Destination Weddings

As the pricetag on traditional weddings rises (almost as quickly as gas prices), more and more brides are opting for the non-traditional "destination wedding." Destination weddings usually take place somewhere tropical, like Hawaii, the Caribbean, Mexico or even in Europe. Believe it or not, destination weddings are usually less expensive than traditional weddings. I came across a site that helps brides (and grooms) make their destination wedding planning a little easier: DestinationWeddings.com

"Many resorts and hotels have on-site wedding coordinators, who maintain reputable local vendor lists, and can help organize your big day." However, do you really want to leave the (most important) decision of who will capture the most wonderful day of your life to a wedding coordinator who does not know you personally? Why don't you take me with you? ;)

My bags are packed.

Ms. Brye

They say "beauty is only skin deep," but my good friend Brye proves to be the exception to that rule. She is the epitome of beauty on the inside and out. I was so excited when she asked me to do some headshots for her. She is one of the sweetest people I know.

You will not believe that this girl has TWO kids! No kidding.

She is in amazing shape and would make an awesome fitness model.

Brye, I had such a good time with you. I can't wait for the outdoor session!

Christy & Doug

I had the pleasure of shooting an engagement session downtown Naperville with my best bud, Faye. Christy & Doug are getting married in November, and since I was already booked for their wedding date, I referred them to Faye who had the date open.


We met up with this laid back couple at Jimmy's for a drink before heading out into the beautiful evening light. The whole day was really overcast and drizzly, but the sky opened up for us and created a beautiful sunset.

Doug popped the question last year while they were walking along the Riverwalk, so that was where we headed. Too bad the whole thing is under renovation :( but that didn't stop us from getting some great shots.

Taking a break...

After it got too dark to shoot anymore, we went back to Jimmy's where I had the best Key Lime Pie Martini ever. It was delicious.

Congrats to Christy & Doug and I wish you all the best at your November wedding! Faye, I had a ball shooting with you. It was like one of our photo safaris, but with live people in it ;)

Sheryl & Jim

As Chad and I approach the "Seven Year Itch," my time spent with Sheryl and Jim on Friday was encouraging since they are celebrating their 10 year anniversary and are just as in love as ever.

I met up with Sheryl and Jim in Oregon, Illinois at Castle Rock State Park on a crisp afternoon and quickly felt like I had known them forever. You can tell they just enjoy each other's company.

He was eager to comply with my request for a "nuzzle."

They were cracking each other up the whole time.

I think they may have forgotten I was even there for a minute.

So sweet.

Congrats to you both and I hope you enjoyed your weekend in historic Galena, Illinois. Go REDWINGS!!!

Happy Memorial Day Weekend

After shooting a ten year anniversary session tomorrow afternoon in Oregon, Illinois, we are headed up north to the cabin for some R&R. No phone reception, no internet...just what the doctor ordered.

I hope everyone has a great and safe weekend. I will return your phone calls and e-mails next week. Have a good one.

A Night With My Peeps

Since my mom and I celebrated major milestone birthdays this year (ugh, don't remind us!), my sister got my mom & I tickets to see Jersey Boys in Chicago. Last week we made it a girls night out and my grandma Lois, aunt Ann and cousin Alissa joined us as well. What a treat! We went to dinner at Italian Village first and then walked across the street to the show. If you have not seen this show, you absolutely must. The voices of these guys were amazing. I didn't realize how many songs I knew by Frankie Valli.

My name is Luca...

I love repeat clients. I love getting to know my clients so well that they want to share special moments in their lives with me. I met Kate & Rodrigo last summer as they were planning their wedding. I spent a wonderful day with them.

Kate owns Katie's Cats 'n' Dogs in Geneva, Illinois, and is a huge animal lover, so we had to get some shots with their babies, Grover and Sir Wigglebottom.


Well now Kate & Rodrigo have a new baby. Please welcome Baby Luca who was one week old last week when I photographed him. He got tired of me pretty quickly because he didn't really want to be naked -- but I was still able to grab some great shots of him. We also learned that he loved to lay on his tummy :)





He is such a sweet boy.

The proud papa...

and mama too.








Luca's mom and dad love his little ears.




I can't resist little toes.




Congratulations Kate & Rod on your new addition. I hope your other "babies" aren't too jealous of Luca. Thank you for letting me meet your future soccer star.