Opal & Cole: 8/18/07

This was probably the most involved I've been in a wedding since my sister got married back in 2004. Opal and Cole booked with me on somewhat of a short notice (as far as weddings go) back in July. In spite of that, there was plently of time to plan. I was in contact with Jeanie (mother-of-the-bride) almost daily through phone calls and emails. I'm sure, at times, it seemed as if all would not come together in time, but it did. Opal was a gorgeous bride and it was obvious by the look on Cole's face as he saw her for the very first time. Their day had finally come, and apparently this day has been in the making since grade school. Waiting for Opal in her dressing room were ribbon bound "love notes" from Opal to Cole that she had written to him during their grade school years. Cole had kept them all these years. Tears ran down Opal's cheeks as she took a trip to their past through each note. Some she remembered...others were a faded memory.

Andrea was the coordinator at Mill Creek Community Church and was very helpful and I know was a trememdous support to the family...especially in the days leading up to. The ceremony went quickly and we made a mad dash to the reception for some quick outdoor shoots before the party began. My favorite part of the night would have to be Opal's dance with her step-father, Mike. The music began slowly with "What a Wonderful World", and then, to our surprise, they broke out to "White Wedding", and then switching back to end with "What a Wonderful World".

It was so much fun to watch! Apparently they had done father/daughter dances back in the day...and Opal loves to dance! I don't think she ever left the dance floor for more than two minutes! This was one of the best receptions I've attended...the dance floor was filled the whole night (unlike my own wedding where my friends and in-laws bailed out early...you know who you are).

This was my first time to photograph at Lake Quivira, and I was very impressed. It was a beautiful setting and the staff members were excellent...especially Karen, who kept things flowing smoothly. I know the families were well pleased with how everything turned out.

I made it home around 11:30 that night and was wiped out! My feet were absolutely killing me (I desperately need new shoes...if anyone has any suggestions that would be great). In spite of the pain, I had a ton of fun and was so honored to have been a part of this wedding...besides the pain was nothing that a little hot tub time and a bottle of wine (yes, I said a bottle) couldn't cure, which is my usual routine after most weddings.

To Cole and Opal...blessings on your new journey together!

In Between:

I stayed quite busy between my July and August weddings. Here are a few pictures from a couple of portrait sessions I did.

A friend of mine said that all would be well with the world if everyone were like this family, and I have to agree. In spite of the heat and humidity that morning, I thoroughly enjoyed this session. Their ages range from 10 to 21. They were all so well mannered....and what a great

looking bunch!

MN Trip: August 2007

Every year for the 4th of July, we head up to Minnesota to visit my husband's family and spend time at their cabin on the lake. This year, due to schedule conflicts, we went up a month later than usual. Being at the lake is always so relaxing and peaceful, except for the fact that, due to the limited number of rooms in the cabin, my husband and I have to sleep in a tent. This wouldn't be so bad if our tent were bigger; we use the same tent he had bought for his climbing trips when it was just him. I keep telling him that, now that he's married, it's time to upgrade from his bachelor tent...I don't think it's working though.

Our time at the lake began well...we took several pontoon rides, saw a family of bald eagles, and spent some time on a wave runner. Due to global warming, I'm sure, the lake was down quite a bit, but we still were able to enjoy the water and the sunsets were gorgeous.

Danielle & Mitch: 7-28-07

This was a wedding I have been looking forward to since the beginning of the year. From the moment I met Danielle and Mitch back in January, I knew this was going to be a special day.

Danielle was one of the most detailed brides I've met (reminded me of myself on my own wedding day). She took time away from getting herself ready to make sure everyone else looked their best ...glitter, straps tied, corsages....Mitch is a lucky man.

Mitch brought his own bit of style and flair by adding a hollywood kiss after the "I dos"...it was great...I think every wedding should have a hollywood kiss!

Grace was full of emotion after performing her duty as flower girl. It was sweet to see someone so young get so emotional after the ceremony. I could tell she held a special place in a lot of hearts.

Toast time came and David, the best man, gave a memorable speech that brought him to tears

...tears of joy I'm sure. I could tell there was a closeness between him and Mitch that went way back. I also enjoyed hearing Mitch as he related himself and Danielle to cheese and wine...I'm going to have to remember that one!

It was a great wedding and I am honored to have been a part of it. I left for a family trip to Minnesota shortly after the wedding, so I am a little behind in getting all of the images up....I'm almost done! Look for an upcoming blog on that trip to MN.