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Thank you Florida

I was frantic thinking of all the those important things I knew I'd forget as I was packing for our family vacation to Florida a couple of weeks ago. It ain't easy packing for yourself, a four year old, and a two year old - especially a weeklong visit in between changing seasons. And as I was in frantic mode I thought in disgust, "Man, do I need to bring my "real" camera?!" Oooh, that isn't good. My work had become ... work. I quickly pushed the thought out of my head and just grabbed my camera body and a go-to lens.

I thoroughly enjoyed my vacation. I ate like I've never eaten, slept like I hadn't had in years, took joy in things big and small, and relied on the help of friends and family who came along to help take care of my kids. :) And a few days in, I spontaneously asked my little girl if she wanted to take a few pictures on the beach.

This photo embodies the wreckless abandon of a child, the free spirit within, and doing what you love ... even if it's just jumping and throwing sand.

I love my baby girl and thank her for reminding me that while my work can at times be work, I am doing what I love. Sometimes I just need to slow down to see it.

The Vogt Family | Ansley turns 1

I've pretty much run out of adjectives and witty tidbits about this family. I think we are entering double digits on the number of photo shoots we've done. But that doesn't mean I don't love them any less. I always get excited to see this family. I know what to expect and don't know what to expect all that the same time. :)

What I didn't expect was that this little one year old would already be walking at age 1. Seriously, where does the time go?

I bet she's thinking, "Who are these silly people?" It's dad Ryan, mom Jill, and big sis Emerson. Her silly, adoring, loving family.

Five years of marriage, two kids later, and I caught these crazy kids still head over heels ... with each other and their family.

Silly sweetie.

Touchdown? Nope. "Soooo big!"

Have you noticed Ansley's ruffles yet? :)








Thanks (again!) Ryan, Jillian, Emerson and Ansley. Happy Birthday sweet Ansley!!

Kara = 3

She's a big girl now!

Now that she's 3, Kara's personality is really in full bloom. She's full of smiles - especially with Daddy.

Kara also loves to show off her ballet moves. She just needs a little help with her shoes.

What 3 year old doesn't like a Reese's peanut butter cup? They make for great smiles.

And they can be eaten in one bite!




Great seeing you grow over the years Kara. Thanks for letting me take just a glimpse into your 3 year old world. :)

Angie & Byron | Married

Ceremony: Bride's parents' home

Reception: Moulin

Florist: Bloomin' Buckets

Bride's hair: Brandy Langley, Metro Design Studio (Des Peres)

DJ: TKO DJs

Slideshow: Click Here!

 

Angie & Byron. Their families have been their foundation. They've provided them with roots that anchor them. Shoulders to lean on. But also strength to spread their wings and fly on their own. And now as Angie & Byron are starting their life together, it's their turn to share the love they've discovered in each other. That love is what binds them. Holds them. And lifts them. Being there, you felt the strength and support between them and from their families throughout the day. So what better place to start their wedding day - and have their ceremony - than in Angie's parents' home.

First look.



I have to mention we totally lucked out on this January day with the weather. It was in the mid-fifties when we headed to the World's Fair Pavilion for some wedding party pictures.

These just say "winter wedding" to me.

I had the amazing Kate on hand that day. She produced many fantastic images including these two below:

Okay it was warmer than it was supposed to be that day, but still a little chilly for some. :)

When Angie & Byron first saw each other Byron surprised her with his finishing touch - his "David Letterman" socks! Byron, his groomsmen AND Angie's dad showed them off a lot that day. Byron was quite proud of them. We loved them too.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these black & whites.















We headed back to Angie's parents' home for the ceremony which happened right at sunset.

Ah, sunset.

Thanks, Kate:

The toasts - all 4 of them - were especially emotional and uplifting.













I have to thank Suzanne for sending your friend my way! And Angie & Byron, thank you to you and your families for including me in your day and letting me witness all that love and support you have among each other. Best wishes! :)

The Moeller Family | Baby Kane

I love this family. Beautiful, fun-loving, strong, united.

Before we got to baby Kane, I had a chance to catch up with big sister Maeve and big brother Liam. If you remember them from their previous sessions, these kids have won the genetic lottery. And they are pretty funny together too.

It didn't take long for them to get all silly on me. Jump and dance on the table - sure, why not?

Kane was ready, so we headed into the nursery.

Kane - Irish for "Fighter" - got a little cranky, but Mama was there to comfort her little man.

And the reality of a family photo with three kids under 5. :)

Big brother. Little brother.

Some alone time with Kane.







And I'll finish with this silly picture of Maeve taking a lunch break on the counter in the kitchen. :) I just like the silly pictures of kids being kids.

Thank you Bill, Maeghan, Maeve, Liam and Kane. What a perfect family you have. Stronger, more united, and beautiful as ever. Love you guys!

 

Emily & Jared | Married

Ceremony: Our Lady of Providence

Reception: The Falls

Florist: Floral Memories and More

Slideshow: Click here!

 

I remember that I was relaxing under the sunny skies of Florida when I got a call from Emily's mom about booking me for Emily & Jared's wedding. I photographed two of Emily's cousins' weddings and with Emily planning from Ft. Smith, Arkansas, she relied on her family's help to pin down the details to make it all happen. That's what stood out to me about Emily & Jared's wedding - from the planning, to the day-of preparation, and throughout the whole day - their families and friends were there for them every step of the way.

And it all came together from the very start. 

I was very fortunate to have the awesome Kelly Park shooting with me that day. Here's one of her shots:

It was getting a wee bit dark, but Emily lit it up. :)

With the sun setting, what better place is there to stop and take a break indoors?

LOVED all the gorgeous purple at the reception.

Everyone was ready to par-ty. :)





What a wonderful day from start to finish. Thank you Emily & Jared for including me in such a perfect day. I hope Ft. Smith continues to treat you well.