The Schweiss Family

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I had the privilege of photographing this sweet little family last weekend. Ruthie is the cutest little girl, 13 months old and on a mission! There was no slowing down, unless she was stopping to pick another dandelion. ;)

Lindsay & Devin

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When Lindsay was in high school she began thinking about dating and wondering about qualities she would look for in a boyfriend and later down the road, a future husband. Unlike most teenage girls Lindsay wasn't dead set on smoldering good looks, instead she prayed for a Godly man. A man who loved Jesus and who would show her the same kind of love. She went on to college and graduated from the University of Indiana...still praying for this man to come into her life. She was accepted to Grad school in Ohio and went to a bible study one evening, it was there that she met Devin. He was a Godly man, a man she had prayed for...and he wasn't bad looking either. ;) They like most couples have had ups and downs but through it all their faith remained and made them stronger. Lindsay and Devin were married last weekend, they shared their love and commitment to each other before God, their families and friends. Lindsay and Devin, thank you SO much for bringing me to Northern Illinois to photograph your wedding! I know God has great things in store for you both and I wish you all the best! Much love and thanks! - A :)

Christina & Chad

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They met in college, their Freshman year to be exact. They instantly hit it off and knew this was unlike any other relationship they had been in. Christina and Chad shared so many common interests, traveling, food (Christina says they are foodies and love trying new restaurants) and trips to Disneyland. After being together for nearly nine years they were married a few weeks ago in sunny Walnut Creek, CA. I was honored to be a part of their beautiful day! Thank you for flying me out Christina and Chad I had a wonderful time with you and your families! :)

 

Baby Daniel

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A new son, a new brother...a new family member to love. Welcome home baby Daniel, you are so loved! :)

Disney World...yes we went again.

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You guys I have a confession...I'm a Disney addict. There I said it, and I feel much better for getting it out there. Two years ago I made the comment that I loved my kids and all but I just couldn't see why anyone would spend a full week there. Opps. My bad. We have quickly become one of those crazy Disney families who while still at Disney are planning their next Disney vacay. So yeah, we went back to Disney World in January, after having just gone in September. We should seriously consider buying annual passes at this point...or moving to Anaheim or Orlando. ;)

 

Baby Tatum

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I've said it before but it bears mentioning again. I am so grateful to my faithful clients! Faithful clients that continue to hire me to capture each and every major milestone in their lives. I'm honored and thankful! I have been with this family for engagement pics, wedding, maternity, first baby and now here we are with baby number two! Congrats Grant and Malerie! Miss Tatum is perfection and Brooks is going to be a wonderful big brother. Thank you. :)

 

Fall Mini Sessions

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 A couple of weeks ago I hosted Fall mini sessions at Lafayette park. I'm so grateful for all of the families that came out, especially the families that continue to support my business time and time again. THANK YOU!! :)

The Hinderer Family

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When I photograph families my overall goal is to capture love. As cheesy as that may sound, its true. I'm not focusing on having everyone look at the camera, I'd rather capture the connection they share with each other...which also brings out natural smiles, happiness and joy. Its my goal to capture families as they are, in whatever season of life they are in...even the crazy toddler moments when it feels like total chaos! These are the memories that will bring a smile to your face twenty years down the road. I love this family session. Such a fun family full of love and happiness...and craziness with two small boys. :)

 

Our trip to Disneyworld

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If you would have told me two years ago that I would end up a crazy Disney addict I would have laughed in your face. I was one of those people who could not imagine how anyone could spend five full days at a Disney park. The thought of spending an entire week of vacation revolving around Disney made me cringe...until I went. We took the girls to Disneyland in February 2015 and what was supposed to be only a 3 day trip turned into a 5 day trip. We had such a great time that we ended up going back to Disneyland last December. Yes, we went to Disneyland twice last year and no we aren't annual passholders...yet. The woman who once said, "I love my kids and all but I just can't imagine spending a full week at Disney," spent a whole week at Disney...twice, in one year. I totally ate my words like a warm Disneyland churro. I hate to sound cliche but there is something magical at Disney. I never went as a kid so I got to experience it through my daughters eyes. The wonder, the excitement, the hope, the belief. As adults we can be so hardened and cynical, being at Disney gives you a chance to forget the outside world for just a moment and if nothing else...make you feel like a kid again. We love going, we have an amazing time each time we go. We are that crazy Disney family who is always planning their next trip. And we may or may not like to dress up and wear ears when we go. These pics are from our most recent trip. We went to Walt Disney World in September. PS - If there are any Disney fans reading this blog contact me! I always love chatting disney and hearing about any tips, tricks or favorite eating spots! :)

Girls dresses: shop bitts and pieces (etsy) / Girls shirts: iron on transfers from etsy / Rey ears: seam come true (etsy) Stitch ears: make me minnie (etsy)

 

The Graves Family

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I've been photographing this family since their engagement session! It's always a blessing to me to watch families grow and to be asked again and again to photograph their special moments! :)