Ray & Danielle Engagement at Family Thomas Farm

I've been in contact with Danielle for a while now, she's one of those people you just feel instantly comfortable with. I feel like she could be my younger sister that I look after if anyone is mean to her and I would beat them up! I've grown to really adore her! I love getting her texts and adorable selfies she took with my cats! (Girl after my own heart!) Ray has a very busy schedule with the military so I didn't get a chance to meet him until the engagement session! I could see instantly why they were perfect for one another and if Nicholas Sparks could write a new Notebook this would be the couple!!

You know those couples that almost have a love song that plays around them when they're together. You might not actually hear any music but it's the way they look at each other, the way they laugh, touch, smile, and they seem very calm in each other presence. That's Ray and Danielle. They were a love song all on their own. I kept smiling to myself as they giggled when they hugged or looked at each other. Their genuine love and admiration for one another gave me warm feelings and felt as if their light was so bright for one another it made those around them feel good too. Relationship goals at it's finest!

The best part was how they seem to communicate and look out for one another. Ray snuggled in close, with no worries at all if anyone saw as long as Danielle felt loved and adored. Danielle making sure he had what he needed, if she could help at all. On top of being in love they seem to also be best friends. Two parts that make each other whole. It was refreshing and calming to see such a couple that had balance, love and mutual respect for one another. I've said it over and over, but how lucky am I to meet such amazing people and get to be a part of their lives for the next year!

The Riemenschneider Family of 6 {Lifestyle Photoshoot in Lake Stevens, Wa}

I was searching Pinterest one day for marriage quotes, you know something about the beauty in real life and real life moments. I only found how to guides on how to bring the spark back or how to appreciate your husband. I was a little disappointed. No one has made quotes decked out in flowers and pretty letters about the joy of marriage and being a team as you raise your children together. As my daugther has grown I find beauty in all the small things she does, as my husband and I grow together emerging more and more into a friendship and love only we understand, I always take mental photographs of these moments.

They're not the moments you see hung on our walls or shelves but they're the real life moments that turn into what we call life. When Mykenzie's last fine baby hairs finally grew out, when Chris laid next to me on the couch and gave me a haunting loving look because he wanted so bad to propose to me in that moment, I had no idea but I will never forget the look. The moment I catch Mykenzie being sneaky but it's too funny to be mad about or when Chris and I laugh at an inside joke only we understand, that's real life. I wanted a cute Pinterest quote for it!

Instead I got something better. Way better.

To walk into a families home and document their real life is nothing short of amazing. As I knocked at the door I could hear tiny footsteps running as fast as they could to get to the door. Then waiting...obviously they were taught not to open the door for strangers. I smiled to myself, thinking about the same rule I have for my kids. Ben, their dad greeted me with a warm welcome and Allyce (mom) reassured me they were almost ready. Eleanor, the oldest greeted me with dancing and a huge smile that showed all her teeth! Caroline the newly middle child, brushed her fine blonde hairs out of her eyes and brought her shoulders up and gave me a huge smile as well. The house smelled of Christmas and cinnamon and tree lights twinkled in background. Two small baby bottles rested on the counter, for their newly born twins Amelia and Margaret. This home was filled with love, laughter, tears, joy, marker stains, laundry baskets and real life. I loved being here.

Welcome to the Riemenschneider House!

P.S. I made my own Pinterest Marriage Quotes based off how I felt during this session! (Scroll to the bottom!)

Feel Free to pin them if you like!

 

The Unicorn Emoticon

I have been working so much lately I started to notice I wasn't spending as much time smiling, laughing, and just being myself. I literally have spent DAYS in the studio starring at the computer screen late into the night and up again early to get things done! My cats have been my only company and it's not cute anymore. It was getting to a sad cat lady situation!

I was laying in bed one morning and I just didn't want to get up! I was exhausted on all levels. I made a mental note I needed to find a way to get around POSITIVE people and fast! I was this close to watching Richard Simmons workout videos…which I heard are actually good by the way if something didn't change!

I needed a smoothie, sunshine, fruit and to smile!

Ask and you shall receive. Insert Amy!

That same morning I got a text from Amy! I love following her on Facebook. Her posts are always cheery, happy and inspiring. She is her own #Bosslady! She has taken her Beach Body Business to the next level and her body shows the results! She looks bomb!  Yes, like in the 90's.."You look bomb girl!"

She text me that she needed head shots and our convo rolled from there. I jumped out of bed, eagerly texting away, excited that she would be at the studio! I used the new unicorn emoticon as her contact and felt the rainbow of happiness that is Amy start to pour in. I accepted eagerly!!!

When the day came it was everything I hoped it would be! We worked hard, laughed, ate fruit, basked in the sunlight and even though I was working, it didn't feel like work. It was just what I needed! A little bit of Amy in my life!

Great work Amy and I know you'll take your business by storm!!! Keep going Boss lady, we are all so proud of you!

If you're interested in Amy's story or just getting some unicorn magic check out her Facebook!

Crystal & Deryk's Wedding at Bostic Lake Ranch

The day started calm as the boys laughed and snacked on goodies at the ranch. The ranch over looks a small Lake, the grass was freshly cut and lawn games were set out. The place was in full swing and smiles all around as everyone helped with set up.

Crystal was still getting her hair pinned up and make up refreshed as Deryk folded his vows into his pocket. His groomsman patted him on the back and smiled, wishing him well and congratulating him on landing such a beauty as Crystal.

 

As the girls finished up the last touches in their hair and make up, they waited anxiously as Crystal put on her dress. The lace wrapped around her body like a glove and complimented her pearl skin. As she walked out, tears started to roll. Memories for everyone overflowed as this day was finally here. Hugs, kisses and more tears. It was time.

 

The ceremony site was full of Crystal and Deryk's closest family and friends. The sky showed small patches of blue and the sun tried desperately to seep in but the cloud coverage held back the demanding sun and offered cooling relief as summer had begun to end.

 

As Deryk and his son Bentley made their way down the aisle, waiting for mommy there was a warm and happy feeling in the air.

As Crystal made her way down the aisle, Deryk's face said it all. He was in love and had found the woman of his dreams, the beautiful mother of his son and his best friend for life.

  

The ceremony was short and sweet. A first dance with bubbles created a whimsical look while everyone gathered around to watch. The children ran around popping the various sizes of soapy bubbles that changed colors in the light.

Everyone retreated upstairs where lights twinkled and created a warm feeling. Honey sticks were a sweet treat and engagement photos lined the wall of the happy couple. Burlap and lace hung on the walls and black lace wrap over the tables and beautiful white roses brighten up the room.

The night ended with toasts, cake cutting, dinner & dancing in the rain.

White rose pedals were thrown to wish the newlyweds off and the party continued into the night.

Congratulations Deryk & Crystal!

Walkmans, Hand written Notes & Film

As most things go, things get better with time. As the digital age has taken over, film has become a thing of the past, just like disposable cameras, hand written notes & walk mans. However as my 11 year old daughter walks around the house jamming on her aunt's old walkman and my old Mariah Carey tapes (true story) I can't help but smile and think it reminds me of the nice feeling of getting a hand written note.

 

I remember when my best friend asked me to be a bridesmaid and she wrote me the kindest letter in a cute card. I think about how film once made our day when we would pick up our prints at Safeway Photo Lab or Walgreens. Even if the digital age has taken over, some things can still bring the same amount of joy even if they have been replaced or improved upon.

  

When I first bought my Canon EOS ELAN II film camera I was skipping out of the store. I went in for a lens and lens cleaner and walked out with my film camera and convinced it would change my life. I had been wanting to try film for a years, ever since my mom gave me her Pentax but I wasn't sure about film's  significance or purpose. Until I saw my friend Savan Photography's work. Savain has mastered her film camera and posts her digital and film images next to one another. Your mouth will drop at the difference. Her film scans have a timeless look, the contrast is spot on and colors you don't see in digital spread across the scans. It's beautiful and something to really appreciate.

 

When I got my scans back they did not look like Savan's! I was so bummed!!!! They were really grainy, dark with green hue!! What did I do wrong?! This is where it get's good and gave me space to grow. Well, apparently there are different types of film that give you a different look. Fuji film has a greener hue while Kodak gold has a more golden hue. Okay next step buy difference film! I also had my settings on auto because I was too scared to shoot in manuel. Next step, shoot in manual and read the lighting around me to really challenge me on correct settings!

 

Wish me luck! I am so excited to try these new things! Here are a few of my favorite scans from my Fuji film and shooting in auto.

Jon & Regan's Wedding at The Lake House

Sometimes life is just humming along and you're going with the flow. A typical day, get up, play with your dogs, grab your coffee & call your sister. Life just hums along. Then in a moment the hum changes…

Your boyfriend plans a surprise proposal and the next thing you know you're planning a wedding and in a month you've been engaged, got married and flew to Germany to live with your new husband. Sometimes life just hums along to its own beat but gives you the most beautiful memories to hold onto forever.

The morning sunshine lights up the house and glimmers over the lake. Regan's dress is pressed and hung. The girls are curling their hair and family members are placing the last details around the house.

Jon is downstairs and seems eager to get the day going and marry his bride. He seems happy and light hearted as he jokes around with his groomsman. There is an overall feeling around the house that is exactly where everyone should be on this day. It's bittersweet as all their loved ones gather in one space before they leave for Germany to live, in just a few short days.

Back in the girls room, Regan slides in to her dress, it fits like a glove and perfectly matches her personality. Her new cowgirl boots compliment the dress and her long blonde hair cascades down her back.

Its time for the first look, again no one seems nervous but rather excited and happy. Jon heads down the path and over a small bridge to wait on top of a small hill for Regan. His back is turned so he can't see her and he is all smiles. His body language says he has been waiting for this day for a long time and his mind is on one thing, Regan.

Regan glides down the path and the flowers compliment her smile. The slight breeze catches her dress and she looks like goddess as it flows around her. She calls out to Jon that she's coming and his spirits if possible lift even higher. His shoulders raise and a smile dashes across his face. She covers his eyes with her small hands and perfectly polished nails. He smiles again and turns around. His face expression is like a child on Christmas, the excitement, the joy radiates in the air.

They embrace, holding each other tightly, not worried about messing up their outfits or hair. This moment is for them and them only.

After a few moments alone and pictures the wedding party comes dashing up. "I wanted to cry, it was so beautiful to see your first look!" "You both look amazing!" "This is such a perfect day!" Everyone calls out!

Photographs are taken to document the mood, the colors, the special people and the overall magical feeling that is happening.

Everyone heads back to the house to prep for the ceremony. It's a full house as guests are seated by the house and down by the lake. The ceremony site is on a dock, projecting over the shimmering Lake. The sun is shining brightly and illuminating the flowers that decorate the site. As the music starts everyone slowly walks down the stairs to the dock including Regan's dog Reese, when it's Regan's turn everyone stands and sighs in awe at how beautiful she looks.

The ceremony is short and sweet but doesn't miss a beat on talking about their love story. Friends first, walking their dogs at a local dog park together, never pressuring one another for more but letting the relationship bloom organically into something beautiful.

They kiss and cheers break out! They almost dance down the aisle in happiness and seem proud they pulled off an amazing wedding in such a short time! The fun and excitement doesn't end here though!

The night is filled with a BBQ dinner at picnic tables placed around the property, everyone gathers for drinks and popcorn downstairs, dancing erupts, sunset pictures, heartfelt toasts, ice cream cones drips in children's hand and a funny dance of Let it Go from Frozen brings all the young girls to the dance floor!

The dancing continues late into the night and sparklers are lit while everyone is still dancing! It seems like a dream where time has stopped.  Almost everyone stayed until the last song was played! Life has played the perfect hum for these two and it was clear everyone agreed this was meant to be!

Congratulations Jon and Regan!

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Greg & Jordan's Wedding at Maroni Meadows

The sun beams through the trees, giving its light in abundance. Maroni Meadows is draping with willow trees and green leaves as summer is still in charge. The venue is calm and peaceful, you can hear soft chatter in the bridal suite. Jordan helps her mom with her hair and glides around the bridal suite lending a helping hand. Her bridal party gives her a hard time and reminds her, it's her day and they're happy to help. She smiles gracefully and cracks a joke. Her dress hangs on the barn doors while the flowers sit in water basking in the sunlight. Everyone is near ready and its time to put her dress on. It fits like a glove as it's slides up her. Loving sighs are heard throughout the suite. "Jordan, it's beautiful!" "I have never seen such a beautiful dress!" "Jordan, you're so stunning!" Jordan softly smiles but you can see in her eyes she is still trying to find ways to help out. It's in her nature, see a need, fill a need but not today. Her bridal party continues to urge her to just enjoy this moment. She gives in and you can see the softness in her face,  in this moment this is exactly where she wants to be.

The groomsman are getting ready across the venue at, "The Pub." Each groom providing laughter in their own way. You can instantly see why Greg chose each groomsman for his wedding. They all offer help when needed, thinking ahead, creating comic relief and just being good friends. As photographs are shot, the laughter hardly lets up. This is a fun, energetic group. I can't help but laugh out loud as I hide behind my camera. Behind the lens I see moments between the laughter. Greg seems eager, excited and is exactly where he needs to be. Without saying it I can tell his mind is on Jordan.

Family photos are taken and everyone wraps up the rest of the small details. The ceremony site is ready and the trees create enough relieving shade to cover everyone from the heat. Greg walks down the aisle, again he seems excited eager to see Jordan. It's clear she is consuming his every thought. You can smell the flowers displayed around the ceremony as you walk by. Everyone hushes as Jordan makes her way from the bridal suite. Greg doesn't break his smile, its permanent. As Jordan makes her way around the corner and down the aisle Greg's face softens and seems completely taken back.

The ceremony is short and sweet with laughter, stories and exchanging of the rings. Every chair is occupied and all eyes and ears are on the couple. As they have their first kiss and smile down the aisle everyone is eager to get the party started.

A short cocktail hour begins as the sun begins to set and the lights strung across the meadows are turned on. Mason jar candles are lit and everyone has a wine glass in hand which was a thank you gift from the bride and groom. Dinner starts and toasts are giving. There isn't a dry eye in the house as heartfelt stories are told. Everyone in the room holds a special meaning in Jordan and Greg's life and it is felt.

Before the sun sets entirely,  I take Jordan and Greg out for some alone time and sunset photos. There is a calm about them and they seem at peace. They're gentle with their kisses and hugs, almost as if it's magic to touch one another. As we wrap up photos and head back to the venue, the party has started. There are people dancing, playing games on the lawn and lots of laughter at every corner. It's a magical evening with the perfect couple, perfect guest and perfect night.

Congratulations Jordan and Greg!

  

Jeremy & Melisa married at Fontaine Estates Winery in Naches Valley

If there was ever a magical place to get married at, it would be 2 hours from Seattle where the weather is sunny most of the year, wineries spread like butter across the landscape and fruit trees send a sweet scent threw the air. Fontaine Estates Winery is one of the most beautiful venues I have ever seen.

I met up with Melisa the morning of her wedding day, she was glowing as the sun beamed through the windows behind her. Her bridesmaids were running around making sure everything was going to be perfect for her and Jeremy. Jeremy was on the other side of the winery with his groomsman getting ready. I strolled past a few wine barrels and glimmering lights in the reception area as friends and family helped with decorations. Jeremy was calm and ready for the day. His groomsman patted him on the back reminding him how lucky he was to have a Melisa and he smiled in agreement.

The ceremony started and everyone was all smiles. Red roses draped around the ceremony site and the sun beamed down.

Jeremy smiled at his family and friends as he waited anxiously for Melisa.

As Melisa walked out with her father in hand and her other dad ready to marry them she smiled with joy.

Jeremy's smiled got really big when he saw her, the guests stood up in awe at how beautiful she looked. Melisa's beauty was radiating hotter than the sun.

The ceremony was short and sweet and ended with a kiss and rose pedals being tossed at the bride and groom. Smiles erupted as everyone filed out ready to get the party started.

Toasts were the place to be at as everyone laughed and cried tears of joys.

The sun began to set so we took some time to head out to the orchards and get some pictures before they danced the night away.

The night ended with dancing, hugs, tears of gratitude and sparklers!

Congratulations Melisa and Jeremy

 

Michael & Jayna's Wedding at The Bellevue Club

If the most loveliest, elegant, brings you to tears while you smile love poem could ever be acted out in a single day Jayna and Michael's Wedding would reflect that poem.

As grey clouds rolled in over Bellevue hints of sunshine beamed through the clouds. All the girls smiled and laughed as they got ready in their hotel room. Jayna was swarmed with love and support from her family and friends. Even before she got her lace, open backe white wedding dress on everyone couldn't stop gushing about how radiant she looked. Jayna brings out a calm in people, with her soft voice, child like laugh and beaming brown eyes.

As her sister and mother helped zip up her dress, gasps could be heard around the room. Her veil draped gently over her shoulders and the sun beamed through the window. She was perfect. It was time to head to the ceremony.

A few floors down the men were getting ready. A playful basketball was wrapping up and the guys suited up. Michael was eager, ready, he needed to see his bride. She was all he ever wanted, more than he felt he deserved and more beautiful to him than any other woman on Earth. Jayna was meant for him. He needed to see her.

Before the ceremony there was a prayer to be give to the couple. They met, back to back while only their hands embraced. As Jayna walked out of the room for the prayer she only saw the back of Michael and his hand waiting for her hand. She instantly broke out in tears. Here he was, the man she was meant to marry, waiting patiently for her. His love was true, real and only for her. Everyone felt it.

As the ceremony began the emotions began to fill the room. Smiles, laughter, joy and an excitement among everyone that this was happening. The smell of flowers lightly scented the room and the glow from the stage created a beautiful ambiance.

The poem continued to be acted out as a ballet danced glided across the aisle and words from the vows, a speech from a bridesmaid flouted around the room.

"You saw the real me."

"She was more than a friend."

"This love was different."

"Behind my mask you saw the real me."

If love could fill a room this was the moment it did. Jayna and Michael turned this room into more than it was, walls illuminated white and purples lights while flower pedals cascaded across the floor. It felt like a dream.

As they sealed their loved with a kiss, cheers broke out and everyone smiled cheering for joy!

The night continued with pictures at the park and a time to let loose on the party bus. The excitement couldn't be contained as everyone reflected on how successful the ceremony had gone. Pictures were done and everyone jumped back onto the bus to head to the party.

Everyone was ready!

The reception started off with a hit and everyone dancing their way in. Toasts provided more tears of joy and laughs as Jayna and Michael's history was told in a love story through their family and friend's eyes. The first dances showed an elegance and love for one another and smiles were passed along.

The party music started and everyone jumped in. It was time to celebrate!

Congratulations Michael & Jayna!

   

Jamie and Kaitlin married at Delille Cellars in Woodinville, Wa

There are times in life when your path just crosses with the right people. I instantly fell in love with Kaitlin as she was teacher, so I knew KNEW JUST KNEW she had a heart of gold!  She was a hard worker, focused and kind. When I found out more about Jamie and realized his views on adoption were the same as mine, I instantly felt like I had met two of the most amazing people in the world.

Two people with amazing paths, families, and life stories. I can't think of a better couple that should marry and what an honor that I get to photograph their wedding day.

The wedding was being held at Delille Cellars in Woodinville. The winery over looks a beautiful landscape of fields and green trees. The sun was beaming and it was one of the hottest days of summer. No chance of rain!

 As I walked up to the bridal suit, the room was calm and I was greeted with kind smiles.  Girls were laughing, grandma's reminiscing and everyone was eager to lend a helping hand. The art of making a bride feel special, was not lost in this room. As everyone carefully made sure every last detail of Kaitlin was done,  her girls walked her out for her first look with Jamie.

Jamie was full of emotions! Excited, eager, happy, thrilled! Watching him get ready for his first look was really sweet.

When Kaitlin tapped him on the shoulders, he slowly turned around and his arms went up! You could hear him from all over the winery, "OH MY!!!" He covered his face with his hands, in disbelief that Kaitlin was his. She was his forever.

We started photographing families and the wedding party,  as decorators finished the last details draping red roses all over the venue.

I watched as Kaitlin held her dad's hand as her wedding party began to walk to the ceremony. They hugged numerous times.  I could see a heart of gold, a close family, loving, hard working and dedicated to one another. Kaitlin was beaming as she walked down the aisle, trees draping over her and her dad,  the smell of red roses slightly lifted through the air. It didn't take long for tears to start rolling. Every angle my camera pointed someone was whipping a tear from their face and smiling. Vows were read and the sun was lightly resting behind the trees.

As they had their first kiss as husband and wife, cheers broke out as they ran down the aisle! They had done it, they were married!!

Everyone almost danced out of their seats, eager to congratulate them! They signed their marriage license, enjoyed a sweet cocktail hour with all their guests,  huddled in the shade hugging and laughing. The night was just beginning!

The night continued on with toasts, hugs, laughter, inside jokes, tears and more hugs. It was clear, I was not the only one that thought these two people were amazing as individuals but together, they were unbelieveable. You could feel the love radiating through the venue, every corner I turned someone was smiling or speaking highly of Jamie and Kaitlin.

The sun began to set and a nice cool breeze came over Delille. Everyone was ready to dance, we quickly stole a moment for sunset photos and they eagerly ran back in ready to start the party. Many times, when dinner and toasts are over, guest slowly trickle out and head home. Not this party, the dance floor was packed and everyone was having a great time. Kids were being swung around and grandmas were being dragged out to the dance floor, with a huge smile on their face of course!

It was a night to remember and probably the most smiles I ever seen in one room!

Congratulations Jamie & Kaitlin!