Before I get into the adorable details of Kayla and Chris’s desert maternity session, let give you a little backstory about how I know this gorgeous mama-to-be. Kayla and I met in 2005. We were both preparing to compete in the Miss Arizona USA 2006 pageant. We were roommates during pageant weekend.
I don’t even know if I’ve told Kayla this, but in my private interview for the pageant, one of the judges asked me, “If you couldn’t win the pageant, who would you want to win?”
“Kayla!” I said, without hesitation. And I went on to describe how humble, kind, selfless, and beautiful she is. (Obviously! Just look at her!)
While I happened to win the crown that weekend, Kayla went on to win Miss Arizona United States (Different pageants. Different systems.) and Miss United States in 2006!!
She and her amazing mama now co-own the absolute best gown shop in Arizona, Glam Squad. As a pageant coach, I know I can send my clients into Glam Squad and they’ll get incredible service, fabulous selection, and a hug before they walk out the door.
Now let’s get back to this stunning golden hour session in the desert. Kayla just so happened to schedule her session for Monday, November 6. Little did she know that that exact date was the date that she and I shared the stage during the Miss Arizona USA pageant 12 years ago. Twelve!! I really can’t believe it’s been that long!
Kayla met her prince, Chris, got engaged (at Disneyland!), and will be celebrating their first wedding anniversary this December! Their baby girl is due to arrive around January 11, which…get this…is the same date that Kayla’s mom was due to deliver Kayla! How awesome is that!? Kayla ended up being born on January 22, so maybe she and her princess may just share the same birthday!
She and Chris have chosen a name for their daughter but are keeping it a surprise. My husband and I did the same thing when our kids were born and it was so fun to announce our kids’ names after they were born!
Kayla and Chris, you two are just the sweetest and I’m so thankful and honored that you would trust me to capture these super special photos for you. I cannot wait to see what name you’ve decided for your Princess Baby. She is so blessed to have you as her parents! xoxo, Brenna
Kayla’s makeup by Nicole Smith.