Katie + Manny

Last weekend we cleared the dust off the cameras, pressed the suits, and dove right into our official 2013 wedding season.  We couldn’t have asked for a better day or even a better couple for that matter to help get our feet wet for the upcoming year.  Katie and Manny were a joy to work with and made our day a wonderful experience.  They weren’t afraid to brave the elements for some spectacular images.  We’re not sure if it’s coincidental that we experienced rain during their engagement shoot last year as well as their wedding day, but we’re chalking it up to providence.  Katie and Manny are not only photogenic beyond belief, they are some of the kindest people we’ve had the pleasure of working with.  Having the chance to hang out with them and their closest friends made our work seem like leisure in retrospect.  Seeing their interactions, the tender looks they share with each other when no one is watching, and the words they use to describe one another made it more than evident they are meant for each other.  Not only was it an honor to capture these interactions, it was also an honor to meet their families and witness first hand where their kindness and compassion stem from.  Manny’s family came all the way from Ghana!  We wish all the happiness and love for Katie & Manny as they embark on their new journey in life.

Vendors:
Ceremony: St. Peter and Paul
Reception:  Cuvee
Caterer:  Shully’s
Florist: Petals Floral Design (Carrie Kroening)
Invitations & Papergoods: CJ Graphics
Cake: Cake and Bake
Dress Designer/Bridal Shop: Allure
Bridesmaid Dresses: long black dress of their choice
Hair & Make Up: Glow Salon
Transportation: Accutrans
Music: Sound by Design
Videographer: Wedding Films

 

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10 Years!

Today Steven and I celebrated 10 years of marriage!!!  Whaaahooo!!!  Well, we actually celebrated on Tuesday & Wednesday in Chicago with a fantastic dinner at Rick Bayless’ restaurant Topolobampo (FABULOUS), followed by The Book of Mormon (which was awesome!).  That night we stayed at The James (super cool hotel – thanks Molly:) and did some shopping on Michigan Avenue the next day – loving my new Louis V, what a surprise!  (Thank you so much honey!)  But today actually reminded me of our xmas together, which I meant to post about a while back.  So now seemed like the perfect time to showcase what a terrific husband I have.

Steven always blows me away with his thoughtfulness, but this took the cake.  For xmas last year he gave me a series of 3 packages, all with notes.  The first included coal facial soap and dark imperial stout.  The second included another fine beer along with several LUSH bath bombs (I die!), and a pair of new ear buds.  The final package was such a surprise!  I mean, I knew that Steven had been working on a project downstairs over the month of December, but I wasn’t allow to peek.  I had no idea he put together a new wedding album for us with the photos from a Vegas desert session we did with friends a few years ago.  It was hand made!!!!  He dyed the cheese cloth, peeled the birch park and flattened it, screwed the holes to sew everything by hand.  He even bought an old lace shirt to create overlay pages in the book.  Oh, AND he even tore each page so the edges looked like that!  Stamping it with ‘our love’ was the perfect finishing touch.  This book was something I couldn’t ever have imagined… just like him.

Every day I am so thankful to have a man in my life that loves me so much, takes care of me (and our pups:), who I can truly count on and call my dearest friend.  For EVERYTHING that you do Steven, thank you.  I just love you.  Happy Anniversary!    Forever, Sarah

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Grace

To celebrate the awesomeness of Cinco de Mayo, the Wilke’s opted for a family photo shoot.  Well, perhaps not.  We just like to think photography is the best way to celebrate the holidays.  All kidding aside, we were thrilled to shoot the Wilke family once again. It’s been almost four years since we met their brood.   Since then, boys have turned into men, a marital engagement was set, and a blue-eyed beauty was born.  Capturing their family dynamics today was as fun as it was years ago.  With the addition of Grace, the love surrounding this family has grown exponentially.  This past Sunday she pulled out all the stops for her six month session.  She had some of the cutest cheeks and baby-blues.  The smiles Grace flashed while her parents showered her with affection were priceless.  We also had the privilege of meeting Grace’s grandma while visiting the States from Poland.  We were honored to have the chance capture the three generations of ladies before she heads home.  Thanks to everyone for making our shoot so memorable.  We’re already full of anticipation for the next time we get to work with this little one.
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Tiffany + Jason

It isn’t often we’re able to shoot such a dynamic session covering two important snapshots in the life of a couple in love.  Not only are Tiffany and Jason expecting a little baby girl this summer, they’ve also chosen to finally tie the knot.  We were thrilled Tiffany and Jason chose the Riveredge Nature Center in Newberg for their wedding.  We were more thrilled to have the chance to work with them there on this session (plus, Steve loved the chance to scope out some potential morel spots).  After a few minutes of getting comfortable in front of the camera, Tiffany and Jason let the love shine.  It wasn’t rocket science to see why these two were meant for each other.  The enjoyment the brisk hike, conversation, and getting to know Tiffany and Jason made our day.  We can’t wait to see their summer unfold as they share their vows and welcome their daughter into the world.

 

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Kensen Grey

It’s been such an honor capturing the milestones in Kristin & Dan’s life.  We’ve seen them celebrate their nuptials, grow their family with two daughters, Addison and Harper, and now the welcoming of Kensen Grey.  We loved every minute of photographing the Fellers over the years.  The family they’ve created has it’s foundation built on love.  Kensen is essentially surrounded on all sides by love.  Even his sisters can’t seem to get enough of the little guy.  Our hearts melted while Addison held Kensen and proclaimed, “He’s the most beautiful baby ever.”  Not only is this little guy cute beyond words, he also has one of the coolest and unique names.  Kristin actually invented the name based on her Grandpa Kenny’s name. We also love the adorable accessories Kristin found for Kensen.  The caterpillar swaddle and hat get-up brings a smile every time we think about it.  With Addison and Harper always dressed extremely stylish we can’t wait to see the little-man outfits for Kensen as the year passes.  Congratulations Kristin and Dan.   Thank you again for allowing us into your home to capture the bonds of love that hold your family together.

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Chelsea

We just can’t get enough of Chelsea.  Last week it was her spectacular 1st Birthday Party, this week it was her first year session – an encore performance from the tiny dancer.  Chelsea’s progression over the past year, has been nothing short of amazing.  This last Friday, while at her parent’s dance studio, Fred Astaire of Menomonee Falls, Chelsea decided to pull out all the stops.  Poses, smiles, lots of thumb sucking, and of course the famous “get that camera out of my face I’m just a baby” look.  She is the quintessential cute.  We were very excited to also have the chance to get some shots of Chelsea with Tim’s family before they head back to Great Britain.  Of course what would a session with Chelsea be without her partners in crime Gucci and Baxter.  Thank you Kristin & Tim for allowing us to capture another milestone in your lives.  Happy Birthday Chelsea!

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Feller Family

Just in time for spring and all of its symbolism of birth and new life, comes the final (or perhaps not) installment of the Feller family trilogy.  We started our session with the Fellers with the intention to capture their unique family dynamics at one of our favorite local spots to shoot – Pike Lake.  Unfortunately the craziness of Wisconsin’s weather had other plans.  What began outdoors was quickly moved indoors where there was warmth to help with the smiles.  It’s been such a joy watching Kristin and Dan’s two daughters, Addison and Harper, grow over the years.  Now comes number three and what better way to round out the age old battle of the sexes than with a little baby boy.  We’re brimming with excitement and anticipation to meet the new Mr. Feller.  Congrats.

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Chelsea’s 1st Birthday Party

From Chelsea’s arrival to her parent’s beautiful September wedding to the opening of the Menomonee Falls Fred Astaire studio by her parents, its been quite a year for this little cupcake. We’ve had such a wonderful time getting to know Chelsea and her family.  The love they surround and lavish on her is amazing.  For her first birthday party Chelsea opted for a cupcake themed soiree.  Watching Chelsea’s expressions as she discovered what a cupcake actually is and how good frosting can be was hilarious.  Of course after watching the birthday girl dig into her special cupcake made us had to try one.  The cupcakes supplied by Milwaukee Cupcake Company were, I dare say, the best we’ve ever had.  We feel so honored to have been invited to Chelsea’s celebration to capture this landmark event in her life.  Congrats on your first year Chelsea!  We can’t wait to see how you grow through the years.

VENDORS
Venue : Fred Astaire Dance Studio – Menomonee Falls
Caterer: Executive Chef Ryan Rosmann with Armon’s Catering
Invites: MW Designs
Chair covers: Chasing Fireflies
Photo-Fetti: photofetti.com
Birthday Girls Outfit & Hat: Cassie’s Closet
Cupcakes: Milwaukee Cupcake Company
Cake: Aggie’s Cakes

 

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Cayden Patrick

It was so exciting when we received the news that the Froh’s were expecting their second child.  Since we had such immense fun capturing their first child, Madeline, through her first year, we were brimming with anticipation to meet the young sir.  Cayden arrived on the 25th, just four days prior to his premier shoot with Spottswood Photography.  This little guy was amazing in front of the camera – we’re positive Maddie coached him the night before.  Congrats Pat & Jamie on your new addition.  We are so excited to document his growth over the next year.

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Stacy + Bryan

Love is such a wonderful thing.  Through the years, the children, and all the things life tosses your way it prevails.  Yeah it sounds cliche, but in our line of work we, well, we love it.  We also adore the celebration of love.  Stacy and Brian have been married over a decade and their love still burns strong.  Years ago when they tied the knot they didn’t have the extravagant celebration most couples do.  This past weekend in the presence of their children, family, and close friends, Stacy and Brian reaffirmed their love to one another.  It was an honor to not only capture their special day, but to also celebrate their marriage and the life they’ve created.  From the incredible floral pieces accenting the church to the amazingly talented band for the reception, Stacy and Brian pulled out all the stops.  Their love and the lengths they’ve went to proclaiming it to the world is a great example for all newly married couples out there.  Congrats Stacy and Brian, may your love burn as bright forty years from now as it does today.

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VENDORS:
Ceremony: St. Killian’s Church
Reception:  West Bend Country Club
Florist:  Designed Especially for You
Cake:  Audra’s House of Cakes
Bridal Shop:  David’s Bridal
Hair & Make Up: Healing Elements Day Spa
Band: Dynasty