Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens Senior Session | Wynne Kelly

There are some families that hold such a special place in my heart, and the Kelly family is one of them. I’ve had the honor of photographing some of their biggest milestones over the years. From her dad and stepmom’s wedding at Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens in 2020 to her sister’s senior session a few years back. So when it came time for Wynne’s turn in front of the camera, it felt like catching up with old friends.

This Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens senior session was everything I love about senior portraits: personal, creative, and filled with touches that made it uniquely her.

A Session Filled with Heart and Personality

From the very beginning, Wynne brought so much of herself into her session. She’s sweet, thoughtful, and full of curiosity. The kind of person who lights up when she talks about the things she loves.

And she made sure her session reflected that! As an active member of her school’s FFA program, Wynne proudly wore her FFA jacket for a few photos, showing off a piece of something that’s been such a big part of her high school journey.

But my favorite detail? The little shark and fish clips she wore in her hair. A nod to her love of marine life and her future plans to study marine biology in college. It was such a creative touch that made her session feel truly her own.

Golden Light, Books, and a Touch of Whimsy

We had the most beautiful light for her session. The kind of golden sunset that slowly shifts into a soft, cloudy glow. It felt cozy and calm, the perfect backdrop for each of her outfits.

She started in a white dress and denim vest (and added her FFA jacket for a few special shots) and then changed into a colorful quilt-patterned skirt that was made for the willow tree we found on the property. She brought along some of her favorite books and sat down to read. Those moments might be some of my favorites of the night – peaceful, joyful, and so her.

Wynne also rocked a blue and white checkered dress with cowgirl boots (the perfect mix of country and charm!) and ended in a relaxed look with jeans and a pink striped sweater. Each outfit told a little part of her story – from her love of agriculture to her dream of exploring the ocean.

A Full-Circle Moment at Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens

It’s always special photographing seniors, but this one meant even more. Coming back to Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens, the same place where I photographed her dad and stepmom’s wedding, felt like coming full circle.

Capturing this next milestone for the Kelly family was such a gift. And seeing how much Wynne has grown into her passions, her confidence, and her joy was just the icing on the cake.

Wynne, thank you for trusting me with your senior photos. I’m so excited to see where your next adventure takes you. I have no doubt it’ll be something amazing.

XOXO ~ Heather Marie