As a photographer and creative (Emily Beth Photo), is always looking for ways to grow in an ever evolving industry. It has been a goal of hers to work with an elderly couple because – as I think we can all agree – we don’t see enough of this beautiful demographic. While scrolling through her stories on good old Instagram, Emily stopped dead in my tracks when she saw this sweet couple. They were absolutely still bubbling with the love that we all experience in the beginning of our relationships. Their smiles were contagious; as was their joy. Keep reading to hear the story of this amazing couple and see the inspirational photos. This amazing couple’s full gallery is a must see!
I immediately reached out to the individual who posted their photo. “Who are they? They are just the sweetest two I’ve ever laid eyes on!” “This is Joe and Flo! They are my grandparents! We’re all pretty obsessed with them. They’re like this all the time and they’ve been married for over 60 years.” I had to ask: “Would they be interested in having their photos taken? I have been wanting to work with an older couple -it would be an absolute JOY to capture them!” After some major changes and my creative husband coming up with an idea to make the whole shoot about their young love with a classic spin, I had the idea of creating a theme around Disney’s “Up” – the shoot, literally, was off and away.
Our makeup artist Alexis Islas – or Lexi – was going to do a classic look with a red lip. Amber of Amber Cakes, Cookies And More created an entire charcuterie board-all made with cookies, as well as “Up” themed cookies and cookies that looked like polaroid photos of Joe and Flo from their younger years. The florals I wanted to be just as colorful as their love and the rest of the shoot. April of Sonder Floral absolutely nailed it and tied it in with bold, cheerful blooms that could not have been more perfect. Their outfits were personal pieces from their closets, my closet, my husband’s closet, thrifted finds, and a dress we found online. I purchased the “Grape Soda” pins on Etsy and the props were thrift finds, as well.
The backdrop was provided by the “newly renovated to look older” Watson’s Soda Fountain and Drug Store in Downtown Orange, CA. Known for its quaint, retro look Downtown Orange has lent itself to being filmed in major movies such as That Thing You Do. I wanted the whole shoot to look like a date that Joe and Flo may have had as younger people and we just happened to be the lucky souls who were able to witness a fun day. From the minimal direction to pose and smiles from every passerby who was in attendance that day, it was evident that Joe and Flo just had an incredibly special love. They naturally would hold one another, kiss at moment’s notice and smile at each other with the greatest admiration. It was truly a blessing to watch something that we all long for in this lifetime.
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