I LOVE the Seattle Arboretum with my entire heart.

It’s my favorite spot for taking the doggy on a walk with the fam. I love checking out the fresh blooms weekly and watching how the plants change over time. It’s like a fresh landscape every visit.

Located in the Montlake/University district of Seattle, Washington it’s like a little (but actually pretty huge) oasis of nature in the city. And I love taking photos of my families there. It is such a lovely spot for Spring Mini Sessions.

Why do I love Cherry Blossom Mini Sessions?

1. Take a nature walk with your fam

   I’ve already talked your ear off about why I love taking walks at the arboretum, but I’ll add some more. This place is HUGE! There are so many trails and hidden gems along the way. You really can make a day of it and enjoy your family time before, after, and during your photos.

2. Grab a treat at a local spot

   Welcome to my absolute favorite thing to do as a family. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a locally-owned shop with my fam, walk to the trails with our pup and enjoy nature together while we talk about life. Check out a local coffee shop by the arboretum prior to your session. Belle Epicurean Bakery and Arosa Cafe are both about a twelve-minute walk from our Cherry Blossom meeting up spot. They are both LGBTQ+ friendly shops, Arosa identifies as Latino owned and Belle Epicurean is woman-owned! Both have delicious beverages, yummy pastries, and a charming ambiance. I ALWAYS recommend fueling up for your sessions. A treat to make the tummy happy is just the best idea for all!

3. Soak in the beauty of spring

   Ok, so that’s just obvious, but so worth mentioning because even the thought of this makes my soul rejoice. When the cherry blossoms are all in bloom on Azalea Way at the Arboretum, it’s a magical sight. You absolutely have to see it.

4. Enjoy your furry family members

   I make a point to create seasonal mini sessions for my families that are pet-friendly. This is so important to me. Most of my mini sessions are pet-friendly spots and I HIGHLY encourage you to bring them. Read more about my love of photographing you with your pets.

5. Hang out under a cherry blossom

   Bring a blanket for a picnic or a card game, read a book, or just relax with your family. This is a great way to facilitate candid, wonderful family photos that aren’t stiff and awkward.

6. Visit the Seattle Japanese Garden

   It should only take you about five minutes to walk from our meeting spot at Azalea Way to the Japanese Garden. This is really a must-see in Seattle. This won’t be part of your mini session photos, but I highly recommend you visit after your photos. It’s a great way to connect with your family and soak in the beauty of the Seattle Arboretum. I should mention, however, that it is a paid experience (a cause worthy of support in my book). They also do not allow food, beverages, or pets. So, if you plan on doing everything on this list, you might wanna finish up your delicious snacks and beverages prior to your visit.

So, if you’ve been way too busy to schedule family pictures, or you just keep putting them off because, LIFE, consider a cherry blossom mini session. They are quick, easy, and build family memories like you wouldn’t believe!!

love your photographer,

Anna