Emily

Celebrating Emily 

I recently reconnected with my friend, Emily (my former “partner in crime” from my time at the DA’s office). We worked side by side for almost six months, sharing long hours, too much coffee (at least on my part), and plenty of laughs. Emily is amazing at what she does, and I will be forever grateful for our time together! After I left, we kept in touch lightly through social media — and a few months ago, I saw that she had shared something incredible: she’d lost 115 pounds!

Her weight-loss journey began in September 2023, inspired by deeply personal events. That summer, she had spent time with her ailing grandmother. During her trip, they took lots of photos together, but Emily remembers feeling self-conscious about how she looked — and realizing afterward that she didn’t want that feeling to take away from the memories within those photos.

When her grandmother passed a few weeks later, Emily decided it was time to take care of herself — mind, body, and spirit.

Supported by her family, friends, and boyfriend, she made real, lasting changes. She began a weight-loss program, cut out sugar (farewell, Cherry Coke!), focused on healthier meals, exercise, and creating a lifestyle that worked for her. 

After about a year and a half, in Spring of 2025, she hit her weight-loss goal and had lost 115 pounds.

The Photoshoot

When I reached out and suggested she do a photo shoot to celebrate how far she’s come, she didn’t hesitate. Even though she felt a little nervous at first, within minutes of starting our shoot her confidence began to bubble through each laugh, pose, and moment we captured. Our time downtown flew by, and by the end, she was dancing and glowing!

Emily told me afterward that she’s grateful for this experience — not just for the photos, but for what they represent.

She said it best: “This transformation has made me feel like ME again... I plan on making this the best year ever of my life and look forward to documenting each memory.”

Remember ... whether it’s a major milestone, a personal victory, or simply a moment of self-discovery, it’s okay to pause and celebrate yourself. You deserve to be seen — as you are now, and as the person you’ve worked hard to become. So proud of Emily!