Lichen and Limestone Opening Ceremony — Gretchen cheerfully greeted her customers on opening day!

It’s not every day that your client of eight years opens a store. When I heard Gretchen was moving her amazing luxury candle, handcrafted gift, and graphic design business called Lichen and Limestone to a brick-and-mortar storefront in the heart of Elizabethtown, PA, I was more than happy to join the ribbon-cutting ceremony with my camera to support my girl, Gretchen, and her beautiful family!

Gretchen was glowing with excitement as her new store filled with loved ones and community members alike, all eager to welcome Gretchen and her store to the charming town we locals affectionately call “E-town.” It didn’t take me long to spot her eldest son, Declan, whom I’ve been photographing since he needed his parents’ support to walk. He lit up when he saw me smiling at him and ran over. Of course, he posed like a pro and cheesed it up for a few pictures. He’s still the little sweetheart he was at his first photoshoot. Though he has grown quite a lot in the last 8 years, the way he looks at his momma with adoration hasn’t changed one bit. He got such a kick out of her cutting the ribbon to signal the opening of Lichen and Limestone.

There were refreshments, giveaways, and countless scents to enjoy. The store’s opening just in time for Halloween, evoking a dark, magical vibe. My favorite detail was the music—the soundtrack from the movie Practical Magic. So thoughtful!

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony ended, Gretchen headed to the checkout counter, where customers, including me, lined up to purchase her handmade creations.

I bought a candle called Annabel’s Shore, and I love it! Shoppers can purchase online, but I highly recommend visiting the store to experience the whimsical world they’ve created. Even the shelving was handmade by her husband, Matt. The next time you're in Elizabethtown, PA, be sure to stop by Lichen and Limestone—it's a must-visit for anyone with a touch of magic in their heart. You can find the store right in the heart of the town at 101 South Market Street, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Maybe I’ll see you there!

Gretchen, I knew you were special the moment I met you all those years ago. You have always stayed true to your style, even with my bold and vibrant photography style. It has always been fun to photograph your darker color palettes with your handsome boys. I admire you more than you probably realize. I’m honored to be your family photographer, and I look forward to seeing you all again in the fall for your annual family session, where we can catch up and hear updates on how the store is going. If you or anyone else would like to book a shoot with me, I have a new, easier process. You can view the most recent portrait session brochure HERE to see what I offer, and then select your session date from my calendar HERE. All of this is also available on the homepage of my website.