Mad Hatter’s Pride Month Photoshoot: A Flamboyantly Magical Family Affair
If you don’t know me, I’m Pauline Stockhausen. Quirky, approachable and a sucker for flamboyant fancies, I am the mad hatter of my vibrant, eclectic clan. Having welcomed a new addition to our family, I am all the more determined to wrap every precious moment in a digital time capsule. As I always say, why just live in the moment when you can lavish it in colour and freeze it in a frame?
My maternal instincts were, as always, choreographed to the rhythm of Pride Month — a joyful symphony of universal love and acceptance. And what better way to capture this rhythm than with a fantastical photoshoot inspired by the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland?
Enter ‘First Scene’ – a treasure trove overflowing with costumes and props in every shade and silhouette. Our imaginations were set ablaze as we rummaged through Victorian grace, gangsta grim, animated arcs, and medieval marvels. The amazing staff navigated us through this fantastical wardrobe like skilled pilots, helping me find my signature Mad Hatter’s hat, while my son battled the joyous dilemma of choosing from seven eclectic outfits.
Shopping for props was like an adventure into Wonderland – watches, clocks, silverware, bottles, candelabras, faux fruit, flowers – we found magic in every corner. After exiting First Scene with boxes full of surprises, we set off on our favourite pastime – op-shopping – to rummage through the uniquely captivating alcoves of our favourite bargain dens.
When a festive occasion pairs up with my cousin Zoe’s oven, the outcome is nothing short of magical. Trust Zoe to bake not just any cupcakes, but 50 emblems of Pride itself. Like miniature rainbows bursting with sweetness, they were – I kid you not – the best-looking cupcakes in the entirety of New Zealand, adding the perfect pop of Pride to our shoot.
Paired with these scintillating sweets were beautiful teacups, christened from my other cousin Laura’s marvellous collection. Family was at the epicenter of this photoshoot, including my dear friend Amanda who generously offered her expertise in perfecting those less flattering angles.
That day, our vision extended beyond the lens of the camera. It was a day where our family bonded, laughed and created memories painted with the hues of acceptance and love. My mind is already brewing ideas for our next adventure. Suggestions, anyone?
We’ve done the flamboyantly fantastic Mad Hatter’s tea party. Now what theme awaits our fantastical family’s next snapshot in time?
