The first time Owen met Alexa she was flanked by two other girls, Alexa and Alexa. Upon meeting one another, all three girls chimed, “We’re Alexa”. Ha! Now, while numbers are perhaps not for everyone, in my book whenever anything happens in a set of three, it is something to take note of. So long ago, perhaps Owen wasn’t even thinking about marriage or of the one with whom he would spend all his days. But there in that college quadrangle, the meeting of the three Alexas would be the start of a most joyous journey. Oddly enough, it was thanks to weddings, weddings where each of their respective roommates kept marrying one other that Owen and Alexa spent more and more time together. Suddenly, there were only two single people of their houses left. I remember those hot summer nights, still in the afterglow of one of our most favorite things – “So You Think You Can Dance” – sitting on the couch with Alexa and our friend Allison just squealing at the prospect of it all. When?! Oh, WHEN will he ask her out? The waiting was agony, but in just the right time the heavens smiled and Owen had a dream and knew Alexa was the one written for him. Friendship became a relationship, then a most anticipated engagement, and now a partnership for all the years ahead. How sweet that life would write Owen and Alexa’s own love story in between and quite nestled in to the pages of the stories being written for the people they adore most. Congratulations Owen and Alexa – I am so very happy for you both!

Ceremony: Antioch Community Church

Reception: The Roosevelt Ballroom

Caterer: Festive Occasions

Floral: Pam’s Ribbons and Roses

Coordinator: Connie Dunn

What do you do when a couple you only recently met brings you SPRINKLES cupcakes to celebrate you – before you have even taken one picture of them? YOU MELT. Let’s be honest, I am a crier and it is lucky we were even able to carry on with this session after Daniel and Jessica presented me with such a perfectly perfect gift. Really, everything about these two makes one melt. They have a way about them, a way with one another, that draws you in and makes you feel at home. I am filled with anticipation awaiting their wedding in April and getting to know their story even more.

How sweet it is to be young and in love. With youth and it’s joy comes a hope in the good in life, a hope in the future, and an optimism that makes those around you stronger. Kathryn, at only 21, has met her One and they are a perfect pair. Her joy is like the morning – fresh, bright, and radiating light in it’s newness. It was a pleasure to photograph her in the sweet days before her wedding. It seemed as if even the sun itself rejoiced with her at being a bride. My sincerest congratulations to you, Kathryn!

Today we are featured on Junebug Weddings! Head on over there and check out all the amazing black and white work they are showing off today  – click here. While you’re at it, stroll around their site as it will surely brighten your day and make you smile. Thanks Junebug!

I am outrageously proud to announce that the above image placed in Junebug Weddings Best of the Best 2011 as one of the best wedding images of the year. Out of over 5,000 submissions only 50 were chosen to represent the best and I, no lie, squealed like a school girl when I was notified of my placement. Being a part of the Junebug family is something I cherish and to be recognized by their staff, who views tons upon tons of wedding images all the time is truly an honor. Thank you so much, ladies! To view the entire collection of 50 images (and you should!) please check it out here. Congratulations to so many friends who are also showcased – I am humbled to be among such masters of this craft.

The image below received an honorable mention in the reception category – it’s one of my favorite images from 2011! I am thrilled to see it featured among so much talent. To see all of the honorable mentions from the ceremony & reception category please click here.