In Celebration of Baby Girl Rigling

“I’m planning my oldest daughter’s baby shower,” he said. “Its my first grandchild… so it’s going to be a huge baby shower. I am engaged to a wonderful woman. I have three daughters, their mother passed away over ten years ago. What doesn’t break you, makes you stronger.”

I don’t photograph a lot of miscellaneous events often, but when Dan wrote to me and told me about his family, and when I met with him and Michelle to discuss details and their story, I was struck by the overwhelming feeling of family and perseverance, authentic and unconditional love resonating in their words and actions.

“There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues, the most dominating virtues of human, are created, strengthened and maintained.” 
Winston Churchill

I really believe that their collective life experiences have strengthened their family, instilling in future generations a virtue of unconditional, abounding love and acceptance that can’t be taught or faked. Family.

The proud, soon-to-be grandpa didn’t hold back when planning this baby shower for Brittany and John. They held the shower at The Castaways Riverside Restaurant on Oneida Lake in Central Square. Cupcakes, full candy bar, games & prizes, DJ…down to even the last flower in each arrangement– it all had special meaning and was coordinated by Dan & Michelle.

 

 

The flowers were arranged in little baby carriages by Gardens of Venus. Dan chose specific flowers for special meanings. The white rose is for the baby- for purity and innocence. The first red rose is for mommy- for love, courage and beauty. The pink rose is for daddy- for friend, appreciation, and admiration. The second red rose is for both parents to be- for congratulations. The iris is for faith, hope and wisdom. The lilies are for high hopes, optimism and limitless possibilities. 

 

Rob Wucher (let me know if you want his phone number to check his availability for your event!) provided music and entertainment with his U.R. A Star Karaoke and DJ service. 

 

There is something extra special about a couple that can easily make each other laugh. John and Brittany, may you guys never, ever, lose that in your relationship. Your new daughter will learn heaps about love and life just from that infectious laughter her parents foster in their relationship.

Dan and Michelle had all these fun games for guests to play, including a The Price Is Right guessing game for each table. 

Many thanks to the Leblancs and Riglings for inviting and welcoming me into their families as they celebrated the anticipated arrival of the first grand baby. She’s a lucky girl, entering into a family with mountains of love for her.

-K