Jessica and Jeff

This particular post might have happened a year or so ago, but duty called, and Jeff was deployed overseas. Plans were postponed, and rescheduled...and voila! The much anticipated wedding of Jessica and Jeff came to be on August 27. Good things come to those who wait! 

I'm glad photographers don't have to wear high heels - gorgeous shoes, but I'm pretty sure they'd kill my feet!

This place is a riot! And one of Jessica's bridesmaids happens to own it! If you're ever in Cobden, check it out!

Their vendors:
Hair - Classic Trends, New Ulm
Flowers - A 2 Zinnia
Decorator - Chris Fischer Designs
Reception - Jackpot Junction Casino and Hotel, Morton
Cake - Wendy Besel, St. James
Limo - Knights Luxury Transport, Comfrey

Jackie

Jackie had her high school senior session this past weekend. We made images on her grandparents farm, and around Elysian, including Lake Francis. Jackie is the second in a family of five, and her mother assured me I'll be photographing the remaining three children for their senior pictures as well! (There is nothing better than return customers!!) Here are just a few of the many images we took.

We literally chased the sunset to get this shot - knew we wanted it - just had to run to get it, around 8:20 PM. Too bad our days are getting shorter so quickly! Looking forward to a winter session with Jackie as well!

Leah and Andrew

They met in college, Leah and Andrew, and during the reception speeches, we got to hear about their first date...how Andrew was ready and pacing his apartment long before he was supposed to pick Leah up. Early on, all of Andrew's friends knew Leah was THE one. And indeed she is. I love new beginnings!

I learned about ELK - the inseparable trio of Erin, Leah and Kelsey...college friends turned lifetime friends, and bridesmaids!

Andrew is serving our country with the Navy, and, as I post this blog, is probably on a plane headed back to Virginia to finish training. I consider it a special honor when asked to photograph military weddings, and deeply appreciate the commitments and sacrifices these young people make for our country.

Here are a few photos from the day.

Ashley and Luke

Ashley and Luke are a FUN couple. I think FUN pretty well sums up their wedding day (June 18). They had a beautiful ceremony in Winthrop that honored two faiths and blended two families. They had an awesome wedding party that took advantage of Ashley's pre-ceremony nervousness, placing bets on how many times she'd cry before reaching the alter - all in jest.

While rainfall at the Schell Brewery cut our outdoor picture taking short, they made the time between the wedding and reception FUN with improvisation, and we headed to a bar.

At the reception, Elisa, the matron of honor, gave one of the best toasts I've ever heard. The entire room erupted in laughter. The New Ulm Country Club is a beautiful setting, the meal was delicious, and service was fantastic.

Thank you, Luke and Ashley, for allowing me to be a part of your day. Congratulations!

HyVee did an awesome job on the flowers.

Ashley had three pairs of shoes for the day.

We literally had minutes to shoot at the Schell Brewery before it began to rain. 

Elisa's toast was one for the record books. Amazing!!

The skies cleared during the reception, and we were able to get a few photos outdoors.

This groomsman is holding the wager sheet for bets placed on pre-ceremony nervousness.

Cheralynn and Troy

I met Cheralynn and Troy over a year ago, and then learned that her dad, Ron, and I were classmates; we even rode the same school bus! We also both work at MSU, Mankato. Small world.  June 4 truly was a perfect day for a wedding - mild temps and sunny skies - and a couple so completely in love with each other, that big smiles and tears of joy ruled the day.

We began pictures at the historic Hubbard House in downtown Mankato. Troy was so eager to see Cheralynn, and even more eager to begin their lives together as husband and wife. Mary's Flowers of St. Peter did an outstanding job on the flowers. The soft pastels perfectly complemented the muted lilac color of the bridesmaids dresses and the light cream color of Cheralynn's dress.

Following the ceremony at Grace Lutheran Church, we headed to the reception at Old Main Village (click on the weddings link in the left menu). I love that venue! It is gorgeous!

I must, once again, thank Diane Schrader of Schrader Art and Photography for her assistance. It is such an honor to work with a gifted artist and mentor!

Troy, you were one eager groom, and so excited for your first glimpse of Cheralynn!

Cheralynn and Troy - you are so sweet! Really! You began to dance to the music coming straight from your hearts. Completely natural - completely unscripted.

I can only imagine how much work went into these handmade labels. Each guest received a little bundles of them.

So very sweet. So very much in love. So happy for the two of you!