Suzy and John

I totally had a great day at this wedding. Although the wedding party was large, everyone was just laid back, so nice and really enjoying themselves without causing chaos or destruction or being uptight. With so many people you'd think there would be some kind of chaotic event, but none here. The day was smooth as pie.
Suzy and her girls were getting ready ready at the church so I arrived there to catch some candids of the girls getting ready. Once I got some of those, I rounded up the guys and took them outside for their group photos. I try to photograph as many photos ahead of time as possible that way there is less stress for time after the ceremony.
The ceremony was later in the day, which was perfect because it made the temperature outside quite pleasant after the ceremony- and everyone in turn was happy that they weren't greasy or sweating for the outdoor photos. We took the photos on the church grounds before heading over to Arnoldo's for the reception.
I LOVE Arnoldo's! It's so classy and pretty and the food is always fabulous. And I like that it is roomy enough and they never try to shove too many people in the room. Sooooooooo many places will try to shove 150 people in a room that really only holds 120 and let me tell you-it makes a HUGE difference. Huge.

The night was so enjoyable and I LOVE to take photos under the twinkling lights above the dance floor!
Another thing that was really special was how Suzy Incorporated the late father into every aspect of the wedding day. Keep in mind my darling brides that it's the small touches that make the day meaningful and full of remembrance.
Congrats Suzy and John! You know what awesome fun we had! xoxoxoxox

Jenni and Devon

We definitely had some good time, Jenni, Devon and I. Not only did I photograph Jenni's Sisters' wedding about 5 years back, but the three of us had a total hoot at their engagement session at kensington Metro park in Fall 2008. Good times, good times.

I started off the wedding day at Jenni's parents house where all the girlie's were getting ready. Once the limo picked everyone up there, I headed over to the church where we hid the girls in one of the church rooms, and I went and checked on the guys. I always take it upon myself to make sure the guys are behaving appropriately before the ceremony. I also use this time to my advantage to let the boys know that photos will be a fun filled day with me and not to worry. Of course, I always reiterate it in "Amanda speak."
It was hot. I mean really, really really hot. All I kept thinking of during the ceremony was that I think I new what Nelly meant when he wrote "Hot in Herr."

After the ceremony and the group family photos at the altar, we headed outside in the courtyard for a few pics before heading over to the reception at Fox Hills.

Once we arrived at Fox Hills, the fun began. We all got our little hands on some golf carts and away we went. The sun was a shinin' and although still hot out "therr" we captured some fabulous photos.

Once inside, the sun went down and the partying began. What a perfect night.

Congratulations my love bugs. Never forget the park ranger or those poor animals I made you pose with. LOL. xoxoxoxoxoxox

Ashley and Brian

Well, well. I think it's about time for a little ray of sunshine, don't you?
Between my 60+ photo shoots in the last three months, the holidays and this whole adoption/foster parent process, my poor weddings have been lagging on my blog!

So let's think summer, shall we?

Ah. It was a really nice day. It was overcast and breezy and just perfect instead of it being 90 degrees.
I started off the day at the Radisson Kingsley in Bloomfield where the girls were getting ready. I remember it being such a crazy summer for Ashley because she is in Med School and was preparing for her internships literally days before the wedding.
The mood was totally enlightening- no one was frazzled or stressed; just everyone enjoying one anothers company- it just made for a beautiful op for fun filled, relaxing photos.
Once we left the Radisson, we headed over to the church for the ceremony. I was lucky to work with a video crew from Mike Staff, so we all coordinated out spots for the ceremony. The church was strict with their rules, but most are. After the ceremony we finished up the group family photos and headed over to the reception at Wabeek Country Club.
Let me tell you, this place has it going on. Brenda, the Banquet Manager knows her stuff- and believes it is just as important to treat the vendors well- just as well as the bride and groom and their guests. This is ultra important to me, because although I am doing a job, one thing I hate is to be treated like a slave and like I am unimportant (just think about how you like to be treated at work.) Just not my cup of tea. Wabeek is respectful and caring and I was lucky to be there along with my awesome bride, groom, bridal party and families!
After some beautiful photos on the grounds, we were off to celebrate, eat and dance!
It was awesome to be able to be a part of this special day- I really am a very lucky person!

Congrats Ashley and Brian! Love ya's! xoxoxoxoxoxo

After some photos at Wabeek

Family Photo Session

Family Photo Session- at 33 Degrees!

Baby Photo Session