How to Be Intentional With Your Family & Create Lasting Memories
How to Be Intentional with Your Family & Create Lasting Memories in 2025
As a family photographer in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, I know that time with loved ones is precious. Whether you're a busy mom juggling daily responsibilities or simply looking to cherish your family more this year, it can be easy to overlook the small moments that matter most. But being intentional with your family can lead to the creation of lasting memories that will be treasured forever.
In 2025, let’s make it a priority to slow down, connect, and make memories that truly matter. Here are some practical ways to be intentional with your family and capture beautiful moments along the way:
1. Set Aside Quality Family Time to Strengthen Your Bond
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy for family time to slip through the cracks. One of the best ways to be intentional with your family is to set aside quality time together, free from distractions. Whether it’s a weekly family meeting, a day out at the park, or a cozy evening at home, make time for uninterrupted connection.
As a Dallas-Fort Worth family photographer, I love capturing candid moments of families in these settings—whether it's laughing together on a picnic or sharing stories during a quiet evening. These simple, everyday moments are often the most memorable.
2. Create Family Traditions to Make Memories Year After Year
Family traditions are a beautiful way to make memories and strengthen your family’s bond. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate—simple activities like cooking a favorite meal together, having movie nights, or taking annual family photos can become cherished rituals.
This year, we’re introducing Wednesday Family Nights, which has brought us closer together spiritually while creating meaningful memories. Sometimes this consists of watching movies, playing games, listening to and singing worship music or playing in the backyard. Whether it’s something you do every week or seasonal activities, traditions will give your family moments to look forward to and keep your connection strong.
3. Be Present in the Moment with Your Family
One of the best ways to create lasting memories is by being fully present in the moment. Put down your phone, turn off the TV, and focus on your loved ones. I see time and time again how special moments are often missed when we’re distracted.
When you focus on the people in front of you, whether it's sharing a meal or playing a game, you’ll find beauty in the everyday interactions. And don’t forget to document those moments! The pictures you take today will be the memories you’ll hold onto forever.
4. Capture the Everyday Moments
As a newborn and family photographer, I am passionate about helping families preserve their memories through photography. But you don’t need a professional camera to capture the beauty of everyday life.
Take photos and videos of your kids playing, of you all enjoying a quiet afternoon together, or even of the little details—the hugs, the smiles, the messy moments. These photos and videos may seem small at the time, but they become priceless as the years go by. You can even start a “memory jar” where everyone writes down their favorite moments to look back on at the end of the year.
5. Slow Down and Listen to Each Other
In today’s busy world, it’s easy to forget how powerful simply listening to one another can be. Set aside time to ask your kids about their day, talk about your dreams, or just have open conversations. This is an intentional way to connect and deepen your relationships.
Whether you’re sitting down at the dinner table, enjoying a walk around the neighborhood, or just relaxing at home, take time to truly listen to your family’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences. These moments of connection help you grow closer together.
6. pray and grow together spiritually
Spiritual growth is a beautiful way to bond as a family. For us, it’s about reading the Bible together, praying together, and encouraging each other’s faith. Whether it’s a short devotional before bed or taking time on Sundays to reflect on your spiritual journey, these moments can shape your family’s heart for years to come. If you’re looking for ways to include more faith into your family time, consider creating your own Bible study routine or praying together before meals.
7. Let Go of Perfection and Embrace the Imperfect Moments
As moms, it’s easy to feel pressure to make everything perfect, especially when it comes to family photos or special events. But the truth is, it’s the imperfect moments that often make the best memories.
Whether it’s a spontaneous dance party in the living room or an afternoon of messy arts and crafts, embrace the moments that don’t go according to plan. These are the memories that your children will treasure the most. And as your Dallas-Fort Worth family photographer, I’m here to help you capture those “imperfect” moments that are truly the best!
Intentional Memories in 2025: A Year of Connection
As we head into 2025, let’s make it a year filled with intentional moments, cherished family time, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s setting aside weekly family time, capturing those small moments with photos, or creating new traditions, the memories you make this year will shape your family for years to come.
I’d love to hear how you’re planning to be intentional with your family this year. What are your goals for creating memories? Let’s connect and share ideas! And if you’re looking to capture the beauty of your family moments, I’d love to help you preserve them through photography.
