{Weddings} Leah and Travis

When Leah left the NICU department about 5 years ago to pursue another position at the hospital, I knew she was walking away from a job she truly loved and had a passion for. Little did I know, she would find not only a new job with great scheduling, but a really special man named Travis.

Now fast forward to this past weekend. The blessing was truly all mine when I was asked to photograph Leah and Travis' Wedding Day.

I could tell from the first moment I saw Leah that morning that she would be the most radiant bride. Smiling from ear to ear, absolutely beaming with excitement and love. Every last detail- from the dress and sash to the shoes, was wonderfully and lovingly chosen.

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Leah and Travis were married in a small intimate ceremony at Lakefront Center in Canfield, Ohio.

The ceremony was officiated by Leah's sister, making it so personal and meaningful. As a matter of fact, Celeste shared her ceremony plan with Leah the night before the wedding, just to "get the tears out of the way".

Sidenote: it didn't work! The words and sentiments shared were so heartfelt. Tears most certainly ensued!

A beautiful sand ceremony combined 8 individual sands/pebbles representing each family member plus God into a beautiful art piece for their home.

The sharing of rings is a wedding "must"...

And finally the "You May Kiss Your Bride" moment!!

Of course, combining two families into one large family with five kids is never an easy task, but these kids seem to fit so flawlessly together. They were certainly overjoyed for their parents and new step-parents. But I think they found the biggest joy in having each other (even if you're one boy with FOUR older sisters)!!

The ceremony finished with a bubble send-off, and then family photos for everyone!

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A celebratory lunch was hosted by the happy newlyweds at Bravo! Cucina Italia. And to top it off...wedding cake and a toast to the happy couple (with Sprite in keeping with the couple's beliefs!)

Happy marriages begin when we marry the person we love; happy marriages blossom when we love the person we marry. May your whole family be blessed with all the love your hearts can possibly handle!

I invite you to view more photos of Leah and Travis' Wedding Day in their gallery.

Special Thanks to all the vendors who made this day so special:

Venue: Lakefront Center, Canfield Ohio

Reception: Bravo! Cucina Italia

Cake: The Cake Lady

#weddings #northeastohioweddings #starkcountyohioweddings

{Newborns} One Day New

Blessed to welcome this beautiful baby girl into my ever-growing family and into my studio! Abigail Lynn is the newest addition for my cousin Katie, Paul, and big sister Hannah.

I had the opportunity to visit Katie and Abby in the hospital and snap a few pictures before they were discharged. I will have the opportunity to take some more pictures of Abby and her big sister Hannah in the coming weeks!

I've been searching for a newborn to do some composites with, and Miss Abby proved perfect for this quick try! No, I don't actually have a giant egg. Besides, spring babies are "just hatched", right?!?!

I am excited to do Abby's actual newborn session and create some beautiful memories for her family. Keep visiting for more photos!

Keep smilin'!

#newborns #photography

Newborn Model Search 2017

As most of my clients know, my "daytime" job is as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner in the NICU at an area hospital. I am beyond blessed to care for tiny (and sometimes not-so-tiny) babies as my profession.

Up until this year, I have only photographed newborns in select situations. But that's about to change!! This year, part of my 2017 business goals is to expand my photography business to include newborn photography.

I am well-qualified to photograph newborns because I am very comfortable handling and posing new babies, and am also sensitive to the needs of a new baby, including keeping them warm, fed, and calm. Newborn babies have special health concerns of which I am specifically knowledgeable and sensitive because of my work in the NICU.

While I am working to build my newborn portfolio, I am hosting a "Newborn Model Search" to find clients who would like newborn photos. I am searching for babies who are 2 weeks new or younger, or premature babies who are recently discharged from the hospital within the past 2 weeks.

I will schedule and plan your session, photograph your baby, and provide you with downloadable digital images for free, with a print release allowing you to print your photos wherever you would like. An although there is absolutely no obligation to purchase anything, you will receive a discount off any prints you order from me, and 50% off enrollment in my "Baby's First Year" program if you wish to purchase. In return, I will ask you to sign a model release allowing me to use your baby's photos on my website and in marketing materials.

If you or someone you know is expecting a new baby and is interested in this limited time offer for some FREE images, please contact me with your questions, or to set up your session!

Keep Smilin'!