Osceola Fun!

Jace, Lisa, Slade, Rowan, and I met up for some family pictures in the stunning Osceola town. This is one location that has it all - the falls, numerous backgrounds, and even a train depot!

Everyone in this family is beautiful - all dressed in white with brown/tan accents. Slade and Rowan are as cute as ever, and were seriously made to be in front of a camera! Every time my camera pointed in the direction of Slade, he flashed a fantastic smile. Lisa and Jace were so in love - constantly smooching away and being super cute! I love catching in-between candid's, especially when couples are so affectionate!

As we made our way around (and up/down) Osceola, the conversations were great and giggles from the kids were unforgettable. I just can't get over how perfect everyone just fell into place when I would say "ok, everyone get together" and it was like BAM - awesome!

THANK YOU for such a great evening, I'm excited to get the full album posted to Facebook tonight!

Mr. and Mrs. Cleveland | 07.12.2014

One word can maybe come close to describing this wedding: AMAZING. Everything was perfect: the dress, the bride and groom, the wedding party, the location, the weather, shall I go on?

Driving to the ceremony (where the bridal party was and ceremony was to be held), we noticed an old weathered barn, so of course we thought “I wonder if we could use this today”? We stopped to ask the owner (an adorable older man), and he didn’t even have to think about it, “OF COURSE you can use it!” This made us pretty ecstatic for wedding party pictures. Then, from the moment we arrived at Meghan’s parents’ house, we were already obsessed with the set-up:  an outdoor ceremony with all handmade décor on a BEAUTIFUL farm.

First things first, we scoped out the location. I had been here before for engagement pictures, so I knew where I wanted to take pictures – but being excited, I wanted to look again. Once we knew where we were going, we headed into the house to see the girls and briefly explain our plan. Meghan got ready in her floor length laced cream dress, and she was stunning. It was time for the reveal to her groom. We headed to the front porch where they were to be wed within hours and there stood her groom, Dan. His back was to her so that she couldn’t see his face and he couldn’t see hers (the anticipation I can imagine is indescribable!).  Once revealed to each other he instantly smiled and said “you’re beautiful”. From that moment on: I knew it was going to be an incredible day.

The wedding party rocked it – everyone was handsome/beautiful and all about fun! We were able to get all of our pictures done prior to the ceremony and then relax until the “I do’s” were said. I have never been part of such an emotional wedding before, there have been tears shed – but this one takes the top of the chart. From the moment the Bride was escorted by her father – the tears were flowing; Tressa has the most amazing picture of this, I can hardly wait to share it! The songs escalated the emotions throughout the ceremony and when all was said and almost done – Dan tried to grab Meghan for a kiss. This left everyone laughing when the minister said “Whoa, just a minute Dan” :] A great way to end such an meaningful ceremony.

Time to bring on the fun right?! We headed on the bus to the barn we found, got some great shots before heading to the Moonshine & Whiskey bar. If only every wedding came with this barn – we would be in heaven.  Meghan and Dan were welcomed into the bar by all family and friends, giving us lots of candid shots!

We left for the reception and although I had never heard of it before – I will definitely never forget it! The Refuge in Oak Grove is so beautiful! A location with lots of character and space, we loved everything about it. When the wedding party arrived, dinner came, and then the speeches started. Here we go again – speeches that kept a lump in my throat throughout them: so meaningful, so beautiful, and so heartfelt. I agree with your sister Meghan – you and Dan have raised Weston to be such an awesome little man! He’s perfect!!

Just when we thought that the tears were through… we went into the dance portion of the night! Meghan and her dad had such a sentimental dance that left everyone with happy tears afterwards. The only thing I could think is that Meghan was a daddy’s girl for life and what an amazing relationship they have!

We cannot thank Meghan, Dan, and their families for having us part of this memory! We had such a great time with everyone, including all 8 of the B-team! ;]  Happy Honeymooning in Colorado and we can’t wait for you to see all of your pictures!

 

 

Silas Andrew

Mr. Silas Andrew made his arrival on June 21st, 2014 and I got to meet him ten days later!

He is just cuter than cute and reeked of that precious newborn baby smell (moms - you know what I'm talking about!). One of the best smells ever! This little man is so full of spunk and life; he didn't want to miss a second of his session. Right off the bat, I was smitten with how adorable he was. Then to top it off his awesome personality, his mom was so relaxed and such a natural first time mother. She was so calming when Silas would cry and he would just snuggle in knowing he was safe!

I was surprised that we had no major blowouts like some of my past newborn sessions (Bri - remember the couch incident with Keira? Still funny to me today, lol). Silas was just perfect as can be and even though he fought sleep until his eyes wouldn't open anymore - we just waited. Then when he was snuggled in his perfectly handmade blanket - he zonked out. Just enough time to get a shot of him sleeping, only to wake him up to move to our next set-up!

Jennifer it was so great meeting you and Silas, you two are amazing and have such an incredible journey ahead of you. Congratulations to you both and your husband on a beautiful bundle of joy!!
 

James & Isaac are 7! Wait, what?

James and Isaac are 7 years young! Wait, what? Where did the last 5 years go!

I look forward to each spring/summer to meet up with these handsome twins and their mom Jamie (who is awesome and such a blast to talk to!). Every year we meet up at a new location and scope out the grounds together; meanwhile, stopping for quick smiles. Of course, these hams keep us entertained the whole time! I can't even count how many times they kept me laughing, they're hilarious!

Now, when I first met James and Isaac - they were not even remotely interested in taking pictures. Then the next year came and they couldn't stop talking about how exciting their year had been since they saw me last. Each year passes and the stories are getting even greater, I can hardly wait to see what the next year will hold and how exciting it will be for them! We've roamed the areas and found many exciting adventures along the way, one thing has stayed the same over the last year: Isaac and his turtle face!

Thank you Jamie for getting together with me once again and for bringing such great entertainment! ;] I still have yet to see "How to train a Dragon" - but I promise I'll make sure to see it before pictures next year! The best way to end a session? Little "I love you" 's out the window as I drive away - talk about melting someone's heart! XOXO

Family is Forever | The Sullivan's

As I live my life, I'm always thrown curveballs to work around. Whether it's referring to my photography business or personal life - it's always something. LUCKILY, I have amazing friends, family, and clients that easily work with my schedule! There are times that the weather plays a factor, alright... let's be serious: the weather plays a major factor from mid-April through the end of October. It sure seems to always be working against us when I'm trying to meet up with my good friends for pictures, but with Amber's easy going personality, she brushes it off and says "we'll figure out a time, don't worry about it. I'll work around your schedule!" Amazing right?

We were able to finally meet up this past week and grab some family shots! First things first, Quinn (just shy of 2 years old), greeted me with a hug instantly. She's so dang cute! I always have to remind myself to take pictures when I'm with friends because I get so lost in my conversation that my camera clicks fall a tad behind. As we moved around Forest Lake, I remembered being in that same location a little over 2.5 years ago when Logan (just shy of 6 years old) was announcing "he was going to be a big brother"! We smiled, we cried, we were politely yelled at, we laughed, all in all - we had a great time. This family is fantastic and I am so lucky to call them my friends, LOVE YOU GUYS! Once I officially have a house that I can hang pictures in - this one is definitely going up!

Check Facebook later tonight for the FULL ALBUM! For now, here's a sneak peek!

Teagan & Tyler

I was asked by my best friend to assist her in an intimate afternoon wedding ceremony in Woodbury this past weekend, what an honor for more reasons than one. Tressa was the lead photographer and totally rocked it! It was so different watching it from a different perspective. Instead of focusing on the faces, I was able to look into the details of everything! After a busy weekend full of photo-shoots and a day-long wedding prior, we ended with a private ceremony that was so sweet and memorable.

First, I can't congratulate Teagan and Tyler enough on the journey they're jumping into - such a fun and exciting ride. The way these two said their vows to each other and how they couldn't control their excitement for marriage was unreal. Although I had just met them yesterday - it felt as though Tressa and I had known them for such a long time. I was getting teary-eyed during their own vows to each other, not to mention the lump that I had stuck in my throat! This couple planned this wedding in 2 weeks and it was beautiful, job well done!

Secondly, I would like to do a special shout out to my BFF Tressa - the lead photographer at this. Not only has she been there through majority of the weddings, acting as my right hand; in addition to photo-shoots that I need help assisting with - she's my partner in crime! Her ideas with weddings and crafts are unbelievable and so unique! I've known Tressa since I was 7 years old and have had countless amazing memories with her, but I have to say that the past few years with photographing weddings with her by my side is top of my list. Not only do we get to share our creativeness, we get to see each other more and add even more memories to our friendship. Thank you for always being amazing, I love you!

Andreotti Family

I love love love this family.

Jenna and I have known each other since we were 6 I believe? So, a long time - no need for math right now. She is one of my greatest friends and her parents were just like parents to me! This goes hand-in-hand with her brothers treating me just like a little sister. I got the name-calling, teasing older brothers that I never had .. through her! We were in dance for 14 years together and have seen each other through many moments such as the crazy-wild nights out and about, births of our children, and weddings. I just love this girl and everything about her - so genuine and one of a kind. The girliest of girls, yet the biggest tomboy I know!

A couple of years ago, Laurie (Jen's mom), asked if I could do pictures of their family since they didn't have any. Well instantly I was on board - of course! Well, getting 14 people on the same schedule was not easy. Needless to say... we were able to finally get a date in the books and 2 years later... BAM! We got the awesome family photos that Laurie has been wanting.

Watching Laurie as her chaotic fun-loving family gathered around her was so beautiful. You could just tell that she was blissfully happy. Her hubby Dave hugging her from behind and all of her children and grandchildren surrounding her. Now, each family had their own designated color.

The deal was that everyone had to wear all black, but with accents of color:  
Nick, Shawna, Shayna, Kylie, and Nicholas had pink as their color
Trent, Jenna, Landon, and Liam had white as their color
Tony, Jennifer, Carter, and Ella had blue as their color
Dave & Laurie had red as their color

Awesome right? The pictures are fantastic and the laughs were unforgettable. I can't thank everyone enough for getting together with Tressa and I to get some great pictures of everyone!! XOXO

Mr. & Mrs. Bibeau

The day has come, Kelsey and Andy got married!

This couple is perfect, literally. When I did their engagements a few weeks back, they were so sweet. The way that they looked at each other, talked to each other, and laughed together made you feel like you were watching a romantic movie. Ah, it just made my heart melt knowing what was going to be in store for their wedding day!

Tressa and I have a routine of meeting up and riding together for each wedding we cover together. We talk about how everything will be laid out and I fill in details that I know. When we first showed up at the Bride and Groom's house (ceremony & reception site), we were blown away and hadn't even stepped out of the car yet. Country is totally our favorite theme and then throw in some DIY and it becomes our obsession! This entire wedding was set up so perfect and pretty much screamed our names from the road to take pictures. So, we started getting our gear together and walking towards the house. We were greeted by Andy (groom) himself and he instantly was telling us where we could get something to drink. Getting giddy like school kids as we walked up to the house, we saw yard games with icicle lights draping above them, the tables were set with such beautiful flowers and pictures of the couple, each guest had their own mason jar explaining that it was theirs for the night.

When we walked into the house to see Kelsey - she was breathtaking. Bridesmaids and Flower girls were gabbing about the day and Kelsey was finishing touches of getting ready. Andy and Kelsey did not want to see each other before the ceremony, although it seems like it would be hard to do being at the same location - it worked out wonderful. We were able to get all of our pictures done with plenty of time to relax before the ceremony.

The ceremony was beautiful and felt so intimate; it was all about Kelsey and Andy. The wedding party was fantastic - so many great candid moments. I love when we show up and have many familiar faces!! Tressa and I feel like we're just hanging out with friends, only, we get the right to be a little bossy at times! ;]

The day could not have been any more perfect. The couple, the weather, the wedding party, the location, the guests - I could go on and on. As we were closing up on our time with the newlyweds, we did forget one picture from the day: The Bride + her girls + shotguns. Now, this may not have been the BEST idea after a few beers, but hey - they were unloaded and the sky was awesome. We rounded everyone into the field for some quick shots (no pun intended). To top it off, we had a surprise guest: The Groom! Fantastic, FANTASTIC day! Many blessings and happy years to the newlyweds Andy and Kelsey Bibeau! Cheers!

 

Jimmy & Jessica + 1

The second of my double header Friday was yet another favorite couple of mine, Jimmy and Jessica. These lovebirds were the first wedding that I had ever photographed and I can hardly believe that it was 3 years ago already!

When I heard that their family was expanding by one - I was beyond excited. Anyone who has a child knows what a miracle they are and how much joy they bring. Scratch that, you don't even  need to have a kid in order to know how amazing they are. Sure, sometimes there are late nights - but when you walk into your child's room at 3:00 and are greeted with a smile from your newborn, how can you be upset! They are so excited to see YOU!

Back on track here, Jessica is glowing and so beautiful! Tressa's dad let us use his farm in North Branch for pictures, and the weather was exactly what we were looking for. We needed the sunset glow, and we sure got it. Although I could tell right off the bat that Jimmy was oh so excited about taking pictures, he stepped up to the plate and stuck it out for almost 2 hours with us! :] Granted, it was a Friday night and Midsummer in town, he was a champ and sat, stood, kissed on cue! What an amazing thing to watch as you both add another little being into your life, I wish you both nothing but the best and can't wait to see just how absolutely cute little J will be!!

P.S. Thank you Jimmy for lugging around my chair for me!

Ethan | 9 Months

I can HARDLY believe that this little man is already 9 months old! He brightens my day everytime I see him - how can you not with this beautiful smile though :]

I've been part of The Becker's memories for a couple of years now and am beyond blessed to witness so many amazing milestones with this couple. From starting out just Britani and Dave getting Christmas card pictures done, growing into maternity pictures, sharing an intimate "reveal" shoot, then to meeting the bright-eyed beautiful son that they created! Just in awe for how special I feel that I get to be part of it!

When meeting up for Ethan's 9 month session, poor guy had an ear infection. Never would have known looking at the pictures that he wasn't feeling 100% because he literally never stopped smiling! I really had a tough time deciding which picture to "tease" with because not only is Ethan always happy - he's ridiculously photogenic, and cuter than cute! It was the first of my back-to-back sessions of the weekend, and what a way to start it off. So much cuteness in one session that I couldn't stand it! I hope that Ethan is recovering from his ear infection although I have no doubt that Britani and Dave are spoiling him with lots of snuggles, love, and kisses because they really are amazing parents!

Can hardly believe that the next session is for Ethan's 1 year - SMASH CAKE TIME!

Jake & Kelsey

Such a wonderful evening in Almelund with a gorgeous couple! We were able to wander around the Threshing Grounds {reception location} to grab some engagement pictures.

I'm pretty sure that I could spend an entire weekend at the Threshing Grounds, and still run out of time with the backgrounds and unlimited photo ops that are there. Kelsey & Jake are amazing together - they compliment each other so well, and they are a stunning couple (which makes my job ridiculously easy)!

My style of photography, I feel, is highlighted through candid pictures. I love to pose people (or 'mold' as I tell everyone), but the inbetween giggles, laughs, and smiles are by far my favorite. Which definitely shined through with this couple. Kelsey & Jake also brought along their puppy Riley! Best behaved puppy ever - unless there was water in site, then it would get a tad bit challenging! :] It was such a fabulous night out; however, I definitely learned my lesson with what my top priorities should be: 1. camera 2. bug spray. Waking up on Thursday morning.. thinking that I was going look like a kid with chicken pox, I was actually surprised with the outcome: only a few buggers actually got me. All in all, it was a great night!

Thank you both so much for the wonderful evening in Almelund, I hope you love your sneak peek! You're first on my backlog - so pictures should be back to you in the next week!

...and we meet again!

Hello Again,

After all of the exciting adventures I have been on this year already, I figured I need to start sharing the stories and share the goodness that the people I meet give to me! It's been an awfully long while since I've updated this, but starting with my backlogged beauties - it won't be hard to start back up again :] Prepare for an overload of beautiful people following this blog, and check back soon for my newest "sneak peeks"!

My life lately.... As we prepare to "hopefully" close on our house this Friday, and "hopefully" start building our dream house in the next few weeks - we're pretty much going to be living out of boxes. Although I'm stressed to the absolute T .. I wouldn't change a thing for the world (well maybe one or two things), afterall I've grown to love this house that built my family; fortunately, if we don't close this week - we have just that much more time to soak in reality. This house has seen many smiles, shared many laughs, comforted us through struggles, welcomed home a husband & wife, cushioned falls for our daughters first steps, and so many more wonderful memories. I hope that the new home owner realizes that he's not just buying a house, but is reminded that it is the house that we became an "us" in: it's part of who we are.

Bare with me as I live my beautiful crazy life and fill you all in the with the chaotic stories I have; however, they may seem to involve photoshoots ... or my crazy wild child!