Turning 13 feels like such a big milestone, and Stella celebrated it in the sweetest way with some of her closest friends during a group birthday photo session at JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh.
The girls showed up in pink and white dresses, and between the spring flowers and storm clouds rolling in behind us, everything came together so perfectly for the session.
Earlier in the day, we honestly weren’t sure if the weather was going to cooperate. North Carolina weather had us watching the forecast all day and making backup plans just in case we needed to pivot. Somehow, the rain held off long enough for us and capture so many fun moments together before the girls headed off to continue celebrating at dinner afterward.
A Fun Way to Celebrate a Milestone Birthday
One of my favorite things about sessions like this is how fun they are. The girls spent the evening laughing, hyping each other up, twirling, and enjoying girlhood.
JC Raulston Arboretum is such a good location for group sessions because there’s so much variety in one place. Between the flowers, greenery, open walkways, and tucked-away spots, it gives us plenty of room to move around. It’s especially pretty during spring when everything is blooming.
Group Sessions for Birthdays, Best Friends & Celebrations
These kinds of sessions are such a fun option for:
13th birthdays
Sweet 16 sessions
Birthday dinners with friends
Best friend photo sessions
Graduation celebrations
Dance friend groups
Just-for-fun group sessions
I love photographing sessions that feel a little more personal and connected instead of overly formal. Sometimes the best photos come from simply letting everyone hang out together and have fun.
If you’re planning a birthday or group celebration in the Raleigh area, I’d love to help you plan something fun and unique for your group too.
Ready to plan your group session?
Explore collections, artwork options, and frequently asked questions on the main Milestone page. Everything you need from planning to preservation in one place.
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