Here’s a giveaway you can really use this time of year.

Local photographer and SouthernMamas sponsor Nicole Williams is giving away a FREE Christmas photo package, one 8×10 and two 5×7’s.

Yes, it really is time to start thinking about that time of the year again. Christmas is right around the corner and what better way to stay ahead on things than to get your Christmas portraits done early.

To be eligible to win, email the correct answer to the following question to anne@southernmamas.com. What is the very meaningful three-word phrase at the top of Nicole’s blog? Hint: click here.

Be sure to email the answer by the 9 pm Thurs. Oct. 2. Don’t forget to tell us your name. We’ll pick a name at random and announce the winner Friday on SouthernMamas.com.
Nicole Williams is a new local photographer and to kick off her first Christmas in business she also is offering SouthernMamas subscribers 30 percent off of package or a la carte pricing now through Dec. 1 2008. Her slots will fill quickly, so make sure you book your session early.

The first SouthernMamas fan who books a holiday session will receive a FREE set of 25 (5×7 size) custom Christmas cards for friends and family.

Nicole specializes in studio or on location portraiture. By booking a session with her, you’ll be certain to have priceless gifts for friends and family this year. One example of her work is included here. View more by clicking here

Get to know a little bit about Nicole’s work and family by staying up to date on her blog, which includes fun contests and portrait giveaways.

We know you Southern Mamas love to plan ahead. So who is already thinking about scheduling family photos for holiday cards?

Photographer Lori Grice, a SouthernMamas sponsor, knows you are. So she’s already scheduled a family (or just the kids) express session day outdoors, Tues. Oct. 14.

The $299 express sessions will include the session fee, 25 Holiday cards and two 8×10’s (includes two poses–additional poses $25/pose). Lori will take more than two poses and won’t rush you through. You will have your own scheduled time – so no lines.

Lori also has Santa photo sessions set for Tues., Nov. 11. The 30 minute session will include a VIP Santa experience. Only you and your family will be in the studio with Santa. Again, no lines.

Just arrive at your scheduled time and enjoy your session with Santa and Mrs. Claus while Lori photographs the experience. The package is $349 and includes the session and your choice of 4 8×10’s OR 25 Christmas cards plus two 8×10’s. You need to schedule your session and place order when you call to insure you will get everything back for Christmas.

This annual VIP Santa experience does sell out.

To reserve a spot for either of the October or November holiday sessions, call 912.764.7274/1-800-704-LORI (5674). Read more about these special sessions and see examples of Lori’s work on Lori’s blog by clicking here.

I want to live in a leeann ritch portrait. Check out her photos here and you will, too.

The Savannah photographer and new mom – her 3-month old treasure Easton is pictured here – has a love for life, children and, now, motherhood that is evident in her photography (and in her blog). We’re thrilled to have her as our newest sponsor.

LeeAnn shoots portraits (like this mother-daughter shot pictured here), weddings, even pets.

She has a knack for natural lighting and candid shots. A native Floridian, LeeAnn also has lived in California, and, now, Georgia. She’s obviously not one to be landlocked. LeeAnn has had a passion for photography since she was a little girl and has been shooting all her life.

Mention SouthernMamas when booking your session with LeeAnn, and you will receive 10 percent off the sitting fee. Click here to contact LeeAnn. Or call 912.308.9327 or email leeann@leeannritchphotography.com

Searching for a professional photographer whose sessions won’t break your bank?

Check out our sponsor, Lynnae Weller, owner of “Weller Is Deeper” and some of her work pictured here.

Lynnae has a passion for pictures. She loves to photograph, create, combine, and work with pictures to see them come to life and capture special moments. She specializes in photography, DVD slideshows (also known as photo montages) and photo restoration.

Lynnae photographs families, children, pets and events. Her love for life spills over into her art. She finds nothing so beautiful as outdoor photography, so she chooses to do only on-site shoots.

Any images taken during a photography shoot will not be copyrighted. You have the option of receiving your photos on a CD, download them from a private website created just for you or have them uploaded directly to a website that you can order them from. You may have them printed where and how you choose.

Contact Lynnae by clicking here or call 912.921.4541. She offers $5 off to SouthernMamas subscribers.