Ariana's Sweet 16

Two years ago, my parents moved to a beautiful new home, on a quaint block in a Ryan Homes development in Egg Harbor Township, N.J. It was then that my family and I met the Rosenbergs, who live next door, and it's today that we have four amazing friends in Andy and Marcela, and their two children, Brandon and Ariana. So, when I was asked to shoot Ariana's Sweet 16, I was thrilled, and also very touched and honored.

Friday was the big event, held at the Blue Heron Pines Golf Club in Cologne., N.J. Ariana looked absolutely beautiful, and was smiling from ear to ear, as she enjoyed the company of her friends and family, all their for her special night. The food and cake were delicious, and everyone had a blast on the dance floor, thanks to Joe Albano of Steve and Company disc jockeys.

All in all the party was a sweet success!

The pillars near the front entrance provided

a great spot for the first portrait of the night.

A simple, yet beautiful close-up.

To achieve a nice portrait, the subject

doesn't always have to be looking

straight into the lens.

I told Ariana to have some fun in this shot!

Ariana is so photogenic, and

without even trying. This is such

a soft and sweet pose, and it's

written all over her face.

Such a happy family!


A traditional , but terrific brother and sister shot.

They have such great smiles!


The party's theme was Mardi Gras, and the beads

made for a nice shot of the place cards.

To continue the theme, the tables

were draped in gold and the napkins were purple.

She may be 16, but she's still their little girl!


This shot was composed by my sister Erin, and I,

at our table, which was 8. It makes for a nice image

to remember the overall theme of the party.

The first dance of the night was

the father-daughter dance to "Butterfly Kisses."

I love the emotion captured on Andy's face.


After dancing with her father, her grandfather

and brother were invited onto the floor as well.

The birthday girl and her cousin.

My sister, Erin, looked great in one

of the Mardi Gras masks that were given out.

She also looked fab in this funky, green hat!

This shot was taken using a "sneak attack" approach.

I quickly and quietly moved toward the table and

then crouched down hoping the girls wouldn't notice me.

They didn't! Even as the flash went off, they didn't flinch!

Funny, right? Where would we be today without text messaging?! :)

The chocolate fondue table was also quite popular!

This photo is one I didn't intend to get, but as

the candles burned during Ariana's speech,

I couldn't help myself. I love it and am glad I did.


Happy Sweet 16 Ariana! (Don't you love

how the flames are leaning toward the right?!)