NYC Photoshoot Fundraiser for Abortion Funds
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A photography fundraiser to raise money for the National Network of Abortion Funds!
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Alex + Mark // Wedding Portraits
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Don’t miss these bride and groom portraits taken at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Manhattan! Alex and Mark reflect on the lessons they’ve learned about love and each other, one year after their wedding day.
Read MoreMariana and Erin Engagement
/Meet Mariana and Erin.
There are a lot of perks when a couple is selective about the location of their photoshoot. From a logistics standpoint, it’s a relief to quickly align on a place to meet, it demonstrates that the couple is very decisive, and it enables the photographer to have enough time to research. From an experience standpoint, there’s even more to appreciate! A go-to spot also means that the couple already has treasured memories in a particular area and it’s an honor to know that the photos will extend that further. Erin and Mariana were so excited take engagement photos in Fort Tryon Park – a beloved neighborhood landmark. During the pandemic and to this day, it provided an essential element of peace that they could regularly enjoy, from the lush gardens to the beautiful stonework throughout. We took photos together in the late spring and it felt like the blooms were extra colorful for the romantic occasion.
The way Mariana and Erin interact with one another is so gentle, genuine, and sweet. When asked about their favorite things about one another, Mariana shared, “I love Erin's caring nature and sense of humor.” Erin reciprocated, “I love Mariana's intelligence and her unexpectedly silly side that she saves for me.” Their deep mutual appreciation was so apparent during our time together in Washington Heights, as we explored the park for the engagement photos. It truly was SO adorable.
Congratulations to Erin and Mariana on your engagement! Thank you for the lovely stroll and opportunity to capture some of your joy. What a beautiful partnership you have built together.
Maternity Photos In Central Park
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New parents enjoy a maternity photo shoot in Central Park. This New York City couple is celebrating a brand new baby on the way.
Read MoreCaitlin & Ian Engaged
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Caitlin and Ian’s fall engagement shoot was, a perfect way to capture the autumnal beauty of New York.
Read MoreKayla & Max // Engaged
/Meet Kayla and Max.
When these two high school sweethearts first met, Max was quickly smitten. It took Kayla a little bit more time, but good things come to those who wait. Now, they live happily in NYC and have built a wonderful home together with their baby - a lopsided cat named Alfred. We met one afternoon to take engagement photos in the SoHo / Tribeca area, with a beautiful city backdrop to enjoy.
Intimate. Comforting. Dependable. These rooftop engagement photos captured a tiny glimpse into Kayla and Max’s beautiful relationship. It doesn’t take much time together to clearly see that they’ve developed a true partnership. After 8+ years together, they’ve supported each other through challenges, stress, successes, and celebrations.
This was such a great day! We were nervous that the foggy, drizzly day would ruin the photos but I think there is something magical about a misty afternoon in NewYork City. Perfect engagement photos do not require perfect weather, perfect clothes, or perfect backdrops. A couple in love is honestly the only essential ingredient. Thank you for sharing your love with me, Kayla and Max!
Engagement Photo Details:
- Location: SoHo, New York City
- Kayla’s Engagement Ring: MiaDonna
- Max’s Engagement Ring: Manly Bands
Julia & Beej // Engaged
/Meet Julia and Beej.
This amazing couple is getting married this summer so we celebrated with an engagement shoot! After meeting at a birthday party in Capitol Hill 4.5 years ago, Beej and Julia got engaged in New York, and will say I Do in Woodinville, WA. On the only non-rainy day that week, typical Seattle behavior, we took a stroll around Pioneer Square and found some fun spots to photograph.
When I asked Julia and Beej what their favorite personality traits about each other were, they said being fun-loving and kind. As we spent the afternoon together, that joyful vibe was so abundantly clear.
Thank you, Julia and Beej, for such a fun session taking your Pioneer Square engagement photos! This was such a great way to warm up for the big day, get to know each other, and explore the city together. Can’t wait for the big day in July.
Rori + Carmen // Wedding
/Meet Rori and Carmen.
Meeting these two brides was such a breath of fresh air. They are creative, unique, determined, and so welcoming. And not to mention, they are 100% cute af. For their epic wedding celebration, Rori and Carmen traveled from Michigan to New York for a City Hall elopement with family followed by larger celebration including pizza, civic engagement, and dancing in a Brooklyn brownstone. As a wedding photographer, it’s the ideal scenario when I’m working an event that I’d love to attend as a guest. Safe to say, Rori and Carmen made this true. See below for proof!
At City Hall, the environment was overwhelmingly positive. We were surrounded by couples of all ages, genders, and races. Some were dressed to the nines, while others waited contently in casual attire. Everyone wished each other well, sharing knowing glances and reassuring smiles. In a time where there is so much negativity in the world, being in love and making that legal commitment felt really powerful, especially for Rori and Carmen as a proud, lesbian couple.
After they were officially married, Rori and Carmen said a temporary goodbye to their amazing group of loved ones, and we set off for a few hours of exploring!
After some champagne, we traveled to Brooklyn where the celebrations continued! Rori and Carmen shared vows that made everyone teary, standing under the most beautiful rainbow arch. Throughout the day, there was such a strong sense of community, as everyone in attendance really supported their loving union.
A particularly inspiring moment was when these badass brides encouraged everyone to take time to call their Congress members, providing helpful scripts that covered various issue areas. This is #goals.
The party continued on the brownstone roof, with everyone dancing the night away. For the grand finale, we planned for an instagram-ready wedding sparkler shot. Instead, the sparklers were lit in random order, the rooftop was surrounded by smoke, and in the beautiful chaos, the sense of glee was unmistakable. It was perfect.
It was an honor photographing this magical day. Carmen and Rori, congratulations on getting married in the best way possible. You stayed true to yourselves, shared so much love with everyone, and had an absolute blast! ❤️
Karli + John // Wedding
/Meet Karli and John!
Nearly 30,000 couples got married on August 18th - Karli and John were one of those couples. A girl from Washington met a boy from Michigan on Tinder, and now they’ve built a life together in New York! Together, they celebrated love in downtown Seattle and it was truly one of the most fun weddings I’ve ever attended!
Seriously, what a gorgeous couple! They both were glowing with excitement, that only continued when they finally saw each other. John’s reaction was SO sweet.
The best thing about John and Karli is how they balance each other out. They absorb each other’s energies, helping each other feel relaxed, excited, and brave. Any stress and anxiety disappeared as soon as they had time to reset. As anyone can tell, Karli and John are so devoted and faithful - it’s inspiring. I’m so excited to witness their journey as husband and wife!
Karli and John’s ceremony and reception was held at Melrose Market, which was the most cozy, classic venue. The night transformed turned into a wedding / concert, as a rotation of immensely talented friends took turn performing for the crowd. Guests of all ages tore it UP on the dance floor, sang along at the top of their lungs, and smiled from ear to ear. It was a perfect night, and the start of an amazing journey for these two.
Vendors
Venue & Catering: Melrose Market
Dress: Ida Torez
Flowers: Pike Place Market
Laura & Matt // Wedding
/Meet Laura and Matt!
Laura and Matt dated in high school, reconnected while they were both in separate colleges but happened to be studying abroad in Italy, and now have built a thoughtful and creative life together! For their wedding this summer, family and friends from Wisconsin, Brooklyn, Baltimore, and beyond came together to celebrate this loving duo.
Laura and Matt have been together throughout so many different stages in life and their relationship really reflects that journey. They're effortlessly comfortable together, totally relaxed yet intimate. Their love is familiar and powerful - developed through time and effort.
How STUNNING does Laura look?! I loved that she chose this gorgeous dress from For Love & Lemons as her wedding dress. An unconventional wedding dress was perfect for this badass bride. She even shared the love and stitched extra matching flowers onto the flower girl's outfit.
This Wisconsin wedding truly showcased how loving and community-oriented Matt and Laura are. Cheese curds were abundant, warm introductions immediately radiated around the room in true midwestern fashion, and amazingly talented friends and family dazzled the crowd with live music. Particularly memorable was a ukulele performance by Matt's grandpa, with a moving rendition of Somewhere Over The Rainbow. I was wholeheartedly teary while shooting - it was SO sweet.
Speeches are always my favorite parts of weddings, and this day proved exactly why. It was so clear how proud Matt and Laura's families are of them, through their words. Everyone acted as unofficial yet totally qualified love historians, sharing their perspectives of the evolution of Matt and Laura's relationship. There's nothing better than a room full of people you care about, joyfully affirming and sharing reasons why you two belong together.
Not your average barn wedding by any means, Laura and Matt filled their wedding itinerary with unique touches - hula hoops, popcorn, disco balls, DIY fireworks, a custom neon sign shipped from Chinatown, ice cream bars, a bahn-mi station for late night eats, and French electro dance music throughout the night. It was so much fun!
Congrats Laura and Matt! You set the celebration bar so high, it's no doubt that your lives together will be filled with whimsy and joy.
Thank you again for letting me capture this day. After an unforgettable wedding in Weyauwega, Wisconsin, see you both back in Brooklyn!
Vendors
Venue: Willow Pond Bed & Breakfast
Flowers: DIY from Neenah Farmer's Market
Music: Spotify playlists, talented musician friends, adorable grandpa
Catering: Renards Catering
Dress: For Love & Lemons
Megan & Alex // Wedding
/Meet Megan and Alex.
These two amazing people tied the knot at the Volunteer Park Conservatory in Seattle recently and showed us all what true love is all about. Megan and Alex have survived high school, college, living in a tiny home, living with lots of roommates, working together, and raising a dog. Their Seattle fall wedding was the perfect reflection of the quirky, wonderful life they've built together.
After a rehearsal dinner at the Hotel Sorrento in Capitol Hill, the bridal parties spent the morning getting ready, while eating sandwiches, cracking jokes, and relaxing. It was the most laid-back morning of the morning that I has ever experienced. Seriously, future brides, take note. Give yourself extra time in the morning and everyone will be happier!
From Polaroids to Kanye quotes, Megan and Alex kept their style consistent all day.
After a sweet and small ceremony at the Volunteer Park Conservatory, we all headed to Local 360, a restaurant in Belltown. Instead of a traditional reception, Megan and Alex opted for a sit-down dinner to share a brunch menu, a ukulele serenade, and some amazing cake.
Congrats Megan and Alex!! Thank you for welcoming me to photograph this amazing day! This experience was so inspiring and the room was truly full of love. An intimate Seattle wedding to remember.
Vendor Details:
Event + Floral Design: Sequoia and Co Design – Shalom Murphy
Ceremony Venue – Volunteer Park Conservatory
Reception Venue – Local 360
Cake – Side Piece Cakes
Live Music – Vervex
Invitations – Minted
Watercolor of Venue – Nicole Gelb
Makeup Artist and Hair Styling – Salon Maison
Wedding Dress – BHLDN
Bridal Accessories – Kendra Scott and BHLDN
Groom and Groomsmen’s Apparel – Menguin
Groom’s Ring – Point No Point Studio
Rentals – Grand Event Rentals
Paper Goods and Calligraphy – The Bright Line Studio
Favors – Flour Dusted Countertops
Tyler & Kevon // Engaged
/Meet Tyler and Kevon!
Kevon is my older cousin and Tyler is the amazing lady who's crazy enough to marry him! Together, we had so much fun taking photos in downtown Seattle and Pioneer Square to celebrate their recent engagement.
You know how people say that your partner makes you a better version of you? Tyler and Kevon prove just that. Kevon has always been an outgoing and charismatic guy, but ever since he and Tyler began dating over four years ago, he's become more caring and gracious through her example. Tyler fits in so easily into our kooky family, so immediately loved by the American and Iranian sides! We're all lucky to have witnessed their love blossom and grow, from their fraternity and sorority days at Washington State University to now! Tyler and Kevon are such a balanced couple, enormously loved by their friends, family, and two cats. :)
This rooftop parking garage turned out to be such a hidden gem for the engagement photoshoot, with amazing urban views of the city, Century Link stadium, the waterfront, and more! We also spent some time exploring the neighborhood before celebrating their engagement photos with a few shots of well-deserved Fireball.
For two people who were so nervous about being weird in front of the camera, I think Tyler and Kev rocked this engagement shoot! They are so loving, fun, and radiant together - they made my job quite easy. I love these two and can't wait for their wedding in 2019!
Engagement Photo Details:
- Location: Pioneer Square; Downtown Seattle
- Engagement Ring: Blue Nile
- Tyler's Makeup: Bobby Brown
- Unofficial Love Languages: Badass, Carefree, In-Sync, & Undeniably Meant-To-Be
Imani & AJ // Engaged
/Meet Imani and AJ.
From meeting in college at Old Dominion in Virginia, to living in NY, to living in DC, to living in NY all over again - these two support each other always through new adventures and challenges. Together, we took a stroll around Central Park and the Upper East Side for their engagement photos. Fall in NYC was the perfect setting for their shoot!
Together, you are perfect. You both exude a level of comfortableness that demonstrates the many years growing and loving each other. Your both constantly subtly checking in on each other, sharing cute glances and making sure that no one feels alone in a quiet room. Together, you share loyalty and kindness and are an example to us all.
Best of luck planning your wedding, you two! The venue and date may be still unknown, but here's what is for certain: your special day will have delicious food (Imani is a v fancy yelper, guys), a medley of dancing Iranians, Yemenis, and Americans, and so so much love. Can't wait!
Karli & John // Engaged
/Meet Karli and John.
Karli is from Seattle, John is from Grand Rapids, and they met - and fell in love - in New York City. A classic tale, with some divine intervention from a dating app. Thank goodness these two met, because they're seriously a perfect match! Together, we explored and took some fall engagement photos at the Brooklyn Bridge Park.
I'm so grateful for Karli and John's positive, cheerful attitudes especially at 7:30AM on a Saturday! But honestly, these two bring out the best in each other and in everyone who is lucky to call them friends. There are people in life who just radiate kindness and accordingly, those people are always surrounded by love. Karli and John are connecters - they bring people together and have such a beautiful, varied array of friends. These friendships that they carefully cultivate together undoubtedly contribute to the strong foundation of love that Karli and John have for each other. They carry that commitment to caring in their work as well, through music and therapy and teaching and social work. They help others be better - and together, they keep growing and improving their own love.
Can't wait to photograph at your wedding this summer in Seattle, Washington! 100% will be crying behind the camera.
Monica & Kaleb // Engaged
/Meet Monica and Kaleb.
These two cutie live in the Pacific Northwest, and have recently gotten engaged. Monica is actually my college roommate and I've been dying to spend more quality time with her and Kaleb! Together we explored some stunning sights in Bellingham, Washington for their engagement photoshoot.
Monica and Kaleb bring out the best in one another. They're entirely at ease together, laughing and smiling so sincerely.
In our seven years as friends, I had never seen Monica so giddy! And as we explored some of Bellingham's most stunning spots, Kaleb and Monica were the best tour guides. I never would have imagined that Monica would turn into such a outdoorsy gal, but that is one of many great traits that Kaleb has rubbed off on her. In fact, he proposed to her while they were on a hike!
The way Monica looks at Kaleb is heartwarming. Plus they are complete naturals in front of the camera, because their affection doesn't have an off switch. It didn't matter if my camera was pointed at them or not, they were constantly glowing. Kaleb, you're truly so lucky to have such an amazing woman as your forever! And Monica, you deserve all of this happiness and more. I can't wait to continue to watch your love grow and blossom. Love you both so much.
Can't wait for your destination wedding in Belize! XO
9 Months With Jess // Maternity Style
/For the past nine months, I've had the most unforgettable experience photographing Jess as she has been growing a mini-human! Her strength, optimism, and grace throughout this journey has been so amazing to witness. Our relationship started in October when I began taking photos for her style and lifestyle blog, Let's Jess Up. Through frequent shoots and coffee dates, our friendship flourished. After Jess slyly declined a glass of wine one day, it was clear that something exciting was about to happen. As the months went by and her cute bump grew, Jess blossomed as a mom-to-be. In the process, her family and husband Matt stepped up to provide so much love and support. Baby Q couldn't be more lucky.
Now, let's look back on some of my favorite maternity looks that Jess created! Her maternity style was SO fierce, we should all take notes.
Jess' gender reveal announcement was undeniably adorable, right?
Her bump here was similar to my post-burrito bump, but Jess' glow is undeniable.
These shots were the epitome of spring; such a radiant portrayal of motherhood.
This NYC momma was an unbelievable champion as egg and cheese sandwiches helped her survive tired nights, achy feels, and swollen ankles. And through it all, she maintained such a positive attitude with one end goal in mind, meeting her baby girl. This look said it all, she was already in love.
As Jess packed her hospital bag here, the due date seemed more close than ever.
On August 7th, Baby Q was introduced to the world, eager to meet her parents Jess and Matt. It's safe to say no baby was ever loved more.
Jess, you are so inspiring and I'm so so lucky to call you a friend. I can't wait to see you experience motherhood, and to photograph beautiful Baby Q! She's so lucky to have you for her mom. Love you, girl!
Which maternity outfit of hers is your favorite? Comment below! Follow all Jess' adventures and outfits here.
Bobby & Thomas // Cape May Wedding
/Meet Bobby and Thomas.
A dancer and a doctor, these two grooms had the most lovely wedding at The Southern Mansion in Cape May, New Jersey. Echoing the seaside theme, their decor utilized anchors, shells, and best of all - lots of saltwater taffy!
Such an amazing wedding venue, right?! And so close to New York City. Each room was filled with vibrant colors and intricate details.
Surrounded by family, both chosen and by relation, there was such strong sense of love throughout this whole day! Bobby and Thomas are two of the most giving and selfless people I have ever met. So it is definitely no surprise how much they are loved in return.
As two gay men, Bobby and Thomas' path to love and marriage has not been as easy as others'. But thanks to their steadfast determination and enduring love, they made it! There are truly no two people who deserve to be married more than these two.
Is it too much that I already can't wait for them to become dads?! Future Baby O'Brien is going to be SO lucky. :)
Throughout the speeches and toasts, there was one common theme. Everyone kept discussing what a good match Bobby and Thomas are. Truly yin and yang, they balance and better each other. Bobby is friendly, bold, and full of sass. Thomas is loyal, kind, and so hardworking. Together, they radiate joy and support!
Bobby, Thomas, and his 305 Fitness family. With studios in NYC, Boston, and DC, this dance-inspired cardio workout definitely makes sweat sexy.
At the reception to end all receptions, Bobby and Thomas had multiple tracks of choreographed dance moves to Britney Spears! And believe me, the dancing did not stop all night.
Congrats to the happy couple! Thank you for teaching us all what true love is about. Here's to many future dance parties at each anniversary!
Nedra & Miguel // Brooklyn Wedding in DUMBO
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Nedra and Miguel's Brooklyn wedding at Prospect Park and DUMBO was a perfect fusion of New York City and Spanish culture, filled with love, laughter, and lots of dancing!
Read MoreMegan & Alex // Engaged
/Meet Megan and Alex.
They're kind, welcoming, laid-back, and adventurous. They're always there for friends in need and cherished by their families. Best of all is their love for each other! Within minutes, it is obvious how comfortable and authentic they are together. They know each other's faults and strengths, and love every bit. When I've been gone through tough times, their positive and caring attitudes really have made such a difference in my life. So thankful for these two!
A true VIP, George Michael is the king of this household. He's so photogenic, right?!
After exploring the Kirkland waterfront a bit, Megan and Alex headed to their engagement party at Heritage Hall. A party filled with family+friends+mushy emotions+all the cheese, it was a clear indicator of their amazing marriage to come!
I can't wait for their wedding in Seattle next fall! :) Cheers to the happy couple!
Love Is Badass // NYC Holiday Mini Shoots
/Let's be real. Relationships are not always easy. Sometimes the house/apartment feels too small. Sometimes the sight of dirty dishes makes you want to scream. Sometimes you just want to throw a temper tantrum because the breakfast got burned, the keys misplaced, the plans ruined. But then... you catch the glance of your boo, lovingly smiling at you while you passionately ramble on about the injustices of the day. And they keep smiling. They listen, nod, and gently touch your arm. They give you space and assurance, until the beast is soothed. Love is badass. Let's celebrate it.
Our loved ones evolve into our human diaries, confidantes, partners. They witness every grumpy mood -- because when you live together, you just can't hide it -- and they don't leave. No matter how crazy or anxious or upset we get, they stay. And the best part is, we willingly return the favor. This holiday season, celebrate your badass love with a mini photoshoot! You don't need to be newly engaged to deserve a photoshoot, (but if you are, congrats!). You don't need to be dating for a particular amount of time. You don't need a special occasion to take fabulous photos of you and your babe. Hell, you are still together! You are surviving and enduring and loving. That is more than enough of a reason.
Last week, I met up with Danielle and Jarred for a mini shoot. They got engaged in May, are getting married in February, and they keep loving each other every month in between. :) Our goal of this shoot was to capture some cozy holiday photos and give these two a special moment to remember what they love about one another.
