Showers and Rockstars

It's my turn, and I'm lovin it! Marcus and I have spent the entire summer doting over and photographing others' weddings, but very soon, we will be the couple ecstatically meeting at the alter.

My parents put on a fabulous bridal shower filled with endless delectables, roars of laughter, and overflowing love. I can't stress enough how thankful I am for such an AMAZING family and group of friends - and I eagerly look forward to meshing into my other half's side.

I showed up early to shoot a handful of details... of course!

Prep!

Mama and her angel helpers.

My fabulous MOH who will shoot me for posting this picture - Ms. Christina Noelle.

Ah, yes. Another bridesmaid spotting. Ms. Brianna Litz.

My darling Ashley, who begged for a photo of "all" the bridesmaids. Three of nine were there! ; )

Allow me to introduce the rockstar dreamteam behind it all: My favorite parents ; )

I'll end on my favorite note... KISSES!

Baby Anthony

We've all questioned God at some point in our life, asking why or how He could allow something so awful to occur.

There will forever be incidents we simply don't understand, and closed doors we might strive to pry open... but as children of God, we are called to rest in the peace of God's promises, for He will never abandon us. I know I'm young and have much to experience, but I have sat amongst immeasurable suffering and been devastated when the plans of my heart don't match God's reality for my life. It can feel like I'm desperately swimming but going nowhere, as I'm overwhelmed by the pounding waves in an ocean of uncertainty. But just as I begin to drown and lose sight of help or land... I'm reminded of my savior and HIS view from above, and slowly calm my limbs as His presence (which was always there, but couldn't get to me because I'm so dang spastic) carries me through.

Anna and Anthony were blessed with their first baby, Anthony, a few months ago. He is beautiful, fragile, and hungry for all he's surrounded by. But early complications and unusual behavior led to testing. Tests resulted in news of serious brain abnormalities, and soon after, it was determined baby Anthony was also blind. My heart breaks as I write this, because this baby happens to be my cousin. I can barely describe what it feels like to see loved ones bear such obvious pain and hurt. I do, however, know when there's seemingly so little to hope for, our God understands every feeling we battle, and will carry you through, one bump at a time. It's always easier said than done, isn't it? But rejoicing in your son and all he has taught you ALREADY is quite a miracle in itself.

It would mean a lot if you could take time to pray for baby Anthony and his parents today.

"The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." - Deuteronomy 31:8

 

Townsend + Gruninger :: Family

Family shoots are such a blast when the group enthusiastically prepares. This family shoot was flawlessly organized, and with such beautiful subjects, I really could have asked for nothing more. Virgie and Co., you ROCK!!

Five sisters. FIVE! Little Johnny will be victim to more girl advice than he ever wanted, but I know each sister shares a bond that transcends time and distance. This family is lighthearted and playful, with a huge side of passion and hardwork. Thank you so much for letting us capture God's most powerful creation - family.

OOo - And when you schedule with me and I tell you to pick a color theme... refer to this post. They were on POINT!

EVERYONE came prepared with game faces.

Warm-ups make me smile : )

The man holding it alllll together.

Such a handsome bunch.

Virgie and I went to highschool together! That makes us cool.

SERIOUS babe-alert.

I can't even begin to tell you how honored I felt to photograph the girls' grandparents. Patricia and Nelson graciously allowed us into their home, and we were blessed to witness such a loving couple that has weathered so many storms.

Adoration.

STUNNING. Dear Kim, please tell me how to look like you when I'm a mom of six. Love, Gina ; )

How did ALL of the girls photograph this well?!

Free, gentle, loving spirits.

XOXO!!

Alyssa + Ben :: Married

This wedding story is particularly dear to me. I never could have imagined five years ago, scarfing down ramen noodles packed in our 10th floor dorm suite, that I would one day capture Alyssa marrying the man of her dreams.

As an incoming freshman, I nervously arrived at UAlbany to find one of the two bunks already taken. SHE, was off my list. But SHE happened to be Alyssa, and a roommate I would share many adventures with. I fell in love with her family, and eventually her, so I was honored to share in yet another life milestone. 

Ben and Alyssa were introduced through mutual friends. Ben is darling and laid back, and like no other, he calms Alyssa's nerves. Her smile gapes when he's around, and together, they can conquer anything.

Alyssa and Ben, thank you for inviting us into your lives and your special day. We wish you the very best in this journey and all it will bring.

The bustling morning hair salon.

Something blue.

Went on about this dress for days... LOVE

Such a stunning bride.

Nothing quite like catching a few rays in scorching dark suits! Marcus snagged these next few shots.

Alyssa and Ben opted to do a First Look before the ceremony. Their faces were priceless.

Ready to see the cutest flower girl, EVER?!

LOVED her flowers!

Definitely one of my favorites of the day. Thank you, MARCUS! Zis is very French, no?

Three generations of lovely women.

Shout out to Ms. Alyse French who joined in for the day.

Stuffed like chickens in the backseat!

How cute are Ben's faces?!

And so the story begins...

SMOOCHES!!

Missio :: Project

Yes! Since coming back in May, Marcus and I have been uncontrollably blessed to call Missio Church, home. The pastors, people, and teachings of this body are powerful and truth-filled. And their mission for the city of Syracuse is amazing! I was honored to assist in the redevelopment of their Web site, and today, it has become officially official! Check out the site, and COME VISIT if you're in the area!! Services are Sunday mornings at the Palace Theater. We love you, Missio!

www.missiochurch.org

Lianna :: Senior

No, not senior citizen.

I've had the pleasure of knowing Lianna and her family since my distant days of nerddom, so you can imagine my excitement after being asked to capture her life in this moment. Lianna is gladly entering her final year of highschool and starting to toss around those easy decisions like college, and what she wants to do with the rest.of.her.time.on.earth. Yeah, the boring stuff.

Li recently returned from an incredible trip to the Dominican Republic where she and a group of students volunteered their time to an orphanage. Her face lit up as she recalled people and stories, and it became obvious this was only the beginning for her.

As the photos reveal, Lianna is breathtakingly beautiful... AND a blast. Marcus and I had such a great time working with her, lost keys and all. I am blessed to know this young woman, and am thrilled to see what's in store for her future.

We love you, L!

Right? Like, gag me. Too gorgeous.

Superwomanesque

Lianna also happens to be a tennis superstar, so we HAD to grab some shots with her other appendage.

Exhibit A: NECTARINE - Commonly mistaken for a peach... MY BAD!!

XOXO!!

Carolynn + Stafford, Plus Two: Engaged

I'm so thankful to call this stunning blue-eyed pair, friends. Carolynn is superbly organized, thoughtful, and charming. And when standing beside her handsome piece of British man, she smirks, she giggles, she loves. Stafford is a genius with a gentle heart and welcoming smile. They balance one another in the ways that matter, and together, they are happy.

Shelby and Austin are not normal. No, really. They're so well-behaved and mature, I sometimes forget who I'm speaking with! Shelbs is super involved with her sports and cheerleading, and Austin will terminate any opponent in the virtual world. I love this family because they love each other, so thank you all for a wonderful day and the lasting memories we've created.

Enjoy! xoxo

The fam just moved into their new fabulous home. We spent the evening roaming the house, yard, and neighbors' to find meaningful spots.

How gorgeous are these blondes!?

If I were as cool as Austin, I'd have a dirt bike too. Evidently, I'm not cool.

Vinny is the graceful horse-dog always seeking Stafford's attention.

Really, though? How are you two so cute?

My favorite. Look at the way she loves him. Beautiful.

We needed to break for "Digestive Cookies". Totally necessary.

Love you!

Katie + Matt :: Wedding

A girl, madly in love with her best friend, gleamed uncontrollably for days. A boy, changed by her spirit, proudly committed to loving and caring for this girl as her husband. Katie and Matt are inwardly stunning. Their love transcends moods, circumstances, and self interests - with an ease that tells the world, I cherish this person, wholeheartedly. 

Katie and Matt are dear friends of ours, and precious individuals who will strive as one. Mackinac Island set the stage for their dreamlike wedding, and we were so blessed to spend the weekend with such a warm family and fun friends.

K+M: Thank you for everything. We love, love, LOVE you to pieces and are thrilled to be part of your future. Can't wait to have you here in NY!!

Baffled that this place existed, we left our car at the port to float 15 minutes by ferrie. We arrived on the island, seeing bicycles and horse carriages... Only. Awesome!

Rehearsal dinner. How cute is Em's dress? And how radiant was the bride-to-be? Come on.

High school sweethearts.

The fabulous Sprinkles.

The wedding day begins.

Family effort in a minor dress crisis.

Work it, mama!

Our handsome groom with the Cadillac of cruisers.

Groomsman getting ready.

He was a definite attention grabber.

Guests piled in for brunch following the morning ceremony.

Katie and Matt seized the opportunity to get some reading in.

She gets a 10 for this.

XOXO!