How to Plan a Retirement Celebration | Houston Event Photographer

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) based in The Woodlands and Conroe, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in event photography and knows how to plan a retirement celebration.  See more event photography in the gallery.  Contact me to book your event today!

How to Plan a Retirement Celebration

Retirement.  We all plan and hope for that day!  Once the day finally arrives, it is filled with bittersweet emotion.  Your people and communities and friendships have been formed over many years.  You’ve been through lots of ups and downs together, both professionally and personally.  These are your friends and your work family.  Sometimes you see them more than you see your own family!  Although they will miss you, they are happy for this next chapter in your life.  Celebrate well.  Plan a retirement celebration.

  1. Invite friends.  For an office celebration, invite everyone that you’ve worked with over the years.  Even if you haven’t worked with them for some time, they will still want to wish you well.  Allow them the opportunity.
  2. Have food.  People will stay and munch for a little longer when there is food.  And we like to eat and celebrate with food – it’s a time-worn tradition.
  3. Prepare a few words.  Either as the honoree or a guest, it’s nice to say a few words about your journey in the company and your journey with co-workers.  Gather your memories and stories and tell about it!
  4. Enjoy!  This is a time of celebration.  Enjoy the connections and be grateful for the journey.

A Retirement Celebration for Chris

Chris has been with ExxonMobile for 30 years.  It was time for retirement.  His assistant contacted me to photograph the informal retirement celebration at the office.  I arrived to a beautiful space on the campus.  Flowers and food made for a perfect welcome for guests.  People arrived and gave him hugs and well wishes.  The guest book recorded memories and stories of all they have shared and congratulations for a job well done.  Chris enjoyed laughing and chatting with guests and finally getting something to eat at the very end.  One of my favorite images is of Chris with his arm around a co-worker: so comfortable and comforting in this time of transition.  It is a beautiful testimony to his character.  All my best, Chris, in whatever life holds for your next chapter.

How to Plan a Retirement CelebrationHow to Plan a Retirement CelebrationHow to Plan a Retirement CelebrationHow to Plan a Retirement CelebrationHow to Plan a Retirement CelebrationHow to Plan a Retirement CelebrationHow to Plan a Retirement CelebrationHow to Plan a Retirement CelebrationRetirement celebration in The Woodlandsevent detailsRetirement celebration in The WoodlandsHow to Plan a Retirement Celebrationguest book for retirement celebration

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) based in The Woodlands and Conroe, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in event photography.  See more event photography in the gallery.  Contact me to book your event today!

- INSTAGRAM -

@taraflanneryphotography

When was the last time you updated your headshot? 👀

If your photo is from 10, 15, or even 30 years ago… it’s time.

Using an outdated headshot might seem harmless, but it can actually break trust — especially in professions where connection, credibility, and transparency matter (which is… all of them).

💬 Imagine a client or patient walks in expecting the person they saw online… and barely recognizes you.
It may feel small, but it instantly creates a disconnect.

Here’s the truth:
✅ Your clients want to see the real you.
✅ A recent headshot builds trust and shows you’re showing up with integrity.
✅ If your look has changed significantly (new hair, new role, new energy!) — it’s time.

Keep it current. Keep it real.
And if you’re not sure where to start, I’ve got you. DM me for a free consultation. 📸✨
Pretty pictures aren’t enough.

If you don’t know who your audience is, your branding photos won’t do what they’re supposed to do — build trust, tell your story, and attract the right clients.

Before every branding session, I walk my clients through a strategy call where we get crystal clear on two things:

1️⃣ Who are you speaking to?
2️⃣ What message do you want to send?

Because a realtor needs to connect with buyers and sellers.
An attorney needs to earn trust.
A coach needs to show confidence and approachability.

Intentional imagery makes all the difference.
📸 Let’s create brand photos that actually work for you.

📆 Contact me to schedule your session or learn more about our branding process.
What should you wear for your headshot session?
It depends on how you want to show up.

Your outfit sets the tone — and the right level of polish helps you appear confident, credible, and uniquely you.

Here are 4 levels of formality to help you choose the best look for your headshots 👇🏻

1️⃣ The Modern Suit Jacket
Crisp, structured, and powerful. Perfect for executives, attorneys, and leadership roles.

2️⃣ Soft Professional (No Jacket)
A sleek blouse or polished top with clean lines. Professional without being stiff — great for coaches, consultants, and entrepreneurs.

3️⃣ Elevated Casual (Sweaters & Knits)
A fitted knit or stylish sweater gives an approachable, warm, and modern vibe. Ideal for creatives, educators, or small business owners.

4️⃣ Casual Short Sleeve
Simple, solid, and flattering. Feels relaxed but still polished — great for wellness pros, lifestyle brands, or startup teams.

✨ Quick Styling Tips:
– Stick to solid colors that flatter your skin tone
– Skip busy prints & distracting accessories
– Choose wrinkle-free, well-fitting pieces
– Bring a backup outfit or layering option!

🎯 Not sure what’s best for your brand?

We go over wardrobe during your pre-session consultation — so you’ll feel 100% confident in what you wear and how you show up.

📆 Contact me to book your headshot session!

- STAY IN TOUCH -

Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

Facebook logo
Instagram logo
Pinterest logo
Linked In logo

FloDesk FREE STYLE GUIDE

Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.