Engagement Photography | Aaron + Megan | Retzer Nature Center - Waukesha, WI

Where to begin? Almost 24 years ago, I made this handsome gent a big brother for the second time. Although, I'm sure he would agree that there's a difference between having a baby brother and having a baby sister. For example, having a baby sister brings so much more joy (and perhaps more screaming).

Growing up, I often thought about the woman that he would marry one day. I never doubted that he would get married someday, I just knew that it would happen and that when it did he would be an exceptional husband. He has a huge heart and truly cares about the ones he loves. 

Enter Megan. I make it a frequent habit to ask my brothers if they're seeing anyone, because I know that none of them would ever just tell me if they were dating a girl. One particular time when I asked Aaron, there was a pause. Jackpot! My brain kicked into overdrive as I thought about all sorts of questions to ask. However, not wanting to be too much of a pain, I stuck to the basics: name, how they met and her job. He answered them and I was satisfied...for now. As I talked with him more, I eventually stopped seeking more information about Megan. Instead I just paid attention to how he sounded when he talked about her and their time together. He was truly happy and as a little sister, what more could I want? 

It was a special experience to photograph their engagement pictures. Having the chance to not only observe another love story in the making, but a love story of my own sibling was a feeling that I won't soon forget. 

But perhaps that's enough of the gushy stuff. (There will be plenty of time for more before their big day in July; so I will cut myself off here! haha)

Introducing my big brother, Aaron, and his beautiful fiancée, Megan! 

Couple Photography | Gretchen + Bruce | Hoyt Park - Wauwatosa, WI

There was no need to tell these two to laugh or smile, they simply did so on their own for the entire session. I had such a great time getting to photograph this incredible couple. They are a shining example of a Christian marriage. Saying they are each other's best friend could not be more true. I enjoy talking to them so much that from time to time, I'd have to regain focus and remember that we were there to take pictures and not just to chat. I've known them for several years and always feel incredibly blessed by any time that I get to spend with them. 

It's my pleasure to introduce you to Gretchen + Bruce! 

Wedding Photography | Kyle + Kim | St. John's - Jefferson, WI | Country Springs Hotel - Waukesha, WI

It's such a blessing to be able to witness your childhood friend marry the man of her dreams. I got teary eyed as I saw Kyle's expression when he saw his bride for the first time. I couldn't be happier for the two of them. To know she has found such a wonderful man makes me incredibly happy. I've known her since before we were in preschool and it was an honor to be part of their special day.

There were a few decisions that Kim had made to make sure the wedding, that she had carefully been planning, still held some elements of surprise. In addition to not seeing Kyle before she walked down the aisle, she also did not want to see her newly soldered ring before he put it on her finger (in it's rightful place!).

Although Kyle + Kim did not share a first look, she did share a first look with her dad, and it was truly beautiful! Father/daughter first looks are something that I want to encourage brides to consider as they plan out the timing of the day. (If you're not convinced, scroll down a bit to see the beauty of that moment!) Kim and her dad have a special relationship. Prior to the wedding, she had mentioned that her dad picked the song for their dance, but she didn't want to know ahead of time what it was. Filled with intrigue, I eagerly waited for their dance so that not only could I hear what song he chose, but also so that I could see her reaction. I can still see the moment in my mind unfolding in slow motion. As the song began, I could tell she didn't recognized it. He told her to give it a little bit and she would. As the introduction concluded and the melody played she knew the song instantly! I think it's safe to say that dad chose a great song (Butterfly Kisses)!

A wedding day goes by oh so quickly for the bride and groom, and I that's why I like the time for their portraits the most. They have a chance to relax and breath a bit after all the hustling around. They have a chance to refocus on themselves and the promises they've made to one another. They can really acknowledge the fact that after looking forward to the day for so long, they're finally married! Kyle + Kim were no different. During their portraits, as he played with his ring she couldn't help but say over and over "We're married!" 

Congrats Mr. + Mrs. S!