A few days after Sunil and I found out were pregnant in May, some of my family came to visit! Morning sickness had JUST kicked in full swing, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to photograph my adorable nieces and nephews! When you have this much sweetness, all you need is some green grass and a comfy quilt... so we ended up shooting in our backyard!. :) 

Like, I mean... REALLY. 

Baby toes and fingers!! 

Their littlest guy was cutting teeth the entire time he was here, but barely cried! Baby grins like this make me excited for my own! :) 

One of the challenges that I really really enjoy as a family photographer is the effort it takes to get down on a kid's level and coax out a natural smile or laugh.

Every child is different, and some take a lot longer to break out of their shell and join me in silliness. It's what makes each session uniquely challenging and uniquely rewarding! 

Sometimes you even have to get the adults out of their shell and get them to be silly too! 

Thankfully Mel and Jose have lots of experience with that! ;) 

Thanks for driving all the way to Kansas to visit with us and putting up with a puking sister! Can't wait to see you again - Love you guys! :)

Looking back, it turned out exactly the way they wanted. A relaxed day in their new home, surrounded by their children, family, and friends. The people that meant the world to them cheering on as they walked into a new life together - hand in hand. 

Michelle and I met in college, and I was THRILLED when she asked me to shoot her wedding (it's always an honor when a fellow photographer chooses you for their special day!). Michelle and Jay are one of the most relaxed couples I've ever worked with! From the timeline, to the details, to the way they effortlessly welcomed their guests into their home, every interaction was full of grace, ease, and pure joy! 

The details and decor in their home looked like it was straight out of a magazine! 

They gave away tiny succulents as favors and they were just adorable. 

Before I arrived, Michelle and Jay had spent the morning getting ready together and relaxing with their children in their home. I loved how at ease they were! 

Michelle had to make sure his hair was just right! 

Michelle's daughters and a close friend helped her put the finishing touches on her dress as she got ready to see her groom. 

Love their smiles!

There was a fantastic bridge at the entrance to their neighborhood, and since they frequently take walks there in the evenings, it seemed like the perfect personal spot for portraits! 

Michelle, you are so beautiful!! 

Love this one!! 

Rather than a bridal party, Michelle and Jay requested some updated family photos with their chidlren - Jay's two girls and Michelle's three kids. 

Love this new family! 

We literally stopped on the side of the road for these photos because of the beautiful flowers in the tall grass! I love it when my couples trust me to make their photos beautiful! 

Once we were done with photos, we headed back to the house to welcome their guests and enjoy the party for the rest of the evening. 

Once everyone was there, they gathered in the middle of their living room for a short, sweet, and personalized ceremony that made just about everyone cry. 

Mr and Mrs!! 

Group photo of everyone there, because why not?? 

The food was effortlessly and beautiful catered by Chowgirls Killer Catering - they were so much fun to work with! 

Loved seeing all the friends reunited! 

Donuts for dessert - because WHY NOT? 

Enjoying the night with all their favorite people! 

Michelle and Jay, THANK YOU so much for letting me part of your exquisite day - it was absolutely one of my favorites EVER! You are both beautiful people inside and out, and Sunil and I absolutely loved working with you! Best of love to you both. :)