I was so honored to tell the story of Freddy Greene in the May issue of Raleigh's WALTER Magazine. Several friends have reached out to know more about how Freddy and I met so I thought I'd share a bit of the backstory. Our friendship began in 1998 when I was working in downtown Raleigh. I was in my first years out of college and hoping to make an impact on the world but finding that #adulting was harder than it looked.

Senior portraits are always special. These kids are filled with energy, enthusiasm and anticipation for their chance to fly. This night, God's presence was palpable. This beautiful senior chose her church, our church, for one of her backdrops and as she posed and I clicked away, we could hear the organ playing in the background as a service of worshop took place.

I have had the privilege of photographing dozens of seniors over the last fifteen years and I have truly loved them all. Even the most reticent seniors somehow come around and embrace their moment after we spend time talking about their journey and all that lies ahead for them.

I had the privilege of working on a project to honor a deeply caring soul who was moving into a new space in her life. The journey of how to recognize her profound gifts to me personally and to a larger audience was a holy one that brought me to the supremely talented Andrew Leager.

Shannon Cassell believes your home has the ability to shape who you are in the world. It is in this sacred space that you can make memories with those you love most, you can surround yourself with storied treasures that ground you and allow you to rest in its safety and security.