Happy spring! Or at least I think it’s spring? New England’s lack of consistent weather patterns never ceases to amaze me. In any case, Impressions Studio is ready to bloom after a fun-filled and busy winter!

Considering there’s really no “off season” for photographer’s, it’s always hard to know if and when taking a vacation is possible. Luckily, I found some time and booked the trip of a lifetime to Thailand. I’m behind the camera so much on a day to day basis, I often don’t bring one on weekend getaways or to friend/family gatherings but I’ve decided that needs to change. Thailand was the perfect place to start my creative photographic journey and to take photos “just for me." I heard Thailand was pretty, but I never could have guessed it would be such a perfect combination of city, oasis and beauty.  The vibrant colors are what I will remember most. Sun hitting temples, buddha statues, hot pink tropical fruits and flowers, turquoise water with lush green islands. It honestly still feels like a dream.

In addition to wanting a trip where I could relax and unwind after a extremely busy 2015 season, I wanted to use it as a trip to inspire some photographic creativity. About a week after I returned home to a suddenly cold Connecticut, I hopped on a plane to Florida for some work related fun. I was there attending a photographic conference, SYNC, which focuses on studios who mainly photograph High School Seniors. While there, I learned so much and look forward to implementing a lot of the tips this coming season. One of the things we’re most excited about incorporating, is video into some of our sessions. Also, we have some new non-senior focused promotions that we’ll be releasing in the coming weeks!

Keep your eyes peeled on the Impressions Studio Facebook and Instagram page as we get back into the swing of things. We’ll be picking up our Focus on Wallingford Blog series and updating you bi-weekly with senior session and other session tips and promos. We look forward to staying connected with you in this 2016 season!

Today’s Focus on Wallingford is featuring Hometown Garden Center owned by Agnes and Justin Royea. The Royea’s have become great friends of mine in recent years. Justin also owns a Wallingford landscaping company called Q-River, LLC and a few winters ago when New England was “drowning in snow” Justin dug out Impressions when it seemed no other plow could! Since then I’ve hired his team to do the studio’s plowing and landscaping. I’m never disappointed in the service they offer. When I found out he and his wife owned Hometown Garden Center, I definitely had to pop my head in!

I specifically decided to feature Hometown Garden Center in the month of December because of the awesome Holiday related items they have. One extra special treat that they have to offer (on the days that aren’t 60 degrees and blindingly sunny) is hot cocoa and a bonfire area you can cuddle up in after shopping. I sat down with Justin and Agnes to see what else they had to say about their business, you can read about it below!

"Hometown Garden Center started out as a little dream between two people who really wanted a place to call their own; a place that people could rely on a good deal, honest smile and handshake.  

It all began with a borrowed lawn mower and trailer.  A weekend warrior, as some would say, is how we started out in the landscape industry. We had a plan and a model that allowed for a rapid growth but with that there is always bumps and changes along the way.  In any business you have to learn to adapt to what the consumer needs and wants.  We had an increase of customers looking for specialty landscape supplies and ornamental trees. The need for these items made us want a place we could take the customer so that they could see and touch the supplies we would be using on their property.

After spending countless weekends going to other garden centers, we finally decided it was time to do it on our own. Five years ago a friend had a property that would be available for lease and it seemed the right fit for our hometown vision. We had a cleared lot and a used trailer we purchased and brought to the site.

Fast forward to today, from that little trailer that is still there, we now have three greenhouses and display walkways and patio with a fire pit and much more.  The winter holidays are especially fun for us because we get to share our love for festive decorations and just seasonal cheer.  Christmas trees, planters and wreaths are all displayed each with their own style and character.  We have a little hayride that Santa goes on with our customers on weekends and we have the famous Wallingford's "Talking Rudolph". After Vinny's Garden Center closed we were able to relocate Rudolph to his new home with us, so that all his older patrons could create that tradition for their little ones. 

We want people to be comfortable coming to us in all four seasons for any landscape need they may have. If you have questions about any of our services do not hesitate to stop in and say hello. We want you to feel welcome and also excited to turn your landscape to an escape all year long!!!! Wishing you all the best in the New Year!"

Thank you for taking the time to read this week’s Focus on Wallingford! Keep your eyes peeled to see our next post and if you’re interested in having your business featured feel free to contact us HERE!

Today may be Black Friday but tomorrow is Small Business Saturday! In lieu of our favorite studio project, Focus on Wallingford, we wanted to remind you of some of our favorite local businesses. On behalf of ourselves and these places, we want to thank you for your business and loyalty! Shopping local not only benefits your town but families and people who are just like you and doing something they love for work. Although it may cost a little more at times, you can't put a price tag on the added customer service and knowledge of these business owners. Enjoy these few weeks of the holiday season and the new year! Don't forget to shop local tomorrow and all year long.