Stone arch bridge Christmas photos- sarah and tyler

i don't know where to start! there are so many things i want to say about Tyler and Sarah. it was such an incredible morning, even though it was pretty chilly. As soon as i jumped in the car on the way to the Stone arch Bridge we didn't stop talking. Sarah and i were close when we were younger, so there so many things to catch up on! It was only the second time i met tyler, so i was able to see really how these two interact, how they love on one another and have fun tougher. And it was perfect. 

They told me they haven't had photos really taken since their wedding, over 4 years ago! Tyler did an absolutely amazing job at making Sarah laugh, even without instructed, in other words… a perfect model. So here's a few sneak peek photos of our time together capturing photos for Christmas! 

Sarah and Tyler are adopting two kids from Ethiopia, and they're ready for their little ones to come! They started the adoption process thinking it would take about 2 years and hoping to have then in their arms by this Spring! Wanting to include the little ones, we decided on some cupcakes representing both of them. they were so beautiful, i hated to have the cupcakes ruined, but they did a nice little smash! followed by a car ride with sarah not having wiped off any frosting… it was awesome. 

It's such a wonderful time catching up with childhood friends, meeting their spouses and seeing the incredible things they're doing to serve. i had such a great morning, feeling completely refreshed, encouraged and it began a day that i felt so blessed full of joy from these two. Thank you both! i can't wait for part two.. when the kids are here! 

Maternity photos in St. Paul- Sarah

I met sarah through my friend Rachelle, and actually next summer we're both in her wedding! Sarah is due next month and wanted to get in a few photos before the day baby arrives. our first plan was to go downtown Minneapolis, but it was sure cold out this Minnesota morning so we stayed around the apartment area, and it worked perfectly! we had a little caribou  coffee before starting out inside the apartment, which are a few of my favorites from this session!

Brooklyn (sarah's daughter) got more involved as we went outside, and it worked great for me! ;) she wasn't into photos until i let her use the reflector and "blind mom" this instantly made her more cheerful and then we snuck her in a few photos too! 

 

Sarah did so great, and looked adorable! it makes me think i'll have to get maternity photos done too.. someday! I'd love to hear what you think about showing off that sweet baby bump, if you think you'll get some done when you have the chance. 

engagement at the park, and the sprinklers!

where do i start!? Danette Chappell of Amberlight Collective asked me to come along for this engagement session and i'm so thankful i could! these two were absolutely amazing to say the least.  

I knew Heidi from the chapel i worked at, and felt so lucky to help photograph this gorgeous couple. As soon as i got home, i had to tell my husband about the shoot and his reaction was "i met him once! He was really awesome!" My husband even knows it's a great shoot when i won't stop talking about it and bragging about the couple, this was one of those times. Not only are they completely photogenic and fun.. but DARING too! We ended the shoot by running in the sprinklers, and Bojo got the most daring by doing a nice little dance in one of them. After that, Danette and i couldn't resist.. we might have done a run through! That's when Bojo and Heidi became the photographers for a moment too. But these photos are all about these two! 

So here's a few to show off how cute they are and those eyes. seriously! 

getting to know how the couple met, and seeing them interact during their e-session is one of my favorite things about being a photographer! It's what inspires me during the shoot, showing off who they are together as a couple. This session was no exception, Bojo was definitely loving all the kissing they got to do, and really all the photos in general :) thank you two for being great even with two crazy girls and their cameras in your face. 

So thank you Danette  for letting me come along, you're a pretty awesome friend and shooting with you is always WAY too much fun!   

have i mentioned... i love love. 

Miller Family photos

I had the opportunity this summer to photograph some family photos for the Miller family. i have got to say, it was an absolute blast! I went out to their farm, and we got the photos done right before some rain came in. They were having a reception for Joe and Darcie who had just gotten married, and wanted some snapshots before the party began! 

The whole time they were having fun with each other, laughing and making me feel more than welcome. i even got a tour of Eileen's beautiful home! I have got to say, love the setup office, right off their house. Gorgeous yard too! 

you might recognize Tara who had the dress the trash session this summer too! if you don't remember, check it out again HERE! 

As you can tell, they had just a little bit of fun together! 

Thank you all for letting me photograph your wonderful family! 

Gena and Mike- wedding at The Four Seasons

Mike and Gena Nunez wedding sneak peek! 

This past Saturday i had the opportunity to second shoot for Ralph James of Pin Up Bride Photography again. I got to spend some time while the girls were getting ready and enjoying a few hours together. Gena is such a sweet heart with a soft spirit. I always find it so touching when bridesmaids and the MOB are there for every moment, sharing those happy tears. One of my favorite moments of the morning was watching Gena and her mother talk, cry and hug on each other as they were both all ready. i admit.. i still have moments where i tear up behind the camera.... that was one of them. 

There were so many amazing details of their day! Gena's Veil was her mother's, and her parents were married 36 years ago! 

i couldn't help but snap away tons of photos when they were laughing and loving on one another. but here's a few sweet moments! 

The girls decided to do a shot or two for a photo, and i loved how much fun they were having the whole day! Gena... you have some GREAT bridesmaids! 

i headed over the guys' room where it was just them watching football. I stole them away from the TV enough to walk around Mandalay Bay and get some fun shots in, before we headed over to get ready for the ceremony! 

The whole group! 

the gorgeous decor! Pin Up Bride Planners always does such a perfect job! The top photo is the sweet heart table for the bride and groom, and the awesome ice sculpture you see held a shot. seriously. awesome. 

seeing some of the details, what were some favorites from your wedding!? 

Thank you Ralph for letting me second shoot this lovely wedding, i had an absolute blast and as always.. couldn't help myself from dancing to a few songs. 

Gena and Mike, it was wonderful to meet you, and thank you for letting me help photograph your big day!