Story Photographers

2010-09-02T16:22:00.001-04:00

Exactly two years ago today (for serious, it was EXACTLY two years ago today) I was letting you know the same thing... We had given this blog a makeover and named ourselves "Story Photographers", instead of operating under my name as a business. My plan was to do a new blogsite and have it finished and in use by this spring. Well, life doesn't work that way... and that's ok. I like symbolism. We finally found the right designer and after another series of obstacles here we are. Ready to send you to our new blogsite....

So change your bookmarks and feeds, friends...

Our blog will be updated from now on at:

StoryPhotographers.com

Boudoir Story: Michelle

2010-08-23T11:51:00.002-04:00

(((WARNING: HOT BOUDOIR PICTURES AHEAD!!)))

After posting this one shot of one of my boudoir clients from the August marathon at Seven (ps this client has three kids! Don't be scared to sign up!), another one of my ladies from that same day said she did not mind if I blogged some from her session. I was SO MANY kinds of excited to see this!! Michelle has a toddler and HELLO doesn't she look good!?

In picking outfits it seemed that Michelle followed my advice-- play up the features you love about yourself and don't feel like you have to push yourself to "expose" the features that make you feel insecure. Often time during boudoir shoots as the ladies get more comfortable, they make the decision to push the envelope and do posing and outfits that are out of their comfort zone (though I am fully aware that the whole idea of a boudoir shoot is out of most women's comfort zones).

Michelle chose to do three different looks-- Elizabeth Tolley and her team did a beautiful job of giving Michelle three different hair/makeup looks to go with Michelle's outfits.

Michelle: You are one beautiful lady!! Thanks for being brave and letting me post some shots from your boudoir experience. Yeow!! :)

Boudoir Story: Sneek Peek

2010-08-19T12:29:00.002-04:00

I am so grateful to this client who let me post one image from her boudoir shoot at Seven this past Sunday. It has been so awesome to do boudoir shoots with all these amazing women that come out for the shoots. I love that my job includes empowering women to feel great about themselves, no matter what size, shape, age, etc they are. It is the BEST getting to be surrounded by women all day long that embrace their beauty and sexuality and celebrate it.

It's good to be a woman.

Music Story: Martha Ann Motel

2010-08-18T12:36:00.003-04:00

If you have been following the blog or have been my friend on Facebook for long, you know that David (my husband) has a band that plays mostly in Raleigh and occasionally around NC. This band, its members and the music they create has been so important to David. You might think I am being biased, but I love their music. It's good stuff!

You can check Martha Ann Motel out on

The boys will be doing an in studio interview and live songs on 88.1 WKNC on August 27th.

I had a great time doing this quick shoot before their practice last night...

Senior Story: Allie

2010-08-17T16:07:00.003-04:00

It was really refreshing to get to do something new yesterday- a high school senior shoot! I had not done one in fo-ev-a so it was great to get Allie in front of the camera :)

Allie is on the yearbook staff at her high school...

Allie's little sister Hailey joined in for a few shots...

Allie takes pictures for the yearbook and loves photography

so it was important to her to bring along her camera.

In high school I always had a camera of some sort on me at all times :)

Hailey is automatically one of Allie's most photographed subjects :)

Class of '11!

Right out of camera... YUMMY light :)

Jewelry from Allie's grandmothers who are no longer physically with us on earth...

The loop of the necklace not shown here says

"All the strength you need..."

It is so beautiful to see women celebrating the women before them...

Allie (and Melodie and Hailey): I had the best time running around Raleigh with you! You did such an amazing job. I can't wait to get all of your family in front of the camera :) I know it will be a blast!!

Wedding Story: Jessica and Garren

2010-08-11T21:57:00.004-04:00

Jessica and Garren said "I do" surrounded by a few hundred people who love them and think the world of them-- what a way to become husband and wife! David and I were fresh off our anniversary vacation and were rested and ready to shoot :)

The day started out getting ready (and then later getting married) at Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church in Souther Pines.

It sounds like something out of a movie, but Jessica and Garren met when Garren let a frisbee hit Jessica on the beach. They met there on the beach and the rest is history...

See? Surrounded by love...

MARRIED!

David and I were on the same wavelength, apparently.

(PS how yummy was the light!?)

First dance with all four parents looking on...

The reception was held at the always gorgeous Fair Barn in Pinehurst.

OH THE SUNSHINE!!

Sunshine and Love=Makes me giddy

There were SO many great moments from the reception-

I had a hard time trying to select what to share with you. Lots going on.

Hey Lauren and Jason!! Thanks Riggan family for telling Jessica and Garren about us :)

You all have been amazing referrals and for that we are so grateful!

Jessica and Garren: David and I hope you are having a beautiful day in Aruba as this blog post goes up. :) We had a wonderful time being surrounded by such awesome people during your entire wedding day. You two are loved!

Bridal Story: Jessica

2010-08-08T22:14:00.002-04:00

This bridal shoot made me even more excited to hang out with Jessica and her sweet family at her and Garren's wedding. Jessica was so awesome and easy-going... and so very beautiful!

Personal Story: Fourth Wedding Anniversary

2010-08-05T10:00:00.001-04:00

By the time this post is published I will have my toes in the sand. :)

I went back and read my thoughts on being married to David from last year. Not going to lie- made me smile and cry, all at the same time. Sometimes I can't believe it's already been another year. Other times it feels like I have been living some long years since my Dad died. I don't talk about that event much on Facebook or on here. The aftershocks still tremble through my family's life-- don't quite feel normal yet. David has been my anchor in the storm... keeping me from floating away. But we're getting there... creating new normal. We keep moving forward.

I could say so many ooshy gooshy mooshy things about how much I love David. I mean, you might gag right there in front of your computer screen :) It has been amazing owning this business with my husband. We might work long hours, or talk about the business too much when we aren't in the office, but man we adore what we do and we are passionate about it.

I love you David Teeter. I LOVE you. I love YOU. Thanks for putting up with me in marriage for four years, and in life for almost eight. :)

Just thought I would leave you with some of OUR wedding photos, shot by the ever-so-lovely Rebecca Mill before we both knew we'd own our own businesses...

Baby Story: Kaylie

2010-07-29T12:20:00.002-04:00

Babies babies everywhere!! I love a newborn baby shoot. They are such unpredictable little creatures... the fate of the shoot is in their tiny hands :) Keeps me guessing and that is fun!

We had a few minutes to scoot outside before the sky opened up and rained buckets... I am glad we headed out! It has been so fun for me to get to know Kaylie's parents. We have a million friends in common and I just felt like we should have known each other long ago :)

This sweet little dress Kaylie is in served as her going home outfit.

Girlfriend liked getting pictures done all by herself.

Mom and Dad already cramping her style ;)

She was totally fine with doing this shoot on her own.

Green, pink and brown are in this year for baby girl rooms :)

Hanging out in Dad's study...

LOVE these next two.

This was Allison's cradle when she was a baby...

Kaylie and family: Thanks so much for letting me come into your home and document your new life together! I cannot wait to get you all back in front of the lens as Kaylie grows into a little lady :)

Wedding Story: Courtney and Peter

2010-07-28T11:04:00.003-04:00

It always makes me feel so good when we book a sibling of a former client. It shows me that we have done something right to have a family trust us twice to deliver a product; a product that they can trust and that really tells their wedding story.

Last March we shot Erica and Derek's wedding day and had such a good time with them and their family and friends. SUCH wonderful people. When Erica's sister Courtney contacted us about shooting there day I was so excited! What a sweet family!

The day was SUPER hot- temperatures hovering around 100 degrees, the heat index well above that. We spent very little time outside, as you can imagine!

I love the broach Courtney's Mom let her borrow for her bouquet...

The guys were troopers and spent about 10-15 minutes out in the heat.

I don't even think they broke a sweat :)

I adore this.

Post-kiss looks are the sweetest!

MARRIED!

Sigh. Aren't they cute?!

It's good to be "just married"!

Courtney and her Dad shared a choreographed dance to a song that he sang the the girls when they were little. It was so fun and had everyone laughing.

Peter and his Mom shared a sweet dance that had all the Mom's in the room sniffling :)

Peter is a member of the Triangle Jazz Orchestra,

and they kept everyone moving all night long!

Courtney, along with her family and friends, went strawberry picking.

Then they proceeded to make jam...

... enough jam to share with 200 people!

Hey there's Derek and his aunt showing off their dance skills.

Derek's aunt Amanda directed both Courtney and Erica's weddings and she is SUPER GOOD at it. She can also do the "stanky leg".

Erica catching a dance with her Dad :)

Courtney and Peter's family and friends started their bubble exit early by making their last dance of the night extra dreamy and romantic...

Courtney and Peter: Thank you so much for inviting us into your sweet wedding day! Courtney it was great being with your family again and Peter, your crowd was so fun to hang with as well. Your day was just so beautiful!

Business Story: Canvases!

2010-07-26T12:12:00.002-04:00

One of my favorite products that we offer is the wrap canvas print. These prints just look STUNNING on your wall. They truly showcase the moment without any interruption or distraction. I am GIDDY when a client decides to order a canvas print, and as I look through images from a shoot I immediately know which ones would look epic on canvas.

I recently ordered a few more sample canvases to give people a better idea of what the canvas company offers. Canvases can be ordered in any size from 6x6 to over 60x100.

(image from Hank's newborn shoot in a 18x26)

You can have the image wrap around the side (no ugly staples on the side!)...

(image from Chase's first trashthedress session in a 24x36)

... Or if you don't want the image to wrap around, you can have a color wrap around the border (black seen here and on the following canvas)

(image from Melinda and Mike's engagement session in a 16x16)

(image from Melissa and Nicky's wedding on a 15x24)

Baby Story: Alice-Kate

2010-07-23T10:24:00.002-04:00

You will recognize Alice-Kate's parents from their anniversary shoot last fall- I was really excited to get them back in front of the camera. From the first time I saw Alice-Kate's world debut pictures on Facebook I thought "that is one pretty baby!" Friends, she is beautiful in real life too!

I feel like Alice-Kate, if she could speak, is saying in this first one

"Hey people! Look at all my pretty clothes! I am a lucky lady!"

These dresses include some of Alice-Kate's Mommy's when she was a baby.

Baby wrinkles. Love that.

If you know Rick, you know his reputation for crazy photoshoots and videos (which now my husband has been a part of). I have to say this- Rick was goofy every now and then but bottom line- this man loves his daughter and he's not afraid to show it.

Wardrobe change...

Rick couldn't help himself.

I don't know what Alice-Kate did but Mommy and Daddy simultaneously thought it was amazing.

Ok so Rick got silly one more time...

However Rick did not set this one up... that is natural.

Heather, Rick and Alice-Kate: I was honored to get you all in front of the camera together! I cannot wait for the many more times we can do this as Alice-Kate grows up!!

Personal Story: A Hike in Colorado

2010-07-19T17:06:00.002-04:00

While we were in the Denver, CO area for Jamie and Robb's wedding, we decided to hang out for a few days to get to see the city and the mountains. My beautiful cousin Casey hosted us and took us to the awesomely adorable Breckenridge for lunch, a little shopping and some hiking. I wanted to share some of our hiking adventures with you...

I held the camera out of the jeep window to grab these on the way to the trail...

Starting the hike...

The mountain wildflowers were plentiful and beautiful.

The Dillon Reservoir...

Taken from the car on the way back to Denver...

Denver (and it's surrounding areas) is so gorgeous-- there are tons of amazing locally owned restaurants, funky shops, fabulous views and HELLO no humidity.

Wedding Story: Jamie and Robb

2010-07-16T20:34:00.003-04:00

Oh Colorado. David and I love you. Not only are you gorgeous, you also have no humidity. Colorado, your capital city is SUPER cool- I could hang out there for weeks and not run out of new things to do or new places to eat. You house my INCREDIBLE second cousin and you create AMAZING backdrops for AMAZING weddings. I.LIKE.YOU

(WARNING- LONG POST AHEAD WITH LOTS OF STORIES AND PICTURES)

Sigh. As it is steamy nasty hot outside here in NC, I fondly look back through our Denver pictures and how exciting it was to escape the gross weather here. Several times at Jamie and Robb's wedding I got to recount just how these NC photographers made it to Denver- this was fine because it's a fun story!

David and I met Jamie at Melinda and Matt's wedding on New Years Eve in Minneapolis (check out those two posts- you will see Jamie around). Jamie mentioned to me that day that she was engaged and planning her wedding in Denver, while living in China. I can't imagine how difficult that was! I told her that David and I had always wanted to travel to Colorado and ofcourse we were game for coming out for her wedding. As it worked out, Jamie loved our style and wanted us to document her wedding too. We were SO excited! David and I added on a few days to the trip to stay with my amazing second cousin Casey (more on those vacay-days coming soon) to do a little hiking and hanging out in Denver. This is why its been a week since the last full post.

This is amazing- 90% of Jamie and Robb's 180 guests were NOT from Colorado. They had people from around the world travel to Castle Rock to celebrate with them. Jamie and Robb live in China so their wedding was heavily influenced by their life there. That meant that everyone at this wedding really wanted to be there, and want to support and love Jamie and Robb in a big way.

Jamie was SUCH a fun bride to photograph because she wore her heart on her sleeve the whole day- her smile stayed huge and her excitement was palpable.

Melinda was her maid of honor, hair stylist and personal dresser.

The getting ready, pictures and reception took place at Jamie's college roomate's parents house. I have three things to say about this family: they are brave, their house/yard/view are stunning, they are some SWEET people. You can see Pike's Peak and the Castle Rock from their yard.

David's (amazing) View:

Robb can work it too.

Jamie and Robb chose to see eachother before the wedding so we could attempt to beat the sun, heat and then the rain that threatened later in the day.

Jamie's nieces and nephew were SO adorable.

Hey Melinda!

When I took the first one of Jamie and Melinda I said

"I feel like we have done this before..."

Jamie and her Dad are SO fun together.

Robb gave himself a reminder of where his new ring will go...

and the pastor made sure that everyone else knew too.

One of Jamie's brothers wrote her and Robb a song and surprised them with it during the ceremony. People, I WAS CRYING IT WAS SO SWEET.

MARRIED!

Their guestbook was a post-it wall. Adorable.

Perfect cake situation: personalized bobbleheads on funfetti cake!

There was always plenty of tea around for all those tea-drinking travelers.

Jamie had her favorite- bubble tea.

Jamie sang an impromptu song with her uncle while guests were finding their seats...

The hostess and her son (who was also the DJ) during the mother/son dance.

SO glad I saw this moment happening-

Jamie saying goodbye to her Dad...

LOOK that smile is still radiating!!

Jamie and Robb: Thank you SO very much for flying us to Denver to be a part of your beautiful wedding. Our cups overflowed with all the love and positive energy that was flowing through your wedding day. It was so great to watch the two of you be so open about how excited you were to be in love. It was an honor. And Robb, thanks for the sweet email once you got back to China!

Wedding Story/Personal Story: Sneak Peek...

2010-07-14T16:10:00.002-04:00

If you follow us on Facebook or Twitter, or tried to email us you found out that David and I were in Colorado the past few days shooting a beautiful wedding, spending time with my amazing second cousin and hanging out around Denver. It was an AWESOME trip and I can't wait to show you more from the wedding AND our adventures in the mountains. For now, I leave you with this...

Wedding Story: Jordan and Brian

2010-07-08T12:20:00.002-04:00

One factor that can always get me excited about a wedding, no matter what the other circumstances might be, is when I know that the wedding is going to be full of straight up awesome people. Somehow we are super lucky and get this situation often :) In this case I knew it would be true without a doubt.

We were connected to Jordan and Brian through Dawn and Stephen. First let me say this, Dawn has been the bride that has sent us the most referrals. This girl is AWESOME. Second of all, we met Brian, Jordan and many of their mutual friends at Dawn and Stephen's wedding and we decided then that we wanted to be a part of all of their friends weddings. Luckily they like us too! So at Brian and Jordan's wedding we had a couple from 2009 and then a couple who has booked with us for 2011. THAT IS FUN!

The ceremony was at Sandy Grove UMC and the reception was at Camp Rockfish...

I don't quite remember what the prompt was but I think all that matters is that everyone was excited about the wedding- yay!

CUTE STORY TIME: So one day Jordan and Brian were riding the airport to pick someone up and they had stopped to eat. As Brian was just taking a bite of his burger Jordan told him she liked him. He couldn't take another bite.

So Jordan sent him a burger on their wedding day and he was so excited he could only take a bite again...

These guys are hardcore.

I don't know what your views on prayer are but let me tell you, it is a powerful thing to be a bride surrounded by the women she loves as they pour out their hearts in voicing their hopes for you and your soon to be spouse.

Jordan did the coolest thing with her bouquet...

She had various people (I think all women) that had been influential in her life give her flowers on her way to the altar. Once she reached Brian, he had one for her too. Then, instead of a unity candle, her mom and his mom went together and tied all the flowers into a bouquet.

David's View:

My View:

OOOOOOH how giddy I was when they said they would canoe.

These people at Camp Rockfish keep Chaco's going!

PS. There are a few single ladies in this picture looking for a boyfriend on my blog.

Just sayin'.

This is when Brian discovered that garters aren't worn around the ankle...

Portrait of a Tired Ringbearer

Dawn and Stephen- May 2009 Wedding

Jordan and Brian- July 2010 Wedding

Traci and Jason- May 2011 Wedding

Jordan and Brian- Thank you again for having us as a part of your wedding day. You are SUCH sweet people, and the people you keep company with are incredibly sweet as well! We have grown to ADORE our Camp Rockfish people... keep sending them our way :)

Family Story: Sirit Family

2010-07-06T11:51:00.002-04:00

If you've read my blog for long you know that I have a special relationship with a few other lady photographers in the area. We all started out at the same studio, and then branched out on our own. Technically we are each other's competition, but somehow we are still friends and choose to rise above and work together. We give each other referrals when we are booked, we help each other with photoshop and equipment issues. We even shoot with each other!

April of Evoke Photography is one of these few photographer ladies in my circle. I LOVE this woman and her sweet family. April called me up and said she needed some family shots ASAP... so we compared schedules and literally had one evening we could do the shoot before she needed them. So the day arrives and of course it starts raining and there is thunder in the distance. Her boys did exceptionally well given how rushed we were AND the fact that it was raining. Of course I was secretly FREAKING OUT because here I am rushing through pictures of another photographer's family. Yup, FREAKING OUT. Here's what we came up with ...

Victor did not think I was very funny.

Then we told Victor about how I had these really cool lollipops for the end of the shoot...

suddenly, I'm funny.

April, Thanks for trusting me to get out in the rain with you crazy Sirits and hopefully create something with some meaning. Let's do it again when it's not so crazy, right??

Love you guys!

(Personal) 4th of July

2010-07-04T21:57:00.002-04:00

You might be a star tonight

So let that camera roll

You're the Red, White and Blue

Oh the funny things you do

America, America this is you

kaboom.

Trash the Dress: Ashley

2010-07-02T10:32:00.003-04:00

The morning after Ashley's wedding, I drug myself outta bed to shoot her day after/trash the dress session. Ashley had briefed me on how incredible the locations she had chosen were going to be so my excitement gave me the energy I needed to push me out the door. Apparently the feeling was mutual with Ashley and Forrest that morning :)

You need to know that the first spot we went to WAS SOMEONE'S YARD. I cannot imagine living some place so movie like. It is stunning.

Look at this light!

This is why we get up a little earlier than we want to... for this light...

This I did not really set up...

Forrest wanted to pick Ashley this wild red rose...

And then we went to a different part of the river...

A bit blown out but I love it.

Three canoes came by and all the people aboard were "oooo"ing and "ahhh"ing.

One man said she looked like a mermaid sitting on a rock...

HEY IT'S ME!! Me with the bride :)

Ashley #2, I have two things to say. You looked STUNNING again that morning. I don't know HOW you are going to choose one to put on a canvas. That is all :)

Wedding Story: Ashley and Forrest

2010-07-01T11:41:00.002-04:00

I have been getting texts, wallposts, messages, etc since this wedding was over that various people COULD NOT WAIT for me to post this blog. Like they wanted me to post it THE SECOND THE WEDDING ENDED. OH THE PRESSURE!! I don't blame them one bit. Ashley and I go back... wwaaaaaayyy back. I grew up with Ashley and her sweet family. She is a year younger than me so I was Ashley #1 and she was Ashley #2. Then I had a little sister named Amanda... and several years later SHE had a little sister named Amanda. Ashley has been an avid fan of the blog since I started it so it is super exciting that I get to feature her love story on here today. Ashley and Forrest's wedding day was incredibly gorgeous in the mountains and full of people who deeply love them... and have a blast doing it.

You know I love a first see :)

The boys were all cute at the building next to where I had the girls...

... and they knew it, so they photobombed.

When Ashley mentioned the cow mural,

I did not think it would be THIS big!

MAKING ME PROUD:

STEAMY

Moments before the ceremony Ashley gets a note from one of the flower girls...

It's time! Heading to the sanctuary...

Soooooo precious... sweet sisters.

(sorry boys, these two are still in high school!!!)

Their ceremony was full of just the right balance of moments that made everyone cry (I heard the sniffles around the room) and made everyone giggle.

I LOVE the motion of the girls running down the aisle once the ceremony was over...

If your reception is in a barn, you better wear red cowgirl boots.

Siblings...

Ashley's Dad had everyone in tears with his sweet words. Mr. Tugman is one of the most gentle, loving men I have ever met-- I don't meet many men that I would BEGIN to describe this way. He was truly meant to be the father of three girls.

The cakes? GORGEOUS. They were simple but OH SO classy and chic.

Two pears on the top layer? "The Perfect Pear", Ashley said :)

Oh where to begin with this one.

Here I am with girls that I was in youth group, some of them in PRESCHOOL with at the church we all grew up at together. So much history here. So much love.

Ashley and Forrest had a bluegrass band and they were AWESOME.

I love the drama in this one, David.

The quiet moments before an exciting exit...

David's view AND My view:

Check back tomorrow for Ashley's Day After, Trash the Dress!

Ashley and Forrest: It was a gift to me to be able to be alongside of you on your wedding day. It was so important to me that all the parts of your day were covered in a loving way. I can not wait for you to see the rest! SO MUCH LOVE!

Story of Gratitude...

2010-07-01T00:01:00.003-04:00

After Emily saw her wedding story (posts here and here) I got an amazing email from her...

The subject of the email was "I cried..."

and it said:

"...when i looked at your blog today.

you guys are amazing and i am so glad that we chose you to spend our day with us.

you and david did an absolutely wonderful job and

i'm sure those blog pictures are just the tip of the iceberg.

when holly called me to tell me the blog was up i said that i had never been so happy with a decision that i had made in my whole life

choosing you guys to do our photography.

thank you thank you thank you from the bottom of our

hearts for doing such an amazing job.

we can't wait to see the rest of the pictures!

-emily izquierdo - hahaha :-) "

Story of Gratitude...

2010-06-30T22:11:00.002-04:00

Coming tomorrow AND Friday...

Ashley T's wedding and trash-the-dress posts...

I got the sweetest email from Ashley before she had seen a single picture (which she is dying to see-- tomorrow my friend, tomorrow) :

"Ashley and David,

I'm supposed to be finishing my grad school portfolio, but of course my mind is still on yesterday! :) The two of you made my wedding day perfect in so many ways. I will never be able to fully express how much I appreciate everything you both did for us. I didn't have to worry about a single detail and I know y'all got so many that I didn't even think of! It was perfect having you both there documenting each part of our day. Everyone enjoyed seeing/meeting y'all and I know that I'll be seeing you again at some more of my family weddings and events. We will always cherish the memories you have created for us. Thank you for everything- ideas, creativity, support through the process, and being available for every part of the story. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

ONLY story photographers could have gotten me out of bed at 7:00 am the day after my wedding... and into fields and a river.

Love to you both"

Wedding Story: Emily and Duvan

2010-06-29T23:13:00.002-04:00

It had been awhile since we had a wedding in Raleigh- we were excited to get to sleep in a little bit before heading to one of our favorite Raleigh venues: All Saints Chapel! You have seen how gorgeous Emily looked at her bridal portrait session... she was even more gorgeous on the big day! It was so fun to reconnect with people from high school in this wedding-- and meet some new fabulous people as well :)

Duvan and the guys got ready at his and Emily's new place before heading to the chapel...

Emily and the girls got ready at her best friend (and bridesmaid) from high school's house before heading to the chapel- Lisa and her Mom are two of the most fun people ever. Everyone should get ready at their house :)

Duvan gave Emily these sweet roses along with her gift...

I love so many things in this picture:

the front of the chapel is gorgeous

the different color bouquets are perfection

and these girls are the sweetest!

One of Emily's brothers brought her flowers and there were happy tears everywhere-

they made me tear up just watching them!

Emily's Mom AND Dad helped her with her veil...

First moments together officially married! :)

I am so glad that David noticed this moment happening while I was getting everyone in place to begin the family pictures.

The two most important men in Emily's life...

David showed me this cake shot in camera after he took it and I was swooning.

I KNEW it would make the blog :)

A very sweet Daddy/Daughter dance...

Backin' it UP!

Um the best man scared the bejesus out of me- I did not see this jump coming.

Then he told me that my flash scared the bejesus out of HIM when he was in midair.

I guess we're even :)

Our first garter toss fight...

"Bang bang bang on the door baby

KNOCK A LIL LOUDER HONEY!"

My view:

David's view:

Emily and Duvan: It was so great getting to witness your gentle, sweet love for each other. Your families were both so supportive and loving... and super talented dancers :) We felt right at home with you and your people. Thanks for involving us in your day!

Wedding Story: Natalie and Tim

2010-06-29T13:58:00.003-04:00

I first met Natalie and Tim almost a year ago when I travelled to Hickory to shoot their engagement session-- I had such a good time with them that day. I was sad I had to wait a whole year to get to work with the two of them again! Like it always does, their wedding day finally came and it was a good one!!

I knew from the beginning when Natalie chose to have a Wednesday wedding that this wedding was going to be unique and full of Natalie and Tim's personality-- they delivered.

They got ready and married at the Broyhill House in Lenoir...

Sorry boys, I am telling on you...

The guys arrived late so they got chair bow-tying duty :)

(hair and makeup by the amazing Elizabeth Tolley)

Similar feeling to both of these David grabbed and I love them both.

This cute lil man dominated the dance floor later in the evening :)

It's so fun listening to the girls get all excited about who has arrived and that it makes them so nervous that all those people are there and will be watching them.

But it always turns out fine :)

Natalie's little sister and Maid of Honor sang during the wedding-

it was very sweet!

My View:

David's view:

During the ceremony there was a random sprinkle here and there, but right after it was over the skies decided to shower on us for a bit. We took a short break and then the sun came right back out!

We then headed to the VERY cool Club Cola to PARTAY!

Tim doing his signature move upon being announced...

Happy tears during Tim's brother's toast.

Jill with All the Right Grooves is one of our favorite DJs and she kept the party hoppin'!

The garter removal and toss went from naughty...

... to life threatening!

Natalie and Tim: What a fun Wednesday!! Thanks so much for inviting David and I into your wedding day. We had so much fun! We hope your honeymoon was so peaceful and relaxing :) and without rain!

Bridal Story: Emily

2010-06-27T20:12:00.002-04:00

Even though there was some major construction going on, Duke Gardens was still gorgeous when I met Emily and her Mom there for her bridal session. Emily and I were in choir together in high school-- it was so great to get to reconnect with her over wedding plans!

Now that she is married, I can share some of her gorgeous bridal portrait images with you...

Emily and her Mom could not decide which one image they wanted to print for her portrait on display at the reception, so she (like some of my other brides recently) decided on a larger print and then a few of her other favorites in smaller sizes...

This one was printed in an 8x10:

This was printed in a 16x20:

This one was a 11x14:

This one was also an 8x10:

Stories Coming Soon...

2010-06-26T00:07:00.002-04:00

WHEW! This week has been crazy fun-- in the span of 8 days we will have shot 4 weddings, an engagement and a trash-the-dress. Thanks for being patient if you have emailed us and we are slow to respond. We will get to you next week- promise!

At this very moment we are backing up images from wedding number 3 in preparation for wedding number 4 tomorrow. I just wanted to give you a sneak peek of a few of these exciting events that will hit the blog next week (wedding 4 and the trash-the-dress have not happened yet so you will just have to wait for those!)...

Natalie and Tim's Wedding Day:

Emily's Bridal Portrait Session:

Emily and Duvan's Wedding Day:

So for those of you that love to hang out on the blog at work, next week we are going to be bringing you MASSIVE amounts of entertainment :)...

YOU'RE WELCOME!

Wedding Story: Ashley and Brian

2010-06-22T16:02:00.002-04:00

(David caught this shot of the flags at sunset during the reception...)

This year our weddings have been all over the place-- rarely are we in Raleigh. It's been so fun to get to tour the state and see places we have never been and might never go if it weren't for these weddings. I had heard of "little Washington" for awhile now, knowing a few people from there. I had never gotten to experience Washington, NC for myself and let me tell you- its downright precious! The neighborhoods are so pretty and the various waterfronts on the river are GORGEOUS. All these beautiful waterfront weddings make me want to get a boat and come back to visit recreationally!

Ashley's sister doing her Mom's makeup- so cute.

All the girls were around to entertain Ashley while she got her hair done.

Beautiful.

The ECU pirates were well represented through out the idea- just wait, you'll see!

David is good at what he does. Mmm k?

Experimenting with b&w processing...

I just keep going back to this image...

Bride and Mom heading out to the ceremony...

When Brian arrived family and friends had to create a wall so he wouldn't see Ashley before the ceremony started... I like that team work :)

The ceremony was held on the waterfront at Washington Park.

Telling funny stories on Brian :)

I love this. Ashley and Brian choose sand from two different beaches to use in their sand ceremony. I LOVE this idea.

I could show you TONS of pictures from this part of the day. The light and the setting was so dreamy and wonderful. Took me forever to choose these.

David and I recently watched one of the several documentaries about Annie Leibovitz and her work. She commented that the most interesting shots happen between the "real shots"-- when the subjects don't have a clue that you are shooting. David grabbed this "inbetween" moment and I just love it.

Sweet ride.

Sweet love.

The reception was held at the Washington Yacht and Country Club--

the marina was the perfect place to hang out!

Super cute first dance? CHECK!

Brian and his brother have a tradition of glass bottle coke toasting :)

Flower girl and ring-bearer observing...

A violent ECU sabre exit!!

Ashley and Brian: Your day was gorgeous! Though rain threatened, the sun just kept shining and you two stay calm and kept smiling :) It was fun working with such laid back and easygoing people. Thanks for letting us be a part of your day-- hope the honeymoon is nice and relaxing!

Engagement Story: Kelli and Travis

2010-06-21T21:25:00.003-04:00

David's family always loves it when we have weddings and shoots in Jacksonville, NC--turns out Kelli and Travis live near and work in Jacksonville for a couple of years so it worked out perfectly! They are originally from the Chicago area but are on the NC coast for a couple of years with work. We were excited to meet them! It was also fun for David to drive me around parts of Jacksonville I have never been to before. We started out on the river water front- which was so cute. Then we moved into Jacksonville's downtown, which is very abandoned but has so much potential!

Their new baby, Jager made an appearance and was very well behaved :)

Jager responded well to the clicking of the camera...

These trees were all along the walkway...

so dreamy.

Sassy.

OH the colors in this one...

A storm had been threatening all afternoon and it finally rolled in...

I love the feel of this next one...

BLING.

Through the heat and humidity Jager's STILL lookin' good :)

Kelli and Travis: It was so fun hanging out with you two and Jager around downtown Jacksonville! I hope your time in NC is fabulous and your wedding is all you hoped for it to be! :)

Wedding Story: Anna and Jeremy

2010-06-17T22:08:00.002-04:00

So you have seen how beautiful the setting for Anna's bridal portraits was... I am SO excited to show you how beautiful it was on her wedding day!! I really had a great time working with Anna on her wedding day details. She is a girl after my own heart-- she is super organized, stays on top of the details, strives to clearly communicate, etc. At her bridal shoot I learned just how wonderful her family is and how amazing her bridesmaids are... I got to multiply that by a thousand on the wedding day. These people are so very sweet-- and they want David and I to move there!! Between the gorgeous scenery, living on the water (I am a water girl) and the generously sweet people, how could we say no?!

There were so many fun and beautiful things that happened on this wedding day...

From the moment I met these ladies I KNEW they were going to bring it.

HELLO even the flower girl brought it!!

From what David tells me, Jeremy keeps some hilarious company as well!

The heat and humidity were INTENSE all day.

So here's a first for me- the bride/bridesmaids hop in the pool 2 hours before the ceremony.

Say what?! Notice the ceremony all set up in the background.

And yes, the boys were insanely jealous.

The next three images are David's creations.

And boy do I love 'em.

Watching the guests arrive...

(Hey Jessica! Thanks SO much for stalking the blog and encouraging Anna to book with us-- you are SO the best!!)

It was Anna's childhood dream to ride in on her horse to her wedding, her Dad leading her in.

My breath caught as she rounded the corner of the house-

it was so romantic and whimsical.

I saw this shot on the back of my camera and thought to myself- BLOG.

Buck was not bored during the ceremony...

the restless young ones loved him.

FRESHLY MARRIED.

So many fun things happening in this image...

my favorite? Anna's sister running AWAY from the bouquet.

See? These ladies are FUN.

Last dance of the evening...

Anna and Jeremy: Where do I start?! The day was so insanely gorgeous, full of love, full of fun, and warm!! But really, we were so touched and how easily your family and friends welcomed us in and instantly made us feel like we had been friends for ever. Mrs. Cook, we'll crash your dock any day!!

Personal Story: Hydrangeas

2010-06-16T19:16:00.002-04:00

If you are friends with me on Facebook then you know I have been LOVING hydrangeas this spring and summer. Our new place has some gorgeous blue hydrangeas on the side of the house-- this sealed the deal for me!!

The patriarch and matriarch of the Fuller family (you can see some of their family shoots here, here, here and way back here and here) have some GORGEOUS hydrangeas that they want to have prints of for their house. Back in high school and early in college when I would have NEVER guessed I was going to have my own photography business, I would practice my photography on the various flowers and plants around my yard. It felt so good to get back to that.

I dont love spiders in general but I like the webs here...

Oh the morning light...

STRAIGHT OUT OF CAMERA.

Bridal Story: Anna

2010-06-14T09:46:00.002-04:00

I have been so excited to show you this bridal shoot. I am not going to lie- bridal shoots are not my favorite type of shoot. You have to be careful with the dress, everyone is tense to make sure it comes out spotless for the wedding day. While Anna was concerned about her dress, she also had amazing ideas that were a little more risky than most brides who do bridal shoots. After you see what she did in her brand new dress (without a sheet underneath or anything), I'll tell you what shape her dress was in at the end of the shoot...

You will see this gorgeous tree again in the wedding day images :)

Anna's sweet horse Buck had to make an appearance!

Anna spent the entire shoot barefoot and sat straight onto the grass...

We chased a very large black snake out of the grass with this one...

I heard this very old structure is haunted and is known to leave orbs in images...

sadly I don't think I was lucky enough to have the experience.

My bride-shooting bucket list--

photographing a bride on a hay bale.

Just when we thought we were done, we hopped on the golfcart to head back and then we rounded this corner and I saw this AMAZING light on the field and I had to get Anna out there!!

Now you've seen all that Anna did... guess what.

The only thing on Anna's dress was a noseprint from Buck, a tick and a grasshopper.

No grass stains. No rips or tares.

Next up will be Anna's wedding day!!

Baby Story: Hank

2010-06-10T11:29:00.002-04:00

If you have been following the blog for the past couple of months then you have already met Hank's parents... and seen the bump he caused on his Mom's belly :) I was so excited to get to meet Hank since his debut into the world the last week of May. He is a total sweetie and put up with all our silly grownup ideas- you'll see what I mean.

Hank's parents love to read and have these awesome bookshelves-

what better place to start!?

I LOVE how Hank's Mom and Dad have arranged his new living space.

Hank's Mom made the awesome horse mobile...

... and Hank's Dad made this changing table :)

These vintage alphabet cards are so cute!!

But ofcourse Hank is cuter!

Hank's grandma made him this precious coming home outfit...

Hank loved being outside and showed off his baby blues quite a bit.

I feel like Hank is trying to say "Hellooooo world! I'm hereeeeee!"

I could not resist sharing this one...

Hank was so well behaved. This cry lasted like 10 seconds.

At first we tried to get Hank to turn his head back...

... but then I realized he was trying to help me get a new perspective.

He was showing me his first house.

Christa, Brad and Hank: I can't wait to get you all infront of the camera again! You are always so fun to work with - full of great ideas and flexible with whatever ideas I throw your way :) See you in a few months!

Story of Gratitude

2010-06-02T17:59:00.002-04:00

Just hours after Kelly and Rob danced the night away with family and friends and before I had even blogged or they had hopped on the plane to their honeymoon, I got this sweet little email...

Ashley,

You and David rock! You both were so fun and easy to work with. Ya'll have a true talent! Thanks so much for shooting our wedding. Cannot wait to see the pictures, I know they will be fabulous!

Thanks again,

Kelly

Wedding Story: Kelly and Rob

2010-06-01T19:34:00.002-04:00

You've already gotten a sneak peek at Kelly as a bride and her getting ready/reception location... now you get to see how amazing it all was on the big day!! Though there were a few complications and the threat of rain, Kelly stayed calm and happy all day... and the sun kept shining!

Sweet end of Rob's card to Kelly...

All of Kelly's details were so fun...

from the sixpence in her sandal to the monogram on her bouquet and lets not forget the penny from her birth year in her sandal.

Hey Rob!

The Graylyn has an AWESOME mancave...

HELLO wedding day.

MARRIED!

So much love...

The following layout looks like a geometry lesson to me.

Do you not LOVE the dance floor?!

SO much fun to shoot at such a gorgeous location!

The pink and orange kept things looking bright and summery all day :)

Both Kelly and Rob's families kept the dance floor hoppin'

LOVE this. They posed for someone else and I grabbed it too!

David was so excited that he caught this sweet dancing moment...

And they're off!

My view:

David's view:

Story of Gratitude

2010-06-01T11:51:00.002-04:00

Remember this gorgeous bride??

Brides have this sixth sense about when we are working on their wedding images... these ladies know I am looking at their beautiful faces and they email to check in with me. Erin did that very thing- I was looking right at her when her email came in... I just wanted to share part of that email with you:

"Hi Ashley,

Thank you (and David) SO MUCH for your wonderful work with our wedding pictures. Just from the blog preview and facebook posts, we have been getting rave reviews from all of our family and friends! Everyone said that your work was incredible and it looked like something out of a wedding/fashion magazine (or j.crew catalog, haha). The compliments from friends/family about your work had our email inboxes overflowing when we got back from the honeymoon!

Thank you again SO MUCH for our pictures -- Andrew and I (and our families/friends) are in love with them!!

Erin"

Engagement Story: Lara and Ben

2010-05-31T15:54:00.002-04:00

Let me just say that I had a super hard time trying to narrow down the images to choose for this post because Lara and Ben are JUST THAT CUTE. They came to me with an awesome list of ideas for their shoot that was full of meaning and symbolism for them. I LOVE that! These two also have a great sense of style so that CERTAINLY helped!!

We started at Lara's place...

Lara and Ben are using birds and tulips in their wedding decor and both hold significance in their relationship... and they show up throughout the shoot :)

The colors happening here are so yummy!

And so are the lovely moments between these two :)

We raced to capture the last moments of light

and I love the mood it adds to these images...

Taking a moment at one of their main hang out spots...

...walking back to Lara's...

Lara and Ben: I had SUCH an awesome time learning more about your love story as we went through the shoot. I have no doubt that we are going to have the best time shooting your wedding day!

Theater Story: Gracie

2010-05-30T14:26:00.002-04:00

Gracie is a super sweet, super special lady that is getting into theater! She has done a few shows at school and is about to participate as an orphan in her first community theater performance of Annie! Gracie was so delightful to work with - whenever I would tell her how well she was doing, she would tell me that was because I was such a good photographer. LOVE HER! :)

Bridal Story: Kelly

2010-05-30T13:24:00.002-04:00

I am so excited to finally get to share with you some of the bridal shoots that I have had to keep secret for awhile! Kelly got married yesterday so I can share with you how gorgeous she looked!

We shot the bridal at the Graylyn Estate in Winston Salem, which is where Kelly got ready yesterday and where the reception was held. This place is GORGEOUS-- it is impossible to get bored shooting there.

I loved Kelly's style- simple yet not understated. So classy and truly showcases KELLY... not Kelly showcasing the dress (JCrew bridal dresses are perfect for this-- my dress was from there also!).

Check back soon to see JUST how gorgeous her wedding day was!!

Wedding Story: Candace and Brandon

2010-05-26T20:14:00.003-04:00

I met Candace and Brandon at a funeral. And the sweet mutual friend that we were there to support connected his wedding photographer friend with his recently engaged friends... in the parking lot... of the funeral! I was all "we dont have to do this HERE and we dont have to talk about this RIGHT NOW". This is the kind of crazy good friends I have. Turns out we were an awesome match :)! I had an awesome time with these two at their engagement shoot and we had the BEST at their wedding!!

The wedding day festivities were held at the new Pavilion at Angus Barn. This place is unique and fun and versatile. The staff was SO very friendly and helpful (shout out to Ashley-she was awesome!) and I cannot wait to shoot there again.

I was SO crazy about the room that the bride/bridesmaids get ready in.

Really I could have done the whole day in this ONE ROOM.

I hear the boys room was cool too...

Groomsmen, mothers and grandmothers (and the groom!) ready to process...

The storm rolled in fast...

The rains came... and they came in buckets!

Everyone stayed in good spirits and ran for cover...

and the ceremony kept rolling!

MARRIED!

Jim from Joe Bunn DJs kept the party movin'!

YEOW!

Annnnnnnnnd...

...they're off!

Candace and Brandon: You two are the best sports EVER! You smiled through the rain, through your cake growing a bubble. You danced and you accepted your guests love and it seemed like you had a blast! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of that :)

Personal Story: I was a Bridesmaid!

2010-05-20T13:12:00.004-04:00

This past weekend I GOT TO BE A BRIDESMAID! This is rare- typically when we are involved with our friends weddings we are shooting them. We LOVE getting to shoot our friend's weddings since it insures we will get to be there and it's always a blast getting to work with people you know well. David and I have had a few exceptions for our closest friends, people that wanted us to be in their wedding party, and what an honor that is.

Here is Hallie and I at my wedding almost 4 years ago (four years?!)!

Thanks Rebecca for this picture :)

Hallie and Drew's wedding weekend in the mountains was just beautiful-- it was filled with gorgeous venues, views, yummy food, fun dancing and hilarious friends & family. These people are loved! These pictures I am about to share with you are from THREE different cameras- my point&shoot, my D300 and another bridesmaids D60... so please excuse any red-eye or funkiness. I didn't take many of the following images so no judgement please! You can see more on my Facebook page...

We kicked off the weekend at the bridesmaid tea at the Azalea Inn-- so cute!

Me and the bride... ((Like my hat April?!))

I first laid eyes on the Eagles Nest amphitheater at the rehearsal.

WOW WOW WOW.

Someone PLEASE get married here so we can shoot here?!

Hallie and I are often told we look alike...

Got to hang out with several high school friends :)

The big day! About to get the bride into her dress so she can marry her best friend!

The tears started coming so luckily Hallie's bridesman, Alan, started telling funny stories.

Post Ceremony! David sang a beautiful song during the ceremony. I like him.

And look how happy we are with food in front of us!

The reception (and rehearsal dinner) were held at Archers Inn -- fabulous view, good food, great space. The family and wedding party also stayed there all weekend.

Long story: I ended up having to do a little shooting at the reception after the photographer left. I could NOT leave one of my best friends hanging... I pack some equipment just in case.

A very sweet dance with her Dad...

The pass off to Drew...

LOVE HER.

Thanks Cam for grabbing this while we get ready for the toss.

I have known this woman since we were in preschool.

You dont even want to KNOW the stories we have on eachother.

David and I LOVE to dance. There are times at receptions we are shooting that we are just ITCHING to get out there and party. Glad we got to move some at this one (again, more dancing photos on Facebook).

AND good night.

I LOVE YOU HALLIE AND DREW.

Personal Story: Mothers Day Weekend

2010-05-12T15:00:00.002-04:00

You might have heard on Facebook- we just reached 100,000 hits here on the blog! Blows me away that people stop by this blog and witness with us all the beautiful stories that we get to be a part of. I don't want to speak too soon but just know that the look of things around here is due for a change and that change is underway! Eeeee! Sometimes it's exciting to grow up.

This past weekend David and I were able to relax and spend time with BOTH of our families. After a bridal shoot for me and an acoustic show for David, we headed to the beach early Saturday morning to spend time with my Mom and sister. We have been working on the Stephenson beach condo to start renting it so it was nice to also get to relax on the beach. I am working on a project for art to display in the condo... here are some things I am playing around with...

Saturday night we headed to our current favorite restaurant on our lil part of the coast and ate some YUMMY food together. I cannot begin to describe how much we had to celebrate in my Mom on Mother's Day. What she has overcome the past year and a half is HUGE-- not just anyone could come out like she has.

I am so proud of her.

So here I am with the three most important people in my life:

(Amanda, me, Mom)

I will claim that [hot] guy as my husband.

Sunday we spent some more time on the beach because it was SO beautiful out. David and I packed our stuff up and headed to Jacksonville to a fish fry at his Aunt's house to celebrate all the mom's on David's Mom's side of the family. It was another good time full of yummy food and honoring the ladies that keep the family strong. Our goal was to get a picture with David's Mom and his brothers but due to work schedules we will have to grab it another time. In it's place I instead have a picture full of Teeter brothers (a gift to their Mom) to show instead:

(Jon, Chris, and David)

Recently I am reminded by other photographer's that it is so important to keep documenting your own personal life. I get so wrapped up in telling other people's stories that I forget why I started loving this job in the first place--telling my OWN family and friend's stories. Tomorrow, even our next minute, is not promised to us and it is our responsibility to provide clues about our stories for those who loves us and those that will look back to us as history.

Celebration Story: NCMA Staff Party

2010-05-10T10:30:00.002-04:00

If you have not booked a venue for your ceremony and/or reception yet, pay attention to this post! And if you have already booked those things that it is ok, stick with me :)

David and I were SUPER thrilled to get the invite to shoot the staff party in the new wing of the North Carolina Art Museum. We live close to this museum and every time we drove by we would talk about how curious we were about the new building. The staff had a party to celebrate the new space the week before the main festivities for the public began. David and I were totally enchanted by this space... it is FILLED with tons of beautiful natural light, breathtaking art and plenty of space to take it all in. They are renting the place out for weddings and other events-- I would LOVE to get to shoot there again. Just stunning. You should book your event there then call me :)

I could not take my eyes off the three figures of

Jaume Plensa's "Doors of Jerusalem I, II, III"

When you get to visit the new space you MUST make a day of it and grab a meal at the museum's new restaurant, Iris.

It was awesome to get to hear the remarks from "those in charge" about the process of building the new museum wing and all the hard work that went into it.

It is always good to be aware of the hard work put into a final product like that.

I was surrounded by the many minds and hands behind the new wing.

And then it was time to REALLY celebrate :)

The youngest party-er in attendance got lots of love and attention...

I was happy to give the staff photographer the night off--

I think she enjoyed herself :)

Go check out the new wing of the museum!!

Wedding Story: Danielle and Chad

2010-05-07T10:56:00.003-04:00

I knew it was going to be a good day based on Danielle's emails. Every time she emailed me she said the wittiest, funniest stuff-- she made me giggle many times so I KNEW it was going to be a good day.

We started out this beautiful day at the Omni Hotel in Charlotte...

Making Tyra proud!

This gym is an incredibly important spot for Danielle and Chad-

these are some physically fit people. It just made sense to stop by.

The ceremony was at the beautiful St Mary's Chapel...

After a beautiful ceremony we headed over to Bentley's on 27- LOVED it!

Bride and Groom's Meals:

Bride and Groom Desserts:

Hangin' with the groomsmen.

... and then the party got crazy fun!!

(We were SUPER stoked to run into Jill from All the Right Grooves, two weeks in a row!)

Danielle and Chad: Your day was over the top BEAUTIFUL and it was so awesome to be a part of the fun! It stinks you had to head right back to work for a week but that will make your honeymoon next week all the sweeter :)

Boudoir Story: July and November

2010-05-05T13:08:00.002-04:00

Yeow!

Those of you that follow the Facebook page know that we have been offering some HOT opportunities for boudior shoots at the new venue, Seven. April Sirit of Evoke and I are teaming up again to do some FABULOUS boudoir shooting together. We have already fully booked our August date. Due to it's popularity, we are opening two more dates:

Sunday July 18th, 2010 (two spots available)

Sunday November 14th, 2010 (four spots available)

Email me/facebook message me/etc to find out how you can secure your spot for one of these two dates! Also contact me if you are interested in a boudoir shoot at a different location :) We looooooove to shoot boudoir!

Wedding Story: Erin and Andrew

2010-04-30T16:42:00.002-04:00

Once again the forecast was calling for massive storms and downpour-- we were all a little worried. Erin and Andrew were going to have a first see in the courtyard of the American Tobacco District in downtown Durham, right outside of their venue, Bay 7. I LOVE shooting in and around Bay 7 so I was really hoping that the rain waited until we were finished outside.

Lo and behold the rain held off awhile and we got to be outside! As you will see, I was crazy about Erin and Andrew's style--- not to mention they were so easy and fun to work with. The lineup of vendors for this event was amazing as well! Sally of An Elegant Affair worked so hard all night long- everything and everyone was well taken care of. We were also excited to finally get to work with Jill of All the Right Grooves-- she is an amazing DJ that goes above and beyond. So basically I was a happy girl :)

Sisters. :)

Handsome Men.

David and I both get GIDDY at this location... can you blame us?!

You know I love a sweet first see moment :)

The food was YUMMY!

Thanks Durham Catering Co.

I most def twittered that I was loving the candy table... heeheehee.

I have observed that there are several ways to tell whether a reception party will be rockin'.

One strong indicator is if there are guys dancing their hearts out.

Secure men lead others in a Miley Cyrus song. Duh.

The ladies didn't disappoint either.

Eventually the rains came... but at that point it didn't matter.

The night was a success!

Erin and Andrew: Your day was beautiful in SO many different ways- what an honor to be able to document it for you guys to enjoy for years and years to come. Thank you for being so easy to work with. We hope the honeymoon was FABULOUS!

Family Story: James on the Beach

2010-04-27T13:04:00.002-04:00

It felt so good to be out on the beach! The James family was so fun to run around in the sand with. Ava was a complete ham-- I could have eaten her UP! The weather was gorgeous and the light a yummy golden color. I could not have asked for a better shooting situation :)

The best moments can be captured when you just let kids do their own thing...

... this makes ME want to lay in the sand.

I did not set this up- apparently Ava has taken pictures with her parents like this before.

How freakin' cute is she?!

These next four shots of Chuck and Catherine are straight out of camera...

the light was SO YUMMY

Catherine is a blog follower and she wanted to get some ring shots.

You know I was TOTALLY ok with that!!

And this is when Ava took over and started doing the cutest poses all on her own...

James Family: I had a BLAST with you guys on the beach! I can't wait to do it again :) Ava is so easy to work with and HELLO has such an inner diva that is dying to get out!