Smith Family

It’s been awhile since I’ve had a minute to sit down and blog about recent sessions. I know, it’s a super lame excuse, but it is what it is.

Anyway, this past weekend I had the pleasure of meeting with Kayla and Ben and adorable little Liam. I walked up to our location and they were playing with bubble guns! I love when parents take a little extra time before our shoot to do fun things with the kids - it helps set them at ease. We chatted for a bit and then got down to business! Liam initially got a bit nervous and wanted to wander around. I’m 100% on board with this because it helps to do two things: 1. it helps them get to know me, and set them at ease. 2. it gets the wiggles out! Little bodies are meant to move, and it can be hard for kids to sit in one place for too long. I like my sessions to be laid back and fun, so everyone enjoys it (including dad! Ha).

They were just the sweetest parents, Liam was obviously cherished and nurtured by both his parents and it showed in how well behaved he was and how loving he was!

I solemnly swear to continue to update my blog more often - especially since it’s about to be baby season for me! (Not mine, other people’s…haha, I don’t need to start any rumors about myself)

Abigail & Travis

It’s not often that I have to worry about where I am for 24 hours or how I plan to get home. This early December wedding definitely had me on my toes!

We drove up the night before, wanting to beat the weather and also for other commitments. I’ve traveled to Minnesota a fair amount now that I live in North East Iowa, but it’s been mainly to the more densely populated area. I’m not going to lie - I got a bit car sick with the winding roads and crazy hills we drove through in the near pitch black.

When we finally arrived in the sleepy little town I was blown away by how beautiful it was - it was like a scene from a Norman Rockwell painting. Warmth lend itself from the brightly lit storefronts even though most of them were closed for the evening.

We sat down for dinner with Abigail and Travis for dinner in a quaint little street side cafe and talked about the upcoming day and got to know each other better.

The next morning the chilly wind had picked up and heavy clouds had rolled in. But it didn’t diminish the view of the beautiful town around me. With morning light I was able to fully experience just how gorgeous it was - the town was nestled in between bluffs. Pine trees lined the top of the bluffs and a river wound it’s way through the town, they even had a small waterfall to complete this picturesque Minnesotan town.

Abigail and Travis couldn’t have picked a better place for their wedding. Showing up to the ceremony location, a Lutheran Church turned Non-Denominational, it made a great location with windows to the beautiful views.

The ceremony was simple and elegant - family braved the uncertain weather conditions to support Abigail and Travis. Thankfully the worst of the storm blew past us, but it did leave the roads slightly slick as we made out way to the reception location.

Everyone was finally able to let loose and enjoy themselves. The dancing wore on into the night and everyone was contented and able to enjoy the celebration of the newly formed union.

It was an extremely pleasant wedding and I am so thankful that I have the privilege and honor of working with these amazing couples.

- Stephanie