Sometimes, you just know you’re going to get along with someone from the offset. This was certainly the case when I was contacted by this lovely family. They had bought Father’s Day vouchers back in June and on the August bank holiday weekend, I received the funniest of emails from them, wondering if I could help to document a family Christmas tradition of theirs.

Of course, in August, I wasn’t exactly thinking about Christmas, I had just got back from my summer holiday, was nursing my sailing bruises and worrying about how to keep my tan! Not this bunch; they told me they were already five Christmas films in and had been playing carols, full blast, all summer! This really made me smile! Their long standing Christmas tradition was to take their twin girls to Liberty’s to choose a new decoration for their growing collection. They wanted me to accompany them on the trip, taking family photos along the way and documenting the all-important selection of this year’s decs. I loved the idea, but immediately wondered if it would be possible. Once you’re a working photographer, you have to have permission to photograph in places like Liberty’s, and if I’m honest (and I did say this from the outset) it’s pretty slim that they will say yes!

Well, a few emails, a phone call and 6 weeks later, we had been granted permission! Not only were we given permission, but the person I spoke to at Liberty’s said what a lovely idea it was and that they were pleased they could be part of the Family’s festive traditions. Thank you Liberty’s – you made a few people’s day with that email!

So here I am, to share just a few images of the shoot that took place yesterday. I wanted you all to see the beauty that is Liberty’s Christmas department. I have to say, I haven’t been before but I am definitely taking Jackson up there soon and I can’t wait for him to see the store too.

This wonderful family had such a lovely time; the joy on the girls’ faces was apparent to all around. I was honoured to be included in their tradition, and overwhelmed when the girls gave me a decoration for my tree, one that I had earlier pointed out I liked. Their Mum had managed to buy it on the quiet and said “our tradition is now your tradition” – just so lovely.

This session will be blogged in full, many weeks down the line! I still have blogs outstanding from May! I am officially rubbish at blogging, but it is the job that can always wait so when the work slows down, be prepared for a few emails from me! If you have enjoyed reading this please click here for more of my blogs (albeit a bit out of date!!)