There’s something extra special about celebrating the milestones of someone you’ve known forever. One of my best friends since high school recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from Wilmington University—and I had the honor of flying up to be there for it. She completed her degree virtually, but she proudly walked the stage in person… and I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.
We stayed in the colorful and artsy Fishtown neighborhood in Philadelphia, specifically the Anna & Bel Hotel, which was such a fun home base for our trip. In between graduation events, we soaked in all the city had to offer: rich history, incredible food, and a lot of walking (worth every step). One of the highlights was a walking food tour where we sampled warm pretzels, a classic Philly cheesesteak, and more sweets than I care to admit. We also took our time exploring the city’s historical side—visiting Benjamin Franklin’s resting place, the Liberty Bell, Carpenter’s Hall, and the Betsy Ross House. Philly truly feels like walking through a live history book.
But the biggest highlight? Watching my best friend finally receive the diploma she worked so hard for.
In her own words:
"After two of the hardest (and most rewarding) years of my life, I can finally say: I did it! While managing the biggest project of my career full-time, I was also a full-time, year-round student. And now, I’ve officially graduated Summa Cum Laude from Wilmington University with:
🎓 Bachelor of Science in Applied Technology
📊 Certificate in Data Analytics
📈 Graduate Certificate in IT Project Management..."
Her dedication and drive inspire me endlessly, and I’m still so proud I could be there to cheer her on.
Milestones like these deserve to be celebrated AND remembered. If you (or someone you love) is graduating soon and wants to document the moment with photos that feel just as meaningful as the achievement itself, I’d love to be part of it.
I might be a Central Texas-based photographer, but I travel—and I’m always up for an adventure, especially when it involves capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments. So if you ever find yourself thinking, “Would she fly to my graduation?” … the answer is yes. Yes, I would.
Here’s to hard work, new chapters, and celebrating all the wins, big and small.
