplier - Cleveland Kitchens, Hull www.kitchenshull.co.uk Plumber - Phil France Plumbing & Heating Ltd www.philfrance.co.uk Electrician - Exley Smith Ltd 07540 182893 #wwwpurerenewablescouk #httpwwwprospectdesigncouk #architect #interiordesign #renovationprojects #family #Holidaylets

It’s always fun to try something new, to venture into something a little different, so when I was approached by a local architect and asked if I’d be interested in photographing some of his latest projects obviously I jumped at the chance. Since my husband and I are currently renovating our family home I’m, what you might call, a fan of interior design and because of this and probably because of the fact I love a nosey around beautiful places, I had so much fun! The vendors of this bungalow were chuffed with their end product, after they'd shown me the before photos it was clear to see why! The transformation was a total success, from 1960s/70s bungalow to this... From the grandeur of open vaulted ceilings to home, all in one room. So, a bit about Richard, he owns his own business- Prospect Design - which he founded in 2007. He’s is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, helping his clients design, modernise and build their homes from the beginning to the end of their project. He gives his clients time to walk and talk him through their ideas and then offer his own, making them aware of the pros and cons along the way, his experience being on his and his clients side. This wrap around extension offers warmth, space and comfort with it's easy living open plan space, perfect for the young family that live here. Flooded with natural light from the stunning open roof light and bifold wall, this house is just perfectly set up for both its young family and entertaining. As I found out Richard clearly has an eye for design and has a way with utilising both large and small spaces fitting what his clients require into what they either already have and what they can afford. He makes homes flow and work around their owners/families as they should do. Check out Richard's website to find out more about his services... http://www.prospectdesign.co.uk #photos #interiordesign #architect #renovationprojects

A wedding day jammed full-to-the-brim in every way imaginable, so much love was poured into the preparations, each decoration had been thoughtfully crafted and picked out by both Victoria and Henry, with no corner or table left bare. Form what I can gather, the day before their wedding had been a busy one for them. It was clear how much so, by how well it all worked and went together. The day started, as a harpist played gracefully from under the Willow tree while Victoria approached, beaming, with a parent on each arm, along the candlelit, lantern pathway to meet Henry. Here a Pagan inspired ceremony took place in the shade and of the tree, after saying their vows they preformed a hand fasting tradition, where both sets of parents arose, wrapping the bride and grooms hands thoughtfully in ribbons. This was followed by a blessing where they each drank mead from Bovid’s horns, making great footage for some funky photos. True to form they’d opted out of the traditional canapés, going for ice-cream, sprinkles and sticky, sweet sauces, which the guests (especially the smaller one) relished and enjoyed whilst they mingled and chatted in the beautiful gardens of the hall. They didn’t stop there with their unique and wonderful wedding alternatives and neither did Henry’s best men, when it came to the speeches they pulled it out the hat announcing, “we’re not good at speaking in front of lots of people, so we decided to write a song!” It was fantastic, so much talent as they sang the story of Victoria and Henry’s lives together so far, so full of thought and humour it moved many as well as causing tears of laughter. As every gathered themselves back together it was time for something to eat, but as you guessed it, not a sit down meal, a buffet or BBQ, but…afternoon tea! What a touch, it looked superb, served on vintage tiered cake stands to each and every table. Finally it was time for the entertainment to start, kicking the evening off with garden games and quizzes everyone had a ball and as if that wasn’t enough the groom played live with his band mates as the dance floor was filled with guest ready and eager to dance the evening away. What a ball! It was a honour to capture the story of your day Mrs and Mrs Bird xx #wedding #photos #Foxglove

Well what can a say about this very beautiful and personal day; this gorgeous couple are so 'in love' they made me fall in love with them both too! From their hand-scripted vows, to the top hats and thistles everything was perfect. They had thought of everything, the vows were both beautiful and heart felt with so much humour and charisma, their personalities shone and touched each and every guest in the house. Emma and Duncan had their wedding rings hand-crafted as one offs by one of Emma's oldest friends (Claire Shipley), making them even more special, they had a spectacular, vegan wedding cake made by another friend-Jane and to top it off Emma's hairdressing friend was there at the crack of dawn, to do the brides stunning hair along with her very beautiful bridesmaids. Their guest was, warm and welcoming I was never spare of a friendly face to snap or an ear to chat to, your pictures are stunning and this is down to you guys, here's you online album; https://www.anoifphotography.co.uk/weddings-gallery Check it out and share it with your friends and family. You will need a password, ask Emma or Duncan for this... #wedding #photos #TalbotHotel

And so a door was opened, opened for me by my wonderful husband, who bought me my new baby, my up-to-date full-framed, digital camera. I’ve always loved photography and constantly snap my own children and family, as it grew and as they grow up-there’s nothing better than getting some old photos out-it amuses me for hours. But really this post is to thank all of you lovey people too. You guys out there, who have simply liked my page and shared my posts. You don’t know what your support means; so thank you. Not forgetting them who have let me capture their moment, this is what I love doing the most :) They’re only a tiny particle of your story, but you’ve let me encase them for you and they’re now there for you forever. A moment in time, a look, a laugh, a motion be it in a family session, a wedding or a moment so precious as a new baby entering into a family, words can’t describe how privileged I feel when I get chance to take these. So thank you all too, you make me smile. I’ve spent many contented hours scrolling through these shots editing them and now I have put together some of my favourites to share. It’s been so hard, there’ so many to choose from, that I love equally but decisions sometimes just need to be made. I hope you enjoy. I can’t believe where this year has lead me, I’m excited to enter 2017 to see what unfolds before me. I’m looking forwards to my weddings and family sessions that are already booked and waiting, I can’t wait to work with you all. I’ know this is premature, but this week is busy, busy full of friends and family. All the best to you all for 2017! And again I thank you for your support! :) :) xx #favourite #thankyou #family #wedding #baby #endofyear

So here's a little project I've been working on for a while; it's for a worthy cause and a good friend. All too often we drive and walk though Ryedale on auto-pilot unaware of our surroundings. We take no notice of the landscapes that surround us. However, if for once you just stopped for a moment and pressed that pause button, you'd see it. You'd appreciate the beauty that envelops us; the hills, the trees, the rolling rivers and bubbling becks and then you'd realise...you'd know how lucky you were, how lucky we are to be blessed with this place of natural beauty that we call home. My friend Helen is a member of Frack Free Ryedale, she is totally passionate about our landscapes and is truly thankful that her children were able to grow up in such a beautiful and natural area. Her biggest fear is that one day in the not so distant future, children won't be so lucky, they won't be able to drink in the natural curves and shadows of the landscapes that we have come to take for granted. She fears this, due to the plans for fracking here in Ryedale. If I'm honest I don't know a awful lot about fracking, I don't know the ins and out of it all like she does. However what I do know is that Helen is right! If we don't love and protect our landscapes for as long as humanly possible, t hen we will loose it and it could be forever. This is exactly why I agreed to help Helen out, she wants to raise awareness, to show people what they stand to loose. So I took the opportunity to go and take some photos of our landscapes, to capture it, whilst I still can. This is not something I would usually do and I'm so glad I did. I too am guilty, guilty of not taking as must notice as I should of my surroundings. Sometimes you think you have to travel to see beautiful things we become immune to the things on our doorstep, not anymore-I've had my eyes opened! I's like to take this opportunity to wish you well in your worthy cause Helen, along with the rest of Frack Free Ryedale, who will be holding a stall in Malton Market Place, Saturday 10th December 2016. Here there will be a chance to purchase some beautifully, hand-painted Christmas cards (paint by Helen herself) and the photos above. All proceed =s will be going towards Frack Free Ryedale to help raise awareness of what fracking involves.

I want to celebrate the launch of my website so I'm give you this if you... Book before Octobers out and save £150 on the Foxglove package, this is the best package I offer; You'll get all of the perks of the Daisy and Primrose package, but I will be with you right from the begining of your day to capture those memorable moments. From the Brides hair and makeup to the revealing of the dress, also snaps of the grooms prep too. Then I will capture the magic all day the way to the end when the bride and groom reveal their first dance. ​ You will receive;​ a minimum of 400 images on a USB or CD. An online gallery with a unique passward for you to share with friends and family. Find details of how to contact me on my 'contact' button. Can't wait to hear from you! x #weddingoffer #Save150 #Foxglove

I found this on Pinterest and love the itinerary of this little photographic expedition, so today I set out on a pursuit to complete this to my highest expectations. I will be posting on Facebook and Instagram so please follow me and enjoy my mission unfold. Here's my first image, Day 1 (self portrait) As usual I love feedback and hearing what you think! xx #challenge

For those of you who have already been following me on Facebook, you will know all about my 30 day challenge. For those of you who have not, I will tell you a little about it...After numerous shoots and spending hours sifting through ever last image trying my hardest to narrow them down to the desired amount, I decided to set myself a challenge, a challenge to try and help me do, just that. I thought about self portraits but felt it might be quite a time consuming project for over the summer holidays (I love days out with my two children) and then it dawned on me, I had two, ready made, disposable, 'free' models, Lewis 11 and Natalie 9 my own children. So I asked them if they'd be willing to help me out and they were both more then happy to assist. :) I'm very luck i know. So I decided to choose one portrait a day and not one more, it was tough to start with, however as the days rolled by I found myself making the decisions much quicker and easier than I had done to start with. Not only this I also wanted to make each portrait unique and as different as I could. I found the fact that it was the holidays and we were actively out and about made this quiet achievable, although on the days we did just stay at home I really had to think about this somewhat more. This pushed me, making me think outside the box, using my imagination and seeking inspiration from new technique I felt I was able to expand my knowledge and try out ideas without the worry of a paying client. I love to learn, as they say-every day's a school day! I hope you enjoy looking at them as much I we enjoyed snapping them. I have included below, my favourite along with my most 'liked' photo too. Your comments and opinions matter to me, so please feel free... My most liked photo, taken on my Canon 6D in La Bastide de Virac, France. My favourite of the bunch hands down and soon to be in a frame on my "wall of fame." Taken in a random field near my Mum and Dads, I love it when they laugh. xx #challenge #30days #favourite #mostliked