I would like to start off with a little background here. I am a professional wedding and portrait photographer in Springfield, Missouri. I have been working in the industry for several years. Now I get a chance to step outside this box and look at it from a different perspective. My daughter is getting married!  Let's go on this journey together and hopefully this will help you plan your own wedding. 

The First Steps

• First, say "Yes"!
• Then show everyone your ring
• Go through the next week floating on air
• The following week...watch out.

Yup, that! The questions will begin to flood in like a tidal wave! When's the date? Where's the venue? Am I invited? This will start the first of your web searches and stress. 

Type where to start planning a wedding in a search bar. You will be given a huge list to choose from. One of the best websites to view is The Knot. They have an abundance of information for couples. ( Side note: I am also featured on the knot.)

Wedding Venues in Southwest Missouri

The first thing on your list should be the venue. Search for wedding venues or go to any Bridal show and you will find unlimited amounts of choices. Before you go looking, this is my tip. The venues tend to book up fast and well into the future! Plan at least a year out for the best selection. Next, follow these steps. 

1. Sit down and think about what you like to do together. ( hiking vs movies, etc. )
2. Think about how you dress when going out on a date. ( dress vs t-shirt and jeans, etc. )
3. Are you religious 
4. If you could have the perfect "Happy Place" what would that look like

Now that you have an idea of what you two feel most comfortable in. Now it's time to narrow things down. My daughter and her Fiancé love shopping, traveling, working out, and favorite date nights are watching the Bachelor/Bachelorette. His proposal was themed like on the show. Yes, she excepted the rose and the ring! They also are religious and wanted to incorporate a chapel.

With ideas from this list, we began to search for venues that offered lots of natural light and an abundance of nighttime lights. A possible chapel with a second building for the reception must be located on the same property. Room flip was not an option for them. They like to dress up for dates so I encouraged them to look for modern-style venues. They both like their privacy and space. I translated that into large suites with private bathrooms. Some venues do not have a private bathroom for the Groom or even a place for him to get ready.

The list helped narrow down the ideas to a manageable few. Next was to mark the open houses on the calendar and attend our top three. A bridal show would have to be on the agenda to hit up a large number of vendors. Personally, I like open houses because other vendors are there and showcase pictures of past weddings, unlike a tour. This gives you an idea of what the space could look like in a real wedding setting. Open houses also showcase other vendors who may not be able to attend the Bridal shows.

One of the top Bridal Shows in Southwest, Missouri is MetBride. They host two shows at the beginning of the year and then one right before the fall season starts. Insider tip: The largest wedding shows will be in January and February! As a professional wedding photographer trying to go as "just Mom", it is wonderful to catch up with friends aka other vendors. Warning!! Bridal shows can be extremely overwhelming! Go with an open mind that you are really there to dip your toes into the wedding world. From sampling cake, catering, and cocktails your head will be spinning and you may lay down way too many deposits. You could also walk away with an amazing airfyer though!

MetBride August 2021 showAs a wedding photographer it was fun to wear a different hat and be Mom for a day at the MetBride Bridal Show in Springfield, MO.

Once you have found your venue the next few vendors to get in this 12-14 months out range will be on my next blog. Cliffhanger! To check out more about me and my photography click here. To see a list of some of the vendors I have worked with in the past click here and tell them where you found their name!

Recap:

• Be excited to be engaged!
• Write out a list of what makes you an awesome couple
• Take that list and translate it to a must-have venue list.
• Window shop
• Bring on the open houses, bridal shows, and tours!
• Have Fun!

Thank you so much for reading and I hope this helped you along your wedding journey. If you would like to learn more about something I did not touch on, leave a comment below.  If you would like to learn about our wedding photography services click this link. If you don't want to miss the next blog post in this journey hit the subscribe link below.

Please send me any questions you have on wedding planning or wedding photography services in the comments below. Also let me know if you would be interest in live webinars about wedding planning! What do you think?

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If you would like for us to capture your wedding, please contact us by filling out this form and we will be in touch with you soon.

Autumn and Jacob's wedding venue is nestled in the woods in Marshfield, MO. The Barn at Walnut Creek offers so many photo backdrop options it's hard to choose!

The lady's room was upstairs in the reception building. Autumn and her girls had a lot of fun doing their nails and make-up. Everyone was in a relaxed mood as we waited out the rain. Autumn worked on her bouquet putting together flowers mixed with succulents.

The boys were by the ceremony building in a new lounge area that was finished earlier this year. Complete with video games and snacks! Call of Duty, anyone?

The thunderstorm left just in time for the ceremony! At one end of the barn stands a large picture window. The metal ceiling was draped with sheer fabric. They chose a whiskey barrel framed by a large triangle as the decor. During the ceremony, they 'tied the knot' by braiding a three-strand rope. The couple also took communion. 

The bridesmaid's dresses were in a light plum shade. I can picture the girls talking about the styles while waiting for the brown box with a smile to show up on the doorstep. The men wore complementary colors in a light heather grey suit. Suits were from Paul Philips Formalwear.

Guests enjoyed a late lunch of pulled pork and lots of side choices. The reception had many activities. In all corners of the room, guests could move about picking up a bottle of champagne flavored jelly beans, or grabbing a cupcake, or hitting the dance floor. If one felt their inner Brawny Man they could enjoy Ax throwing out in the field.

In all the sun came out and shined on the beautiful union of Autumn and Jacob.

Moments Moments Moments Moments

A Wedding with Fireworks

On July 3rd Ginna and Hunter created a day full of memories. Ginna and Hunter were wed at the St Mary's Catholic Church in Joplin, MO. After the ceremony they hosted a grand reception at the I do Event and Wedding center.

It all started one summer at church camp back in 2014. As Camp Staff members, Ginna and her Sister had a lot of fun. This one Staff member kept picking on Ginna's Sister. Maybe because she was the director, I don't know. Well, Ginna met Hunter. Sometime during the summer, Hunter declared to the Sister that he would be dating Ginna before the camp was over. As you might have guessed, that didn't go over well. Sister was not a fan. Just to annoy her, Ginna went on that date! There must have been a spark because look where they are now!

"When I saw you I fell in love, and you smiled because you knew."

William Shakespeare

The day came for Hunter's big plan for the proposal. One morning Hunter took Ginna to the Overland Park Botanical Gardens for a date. For some reason, her Sister and Hunter's Best friend were there taking photos. Ginna knew what was coming. She said, "Yes"! Afterward, they met all the family for a large brunch celebration.

The I Do Event and Wedding center has some great photo opportunities. We had so much fun taking photos by the vintage car. Ginna and Hunter cut the cake by a beautiful backdrop provided by the venue. After dinner and cake the couple and I snuck out for sunset photos in a nearby field. The wedding day wrapped up with a display of fireworks. What a beautiful way to end the day!

"I'm captivated by you, baby, like a firework show."

Taylor Swift

• Cake Artist - Julie Southard
• Cake Artist - Magen Hensley with Mae'd Good
• Wedding dress - Bride Confidential
• Bridesmaid Dresses - Dear Cleo
• Venue - I do Event and Wedding Center in Joplin, MO

Well, the weather is turning warmer and with that comes summer weddings. I had the pleasure of photographing Amy and Curtis's love story at the beautiful Enchanted Hills in Springfield, MO. 

Enchanted Hills

The beginning of the love story:

Turn on Netflix or listen to an app jingle and I am sure you can list several dating shows or apps. But do they work? Amy and Curtis prove that you can find love in such away. The first time they met was at a park. After hitting it off, they went on their first date the following Saturday.

The romance has been building through watching movies and favorite TV shows, backyard gardening, and adventures in the great outdoors. The couple dreams of traveling to Rome or Italy. Where they plan to stroll along the beaches and visit many museums.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

The "Yes" moment:

As mentioned the couple loves outdoor adventures and Curtis had a plan. In his words, "I had her ring designed from the ground up and when it got to me, there wasn't anything to hold me back and I didn't want to. I knew when we went to haha Tonka that would give me a good opportunity and once we were alone in a beautiful setting, I asked her." What she said: "He took me to HaHa Tonka State park and proposed near a natural spring with a ring that he had custom made. There was no one around. It was perfect." 

The big day:

It was a warm summer day. The waterfall was full and gorgeous! When the bridal party and helpers arrived at the venue, Athena graciously had a golf cart to help cart things to the there locations. Up the hill to the house is where the party began the day. As photos wrapped up, guests arrived down below beside the stream where the ceremony would take place. The bride made a beautiful succulent bouquet and added succulents in jars for the table centerpieces. The sage bridesmaid's dress complimented the groomsmen's grey suits. 

Guests sat in white chairs around a stone walkway surrounded by lush greenery for the ceremony. It was hard not to get misty-eyed as the bride and groom read handwritten vows to each other. After saying I do, the guest moved to a pavilion nestled by the hillside alongside the waterfall. Everyone enjoyed pasta and salad by Otis Pasta and the cake by Hyvee. Bingo and "He said She said" games entertained the guest before and after the couple's first dance.

Wedding momentsA look at the cake by the waterfall, the couple's first kiss as a married couple, and first photos. Wedding momentsA look at the cake by the waterfall, the couple's first kiss as a married couple, and first photos. Wedding momentsA look at the cake by the waterfall, the couple's first kiss as a married couple, and first photos.
 

Towards evening the couple walked along the pond and took pictures by the dock and lights.

Thank you to these vendors and friends:

Acting Day of Coordinator and Friend - Vicki MacDonald

Cake: HyVee

Dresses: David's Bridal

Suits: Men's warehouse

Venue: Enchanted Hills

Alicia is a big fan of Lord of the Rings and has always dreamed of a wedding like that. Cordell did a lot of research and found a ring-like lady Galadriel's ring. He held onto it for some time while dreaming of the perfect plan. While visiting family in California, Cordell asked her father for his blessing. He also wondered where would be the best place. Dad had a great idea. So the plan was set to propose while hiking in the Sequoia National Park. They stopped to take a pic of the scenery. When she turned around, Cordell asked her to marry him. She said "Yes"! He told her he was going for a Lord of the Rings theme. The ring was Galadriel's ring of power, and proposing in the forest was like Lothlorien. 

The setting for the Wedding was in Kay's Forest in West Plains, Missouri. 

Moments between Mother and Daughter are so sweet.

Mother and Daughter momentsMother and Daughter moments Mother and Daughter momentsMother and Daughter moments Alicia thought of all the details. Danielle Carr at Joey's Hair Design and Spa worked a jeweled piece into Alicia's hair. She picked a dress called Patrice by Morilee - Madeline Gardner from Gracy's Bridal in Springfield, Missouri. The Bridesmaid's dresses came from Norman's Bridal in Springfield, Missouri. These dresses were complemented by the Groomsmen's outfits which were tan dress pants and white shirts.

The bride made her grand entrance on horseback and she rode down to the pond for the ceremony. The guest was surrounded by tall trees and they watched the ceremony. There was laughing and a few tears as the couple read their vows to one another. What a beautiful sunny day!

Ceremony Ceremony Ceremony Ceremony

The DJ from Complete Weddings + Events played music from Lord of the Rings for the ceremony and hosted an amazing evening of events. Jeff Wood Cakes designed a cake to complete the theme with a Hobbit house on the top of a three-tiered cake. The flavor was Red Velvet. The couple rented some items from Eventful Rentals in Springfield to turn the barn into a dining hall fit for a King and Queen. The Bride and Groom had practiced the dance Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran. They nailed it! What a first dance! The guest enjoyed dancing and the photo booth till it was time to send the couple off with a sparkler exit.

Reception
 

This weeks adventure was a cozy coffee shop in Downtown Springfield. Set in an old historic building the shop looks to have traditional hardwood flooring and brick walls. Guest can grab a soft leather chair and relax while enjoying a cup of coffee or pick a table and get some work done. I chose to met a new friend! Her name is Amber Morton and she is a wedding coordinator. We gabbed about wedding stuff and our love of coffee. So much fun getting out and exploring the world after all that the world has been through!

Mudhouse even has accommodations outside their store in their homemade patio. Maybe next time? I chose a house blend with soy and a dash of cinnamon on top. The taste was smooth and hints of floral. Which I love! Don’t get me wrong there is time for the more earthy blend but I prefer a lighter start for the morning. What kind are you? A cup that whispers “Good morning” or one that says loudly “Let’s go, it’s morning!”

https://www.facebook.com/mudhousecoffeesgf

You can visit their website but I found their Facebook page more interesting. I know they started in December of 1998 and roast their own coffee. The mystery still remains how did they really start this? How did they chose who they buy the beans from? I guess one morning someone woke up and said, “I love coffee and I want to share that with the world”. Well, that’s just my imagination talking. Maybe someday I will find out but for now, when the weather is good I’ll stop by every now and then to met a friend and have a cup of coffee.

Visit Amber Morton

Visit The Mudhouse

A Weekend Valentines Getaway:

A getaway is something my Husband and I rarely do. Our Anniversary was in August of 2020 when things were beginning to ramp up on the pandemic side. Do I need to explain? We received a gift certificate for a getaway and put it off. This Valentines I made a reservation for the 14th at the Keeter Center not knowing about a Valentine package or weather. When chatting with some friends they mentioned the snow that was being forecasted. I was in the dark. Guess who skipped social media for a few days? Ugh. 

I emailed to find out if we could move it to Saturday or just bag the weekend and try some other time. 

In Luck!

An opening for Saturday, let's do it! 

I love supporting small businesses and this place is a little cabin style hotel on a college campus. This college with the slogan "Hard work U" is just south of Branson, MO. All the students at the college work at something while attending school. This cozy hotel has a restaurant, creamer, bakery, gift shop, and museum. The service was five star!

Our Valentine Package:

We checked in and opened our room to an amazing desert display and hand written card wishing us Happy Anniversary.

Our package included Fireside Dinning in the Dinning Center. Little did we know it was a four course meal with a live band! So much good food and we got to meet the Sous Chef. While we were filling our bellies they told us they were going to give us a turn down service in our room and if that would be okay with us. Heck yeah, didn't really know what that was but sounded awesome. Upon returning to our room we found they had turned down our room with rose petals, chocolates, giant chocolate chip cookies, milk, water, and sparkling white grape juice.

What? That was awesome! I had never had anything like that before. Seriously better than our Honeymoon.

I tried to sample the snacks but I was full. Instead I enjoyed a bath in the jetted tub with the lavender salts made and packaged by the students. With heated towels and bathrobes, I felt like a queen! We filled out our choices for breakfast. I was still so full I began to question if I was going to be able to eat breakfast the next day.

On Valentine's Day morning I was soaking up the snowy view with a warm cup of coffee wrapped in a toasty bathrobe. We were going to be leaving as the snow was coming in. Room service had just delivered our Valentine breakfast. Lemon blueberry scones with white sparkling grape juice with strawberries was the extra surprise.

If you are looking for a nice quite, well pampered getaway I highly recommend  the Keeter Center. The students work hard to provide you the best hospitality possible! All the experiences made it a wonderful night.

My husband and I enjoyed our little get away and made memories we will look back on and smile. 

2020 has been hard on so many of us.  Finding that someone who is always there to lend support and laughter. That is the thing to hold on to through anything. That someone who picks you up for ice cream on a first date with a kayak in the back of a red pickup truck like Ryan did. He had been out fishing while she was still at work.

After many dates came the big moment
 
One night while on the Branson Belle, Jordan and Ryan were enjoying a night out with family. Ryan snuck his family on board without Jordan knowing! They went up to the top deck and looked out at the lake. Ryan joking said, “Let’s just get married. There is a captain right here". She responded with a "stop it" and looked away. Ryan said, "Well, let's at least do this part," as he got down on one knee. When Jordan turned around she saw Ryan and all their family. She said, " It was perfect!".

I was blessed to be a part of their story this past weekend! Family and friends gathered at the Stone Glass Chapel to watch the union of Jordan and Ryan.

The bridesmaids had some fun before the ceremony by popping a bottle of champagne. The surprise was on them when the top popped off before time.  They shook it up for a retake. Wow, did that thing exploded! The bride wore a beautiful lace and chiffon dress from Norman's Bridal. A cathedral veil trimmed in lace covered the long train.

The bride sent her sister and best friend out with a gift for the groom before the ceremony. Ryan read the love letter alone on a park bench. Jordan gave him a watch as a gift.  I hope the watch is waterproof as much kayaking that he does!

The groom and groomsmen wore grey suits. A great color choice for a summer wedding and a gorgeous contrast to the wine-colored bridesmaids. The guys were all laid back laughing with one another beforehand.

During the wedding, the young ring bearer was pulled in a wagon by the flower girls. So cute! Sydney Purpora was the Day of Coordinator and did a wonderful job keeping everyone on track and together. Kassie kept the party alive that night at the reception. She is from Elevate entertainment. The food and cake were from Sam's Club and turned out delicious!
Highlights of the reception were the shoe game and the conga line! Jordan had created a selfie photo station and a DIY  popcorn bar. Jordan and her family made many of the signs at her wedding with the Cricut machine. She even made a sign for me! 
Enjoy these highlight photos!

Stonegate Glass ChapelA summer wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel in Wildwood, MO Stonegate Glass ChapelA summer wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel in Wildwood, MO Stonegate Glass ChapelA summer wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel in Wildwood, MO Stonegate Glass ChapelA summer wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel in Wildwood, MO Stonegate Glass ChapelA summer wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel in Wildwood, MO Stonegate Glass ChapelA summer wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel in Wildwood, MO Stonegate Glass ChapelA summer wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel in Wildwood, MO

What is that? I started with the definition of adventure and now I would like to amend the definition. Google told me the definition is 'an unusual and exciting, typically hazardous, experience or activity'.

I am changing the meaning. A group of senior's exploring new and exciting locations with props and lights for a fun experience with amazing photos to show others.

So who's with me? Great sign up now!

Here is what you get:

• Free session

• Many locations

• Sneak peaks to share across social media with friends and family.

You will still be able to order any prints, digital downloads and products after the photo shoots from your photo gallery. Coupon for 10% off an album will be emailed to your account.

Adventures to choose from: (More may be added later)

1. An afternoon at Lost Hill at the river

2. Day trip to Dogwood Canyon for waterfalls and bridges

3. Animal Safari at the Dickerson Park Zoo

4. Downtown adventure (location coming soon)

5. Lights and Caves (location coming soon)

6. 4th of July (location coming soon)

7. Glamour studio shoot

Send your name, email, and best number to text or call. Also please let me know which adventures you might are interested in ranging from most interested to still sounds like fun. I will get back with you as soon as I can.

November:

The month we break out recipes and make travel plans. This month begins the road to stress for me. Winter is coming and we need to capture the essence of fall, plan to see people we haven't seen perhaps all year, and pictures. Because what do we get Mom for Christmas? I know there are other reasons but this one is mine. 

One problem I have faced is fall foliage. Don't we all dream of the yellows and oranges painted on every leaf? Golden light flowing though the gaps in the branches. Yes, sometimes the stars aline and we get to shoot outside in a beautiful setting with perfect temps. I wanted to shoot all the time! With pumpkins and hay bales and so much fall fun things! 

Solution: Build a studio

Why? To keep everything dry, warm, and the leaves on the trees.

Here's is what I got.

Fall Studio CoupleFall Studio Couple Fall Studio Couple Fall Studio Kids  

Thank you to my clients!

December:

Christmas parties, lights, cocoa, and shopping! Oh the shopping!

I love all my partners that is involved in my website! There are so many people behind the scenes sending coupons out, offering new products, and creating new experiences for my clients. Don't you feel like a VIP now! You should, your session and your prints are important to me. 

December was the time to work on the website and have a little down time. With that said, I played around with the mini session themes a bit more. Adding Digital backdrops and elements for a touch of whimsy and fun to create Holiday magic! 

Will be booking Holiday and various themes throughout the year!

January:

Construction on the studio began. I am proud to say phase one is days from being finished!

My tiny studio has life. I have been hard at work downsizing our 5 person collection of 24 years. Let me tell you DIY shows make it look easy! There where so many times I just wanted to throw a blanket over the pile and pretend is disappeared. I stuck with it, washing walls, dusting, taking shelves down, and putting up more shelves. Phase one creates a 10 x 20 shooting area for lights and props. I will be offering 2 backgrounds one in a grey and the other a rustic barn. Plans to add more later. 

Sessions will be 30 minutes long and you will receive one digital image for free. Options for prints and products will also be available.

What can you do with a Tiny Studio? LOTS!

Capture Kids in fun themes.

Update a headshot for your social media or Linkedin.

Rent a fancy outfit and take a portrait of yourself. Take a ME day!

Test Shot I love having fun! Phase one of StudioSet up equipment for a test run. Teddy was the best!

           Test Photo of Me and Teddy                               Video of test day

Yes, painting the floor is in the future when there is warmer weather! Contact us

Christmas Cookies (contact to purchase)Christmas cookies that happen to resemble a holiday that should have passed. Or is this the ghost of Christmas past?

Yes, Halloween is almost here and gone. Let's skip the calories from Thanksgiving and start thinking about Christmas!

Okay, It feels like it. I was at Walmart just the other day and I walked through Halloween, past some Thanksgiving decorations, and ended up in Christmas all while searching for a pot for my plant. I haven't thought about Christmas and all the fun little things that go with that like baking cookies with the kids.

The photo above is from a few years ago when we made gingerbread men. Well, tried. My youngest thought that every cookie would be a gingerbread man even if it was a star. I miss them being little. They are teenagers now and some of those things are childish, or so they tell me. But check out these ornaments!

Photography

When they where little I would make a point to take them to get their picture with Santa. We all do this, right? It's some weird parent thing built into our DNA. Would it not be fun to have it snow during your photo? Or a tree sparkling in the background? What about the kids reading a book when it comes to life? I want to help you start a new tradition this year by offering to take your child's picture and add digital images to create a unique photo. Your tiny studio portrait shoot will include one metal ornament to hang on the tree. 

Well, as I continue building my tiny studio I am inviting you to contact me about getting creative this year with a mini session . You can give photos and other print products as gifts this year instead of giving them another cheese basket. Or both, you can use the photos as tags! I have a holiday gifts preorder to add to your photo shoot!

Anyways, I look forward to creating with you and your family! Book an on location session by clicking here. Or if you just want to book a mini click here.

Why Prints? 

Coffee and Me

Anyways, I not obsessed with coffee just curious. Enter time warp music...back to when I first started drinking coffee. When I finished college classes, I grabbed the first photography job I could. It was a rabid fire, break your back kind of job taking school pictures. I found that waking up at 4am after 6 hours of sleep to lug 80lbs of equipment to a school I never heard of needed caffeine. Lots of caffeine! Since gas stations was the only thing I saw most of the time that is were my selection began.

I started off with the Frappuccino in a bottle and the hot flavored cappuccinos in a cup. Later I learned those hot drinks where really powdered mixes add with hot water. Where was the coffee? So, I was drinking mainly sugar and flavoring. Yes, I knew coffee was black but it was also bitter. Not ready for that yet.

I left the school portrait job and moved into weddings. This is when I was introduced to macchiatos and real cappuccinos. I was hooked! For the last few years I have been learning about ratio's, growing regions, and types of milk just to name a few. If your reading this I would like any coffee tip! We must share!

Colorado Coffee Adventure

This spring I took my family on an adventure to Colorado. One of the many things I like to add to my adventure is coffee and other drink samplings. Littleton was our first destination. Although I didn't make it to a coffee shop, I did pick up brands not sold in my home town. Archer Farms Vanilla Creme Brûlée and Pete's Dark blend. I'm a medium roast and my oldest daughter is a dark. I added two scoops of Archer Farms per 6ounces of water in a drip coffee maker. Had a good flavor, but a little soft for me. It had more of a water taste than a coffee. The next time I brewed I added a half scoop of the dark to my two scoops.  This baby bear said, "Ahh, just right!"

Have you tried these? If so, please let me know how you drink your coffee!

Kind Coffee Estes Park was the last destination and I did take in two coffee shops. The first was Kind Coffee. The selection was amazing and there was food too! Would have like to revisited this place more! I tried the Estes Park Centennial latte and a breakfast buritto. The latte was smooth and warm. Very nice no bitter after taste at all! The burrito was very big and I ended up sharing it with my son.

Coffee on the Rocks Coffee on the Rocks was the last stop of my adventure and wow! The coffee selection was a happy medium between Kind and The Raven's. They serve anything from teas, smoothies, beer, and wine! You can also stop by for breakfast or lunch. The highlight of this adventure is picking your spot out by the pond where the local birds swim. The river edges around one side of the pond. Listening to the ducks quack and the river flowing while sipping your coffee is a most exellecent way to start the day!

If your ever in Estes Park Colorado, my tip would be to visit the Coffee on the Rocks for a relaxing experience. Stop in The Raven's Roast when it begins to rain on your shopping trip, because it rains every day for a spell. Visit Kind every now and then for the pick me up of the day!

I rounded off my trip with Airport Coffee from LavAzza. Not bad and it did pick me up a bit since I was laid over for a couple of hours.

Cheers To You My Friends!
 

A special kiss from a beautiful wolf named Spirt!

My Daughter has a huge crush on wolves! I always try to squeeze in a vacation before wedding season starts with the family. 

It's been her thing for a while now and it was amazing to be able to find this adventure!

Colorado Wolf Adventures is full of knowledgable staff who shown just how important these animals are to them. We met them at

Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, CO. Sprit was so lovable and very large! Shasta was just a pup and stayed with her trainer.  

My daughter and I took turns walking Sprit. He is a big soft lovable guy but there are times when he hears something from a distance you can sense there is still wild in there.

Garden of the GodsWalking a wolf from the Colorado Wolf Adventures in Garden of the Gods      

It was so good to get way to Colorado before heading back to the 417 area! I now fill refreshed and ready to be busy with this year wedding and portrait clients!

First trip to the mountains as an Adult! I have never been to Garden of the Gods and wanted to make it a "must see" on our spring vacation.  I would have to say that massive rocks that shoot out of the ground is impressive! The odd thing it is only in this valley that this occurs. When your eyes scan the surrounding mountains that look normal these giant formations capture your attention.

Garden of the Gods Praying hands

I have been a beach vacationer but wanted to switch it up a bit this year and I say this place was amazing! We spent most of our day here. Our daughter walked with wolves and our other kids rode Segways while my husband and I roamed the Gardens.

My tips for this stop would be to pack lots of water and make sure your camera is fully charged!

Pikes peak with Garden of the Gods

What brings two people together? Well, a little bit of this and a little bit of that mixed with a whole lot of love!

Savannah and Dylan met at work, but it wasn't love at first site. (Not Yet) They talked and sat by each other at work and a friendship grew. Both moved on to separate jobs but kept in contact. On a date over drinks, Savannah began to understand there was something more between them. Dylan knew after a date over some burritos and tacos at Taco Bell that there was no one like her.
 

As time went on Dylan loved that Savannah kept him grounded and gave his dreams focus and clarity. Her smile could light up a room! As their relationship grew so did their love of weekend trips finding neat and unique places to eat. I guess you can say they are "foodies" or at least thats what I would call it. Savannah loves listening to Dylan's dreams of where they could go and what do. Visiting the beaches in the Mediterranean or sailing in Greece is just a few examples. 
 

The Proposal

The night had arrived! Dylan did some studying and thought a proposal at dinner time was the perfect plan. He began to have doubts. Was it to cliche'? I am sure he was dreaming up something that was different, some way to catch her off guard but he just could think of a way. Savannah loves to watch him cook. I am guessing cooking her a meal and slipping the ring into the night wouldn't work either. When the night came for the dinner out they dressed up and traveled to the Metropolitan Grill. They ordered and Savannah could tell that something was coming but it wasn't happing. Dylan said "It didn't feel right". So he kept that ring in his pocket all through dinner. The next morning Dylan finally caught her off guard. He pulled out the ring and asked her the question she had waited for all night. Savannah said,"Yes!".

Downtown Springfield

The Engagement Session

Finding a location for Dylan and Savannah wasn't too hard for me. Their love of food and travel mixed with a interest in documentaries led me to think of Downtown Springfield. I could tell these were city people with an interest in growing in the suburbs. We met at the Gilloz theater and chatted a bit till the security moved inside. We started are shoot under the lights of the Marque before heading toward the square. Dylan and Savannah are so spontaneous! It was so much fun jumping into some outdoor seating areas for some quick pics while smells of food drifted through the doors. We ventured passed Mud House Coffee and a bank with the tunnel drive thorough that some local artist have created a beautiful eclectic mural. Savannah and Dylan chose to stop and rest a bit at the Hotel Vandivort. Here we had to check out the famous bathroom selfie mirrors! These two are so much fun! We finished up our day on top of a parking garage over looking the city of Springfield.

Meeting Dylan and Savannah was like meeting some old friends and I can't wait for the wedding day!

Guys Care about How they Look

Yes, it's true the photo session is set and the girl starts throwing out outfit ideas and questions. An easy answer is "Just pick whatever you think is best", right?

Wrong!

Let's do this guys!

Body Type

We are all shaped differently and certain clothes don't fit right with those types. When you look good, you feel good. That will show in your photos! After some researching I came across this video by Real Men Real Style. It goes over body types and what clothes to wear that draws attention away from problem areas. Find clothes that enhance your good features!

After you find your body type and have got some direction on the cut and texture you can move on to the next step!

Style for location

Once you have picked out your photo location it is time to add a few looks that will fit. If you picked a city scape or downtown area, let's think. Will it lean more towards the upscale? ( coffee shops, architecture, sculptures ) Will it lean toward the artistic? (graffiti, metal staircase, worn door frames) 

Upscale - dress slacks, dark tailored jeans, button up, polo, dress coat or jacket. etc.

Artistic - fitted jeans, classic white shirt, causal collar, jersey knit, leather jacket

Will you be in a more untamed location?  Then you might look into boots and outdoors clothing cut to fit your body type.

Same would go for a manicured garden area but I would add a sweater or pull over and add more designer boots.

Vandivort HotelVandivort Hotel

Men can wear color

Your outfit does not need to be the same color as the others in photo. She may be wearing a soft yellow that goes well with her skin tone but your different! A yellow shirt may make you pale and washed out. In this video from Real Men Real Style it breaks down color with mood and how to add a little color into your style.

After you have learned a little about color, let's see how that will play out with location. 

In a city scene you can add brighter colors to stand out away from the shadows. Almost anything can go as long as it sets the mood you are feeling in the setting.

As with the county or garden locations, be aware that on a bright blue day a sky blue shirt will be hard to work with. A green in the fall might work as it might not work well in the spring.

You get the idea!

Now that you know what works for your type and what colors you would like to add, I wish you happy shopping! 

Jennifer Quinn Photography found the above videos while researching and does not endorse nor promote Real Men Real Style or any products shown in the videos. These videos are for helpful ideas only.

Girls, Women, and Style 

The photo shoot is almost here. Run to your closet and start grabbing out the nice things and hold them up in the mirror. Too old? Too small? Too big? Throw it in the corner and go grab something else, right? Or have you have already emptied the closet and now with credit card in hand your headed to the mall? What are you going to buy? Will the latest trend look good on you?

Stop!

I have done some research to help you look and feel your best at your photo session.  Let's do this!

Body Type

We are all shaped differently and certain clothes don't fit right with those types. When you look good, you feel good. That will show in your photos! After some researching I came across this blog post by Stitch Fix. The simple detail and explanations helped me to revaluate my wardrobe. Once I learned that I was a pear the advice given was golden when shopping! Now when you select the pieces for your up coming photo session you can shine like a star!

After you find your body type and have got some direction you can move on to the next step!

StyledRent the Runway and Venue on Brick

                  Rent the Runway Dress

Style for location

Once you have picked out your photo location it is time to add a few looks that will fit. If you picked a city scape or downtown area, let's think. Will it lean more towards the upscale? ( coffee shops, architecture, sculptures ) Will it lean toward the artistic? (graffiti, metal staircase, worn door frames) 

Upscale downtown -  Nice cocktail dress, a jacket, some sparkling jewelry, and high heels. ( Rent The Runway I have rented one of a kind dresses for photos from here before and loved the service!)

Artistic downtown- Add some fun textures here! Bomber jackets, leather, jeans. Pintrest has a wonderful collection of ideas, remember your body type!

Will you be in a more untamed location?  Then you might look into boots, boho dresses, and outdoor hiking style clothing.  Amazon now has Prime wardrobe. Learn More.  This might be a great chance to pick pieces that you might not wear everyday but would look great in the location.

Same would go for a manicured garden area but I would add flats, a sundress and cardigan as an idea.  

Layers and accessories are very important when planning your outfit! Check out my blog "What to Wear" on layering your outfit for quick changes without using a restroom. Yes, girls sometimes those are not around and we don't want to mess up our hair or makeup.

Model ReadyMake up Artist accented the eyes and lips   The DressDress rented from Rent the Runway

                   Hair and Makeup Artist                                                            Rent the Runway Dress

What Color Looks Good On Me?

Is this not an age old question? I still struggle with this because I love every color of the rainbow and beyond! I took a look at skin tone and what would complement my tone. I found an article by The Link that gives a quick overview about tone and colors. I compared that to another article by InStlye which gives a little more depth and now I feel my closet is under control.

After you have learned about color and have your outfit ideas going, let's see how that will play out with clothing style and location. 

In a city scene you can add brighter colors to stand out away from the shadows. Almost anything can go as long as it sets the mood you are feeling in the setting. (Sophisticated, Romantic, fun and flirty, etc.)

As with the county or garden locations, be aware that on a bright blue day a sky blue shirt will be hard to work with. A green in the fall might work as it might not work well in the spring.

Fall BeautyA fall senior session at Ritter Springs Park

Makeup Know How

Makeup and how color and style work together to create the best photo. Here's what I found out this winter.

Tip one - Hire a makeup artist that has worked with models ( I have an artist we can book for you)

Tip two - Research and practice, practice, practice.  

This video by Robert Jones Beauty Academy talks about colors to brighten your eyes and match your skin tone. Now that you've got a color idea let's move on to your eyes.  These beauties to me are the most important part of a photo. Sephora has a quick test to determine your eye shape.  From there you can search for eyeshadow tutorials that enhance that shape. Lastly, research contour for your face shape. These three would be top areas to focus on for your photo session look.

Queen for a dayGlamour photo shot with make up and hair artist, Rent the Runway, on location at Venue on Brick

You get the idea!

• Know your body type.

• Eyes are the key.

• Enhance your features.

• Add layers and color.

I wish you happy shopping!

Jennifer Quinn Photography found the above videos and blogs while researching and does not endorse nor promote Sephora, Robert Jones, Rent the Runway, Stitch Fix, The Link, InStyle, and Amazon Prime Wardrobe or any products shown in the videos or mentioned in the blogs. These videos and blogs are for helpful ideas only.

How they met

Austin and Anna have been friends since preschool. They have shared the ups and downs of growing up. Austin says "Anna is a very sweet and kind young woman. She is always making me laugh and I can always be myself around her." Their Junior year in High School Austin asked Anna to be his girlfriend and they have been dating ever since!

I don't know how he asked her then but I do get to be a part of how he is going to ask her to spend the rest of her life with him!

The Plan

Austin wanted to go all out for this girl that means so much to him. He put together the bare bones of the plan and one thing he wanted was a photographer. That's when he found me! It was so much fun talking to Austin and getting to know a little bit about him and his plan. We went over some possible location ideas and he decided on a little roadside garden called the Water Wise Garden. This location provided a short brick path to a gazebo that has a bench and a few small trees. Perfect for an excuse of "Oh, wrong turn" or something not to far from a restaurant.

He worked to print off photos of them and hang them on lighted clips, lined the walk way with lighted mason jars, and hung lights around the gazebo. 

I'm telling you, what a plan! His mother is a true sweetheart too! She offered to go decorate the garden and get it all set up before the big surprise.

The Day of the Question

So the weather forecast was supposed to be 50 degrees but the way of the Ozark's is not to bet on it. It turned out we had rain and ice the night before that lingered around that Saturday. It was cloudy and cold which helped to create a soft  mood. I met Austin's Mom and saw the beautiful setup she created! After setting up the gear, I hid behind what I could since it's winter and all the bushes are dead. When Austin's car pulled up I ducked behind a tree and waited in anticipation as he began leading her up the path towards the Gazebo of the Water Wise Garden. 

Austin said a very nice speech and then got down on one knee. Anna was so excited she almost forgot to say "yes"!  She was so exicted she didn't even wait for the ring before she threw hers arms around him! Austin found a moment to slide the ring on her finger, it was a perfect fit! They walked around and looked and relived the moments from the photos before heading somewhere to warm up. It is so cool to watch these moments!

Congratulations to Austin and Anna on their engagement!

Back to school is crazy! I get it, really. I am a mother of three and even though one is in college and out of the house, the calendar is filling up! How is it that in just two months time they grow out of all their clothes? 

So back to the calendar, I have begun filling in all the important little dates and I am telling you I am having to use different colors just to keep it from becoming a black mess! I learned the hard way a few years ago to mark down the school photo day. It slips up and before you know it one of the kids comes home and tells you today was school picture day. You try to keep your jaw from hitting the floor when you eye this child from top to bottom and think "Why of all days did I let them wear that!".  Yup, did this. Not a good day, and I think my ranking of the mother of the year fell. Not that I was ever running.

Lucky for me, I'm a photographer and I was able to pencil in a school portrait day for the kids. But this got me thinking...what if other mothers fall into the same similar situation?

Wouldn't it be better if we could just plan the time and date? Pick a few outfits and props to match a background and voila! Another year captured, but in style and sharable!

Click on the photo to view a small senior gallery or click here to customize a school portrait just for you!

        My story begins months from the wedding date when I met Bethany and Coty. I was asked to photograph their engagement portraits. We met at my favorite little flower park. It's full of color and many kinds of paths that lead you every which way. We had so much fun creating one of a kind memories. Even a totem pole of people! They had a little daughter and I took her around and we had a little shoot of our own. She is so cute! 

         Time flew by and at the end, I asked if they had a wedding photographer. They responded with "Well, it's in Moberly just north of Columbia and a bit of a drive". Of course, I said "have bags, will travel! Think it over and give me an email later".

         As you can see the story is still going...

       I kept up with them through emails and they became my long distance friends. Did my research of the town and areas nearby. The bride sent photos of parks and the venues we would be using. Side note that my daughter and I's birthday was just two days after the wedding. So I picked a few locations for us girls to visit the day after!

          Travel day

         We found our bride Bethany with a beautiful half up half down hairstyle inset with diamond pins. She was sporting a blue flannel button up and shorts. She gave me the grand tour of the church and then went off to find the bridesmaids. It wasn't long before we began to coordinate the tricky situation of getting the bridal parties to the park without the bride seeing the groom and vice versa! We pulled it off though, and it was awesome! Her dress was gorgeous! A nice long round train, lace, and a perfect fit. The groom wore a dark grey suit with a purple handkerchief and white rose boutineer. The bridesmaids each had different styled dresses but all in the same shade of purple. 

          After the trip to the park, we wrapped up family portraits at the church. With friends and family gathered around, Bethany and Coty exchanged vows, rings, poured sand, and a kiss. Coty presented the little girl with a necklace during the ceremony and there were very few dry eyes. The now family exited the church through a shower of bubbles on the way to the awaiting car. 

         Next stop was a little park with a covered bridge and a small lake. It was a nice private session to capture there family and husband and wife portraits. 

        The last destination for the wedding was the Moberly Auditorium. It has that "Great Gatsby" feel and she had decorated with purple accent lights around the room. The head table was up on the stage with purple table clothes that had twinkle lights underneath.  Very romantic effect! Purple curtains stood behind the bridal party with the curtain behind the bride and groom in white with flowers. The dessert bar also had fairy lights looping around the glass severing stands. It was magical! We all ate, some danced, and many talked to old friends or relatives. The wedding was a huge success and one I know they will remember forever!

         The next day my second shooter and I had a girls day out. Complete with spa and vineyard stop! Looking forward to the next destination wedding. Where will we go next?

If you would like details on this wedding or would like for me to capture your memories. Please comment below.  

Thank you for reading!

I am embarking on this journey to better help you, my client. Learning what it takes to relax, pose right, and dress for the occasion. One thing I have learned so far is it pays to have a hair and makeup artist take care of the right look. There is so many fun looks to achieve that creating a storyboard for the session is key. The downtown look, at the farm, carefree field, and so much more!

When I went into my first business portrait session with my second shooter I had so many ideas. I wanted to portray my personality. Which is fun, witty, creative, and go with the flow as long as there is a lukewarm plan. Most of all I wanted to look like a trustworthy businesswoman without too much grey hair and wrinkles. It didn't take long before I wanted to be back behind the lens to see how things were turning out. Sadly, I can't be in two places at once.

Then I had an idea...

Every session has a purpose and that purpose is a story. I am going to start storyboards for my clients. I want to learn about them and what brought them to this moment that they want to capture. Outdoor boys who hunt and fish are not likely going to like their photo standing in front of flowers with there hands in their dress pant pockets. But what if we found an old fishing dock, some fishing sticks and rolled up their pant legs while dangling their feet in the water while the sunset over the pond? Straw hats or hats with fishing lures? Sam the hunting dog laying in the sun with floppy ears? Metal pail or other fishing gear? 

This is where I am going with this, the purpose of the portrait.

Watch for videos from behind the lens on my social media pages!

Facebook@jenquinnphotos

Instagram@jenquinphotos

Starting the task of planning a wedding can be daunting. From the wedding cake to the gown, bridesmaids to the photographer, there are a lot of options and you want this to be the day to be perfect. I have had the pleasure of being able to be a part of several brides and groom's special days and capturing those special moments. In this blog, I share a photographer's perspective on some of the key elements to planning the day you will remember forever, and the guest will continue to talk about.
 

The venue.

I am sure you have been browsing lists of venues while trying to match with a style you both are looking for. When narrowing down that list some things to look out for would be the transition, lighting, and multiple areas to create a diverse portrait package. You may already be saying “huh”, but hold on and let me explain.

What I mean by transition is separate rooms at the venue for the bride and her party to get ready, as well as the groom and his party. You will want to have a place to get ready that has plenty of room. Your bridesmaids will thank you! By having a place to keep your stuff and to be able to go back to rest and freshen up after a portrait session helps to keep you and your party comfortable. Not to mention a place to hide while preparing for the ‘first look’ or if not, just having a place to relax before the ceremony. Also key is to find these rooms away from the high traffic areas where your guest will be milling around before the ceremony starts.

Lighting, well I can’t say enough about lighting. Outdoor ceremonies showcase beautiful greenery and bright open skies. Once you know the time and the date of your wedding be sure to visit the venue during that time. If you aren’t able to do that, ask to see pictures of the venue during that time and time of the year. Will that gorgeous sunset be behind a wall of trees or will it create a beautiful backdrop? If you are planning an early afternoon wedding is there a shady spot to stand when you say your vows? Keep in mind that even a beautiful arbor during bright sunlight can cause dappled lights on your outfits and faces. Having no shade can cause you to squint and can make your photo’s too bright, not to mention your guests may get hot if your wedding is in the summer. Even with these little things to think about, outdoor venues still offer the best lighting. Your photographer can easily move about capturing different angles without having to set up several light stands.

With indoor venues, you don’t have to necessarily worry about Mother Nature and can have beautiful features and architecture as well. However, lighting can be an issue. Same as an outdoor wedding, you need to visit the venue at the same time you want your ceremony. Big glass windows can be beautiful, but will the sun be setting right into the venue? Although this would make a beautiful silhouette portrait, flashes will have to be used and you will begin to lose that sunset. On the flip side of that, if your venue does not have windows or only very few will there enough lighting? The more natural the light the better. 

As with any venue will you have an area for your reception or are you having to move to another building or location? If you will be moving from one location to another you will need to build time into your day so that your photographer can transition. They will need time to take down lighting equipment, move, and set up at the next location. Why so much lighting equipment you ask? Having multiple flashes on stands around the room helps to eliminate shadows and that flat feel you can get with just a flash on the camera. Just think of a studio but inside your venue.

Lastly, look for multiple areas within your venue(s) to create a diverse portrait package. The ‘getting ready’ candid photos captured inside a room with a nice mirror should not be the only place for the bride and her party to take their portraits. Same goes for the guys. A nice place to escape to for a few fun portraits away from incoming guests would be ideal. When thinking of the Bride and Groom portraits that you want to hang on your wall, look for places around the venue that wouldn’t include unsightly objects, outdated wallpaper, and that are easy to get to. Look for a bench in a quiet corner, tall flowering vegetation, or a wall with character. Do a web search or ask the venue if they have any Bride and Groom portraits captured on site that you can view and use as a reference.

These are just a few of the most common issues that I have found over the course of many weddings. These are not the only things that you should be looking for.  If it is at all possible, take your photographer and wedding planner to your top 3 wedding venues so they can get a lay of the land and give you some professional opinions.  Don’t be afraid to ask the owner or event coordinator for the venue for pictures of past weddings, and to be able to visit multiple times. Hopefully, this has given you a few things to keep in mind as you are starting your planning.

Hello, is anybody with me on this? Please, tell me I'm not the only one who stands in the closet staring at the piles of clothes trying to decide what looks good together. I know what you're going to say Pinterest, right? 

In this day and age of what I call "selfie overload" we feel the pressure to look good. No not just good, fabulous! There are scores of pictures out there with what to wear and how to pair it down with a handful of items that all go together and make you look like a million dollars. So when faced with the appointment for your portrait session why do we freak out? Because we want that awesome one in a lifetime shot that everyone drools over.

Reality, you are beautiful and any photo where you are being you IS the million dollar shot! We see it in your smile and in your eyes. Getting you comfortable in front of the camera brings out your personality and that really makes your portraits come to life! So, let's work backwards here. You need to feel comfortable in your clothes. Let's think, are you active and like to climb? If you think it would be neat to climb a boulder to sit on then you are going to need clothes that bend. A pair of nice jeans and a polo shirt would look a little out of sorts. Same would be said about those jeans and polo shirt or a nice dress in an alley with graffiti on the wall. 

So the next thing after comfortable clothes comes the where? I took some portraits of a senior guy who was dressed in a nice dress shirt and pair of pants in Downtown Springfield. We stayed to the more modern coffee shop and by the theater to combine his outfit and love of the downtown area. His personity shined in the portraits beacause he was wearing an outfit he felt good in and we were incorperating an atmosphere he enjoyed. Another example would be the girl pictured above. She loved the outdoors and her blue jeans. Setting her in a scence that was open and free with the warm sun, her smile lit up the portraits! Where do you go and what do you like to do?

Lastly, I would ask you to think in layers and colors. Wearing a green cardingan over a yellow tank while standing in a well manicured hosta garden you might disapear into the background. Same with a blue shirt against a blue sky. Layers is awesome because you can get a few looks without having to dash into a bathroom and change as fast as superman. Guys you can layer too. A nice T-shirt under a button up shirt with a jacket is layering. I would take a few portraits with everything on then maybe use the jacket draped over the shoulder, then move to just the button up and then end with the T-shirt for a nice casual finish.

That's my tip for preparing what to wear for your portrait session. Pick outfits you feel good in and move the way you move. List the things you like to do and places you hang out in. Lastly, wear layers for more looks without having to change and waste your session time. Now, if I could just figure out what to wear out to dinner?

Oh, well till next time! Thank you for reading!

Jennifer

So what happens? Well, you would fall into one of these categories.

You breathe easily because months ago you booked a portrait session when the leaves were displaying a glorious show. You ordered prints last week and you are down to picking frames with a month to go.

You nervous laugh because you've booked a session but it's an odd time in a little studio and you've searched several sights and can't find clothes in "Christmas colors" that match with all the sizes you need. You hope everyone has a sense of humor when your family is sporting the ugly sweater competition in the photo.

You ugly laugh and say "Oh sure, no problem" then run outside and let yourself have a panic attack because no matter how many Christmas's you hope you'll finally be organized this is not the one!

Yes, Christmas can be done. I may not be able to give you a Hallmark Christmas but at least I can give you a bit of advice. It doesn't matter if you match or everyone is looking at the camera. Thumb through your phone and find one that your whole family is in. For prints give a collage of great family memories. Or pick one of everyone having a good time and add a favorite saying or bible verse. Blow it up and print a canvas wrap.

Looking to make quick Christmas Cards? Find a card with a white background that you can add a candid photo too. Some of these of have simple phrases like "Joy" scrolled neatly in the corner. Choose gold or silver accents and writing. Stay away from the traditional red and green because it would throw your summer photo off. Unless of course, it was a super bright day and the sky is white and a few people in the photo happen to be wearing green or red. Lucky!

Lastly, my advice is to book a session now for a spot next year. This way you are guaranteed to get those spring flowers or fall leaves in the background and you'll be ready to update those walls!

So let's all take our allergy pills and head outside for a little sun and refresher! Post your "Toby", I would love to see them!

Jennifer

But alas, I do have to make money to buy the necessities in this world. And someday I will have to go in to edit.

Bummer!

Maybe I can make a digital editing room outside? Or will slipping lemonade do the trick?