Smarty Mom: Sarah Hahne

By Katie M

Happy Smarty Mom Saturday! It’s my pleasure to introduce Sarah Hahne. Sarah comes highly recommended as a Smarty Mom from loyal reader and fellow Smarty Mom Summer Riley. Sarah is a stay-at-home mom who has lived in the Triad her whole life. She and her husband Brian have an adorable son Andy who is two.

Once an assistant wedding photographer, Sarah started Ardmore Photography after the birth of her son. She, of course, took thousands of photographs of him as well as other friends’ children, and her neighbors, who work in public relations and marketing, urged her to start a website to display her pictures. The day after she launched her site, she had a client call to book a photo session! Since then, she’s been shooting mostly children and families.

Now get this: Sarah is offering all Triad Smarty Pants readers a 20% discount on photo sessions booked during this month!!!!! Just contact her through her web site and tell her you heard about this discount through Triad Smarty Pants! See, we told you she’s Smarty!

“I just love capturing moments in peoples’ lives that fly by too quickly. I look at how big Andy is already and I am so glad that I have pictures to help remember that time when he was a baby. He’ll never be as young as he is today so I keep snapping away. It is a joy and gift to me to be able to capture those moments for others,” Sarah said.

So, let’s get to know Sarah a little better.

In addition to her part-time photography business, Sarah also works in Radiation Oncology at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center with a research group that coordinates cancer prevention trials for community clinical sites around the country. Sarah works two days per week in regulatory affairs and website design.

On top of all this, Sarah enjoys enjoy cooking, talking with her husband over a good cup of coffee, and taking walks around the neighborhood with friends.

You definitely have the best of both worlds being able to balance two part-time jobs while still being at home to raise your son. What advice do you have for other moms seeking a similar balance?
As cliché as it sounds, follow your dreams. God puts them in our hearts for a reason. And of course, take lots of pictures along the way.

But, I’ll be honest with you…it is a struggle to balance two PT jobs and a family. If it were not for my family I would not be able to work outside the home and pursue photography. I am incredibly fortunate to have a husband, parents, and friends who generously support me. I was hesitant in starting Ardmore Photography because of the time commitment but God kept opening doors for me. Although balance might be more of a goal than reality, I feel like I am doing what God has called me to. Thankfully He surrounded me with friends and family to encourage me in the process!

Now let’s focus on your life as a mom, and ask some fun “mom-type” questions!

Favorite place to get a good deal on kids clothes?
Andy is the only grandchild on both sides, so his Grandmas (Emma and GiGi) keep him looking adorable. I also have generous friends who hand down their children’s clothes to me.

What is your favorite family activity?
Day trips to Blowing Rock complete with a hike, playing in their city park, taking pictures along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and having lunch at Storie Street Grill.

Favorite “mommy-time” activity?
Having good coffee and conversation with friends.

Best place to eat lunch with the kids?
Brown Bag it at Miller Park

Favorite place to eat dinner out with the kids?
We are still searching for our favorite dinner spot, but we enjoy going to Mary’s Of Course for brunch on Saturdays. Mary has so much artwork and other decorations around the restaurant, Andy is mesmerized with it. When the weather is nice, you can sit outside, which is always a plus for kids. The wait staff is always very friendly and welcoming to Andy.

Funniest thing Andy has ever said?
Andy is just now learning to talk, but our family still laughs about Andy naming his Grandfather, Bubba. We’ll see if it sticks!

Favorite park in the Triad?
We love the convenience, slides, and shade of Miller Park. During the warmer months, Andy and I stop by Miller Park on walks to the grocery store.

Mini-van or SUV?
SUV

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
The people in the Triad really value community which is a necessity for our young family. We are fortunate to have close friends within walking distance of our house who welcome impromptu play dates and backyard cookouts.

Best kept secret in the Triad?
Ardmore Photography, of course!

Best birthday party you have attended?
Birthday parties with a moon walk…WOW!

I could not live without my... iMac. I love the big screen to see details when working in Photoshop on pictures for clients.

I wish someone had told me sooner about... Triad Smarty Pants! What a great resource for parents!

You are a true inspiration, Sarah, for many moms and mompreneurs! Thanks so much for all your Smarty answers, and we wish you much success in all that you do.

If you know someone who would make a great Smarty Mom or Smarty Dad, we’d love to hear from you! Simply email us here and we’ll get in touch with you or your nomination and get it all set up!

Posted by Triad Smarty Pants at 5:00 AM