2012 Princeton Grad: Colton

Cars. Old cars. New cars. Big trucks. Vintage trucks. Colton can't get enough of them and either could I during his session last month. It was a cold day- but beautifully quiet and peaceful on his grandparent's land. I loved that Colton showed his genuine and perfect smile throughout the whole morning as I sought to capture all that makes him who he is!

Here are a few favorites! Enjoy!

The Beauty that is Italy

Have you ever been so head-over-heals in love with a moment? Have you wanted to truly stop time and soak in every vivid color, each sweet sound, and the way it made your heart beat like the hoofs of a thousand horses? Or wanted to bottle all that is represented within the place and bring it home with you- because even the smallest portion would bring incredible joy? That was Italy for me.

All my life, as far back as I can remember, I was facinated with Italy. The culture, the language, the art, the landscapes, the people and the history just drew me in for years. My house is decorated with paintings featuring different Italian locations. I often talked of how, although I can't visit there, I can live vicariously through the artwork within my home. I own DVD's about traveling to Italy. Actually, it's slighly embarrassing how enthralled I was. Before I departed, before I kissed my sweet blonde boys on the cheeks and cried a few tears, my husband had mentioned how much he hoped the country lived up to my wild dreams. I came back telling him it somehow exceeded them. Not because it was perfect; traveling in a foreign land can be difficult at times. But because it was so raw, authentic, bold, and wonderful. Can you fall in love with a place? Because I think I did.

I am unable to expound much more than that at this time. Words don't seem to do it justice. God is working in my heart and a passion for this country and its people grows daily. Perhaps when its not days before Christmas, perhaps when there aren't deadlines for wonderful clients and the snow is falling heavily outside, I will have a chance to reflect, disect and understand exactly what it was the spoke so soundly to my soul.

Until then...

Here are a few images from my 10 days in photographer paradise. I LOVE my job and I LOVE my family, but I would seriously adore traveling a couple weeks a year to capture all that makes this world, that God so effortlessly forms, beautiful. If you know anyone looking, give them my number. :)

Ciao.

2012 Elk River Grad: Amanda

Amanda is one of those naturally beautiful girls. As soon as I met her, I noticed her humility and kindness. She came ready- with fun props and adorable clothes and we had fun in fields, near rivers, by old brick buildings and much more. Here are a few of my favorites from her session!

Have an outstanding year, Amanda- you're beautiful inside & out!

2012 Princeton Grad: Ben

Ben is an easy-going guy. Likeable, funny, and almost always smiling whenever I see him, I knew his session would be no different. Although it was a bit cold, and November when we set out to capture his grad portraits, the leaves and colors were still soaked in all that is beautiful in fall.

Here are a few highlights from his Elk River session. I wish you all the best as your finish your senior year and go on to big things, Ben!

Beautifully Engaged: Ashley & Jason

He makes her laugh. She looks at him and lights up. He loves her and so enjoys seeing her smile. They were adorable to photograph on Sunday. We had planned for a 'winter wonderland' engagement session but got more of an 'awesomely [cold, breezy] autumn" look to it instead. Who would have guessed that mid-December in Minnesota would yeild NO snow? Thankfully, it didn't matter- their laughter was infectious and we were all cracking up throughout our time together.

Here are some favorites... hope you enjoy...

Their daughter, Savannah, is just as cute as can be...I think they should call Gap Kids and see if they are in need of an adorable little model. :)

Ashley, you are going to make a GORGEOUS bride!

Loving the sweet intimate feel to this one...

Their July 2012 wedding is sure to be nothing short of spectacular.

Maple Grove Wedding Photographer: Jenny & Todd

They were amazing to work with from beginning to end. Relaxed, and completely trusting of me as their photographer. It was a joy and an honor to be a small part of such a big day for them.

The sweet moments between sisters, the look of excitement in their little girl's eyes, and the almost constant laughter from the wedding party were just a few details that I will carry with me from their day. I can hope that these images will enable them to carry those emotions...even, RELIVE those emotions for the rest of their days.

Here are a few highlights from their November wedding day:

Their wedding was held at the Shephard of the Grove Lutheran Church in Maple Grove... the same church Jenny grew up in... just across from the school she attended. So special...

One of the many sweet sister moments:

Gorgeous details that make the day even more significant & beautiful!

Like most of my couples, Jenny & Todd opted for the "first look" before the ceremony. This allowed us to get great pictures and enabled them to enjoy some quiet moments together!

Although it was windy and chilly, the sun shined so brightly and illuminated the love between this couple...

One of my favorite images from the day...

These girls were so fun & braved the cold with little complaint and many smiles!

Their beautiful little girl, who is the spitting image of Jenny! :)

Both the Bestman and the Maid of Honor had touching speeches.

The best speeches are those when childhood stories are incorperated. And Jenny's sister, Kary, did just that.

I loved this father-daughter dance. You could just feel the joy radiating from both of them.

Congratulations Jenny and Todd! May you experience true love and joy all the days of your life. I am so happy you've found the one you will walk hand-and-hand with.