Addison | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Addison

Danielle and Andrew joined me in the studio back in October. Their sweet Addison had arrived and big sister Veronica came along as well! I often get asked if siblings are able to join in on photos at a newborn session. The quick and easy answer is YES! Absolutely! I always include sibling and/or parent photos in every newborn session that would like them! Veronica got started by playing in the playhouse and exploring the studio a bit and then when she was warmed up, she came right over and jumped in some photos with her new baby sister! Addison was an absolute gem to work with and pulled off each and every setup flawlessly! Now I know you came to see some newborn photos and we’re almost there, but I wanted to share some of what Danielle had to say when asked about her experience.

What was your favorite part about our session together?

“I really enjoyed how Angie took control of the session from the start. She took our daughter and began getting her prepped for the session. My husband and I were looking to have our older daughter in some photos and Angie was extremely patient and flexible. She told us she will start taking the newborn photos and when our older daughter was ready and comfortable enough to be in pictures she would accommodate. When our older daughter was ready, we walked over and Angie stopped what she was doing and got her right in the pictures!”

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

“I felt very unprepared for the photo shoot. I didn’t have outfits picked out or planned. My husband and I were blown away when we saw how many wraps and outfits Angie had to offer for all ages! This immediately calmed my nerves of my pictures coming out terrible because I didn’t plan ahead. Our experience was fantastic. The best part for our older daughter was the little toy kitchen area. That kept her busy while newborn photos were going on. Angie also had a tv on with our daughters favorite show and snacks! Very welcoming for siblings!”

Do you have a favorite photo from your session? If so, which one?

“The pictures of both my daughters together just melts my heart! I also love how Angie captured ONE picture of our newborn smiling!! It’s so hard to capture those moments.”

What would be your advice to someone considering booking with AEP?

“You do not need to bring anything with you to this session!! Angie has everything you need! Maybe a pacifier to calm your newborn through out the session if needed!”

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?  

“Seeing our girl and her heartbeat at every ultrasound appointment!”

Did you have any pregnancy cravings? What were they?

“Chocolate chip pancakes!!”

Do you have other children? How do they react to the pregnancy?

“We have a 2 year old daughter. We would talk to her about her baby sister everyday. Now that she is here, she is the best helper to mommy and daddy!”


What is your best advice to other moms regarding this age?

“Soak up every second! It’s amazing how quick time goes.”


And now, the part you’re really here for…here are some favorites from Addison’s newborn session!

Ainsley | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Ainsley

When Zach and Rebecca reached out about booking a session for their newest baby girl, I was thrilled! Amelia was in the studio last spring and now I had the privilige of capturing sweet Ainsley!

I asked Rebecca a few questions and would love to share what she said with you all!

What was your favorite part about our session together?

“Seeing all the cute outfits Angie picked for our girl! It was also fun getting our first daughter into a few pictures with her new sister.”

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

Angie had done our first baby's newborn shoot, so we knew we wanted her to do the second, too. We wanted the same "tone" to the pictures so we could display them side by side and didn't want to go to another photographer who didn't have the same vision.

Do you have a favorite photo from your session? If so, which one?

Yes! Angie found a beautiful lace wrap with a dusky rose / floral pattern on it and a matching headband and photographed Ainsley in a basket with dusky pink lining - it's BEAUTIFUL.

What would be your advice to someone considering booking with AEP?

If you have any preferences as to how you want your pictures to look, talk to Angie either before or during the session. She's really good about working with your tastes and what you're envisioning for poses/colors/props/etc.

What is the first thing that ran through your mind when you found out you were pregnant?

I was SHOCKED. Our first baby came after years of unexplained infertility, tests, and treatments, and I was not anticipating a second one being so uncomplicated. I found out I was pregnant again when my first baby was six months old.

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?  

This pregnancy was significantly more challenging, as I was already taking care of a baby, but there were plenty of good moments - most memorable was announcing that Amelia, my first daughter, was going to be a big sister and finding out on Christmas morning that we were having another girl! We used hot chocolate bombs with pink marshmallows inside to tell our family members.

Did you have any pregnancy cravings? What were they?

This time around, I loved Taco Bell chicken quesadillas (same as with my first pregnancy) and iced coffees.

Do you have other children? How do they react to the pregnancy?

Yes, I have a fifteen month old named Amelia - she was thrilled when we brought Ainsley home! From the first day we introduced them, Amelia referred to Ainsley as "May May" so that is now her name around the house. Amelia is a great helper and likes to rock her sister in the swing and the car seat, and she helps me change diapers and give bottles. We are working on being "gentle" with the baby, and so far, she's doing a great job!


What was the first thing you thought when you saw your baby for the first time?

I thought she looked exactly like her big sister!


And now, the part you’re really here for…here are some favorites from Amelia’s newborn session!

Rachel & Weston | Lancaster PA Maternity and Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Rachel & Weston

I first met Rachel and Ryan for their maternity photo session. They were busy with new puppies and snuck away for the session. Rachel looked beautiful in every shot and we talked in anticipation of their newborn session. Fast forward a bit and it was time to come back for their newborn session. Weston was wonderful and his session went flawlessly! Ryan and Rachel and their families are big college football fans! Scroll through the favorites to see which team they wanted to feature with Weston’s photos!

Just for fun…here’s some Q&A with Rachel herself:

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

We didn't do much in preparation for the newborn photos besides venture outside the house. We had a great experience; Weston was totally comfortable with her and all the props and outfits. We could not have been happier with the end results!

What would be your advice to someone considering booking with AEP?

Do it! We did maternity and newborn and very thankful we did so we have those memories forever.

Have we done a session together before? If so, why did you decide to book another?

We originally booked as a package but if we didn't we would have definitely rebooked for newborn shots after our fun experience getting maternity shots done in some not so ideal weather.

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?

My pregnancy wasn't easy but having maternity shots done highlighted such a monumental time in our lives as a married couple about to welcome a new family member.

Did you have any pregnancy cravings?

Chick Fil-A everything

And now for the part you’re really here for….here are some favorites from their sessions with me!

Rachel & Stella | Lancaster PA Maternity and Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Rachel & Stella

Where do I begin? When Rachel and Jared told us they were expecting, I may have let out a scream! Rachel is Ben’s younger sister and we have been looking forward to this moment for so long! After their long journey to get to this point, we were all thrilled for them! Fast forward to being able to capture Rachel’s maternity photos as well as Stella’s newborn photos, I was honored! I may be biased, but my niece is the cutest!

We had a lot of fun incorporating Mark (their first baby/fur baby) into their maternity session! Then we included their favorite sports teams into Stella’s session! My kids took advantage of the session to sneak a few extra peeks at their cousin! Let’s just get right to it, shall we?! Here are lots of favorites from Rachel’s maternity session as well as Stella’s newborn session!

Amelia | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Amelia

When Zach and Rebecca reached out about booking a session for their baby girl, I was thrilled! We used to go to church with these two and seeing them become parents was such a joy for me! Their baby girl Amelia is clearly their world…and rightfully so! She is the sweetest!

I asked Rebecca a few questions and would love to share what she said with you all!

What was your favorite part about our session together?
My favorite part was being able to rest and trusting Angie completely with our daughter - changing, posing, adjusting - and knowing she was safe the whole time. Even that two hours gave us a little break from the stress of being newborn parents!

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?
We have known Angie for years and were very comfortable with her skill level and expertise. Before the shoot, we fed our daughter so she was sleepy and cooperative, knowing that even if she wasn't, Angie would be able to work with her anyway. She was the perfect client, and we were all were very happy with how the shoot went and how Angie kept it fun the whole time and worked with props we brought along.

Do you have a favorite photo from your session? If so, which one?

Yes! The pictures with Daddy's bird feathers came out beautifully. I did not even anticipate our daughter looking like an egg in a nest, so that was an awesome surprise - just a testament to Angie's eye!

What is the first thing that ran through your mind when you found out you were pregnant?
I was surprised and relieved and scared all at the same time. We underwent fertility treatments and eventually an IUI procedure and got pregnant on our first round, which I was not expecting, so when the nurse called and told us it had worked and we'd have a baby in nine months, my whole world suddenly changed. I knew my body worked, I was capable of bringing a baby into this world, and that we had gotten what we had prayed for for years!

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?
I was blessed to have a very easy pregnancy, so I really enjoyed it! I loved feeling my daughter kicking and moving around and sharing those moments with her daddy. Watching my bump get a little bigger each week and documenting it in my daughter's baby book was really fun. I also can truthfully say I loved the birth experience, meeting my girl at the end of it, and getting to see my husband become a father.

Did you have any pregnancy cravings?
In the very beginning, I wanted feta cheese on everything. Then I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes around 30 weeks and craved everything I wasn't allowed to have. Taco Bell quesadillas were a favorite throughout my pregnancy, though!

And now, the part you’re really here for…here are some favorites from Amelia’s newborn session!

Emerson & Leona | Lancaster PA Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Emerson & Leona

Twins are always exciting and when Leesha reached out to schedule her maternity and newborn sessions with me, I was thrilled. Her maternity session was magical and the twins session did not disappoint!

Ellie | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

ELLIE

Better late than never, right?! When Lauren & Jeremiah reached out about booking a newborn session for their newest addition, EXCITED is an understatement! I was so happy for them to have another bundle of joy and honored that they chose me to capture her for them! Ellie was due on Christmas so I could relate to Lauren with that because my Sawyer was due and came on 12/23! Ellie ended up arriving a little ealier though! Maddie is the best big sister to sweet little Ellie and capturing them was an absolute joy! Here are some favorites from their session with me!

**Take note of one where Ellie was on the beanbag posing and sweet Maddie came to lay her hand on her as to reassure her that all is well! It was the sweetest moment!!!

Wyatt | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

WYATT

Cheyenne came to be just before her due date and thankfully, I was able to fit them in. I’m so glad it worked out because this family was so easy to work with and fun to chat with! Wyatt was just the sweetest and slept through his whole session. We finished everything in record time and the photos turned out wonderful! I will of course share some favorites, but first, here is a little Q&A with Cheyenne.

What was your favorite part about our session together?
Everything, watching my newborn smile and her capturing us and him.

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out? 
Our experience was great. She knew her stuff, was quick, didn’t have to think, and was gentle with my son. The photos were AMAZING!!!!!

What is the first thing that ran through your mind when you found out you were pregnant?
Finally!! I am so excited and happy!!

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?
Feeling him kick. Rubbing my belly, not getting morning sickness.

Did you have any pregnancy cravings? What were they?
Rice crispy treats, lol, but I really wanted Savory foods.

Beckett | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth Photography

BECKETT

Ashleigh first came to me back in 2016 (I think?) when her and Trevor were expecting their second child. They returned for more photos and then moved away for a few years. I was obviously thrilled to find out they moved back to PA and were expecting another sweet babe! This family is seriously the best and every session together just feels like hanging out with friends! Here are some favorites from Ashleigh’s latest maternity session as well as Beckett’s newborn session. Yes, these were from earlier this year. Yes, I have been a serious slacker with blogging. I’m sorry! I will try very hard to do better! Enjoy!

Rose | Lancaster Newborn Photographer

ROSE

Elizabeth reached out to me before the pandemic and had her sweet baby Rose right in the middle of it all. On top of that, Rose had to spend some time in the NICU since she came quite early and was only 3.8 pounds. I cannot even imagine how difficult that truly was for them. I was so excited when she reached out again that she was ready to try for a newborn session. Rose was six weeks old by then, but since she was not at her gestational age yet, she was still itty bitty and a great sleeper! I can’t wait to share my favorites from her session! First, here is a little Q&A I did with Elizabeth.

What was your favorite part about our session together?
How sweet and gentle you were with our baby and how much she loved being swaddled.

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?
I had a lot of complications which were very frightening but otherwise I loved being pregnant and feeling her kick, especially.

Did you have any pregnancy cravings?
Eggs, peanut butter, and tacos. I was never sick.

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out? 
This was one of our first outings after she got home from the NICU and we were nervous about taking her out but SO excited. It turned out beautifully and was so relaxing.

And now for the part you came for….photos from Rose’s sweet newborn session!

Marabelle | Lancaster Newborn Photographer

Marabelle

Marabelle is my sweet niece who is now no longer a newborn (whoops), but I felt her session still deserved to hit the blog! She is a rainbow baby and the sweetest little sister to her bigger brothers. She fits into our giant cousin crew (now nine kiddos) perfectly and I, for one, cannot wait to see the young woman she grows up to be! Now for the fun part, here are some favorites from her session!

Alexander | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth Photography

Alexander

Alison reached out to me just before Christmas and we were able to get her and Alex in at the beginning of the new year. He was the first newbie in the studio in 2020 and did a great job for his session!

Now, enjoy some favorites from Alexander’s session!

A Birth Story | Isabel Marie | Angie Englerth Photography

Where do I begin? I suppose our birth story begins right around 37 weeks. I began having contractions that I originally assumed were Braxton Hicks. They were consistent and strong so we made the decision to go into triage (those of you who are local understand the 222 trouble lately so we didn’t want to wait too long to get in). Long story short, it was a false alarm. Fast forward a few days and I’m still experiencing contractions, but also intense back pain. We went into triage again, again it was a false alarm. The following day, contractions are still strong and consistent, but this time we wait to be seen in the office. The car ride is misery and when we finally get there, I am bent over in so much pain. I will shorten the story as best I can to spare you the details. The midwife checked me and I was barely dilated. After more questions and examining, she suspected something related to the kidney or bladder and sent me over to triage…..my third visit in a week. This time, they ordered an ultrasound of my kidneys and bladder and discovered I had Hydronephrosis, or a swollen kidney. This explained all my pain and they suspected my body was contracting as a reaction to the pain. It took about a week and a half to recover, but I was finally feeling okay again. Then, two days before my due date, contractions started again. Back to triage we go. Again, they sent me home. The next day, I cleaned the house top to bottom - like on my hands and knees scrubbing the floor kind of cleaning. I couldn’t sleep that night because the contractions were getting stronger. Ben woke up for work at 5:00 and could tell things were picking up. He left for work and told me to keep him updated.

I did not want to get sent home from triage again so I did everything I could to stop the contractions. I took a warm bath, chugged a ton of water, laid down and put my feet up, but alas, they were getting much more intense and close together. I labored as long as I could, but when Jackson began to appear worried about me, I knew I had to make the call. The midwife told me to come in for a labor check. Ben was ready to leave work, but wouldn’t make it home in time to get me in to see the midwife. Lucky for me, I am blessed with sweet friends and family in my life and one of these friends didn’t hesitate to jump in her car and head over. She was at my house in less than ten minutes, packed up the boys and started driving us in. She was timing my contractions the whole ride and by the time we arrived, they were a solid three minutes apart and I was not able to talk through them. She dropped me at the door and took the kids to play at the mall for a bit. Ben was on his way so I just went in to get started. Fast forward a bit, I was 5 cm and fully effaced! I broke down in tears just relieved to not be sent home again. They brought Ben back to me when he arrived and off to triage we went again.

It took some time for a delivery room to open up and for them to get my IV started so there I was in triage breathing through contractions as best I could, but I was so ready for that epidural. Once I got to my room, got the epidural and was checked, I was 7 cm. The midwife broke my water and then we waited and rested. My nurses (shout out to the awesome nurses at Women & Babies!!!) had been with me from the start of their shift and would be leaving at 7:00 so the running joke was that we had to get her out by then so they could meet her.

It was probably around 6:30 I started feeling lots of pressure and let my nurse know. It was time! I was 10 cm and ready to go! The midwife was with another mama at the time so she told my nurses to help me with a practice push. Ben was on my right and my nurse was on my left. Here we go….I began pushing, but immediately was met with wide eyes from both of them and being told firmly to “Stop, stop pushing.” Apparently, Isabel was ready to come out and didn’t want to wait any longer. (She had made her appearance during that practice push, but we didn’t have our midwife in the room yet). Our midwife came in and quickly got ready. I had to breathe through the next contraction which proved to be very challenging. Then when the midwife gave the go ahead, I gave a big old push and Isabel joined us…at 7:01….just in time to meet the sweet nurses that had supported me all day. After pushing for over two hours with each of the boys, one push was a pleasant surprise. She was absolutely perfect and hung out on my chest for the next hour.

We arranged for the boys to come in right away to meet her and let me just say, there is nothing sweeter as a parent than watching your children become big siblings. Jackson was in awe and kept loving and kissing on her. Sawyer wanted to snuggle and hold her right away. The night will not leave my memory anytime soon. We were a finally a family of five and I can’t explain the feeling that rushed over Ben and I of feeling complete - as if Isabel was always meant to be ours, we just needed to trust God’s timing.

I have shared so much of our journey from our miscarriages to secondary infertility to my tumor and so much more. I pray that somehow our story can encourage another mama out there and if you are currently struggling with infertility or anything for that matter that is challenging to you and your family, please know we are praying for you. We are on the other end of it now, but going through it, I remember all to well the raw feelings and emotions. I am so grateful for the family God has blessed me with and I promise you that I am not taking a single day of it for granted.

Now for some fun…here are some shares from our hospital stay (phone pictures) and then some of my captures of Isabel in the studio.

Theodore | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth Photography

Theodore

When Jenna first told me about her pregnancy, I may have let out a little squeal! I have had the pleasure of working with Jenna since she was a mom of two and now she has FOUR beautiful blessings! Theodore was so mellow for his session and his older siblings just adored him which made for smooth sailing when it came to pictures! Here’s a little Q&A with Jenna and then some favorites from his session!

Please tell me some small details of your birthing process. When did you go into labor? Time of birth? Who all was at the hospital with you?

We decided to keep this pregnancy a secret from family and friends. I had a lot of health issues and we thought we were going to loose him that were unrelated to my health issues. We didn’t want to worry anyone. Let’s just say everyone was shocked after he was born! We had a c section scheduled at 36 weeks  and he was born at 2:25pm. Since it was a surprise, it was just my husband and I.

What was the first thing you thought when you saw your baby for the first time?

I was really worried if he would have to go to the NICU since his sister was also born at 36 weeks and needed to. He ended up needing to go and I was so emotional since I knew the road we had ahead of us.

What was your favorite part about our session together?

My favorite part was knowing that Angie was capturing these precious moments and of course catching up with her!

Do you have a favorite image from your session? Was there any favorite setups or props used?

There are so many to choose! I love the ones with one of the kids and him. They show there personalities and how in love they are with him.

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

I was worried about what everyone was going to wear and having the time to actually fix myself up. That comes very rarely now a days! I also was hoping everyone was going to behave since I have four kids. Thank you Angie for the candy! They all did wonderfully!

What would be your advice to someone getting newborn photographs taken?

To try and relax and know you are in good hands. Angie takes so many different photos that there are many to choose from. It’s always so hard to decide!

Do you have other children? How do they react to the new baby? Feel free to share a little about them here.

I have three other children besides him, four total. They all want to help and hold him. The last two are 18 months apart and she is constantly loving up on him, kisses galore! I’m really lucky they have all been so good with him.

Anything else you'd like to add about your session and final images?

They all were so precious! And now I have them to look back on for years to come. Thank you, Angie

Now, enjoy some favorites from Theodore’s session!

Jenna | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth Photography

Jenna

Devon reached out to me early on in her pregnancy about a newborn session. I was thrilled because way back in 2014 when I first started my business, I captured their engagement pictures. I was honored they sought me out to now capture their first baby’s newborn photos. Jenna was awesome for her session and barely made a fuss! I asked Devon some questions about her experience and here is what she had to say:

Please tell me some small details of your birthing process. When did you go into labor? Time of birth? Who all was at the hospital with you?

I went in on December 27th to be induced for medical reasons. Jenna was born two days later via c-section at 4:50pm. My husband David was with me when she was born, but my mom And in-laws where at the hospital with us.

What was the first thing you thought when you saw your baby for the first time?

I couldn’t believe how alert she was! As soon as the nurse put Jenna on my chest We Locke’s eyes and it was the most incredible feeling ever. She was her safely and she was wide awake and looked right at me.

What was your favorite part about our session together?

I loved how sweet Angie was with Jenna. She worked with whatever Jenna was willing to give her. She captured all of the sweetness of her newborn smirks and was so patient.

Do you have a favorite image from your session? Was there any favorite setups or props used?

My favorite image is the naked one that is focused on Jenna’s face. She was on the beanbag with a coral headband on. My favorite prop was the tiny wooden drawer.

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

We prepared by following Angie’s instructions, we absolutely loved our experience, because we had worked with Angie before we weren’t nervous or worried at all. We just love how all of the images turned out!

What would be your advice to someone getting newborn photographs taken?

Do it! After getting our photos done, I think it was so worth the price! We’ll cherish these images forever!

Now, enjoy some favorites from Jenna’s session!

Adelaide | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth Photography

Adelaide

This summer was the summer of girls and Adelaide was one of them! She was a rock star and slept through the majority of her session. Her big brother and sister were excited to be a part of it all as well. I had the privilege of photographing all three of Nate and Alyssa's beautiful children and I can't even put into words how much that means to me. To be trusted with anyone's newborn pictures is an honor I do not take lightly. I can't believe I waited so long to blog Adelaide's session because there are just so many to share! Take a look for yourself! 

A Very Special Rainbow Maternity Project by Angie Englerth | Lancaster PA Photographer

A Rainbow Maternity Project

A Labor of Love

I can hardly believe this project is ready to be shared. This has been a labor of love for the past four months now. I cannot thank the mamas who participated enough for being vulnerable and sharing their stories. What a blessing this project has been on my heart and I pray it is a blessing to all of you reading this as well.

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness

In October 1988, President Ronald Reagan Proclaimed October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. “When a child loses his parent, they are called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn’t a word to describe them. This month recognizes the loss so many parents experience across the United States and around the world. It is also meant to inform and provide resources for parents who have lost children due to miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, stillbirth, birth defects, SIDS and other causes."

Finding Healing

This cause is so heavy on my heart because I personally have suffered two miscarriages through my journey of motherhood. I know too well the deep pain that comes along with that and the anxiety that accompanies a following pregnancy. It is a gut wrenching, nerve wrecking kind of anxiety. The kind that prevents you from truly being able to enjoy your pregnancy. It is unexplainable to someone who has not experienced it. The uncertainty of whether or not this pregnancy will last. The constant worry that runs through your mind of what that little twinge was or why you haven't felt a kick yet today. It is debilitating at times.

So where do we go from here? How does one who has suffered a pregnancy loss or infant death find healing? I feel it is with each other. Unfortunately, though it's so far from deserved, there is such shame that accompanies pregnancy and infant loss. "What did I do wrong?"  We, as women, all women should share our experiences together and encourage one another through the process. Sometimes all it takes is someone just to be there. You don't need to say anything. You don't need to do anything. Just be present. Wrap your arms around your friend, daughter, sister, whoever is going through this pain and let them know you are there. There simply are no words that will make it "okay", but I do feel there is such healing in sharing.

A Rainbow Baby

A "rainbow baby" is a baby that is born following a pregnancy or infant loss. In the real world, a beautiful and bright rainbow follows a storm and gives hope of things getting better. The rainbow is more appreciated having just experienced the storm in comparison. The storm (pregnancy loss) has already happened and nothing can change that experience. Storm-clouds might still be overhead as the family continue to cope with the loss, but something colorful and bright has emerged from the darkness and misery.  

A Very Special Project

This project has been in the works for many months now. Seven beautiful and brave women participated to show off their beautiful rainbow baby bumps. Each of these women have experienced their own struggles with loss and every single one of them is expecting a precious little rainbow baby. We even had one of the babies arrive already (I will definitely be sneaking in an image of here later on so keep reading)! This group of women, who didn't know each other before the project, have a special bond because of what they've all experienced. Some of them have shared their stories below. I encourage you to take the time to read through them!

The Stories

Jessica

Our journey to parenthood started in March of 2015. We had been struggling to conceive for a little over 6 years at that point. We had an appointed with my OB and she referred us to Lancaster Fertility. That day was extremely hard and emotional. What woman ever wants to hear that something is wrong and they can't have a child. After extensive testing we found out that we both had an issue and that we definitely came to the right place. Once all of our testing was complete we were finally ready to start having a baby! I started on clomid and we started our first round of IUI. IUI is the medical term for artificial insemination. We were told that the more you do IUI the higher your chances are. So after our first failed IUI we decided to have another go at it. Much to our surprise it was successful!!! My heart was just bursting with excitement and tears that we were finally having a baby! Almost 2 weeks after our positive blood test I started to fall very ill. I was having severe cramping and was barely able to walk. Since it was August we went to the beach for a long weekend. Well much to my surprise I started to miscarry in the early hours of the morning. My husband rushed me to the ER and unfortunately we weren't close to home and with being a Fertility patient the doctor and nurses at the hospital didn't quite know what to do. We fast forward 4 days later and we have a check up with our Fertility doctor after our horrible news. Here I was not having a normal miscarriage, I actually had an ectopic pregnancy. Because of how much pain I was in I was told that I would need to have emergency surgery to have the embryo removed. So off I went and just like that my baby was taken away from me. That very day was the worst day of my life. After a couple months of healing and dealing with the struggle of losing our child we decided to continue treatments. We were told that we could continue with IUI but instead of clomid I would have to be on injectable medication because they had to remove one of my tubes. We proceeded to do IUI 3 morning times with no success. At that point our only option was to try IVF. We had our IVF consult on January 2017 and started the process in February. What a long and extensive process that was!! Early March we had our egg retrieval and 3 days later we had our transfer. We had 2 successful embryos and the decision was made to transfer them both. As an IVF patient you still have to wait the dreadful 2 week wait. Fast forward to March 20th. First day of spring. The day we were going to find out if we were having a baby!! I went in for bloodwork in the morning and wouldn't know the results until the afternoon. I remember getting that phone call like it was yesterday. Yay we are pregnant!!! And then came the dreadful "but". We got a positive test but my levels were very low. There was concerns that the embryo or embryos wouldn't make it. The decision was made to increase my meds and have bloodwork done every other day. The next 48 hours were the longest hours of my life. Thankfully the next test showed that my levels doubled which was they needed to see. I continued to go back in every other day to make sure my levels were rising. After a couple weeks we finally graduated from our Fertility doctor!! After almost exactly 2 years we were graduating and on our journey to having a baby. Today we are 7 weeks away and he will be arriving November 20, 2017.

Melanie

I first got pregnant in December 2014, but miscarried after 9 weeks.  It was a devastating loss, but luckily I got pregnant again in April 2015 and had our daughter Celia Lucy (CeCe) in January 2016!  I then got pregnant again in February 2017, and our second girl, Sienna Aurora is due this month, October 2017.  We are over-the-moon happy to welcome her into our family very soon.  My husband and I are very thankful to have CeCe with us and Sienna on the way.

Emily

My husband and I first got pregnant in the fall of 2014. We were overjoyed and excited - considering that it only took a few months of trying! We made it all the way to our first ultrasound appointment when I was 6 weeks along. During the ultrasound I knew something was wrong when the technician left suddenly. She came back and confirmed I had a blighted-ovum. A what?! Basically that means that a sperm and egg met up but no baby formed. Everything else formed and looked perfect but no baby. They told me to wait a week to come back and confirm. I then endured the longest week of my life. I never prayed so hard or cried so much. God, please let there be a baby in there next week. Next week came and no baby. I was told I would have to wait for my body to miscarry. So for the next three weeks I waited. The miscarriage was traumatic and I had to go to the ER due to massive blood loss. After that happened I got really sick and had a blood infection which lead to infected kidney stones and an infected bladder. I was hospitalized for five days. Because I had to have procedures to remove the kidney stones I was not allowed to get pregnant. Torture. We could not even TRY. When I was finally cleared to try again it took an entire year to get pregnant again. I do not know why I did not seek additional medical help at the time but I remember being so certain we could do this ourselves. In April 2016 I was pregnant again. This time we kept it to ourselves and told no one. Everything was fine until week 5. I started bleeding. I told my husband "I know what is happening, I am having a miscarriage." He did not believe me but when the bleeding got so bad we went to a local triage. After being poked and prodded nurses confirmed I had miscarried. We cried. Hard. We did not understand why God took this baby too. What were we doing wrong? Was it my fault? It had to be. So, we kept on trying for about 6 months with no luck. I finally decided to take the next step and go to seek a fertility specialist. Again, we were poked and prodded. I was monitored so closely and some weeks I was in multiple days. We found out that our two pregnancies were actually miracles because they technically should not have happened considering the issues we had facing us. I found out that I could carry a pregnancy but we definitely needed help. We sought treatment for almost 6 months when I got the phone call I was pregnant. I dropped to my knees and sobbed because I knew that with all the interventions we were getting this pregnancy was going to last. I cried again but this time the happiest tears. We were going to finally start our family. So far my pregnancy has been completely healthy and even on the bad days I love it more than words. We are so blessed to be pregnant and I hope that my pregnancy goes quickly so I can meet my little rainbow.

Megan

When I found out I was pregnant with our little man due this October, it was an answered prayer. Last fall we lost our baby only weeks after knowing he or she existed. It was the longest and most painful few weeks I've ever been through. Excitement from seeing a heartbeat led to weeks of bleeding followed with questions of whether or not my baby was still in my womb. My heart broke when I went in for a check up after hoping and praying my little one was still there only to find my babe finished passing while I was in office. We chose to participate in a communal burial- an opportunity I was very thankful for. We were blessed to get pregnant again within a few months with our rainbow baby on the way. It was a time of growth and testing. My faith was stretched as I had to choose faith daily over the fear of loss again and the fear of not being able to conceive. I look forward to seeing Baby T, our little one in heaven, and anticipate with a happy heart the arrival of baby Cole this October.

Bethany

Angela

We weren't planning another pregnancy when we got pregnant with the child we miscarried, and we weren't planning our rainbow baby either. We actually got pregnant right after our miscarriage, and after a few weeks my hormone levels were still present, so I called my OBGYN. The doctor thought I hadn't miscarried completely (I opted for a natural miscarriage) and told me I should probably plan for a D&E. However, we tested my hormone levels 48 hours later and found that they had doubled (which indicates a new pregnancy!), so instead we scheduled an ultrasound and there was a sweet little heartbeat and a bean measuring around 5.5 weeks! Not going to lie, we weren't mentally prepared to welcome a new child into our family at the time and there was a lot of fear and anxiety surrounding the beginning of our rainbow pregnancy (what if we lose this one too? I'm still grieving my other baby, how can I celebrate this new one and continue my grieving process simultaneously? I'm still breastfeeding, how will this affect my older child?), but Holy Spirit gave us two verses during this time - the first was actually given to us by a friend when we found out about our miscarriage: Isaiah 66:9 - "'I will not cause pain without allowing something new to be born', says the Lord". This verse really touched our hearts, even though we didn't think our "something new" would come so quickly! We actually have a swaddle for our sweet little lady with this verse written on it. The second was Isaiah 43:19 - "For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness and rivers in the dry wasteland." This verse is especially close to us now that we can look back at the dark time of discovering our child didn't have a heartbeat and the consecutive pregnancy that quickly followed. Because a pregnancy is measured from the first day of a woman's last period (and I didn't have a period in between pregnancies) the "first day" of this new pregnancy was actually the last day of my miscarried pregnancy and is such a testament that even in the middle of our hardest, darkest times God is already creating something new and beautiful out of our pain and brokenness. The names we chose for our tiny babe (though they will remain a secret until she arrives!) actually mean beauty through pain and darkness. We absolutely can't wait to welcome our sweet rainbow baby and all the beauty she will bring to our family!

Danielle
We knew that conceiving would probably be difficult for my husband and I because I have many autoimmune issues. When we found out with our first baby, we were so ecstatic! The two pink lines were there, and from that moment, we were in love. Shortly after we found out we were pregnant, we were told that it probably wouldn't be a successful pregnancy. We lost our first baby at Thanksgiving. Our holidays were so hard. We had hope that 2017 would be our year. At the end of January, we found out that we were pregnancy again. This time, we were cautious. Especially since our first ultrasound showed an empty sac. The doctors prepared us for another loss. One week later, we saw a strong, beating heart on the ultrasound. My husband and I, along with our ultrasound tech, let out a sigh of relief. It was finally real. We have been so in love with our little girl! We have decorated her nursery using elephants and gotten tons of clothes with them which helps us to remember our baby in Heaven.

What does this project mean to you?

Jessica - "To me this series shows the babies we never got to hold. It shows the strength that myself and these women have to overcome one of the hardest things in life. Our rainbow babies will never replace what we have lost but will bring us joy of what we have fought so hard for. The struggle with infertility and miscarriage are way to common and just not talked about enough. I'm living proof that if you really want something bad enough God will provide in one way or another."

Megan - "I am thankful to be apart of this project because I believe it celebrates the lives of the babies that are not with us while celebrating the fulfillment of a promise found in the life of a rainbow baby. We will always cherish our little one that we will never get to hold and share our love with earth side, while we embrace the opportunity to love more fiercely then ever as we fully recognizing the true miracle of life. I am thankful this project sheds the shame that can be associated with miscarriages and celebrates the beauty of life after loss."

Emily - "It's a celebration. I am getting emotional just knowing that all the other women are rainbow mommy's too. It shows empowerment. It shows that there is healing and hope even in a storm. It shows that we are strong women who can overcome the most devastating loss. I hope it touches other women and we can continue to create conversations about loss and miscarriages because it does happen and women should not feel alone. I am honored to be a part of this and I pray it touches others."
 

Melanie - "It feels like a really nice way to honor the babies that we conceived but couldn't bring into this world, as well as to celebrate how lucky we are to be the parents of rainbow babies!"
Danielle - "I never wanted maternity pictures. I have always thought that I had the body type that would make it hard to tell that I was pregnant, so the thought of displaying those insecurities seemed awful. Multiple coworkers urged me to participate in this project. When I read more about Angie's vision and goal, I felt like I could find healing with this project. I never felt as beautiful as I did the day I had my pictures taken. And I finally could think about our baby and smile. My husband was so grateful that Angie's project could make me feel this way."

Our first Rainbow Baby born out of the project

"The day that Isla arrived was the most wonderful day of our lives. We had to be induced at 36 weeks, which can make baby's adjustment to the outside world more challenging. Our little miracle baby has been happy and healthy since her very first breath, thriving on the outside. We couldn't be happier for each snuggle, each dirty diaper, every tear, every gassy smile. To us she is perfect." -Danielle

This project was also featured on the local news! Check out that clip here.

Sister Session | Lancaster, Berks & Lebanon Child Photographer | Angie Englerth

Emma & Lillian

I am spoiled to have friends with daughters (since I only have boys!) and I get to play around with them every once in awhile. When Lisa asked me to update her girls' photo, I immediately knew what I wanted to do. So we got these matching rompers from Country Couture & Co and took the girls to the creek. Lily was not super into it, but it definitely didn't translate into *most* of the photos. (Anyone with a two year old knows how that goes!)

Lisa said, "I love how you went with the flow because Lillian was not buying it that evening. You still captured great photos and we love them all. I obviously love the pictures when you see the sister bond, but I like the individual ones of the girls by themselves. Thanks again for capturing the little girlies!!!