Valentine’s Sweetheart Dance 2020 at Highland Center

Yesterday evening I had the pleasure to attend the Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Dance, held every year by the Seattle area Down Syndrome Community.  But for the first time in more than 20 years I was there in a different role.  I have been the photographer for this event for a long time, but I had shoulder surgery three weeks ago and my surgeon advised that I do not try to use a camera just yet.

Fortunately I know a wonderful photographer who was able to step in and do the job, Catie Bergman.  Catie is a very talented photographer who has worked with me a number of times, and I was lucky that she had the evening open and was able to help me out.  The fact that she and my son Dan have been together since they met in college didn’t hurt!  Dan has been away from photography for awhile but Catie is slowly drawing him back in, and he provided a great second shooter’s perspective at the dance.

Since I kind of consider this dance my “baby”, I had to tag along to help them get set up and to be there to answer any questions they might have about the event.  And I really wanted to see some of the kids (some now adults) who I have been photographing for such a long time, as well as catch up with their parents.

The dance was, as always, a huge success.  Attendance was very good, with over 200 members of the Down Syndrome community and their families and friends there.  There was a great dinner of pizza and salad, followed by a Chocolate Fountain for dessert.  Actually the fountain didn’t work but the chocolate was heated and everyone was able to enjoy a nice chocolate fondue!

Here are a few photos from the night.  I hope that you enjoy them!