Sydney Johansson is a teen who had planned her outdoor senior photo shoot on a mid-July day.  Normally, overcast skies make for great photos, but a straight-up downpour almost ruined it.

Rescheduling the shoot wasn’t an option, as Syndey was set to undergo a major surgery at the end of the month.  It was now or never.

That’s when Sydney’s mom Laura and photographer Jessica Vallia started thinking of back-up plans.  Laura had an idea to go into a nearby Starbucks to see if they’d allow the photo shoot to happen inside the store.

Not only are they granted permission to take photos inside, but barista Chris runs outside with his umbrella, getting beyond drenched so Sydney could stay dry for her photos.

After getting inside, Sydney, Laura and Jessica were greeted with hot chocolates made with soy milk (because they weren’t sure of allergies in the group) and helped rearrange the furniture and wall decor.  Barista Chris even made some signs for Sydney and MacGyvered a backdrop.  This Starbucks store even kept the group coffee’d up and fed, on the house, throughout the event.

Photographer Jessica was so touched by the entire encounter, she shared the story on her Facebook, along with photos.

“There were serious tears from all after taking in everything from yesterday’s senior session,” says Jessica. “I just wanted her to have the average senior session, like any other girl and instead she got THE RED CARPET in a way I couldn’t have been more proud to be a part of!!!”