Sometimes I dream about the kinds of wedding I’d love to shoot. Those in distant places, like Africa or Asia, with simple details and big landscapes. I often think it would make me a better photographer, to have a portfolio with these weddings. But I’ve come to realize the kinds of weddings I want to shoot are the ones like this. 

We met Hana and Kaity a little over a year ago and quickly became friends. Their wedding day was full of genuine, real love. They asked to have their closest friends and family present for their first look. I wasn’t sure how it would go, but afterwards I looked around and saw that we were all crying. It was my favorite part of the day.

I love Valentine's Day, because I love LOVE. For best friends, neighbors, siblings, roommates, co-workers, kiddos, fellow human beings, and (yes, occasionally) romantic partners. I'm excited about a day that gives us an excuse to tell all the wonderful people in our lives “I love you, and I'm glad you're here.”

Good afternoon! And welcome to a cookie chronicle that will go down in history as the best thing to happen in 2017, due to lack of competition. Just kidding. I'm hoping we see lots of beauty, love, resilience, and badassery in the days ahead — things much more important than cookies. But for the days we don't/can't see those things, I'm here for you. Who am I, you ask? (You didn't, but since I'm the one writing this, it really doesn't matter what you are and are not saying.) I'm a little baker based in Virginia who loves butter, Beyoncé, Michelle Obama’s arms, Michelle Obama’s everything, Drake’s feelings, superheroes, anti heroes, graphic novels, black excellence, spirituality, cheese, dranks, ice cream, “me time,” and these pants I got from Costco that look like real pants but are actually basically yoga pants. And I come with cookies.

This past weekend, I was given the task of making 10 pies, in 10 unique flavors, with 10 unique designs for a college friend’s wedding. If you are thinking to yourself Wow, that sounds like a lot of fun! DING! you’re totally right. On the other hand, if you’re thinking Wow, that sounds crazy hard!, DING! you are also totally right. Everyone’s a winner today! Including me. I was pushed and stretched in an area that is usually very comfortable for me. The process included some stress, some sweat, but mostly it introduced some exciting new pies to my life.

We are so excited to be adding Arley Arrington of Arley Cakes to our list of recurring contributors! She is a baker who hails from Charlottesville, VA, and who is winning over hearts and stomachs with her amazing recipes. 

She'll be sharing new recipes with Catalyst on a recurring basis that are delicious, attainable, and most importantly, appropriate for celebrations! For the DIY couple that doesn't want to break the bank, her treats just might be the perfect alternative to the large traditional wedding cake.