They named him River, and it couldn’t have been more fitting, more perfect.

Mariah and Forest are two of the most laid back people I’ve ever met (and I’ve known Mariah for most of my life!). This has translated into their parenting style in such a beautiful way. They hold River with such a sweet reverence, the baby that came into their life at the perfect time (after over a decade of being together!).

I adore these film images of their newborn session in their home outside of Richmond (overlooking the James…so appropriate for sweet River!). His toes are so tiny, and the way his mama kisses his little fingers melts me. Mariah and Forest spent time intentionally creating a room for him that reflects their laid-back style, with a few modern nods (I love the name board they chose to hang on the wall!). Some sentimental heirlooms made their way onto his shelves as well, including portraits of Forest’s beloved, late mother when she was a child, and baby shoes once worn by Mariah’s daddy.