Sneak peek of our wedding images..
Jul/20/10 10:23 AM
I have been bursting at the seams
to do a HUGE post about our wedding, the honeymoon
and all the details, but... it seems that we are
going to have to wait a little longer to give a few
magazines a look at the images before they hit the
world wide web. Nonetheless, I promise they will come
eventually in a blog post the size of Texas! I am in
LOVE with the images and Jose, he did such an amazing
job and cannot wait to share them all!
Until then head to our page on facebook to check out a sneak
peek, Enjoy!!
Comments
I'm Back!
Jun/30/10 06:36 PM
It has been almost a month since we packed up and
headed out West for our wedding. Since then we have
gotten married- yay! Had an amazing honeymoon through
Sonoma and Hawaii, traveled to Chicago for a gorgeous
farm wedding and now made our way back to Florida. I
have so many amazing details and images to share. For
now, I am sifting through suitcases, boxes and a
million photos. Thanks so much to all of my amazing
clients for your patience during this last month. It
has been amazing and I am refreshed, renewed and so
eager for what's to come! 'Til then....
Wedding Week!
Jun/09/10 11:17 AM
I am in Nevada and today marks the
official beginning of Chad and I's wedding week.
Can't believe it is finally here and so excited to
see everyone that has traveled so far to be apart of
the festivities. We will be heading off on a
honeymoon after the wedding, however I will be
checking emails. I can't wait to share all the
details after and of course all the images, so stay
tuned!
xoxo
Gardenia love...
May/28/10 07:29 PM
"Since love grows within you, so
beauty grows. For love is the beauty of the soul."
--St. Augustine
Officially T - One Month and Our Wedding Photographer is...
May/11/10 01:47 PM
I have been so busy with weddings
every weekend that I haven't had much to plan and
blog about our own wedding. Today, May 11th, we are
officially a month away! It is amazing how quickly 2
years (Yes, engaged for almost 2 years!) has flown by
and all the things that I put off til 'later' are now
upon us. While I am intentionally not blogging all
the details just yet (have to keep some things a
surprise) I do promise complete blog posts detail by
detail after the wedding. I have already learned so
much about planning and weddings and how it is all so
much fun and all so hard! I think that planning a
wedding is an ultimate self exploration and you learn
so much about partner as well. While I still have yet
to feel what it is like to experience the day I have
taken over a year to plan, I have learned enough to
know it will be over in the
blink of an eye!
That is why, for us, photography was absolutely
number one (shocker!). Deciding on a photographer for
our wedding was beyond challenging. Not only did we
have many talented friends offer to help us capture
our day, but there are so many talented photographers
I admire and I am incredibly indecisive! We wanted
our friends to be at the wedding as 'friends' and
wanted a photographer whose style reflected the type
of wedding we are choosing to have and how we want to
remember it. After months of debate and soul
searching we both excitedly agreed that we wanted
none other than Jose Villa to capture our day. He is one of
the most talented photographers and artists in the
business and his work is one of a kind. Jose's
style embodies everything I was looking for... it
is real, natural, breathtaking and romantic. He
loves outdoor locations, details and one of a kind
events- simply perfect! Here are a few of the many
reasons we love Jose so much and can't wait to
have him at our wedding
(all images copyright
Jose Villa)
Need I say more? I love living
behind the camera, and for maybe the first time ever
can't wait to be in front of the lens!!! Check
out Jose's blog for more gorgeous wedding
inspiration.
Back from Nevada!
Mar/19/10 03:43 PM
After attending
WPPI (which was amazing and inspiring
as always!) and after hitting Vegas with a couple
of my bridesmaids (super fun & still haven't
recovered!), I headed to Northern Nevada for a
couple of days to do a little wedding planning. It
was beautiful in Tahoe with snowcapped mountains
and a glassy lake. While there I snapped this
image from my ceremony site with my iphone (yes,
the iphone).
Now three months away, I am getting down to the smaller details of the wedding and realizing how much there is still to do!
You would think that shooting wedding almost every weekend I might know a little about planning a wedding. While some things come easy, there are certainly a few things that seem to be a little tougher. Here are a couple tips I have to share after my last trip:
1. Definitely discuss your ceremony and reception timeline far in advance with your photographer, planner and other important people. I am wishing I could change my ceremony time but the invites are printed... shucks!
2. Definitely do a hair and make up trial. My first hair and make up lady and I did not speak the same language, I said red, she heard blue.. you get the picture.
3. Definitely talk to family and friends about helping you find props needed for the wedding. My cousin is bringing wine barrels and a possibly a chandelier for me to borrow that will save lots on rentals.
4. Definitely start working on the guest list far in advance. I had last minute additions, deletions and I'm pretty sure my invitation designer might kill me.
5. Think about where you will get ready. This is so important for the opening shots and details shots of your wedding. You want the space to flow with the feel of your wedding, not be cluttered and have lots of pretty light. Important for makeup and photos.
6. Do a cake tasting. While I don't really have a big sweet tooth and truly want a cake for the pretty pictures (shocker right?) I did do a cake tasting and was so glad we made time for it. We ended up with flavors I would have NEVER chosen from a piece of paper and think it will be a nice surprise for guests to eat something out of the ordinary.
7. Definitely visit your location at different times of the day to see the light. This is a little harder for me as it requires two plane flights, however as it gets closer I will have my mom out there scooping it out.
8. Don't sweat the small stuff.....I'm still working on this one.
Here are a couple more iphone snaps from Vegas...
Now three months away, I am getting down to the smaller details of the wedding and realizing how much there is still to do!
You would think that shooting wedding almost every weekend I might know a little about planning a wedding. While some things come easy, there are certainly a few things that seem to be a little tougher. Here are a couple tips I have to share after my last trip:
1. Definitely discuss your ceremony and reception timeline far in advance with your photographer, planner and other important people. I am wishing I could change my ceremony time but the invites are printed... shucks!
2. Definitely do a hair and make up trial. My first hair and make up lady and I did not speak the same language, I said red, she heard blue.. you get the picture.
3. Definitely talk to family and friends about helping you find props needed for the wedding. My cousin is bringing wine barrels and a possibly a chandelier for me to borrow that will save lots on rentals.
4. Definitely start working on the guest list far in advance. I had last minute additions, deletions and I'm pretty sure my invitation designer might kill me.
5. Think about where you will get ready. This is so important for the opening shots and details shots of your wedding. You want the space to flow with the feel of your wedding, not be cluttered and have lots of pretty light. Important for makeup and photos.
6. Do a cake tasting. While I don't really have a big sweet tooth and truly want a cake for the pretty pictures (shocker right?) I did do a cake tasting and was so glad we made time for it. We ended up with flavors I would have NEVER chosen from a piece of paper and think it will be a nice surprise for guests to eat something out of the ordinary.
7. Definitely visit your location at different times of the day to see the light. This is a little harder for me as it requires two plane flights, however as it gets closer I will have my mom out there scooping it out.
8. Don't sweat the small stuff.....I'm still working on this one.
Here are a couple more iphone snaps from Vegas...
The Miami Half Marathon.. again!
Feb/01/10 08:09 AM
It is that time of year
again that once again I strapped on my running shoes
and stood in the dark at 6:00 am with 18,000 other
crazy people to run 13 miles through Miami Beach.
This is the fourth year in a row that I have run the
Miami Half Marathon and the third year that my mom
has run it with me. Each year I am so inspired by the
energy and all the types of people that run... young,
old, big, small, disabled, you name it. Though my
legs would like to say a few words of their own
today, we had a blast! I didn't bet my time from last
year, but I finished in 1 hour and 47 minutes (three
minutes off my goal). Somehow after the pain of it
all, the races are addicting and I'm already looking
for the next one. I've gotta do something about those
3 minutes!
Chad and his dad came to watch us finish (thanks guys!!), I'm there in the purple...
Third Year!
Chad and his dad came to watch us finish (thanks guys!!), I'm there in the purple...
Third Year!
Veterans Day
Nov/11/09 10:33 AM
This morning I did my
usual rounds of my favorite blogs, and while checking
out what was going on in the world of
Style Me Pretty I saw this trailer for
The Way We Get By, and had to share it with you.
I truly appreciate each and every man and woman
that serves our country. I hope you all have a
wonderful Veterans Day, and thank you to all our
troops!
The Way We Get By - Trailer from The Way We Get By on Vimeo.
Happy Halloween!
Oct/30/09 04:34 PM
This year I found what
can only be described as 'a ridiculous costume' for
Axl to wear. Luckily, we will be in Naples this
weekend so I don't think he'll see anyone he knows.
Good thing he's a great sport! Happy Halloween
everyone!!
Our enagement session and save the date
Oct/25/09 08:11 AM
Over the summer I have
been trying to get as much of my own wedding planned
before wedding season kicks back in. My dear
friend Georgia, who is a fashion photographer
in New York City, graciously shot our engagement
session for us. She did a beautiful job and helped
me adjust to being on the other side of the lens
(weird!). With the images I created a save the
date that was sent out a few weeks ago. I packaged
the folded card in glassine envelope with a wax
stamp. They were truly simple and all about the
images, of course!
Here are a few of our favorite images Georgia shot:
And our save the date:
Here are a few of our favorite images Georgia shot:
And our save the date:
Back from the Keys
Oct/12/09 10:46 AM
Last night we pulled
back into Miami after spending the weekend in the
Keys and riding Harleys down to Key West. We stopped
in Islamorada (of course) and also at a few other
resorts that we have weddings at this season. The
riding was great, something that we had always wanted
to do and I am happy to scratch it off the bucket
list (that is still about 50 pages long!). We thought
planning the trip for the middle of October would
ensure a cool trip with clear skies. While we only
got rained on once, it was welcomed as we had near
record heat the entire weekend with a heat index of
106 degrees! Very hot atop a motorcycle in boots and
jeans... despite the heat, we had a great trip. I
absolutely love the keys and think that it is a great
destination. I will never get tired of spending time
and shooting weddings there. Since I had very limited
space to pack (one saddle bag) I opted to take the
weekend off from shooting. However, it never seems
right to blog without some eye candy, so here is a
few images from my keys weddings in the past... Happy
Monday!
Headed out west..
Sep/23/09 04:06 PM
Tomorrow I'm headed out
west to Nevada to shoot Ashlee and Kenny's wedding,
can't wait! Here is the gorgeous couple...
Fashion Color Palette...
Sep/09/09 11:14 AM
I have been giving a
lot of thought to colors and really trying to figure
out what I want mine to be for my wedding before we
get too far. I desperately need to decide on
bridesmaid dress colors and have been struggling.
From the beginning I really wanted to have all the
bridesmaids in different dresses and even different
colors that complimented one another.
Something to
keep the feel eclectic and unique. However, through a
little research I have come to understand why most
brides just choose one dress and one color, because
it's soooo much easier! Finding dresses that
compliment one another, the girls and the guys is
tricky. It spite of the challenge I do still have my
eye on different dresses, I just need to narrow down
the colors. Maybe gray, or latte and blush, or even
off white. Here are some inspiration images I have
selected along the way that I love, let me know if
you have any thoughts...
Catching up with summer...
Aug/31/09 01:13 PM
As summer slips away I
am trying to catch up with it. Even though it is
still about 5 million degrees here I can’t help but
notice today is the last day of August and before I
know it the fall will be here. I have been trying to
get those projects done, enjoy the long days, and
gear up for the fall. In the meantime I have
neglected my blog, so now I am getting up with that
too....
Last night my friend Aria invited us to join them for a summer’s feast. The day before they had caught Florida lobster (yummmm!) and Aria (who is an amazing cook) is auditioning for a cooking show and needed to be filmed cooking them. Not only was the food AMAZING but we had a great company and really enjoyed watching Aria at her best. She definitely would be great on TV, so watch for her, hopefully she will be sharing her talents with everyone soon!
Last night my friend Aria invited us to join them for a summer’s feast. The day before they had caught Florida lobster (yummmm!) and Aria (who is an amazing cook) is auditioning for a cooking show and needed to be filmed cooking them. Not only was the food AMAZING but we had a great company and really enjoyed watching Aria at her best. She definitely would be great on TV, so watch for her, hopefully she will be sharing her talents with everyone soon!
Jen and Mike, Nevada, and more!
Aug/05/09 03:36 PM
I spent the last
weekend in Nevada and have lots to blog about!! I
shot Jen and Mike’s wedding on Saturday (which was
incredible!!!), Jennie, Peter and their adorable kids
on Sunday, and even got a chance to hike around
Emerald Bay! Lots to come but until then I’ll leave
you with a peek of Jen and Mike....
The Keys, Alison and Arthur
Jul/20/09 10:32 AM
This weekend
Chad and I headed down to Islamorada to one of our
favorite spots, the Moorings. On Saturday I shot
Dee and Abel’s intimate wedding at
Pierre’s (coming soon!), and
then we relaxed and spent some time with our
friend and former bride Alison. Alison and Rick are expecting their
first child in September and we took a little bit
of time to capture Alison’s baby bump before
heading back to Miami. Here is Alison and Arthur
(the other love of her life)....
Vera Wang
Jul/15/09 03:46 PM
I just received an
email of a Q & A from Vera Wang. I thought it
touched on something I think most brides go through
so I thought I’d share:
Question:
I am recently engaged and
although I am very excited about planning the
wedding, I already feel overwhelmed. Everyone has an
opinion. While I want everyone to feel included, I’m
beginning to feel like it is not “my” wedding
anymore…
Answer:
The emotions around a
wedding can be complicated. Despite the happiness,
some couples feel a loss of freedom and identity as
they negotiate with their family and friends, and
with each other. The challenge is to avoid a block in
the lines of communication.
An engagement is a time when people learn new things
about each other – patience is essential. Intimacy is
also important. Commit to quiet moments that will
allow you to retain your sense of autonomy and to
reconnect with your partner on a very basic level.
For a bride, remember to focus on elements that are
truly “yours” – the wedding dress being one. Your
dress should be the ultimate statement of “you” on
your wedding day.
Summer
Jul/13/09 11:54 AM
Its hot and humid and
weddings have slowed down with the heat of the
summer. Though we are remodeling our condo (very
crazy!) we have also found some time to enjoy some
good ole summer fun. There’s nothing quite like
BBQ’s, swimming pools, wet dogs, and the blue skies
of summer. When life gets complicated, I think its a
great time to get back to the basics. Get out and
enjoy it!!
Just a dress
Jul/12/09 07:21 PM
One of my favorite
things when arriving to shoot a wedding is to see the
bride’s dress. Dresses have become so unique, and so
much more than just a dress. They are truly a
reflection of the bride’s style and how she wants to
be seen on her day. I love when brides step out of
the box and get something very unique that really
shows so much of their personality.
When I got engaged, I knew one of the most important things to me was the dress. I am not a dress up kind of girl, and while normally I am most comfortable in my jeans, tshirt and flip flops, I knew that I wanted to wear a gown on my wedding day. Like most girls I began scouring the web for images and inspiration and as soon as I started trying them on quickly found what I thought I wanted and what I liked on were two different things. There was the slinky greek goddess look, the traditional A line dress, the princess poof, the fashion forward and classics. There were so many ways to go and I have truly loved them all. While I went to quite a few stores Priscilla of Boston, Chic Parisian and Ever After all in the Coral Gables area were my favorites. With so many gorgeous dresses and such wonderful women to help navigate you through the process, it was a joy. I found that I am not a very decisive buyer, I guess I never have been, often returning to a store several times before I make a big purchase. With the dress I was not different. I really struggled with making such a big decision. So many looks to choose from, the cost (ouch!), and picking the one. Yesterday after about 100 text messages, several phone photos, and calls I made my decision. While I don’t want to spill the beans on the details (Chad’s sake), I officially have a dress. I have to say it was harder and more fun than I imagined! Now I just can’t wait to wear it!
When I got engaged, I knew one of the most important things to me was the dress. I am not a dress up kind of girl, and while normally I am most comfortable in my jeans, tshirt and flip flops, I knew that I wanted to wear a gown on my wedding day. Like most girls I began scouring the web for images and inspiration and as soon as I started trying them on quickly found what I thought I wanted and what I liked on were two different things. There was the slinky greek goddess look, the traditional A line dress, the princess poof, the fashion forward and classics. There were so many ways to go and I have truly loved them all. While I went to quite a few stores Priscilla of Boston, Chic Parisian and Ever After all in the Coral Gables area were my favorites. With so many gorgeous dresses and such wonderful women to help navigate you through the process, it was a joy. I found that I am not a very decisive buyer, I guess I never have been, often returning to a store several times before I make a big purchase. With the dress I was not different. I really struggled with making such a big decision. So many looks to choose from, the cost (ouch!), and picking the one. Yesterday after about 100 text messages, several phone photos, and calls I made my decision. While I don’t want to spill the beans on the details (Chad’s sake), I officially have a dress. I have to say it was harder and more fun than I imagined! Now I just can’t wait to wear it!
Happy Fourth of July!
Jul/03/09 07:38 PM
I love the fourth of
July. Fireworks, BBQ’s, drinks and good ole fashioned
fun. Here’s some homemade love from Axl... Enjoy!
Vintage Plates
Jun/30/09 04:47 PM
The theme for my
wedding is ‘rustic elegance’ and from the start I was
looking for personal touches throughout the wedding
to give it that one of a kind feel. My mom came up
with the brilliant idea to ask 10 women who are close
family and friends to go out and collect vintage
plates at their local antique store or along their
travels. All the plates will be different and will be
bought from all over the country. I loved the idea of
getting the distant family and friends involved and
think it will add a great feel to the tables.
While in Nevada we made invites. My dad came up with a poem for the message and we included a photo to express the look we are going for. Here they are......
While in Nevada we made invites. My dad came up with a poem for the message and we included a photo to express the look we are going for. Here they are......
Nevada and planning my wedding.. finally!!
Jun/12/09 09:25 PM
After being engaged for
almost a year Chad and I headed to Northern Nevada
(where I am originally from) to plan our destination
wedding. We arrived, and so did some of our family
members that flew in to be apart of the adventure.
Though we had nothing planned to date, we had been
talking with wedding planner Tara Addeo, who was
going to be guiding the planning extravaganza, thank
goodness! For my brides who are on the fence about
having a planner... all I can say is, get one!!!
After three days jam packed with appointments, I couldn’t believe how quickly things came together. On day 1 we settled on the hotel we wanted the guests to stay at. Day 2, we meet with the florist, caterer, and found a ceremony location. The ceremony location was a complete stroke of luck, and I was jumping for joy when we discovered it... I had been dreaming of grass, overlooking the lake and it had seemed impossible (unless you spent a small fortune to rent a private home), until we found it, and it was in the budget!
Day 3, we meet with another caterer and florist as well as tackled the reception location. We planned to have a lakeside ceremony on Tahoe, then load the guests in coach buses and head down the grade (from lake tahoe to the valley below), for a reception in the valley. While we found two great options, but we all fell head over heels with my longtime friend Ashlee’s century old ranch. It was exactly what I was hoping for and it couldn’t be anymore unique or charming. With some lights, flowers, and great details I think it will be stunning...
I am so happy about both locations, that when we found the Tahoe Queen for our welcome party it seemed things couldn’t get better. We plan to have all the guests for a welcome cruise the night before our wedding as they will be coming in from all over the country. The Tahoe Queen has been renovated and is the most unique cruise boat I have ever seen. They serve a full dinner, have a jamming band, and cruise to emerald bay, the jewel of tahoe. Love it!
We had also decided that the day after the wedding we would invite our guests to ‘Hike of their Hangover’ on the Tahoe Rim Trail. We’ll see how many of them are up for a hike the day after, but I know it’s worth the hike when you see the views!
I couldn’t believe how much we got done and am very excited to actually have a date... June 11th 2010!!
Here are a few more shots from my trip... Enjoy!
Lake Tahoe
Burros
The Fam, they were such good sports!
Peonies, love them!
Virginia City
After three days jam packed with appointments, I couldn’t believe how quickly things came together. On day 1 we settled on the hotel we wanted the guests to stay at. Day 2, we meet with the florist, caterer, and found a ceremony location. The ceremony location was a complete stroke of luck, and I was jumping for joy when we discovered it... I had been dreaming of grass, overlooking the lake and it had seemed impossible (unless you spent a small fortune to rent a private home), until we found it, and it was in the budget!
Day 3, we meet with another caterer and florist as well as tackled the reception location. We planned to have a lakeside ceremony on Tahoe, then load the guests in coach buses and head down the grade (from lake tahoe to the valley below), for a reception in the valley. While we found two great options, but we all fell head over heels with my longtime friend Ashlee’s century old ranch. It was exactly what I was hoping for and it couldn’t be anymore unique or charming. With some lights, flowers, and great details I think it will be stunning...
I am so happy about both locations, that when we found the Tahoe Queen for our welcome party it seemed things couldn’t get better. We plan to have all the guests for a welcome cruise the night before our wedding as they will be coming in from all over the country. The Tahoe Queen has been renovated and is the most unique cruise boat I have ever seen. They serve a full dinner, have a jamming band, and cruise to emerald bay, the jewel of tahoe. Love it!
We had also decided that the day after the wedding we would invite our guests to ‘Hike of their Hangover’ on the Tahoe Rim Trail. We’ll see how many of them are up for a hike the day after, but I know it’s worth the hike when you see the views!
I couldn’t believe how much we got done and am very excited to actually have a date... June 11th 2010!!
Here are a few more shots from my trip... Enjoy!
Lake Tahoe
Burros
The Fam, they were such good sports!
Peonies, love them!
Virginia City
Dog Days of Summer
May/26/09 03:35 PM
Over Memorial Day we
escaped the busy streets of Miami and headed south to
my favorite hideaway in the keys, Islamorada. As it
was a bit of a last minute trip we were very lucky to
find somewhere to stay during the holiday and
incredibly lucky that our friend Alison (one of my
former brides) offered to take Axl in for a doggy
vacation. We had a great weekend and I had a great
time celebrating my birthday on Sunday at one of my
favorite restaurants, Morada Bay of the Moorings.
We were lucky enough to spend some time on the beach with Axl and his friends Molly and Arthur. Nothing quite like the dog days of summer!
We were lucky enough to spend some time on the beach with Axl and his friends Molly and Arthur. Nothing quite like the dog days of summer!
Maui, Hawaii
Apr/21/09 10:37 AM
Wow! Well, it has been
a whirlwind trying to get things back on track since
I have gotten back. I had some major computer issues
the end of last week, and so now, after several
purchases from apple (cha-ching), I am trying to get
my blogging caught up!
Words can’t even describe how beautiful Hawaii is, and in particular the area that my mom is living in near Paia. Simply gorgeous. Everyone is friendly, healthy, and tan! It is a small town with adorable shops and surrounded by the most amazing beaches. Here is just a glimpse...
Words can’t even describe how beautiful Hawaii is, and in particular the area that my mom is living in near Paia. Simply gorgeous. Everyone is friendly, healthy, and tan! It is a small town with adorable shops and surrounded by the most amazing beaches. Here is just a glimpse...
Haiku, Hawaii
Apr/09/09 10:38 PM
I arrived on Tuesday to
Maui, Hawaii. My mom has just finished a massage
therapy program and I wanted a chance to get out to
see what she has been experiencing the last 6 months.
Hawaii is such a tropical, unique place that is
filled with different people all looking for a piece
of paradise. It has been so nice to take a break,
enjoy family, and relax. I didn't have a solid
internet connection to blog during the trip, and now
on my way home I will start to catch up, I have a lot
of beauty to share. Here's the first taken from
Baldwin Beach where we ran each morning..
Jack turns 1!
Mar/11/09 09:16 AM
On Saturday Jack turned
1. Before heading to Liz and Steve's Wedding (coming
soon!) I stopped by to see the birthday boy...
Jack and his mom..
The youngest guest, 2 week old Anna with sister Emma.
Jack and his mom..
The youngest guest, 2 week old Anna with sister Emma.
Home Again...
Feb/18/09 06:46 PM
This afternoon,
regrettably, I landed back in Miami after hoping the
4 hour flight from Vegas. Granted, I am SO happy to
get home to my handsome fiance and see my favorite
furball, Axl, but I didn't want to leave WPPI yet!!
This was my very first year at WPPI, and I am
completely blown away. I could not have prepared
myself for the amount of people, amazing classes, the
shear number of vendors, or the incredible energy and
buzz that surrounded it. I am exhausted, seeing that
I walked about 10 miles a day (seriously, I think
about 10), and there were so many classes that I
wanted to go to that I just went to as many as
possible. Yesterday I started a class at 8 am and
finished the last one at 10:45 pm, agghh!! But I am
so completely in love with the experience, and am
already thinking about how I will plan for next year.
I met so many amazing people, connected with old
friends and made new ones.
I am so thankful to be doing something that I am so passionate about, and that I simply cannot get enough of. I am also so excited to be in such an amazing industry with so many talented and kind people.
Before I started shooting weddings I worked in the fashion photography business for almost 6 years. It is the base for my experience and knowledge, and I must thank the photographers that I assisted who taught me so much and truly made my style what it is. With that said, the fashion industry is in stark contrast to that of weddings. While assistants and digital techs would recommend one another, most of the industry (especially the photographers) kept to themselves and were rather secretive about techniques and styles amongst each other. It was a very competitive industry that can be difficult to navigate and work in. For the last three years I have been exposed to the support, openness, and amazing compassion that the wedding photography industry offers. It is so refreshing to me to see the top professionals in the business open up about everything from business practices to the most unique technique. Every professional is there to help each other and build relationships with the people that might be considered their competition. I can't say enough about these people and how they have inspired me.
Now home, and back to my usual desk and computer, I can only reflect on what I have learned. I am inspired, energized, and so excited to get back to work! Thanks so much to everyone that has offered so much of themselves, have I mentioned that I love what I do!!
I am so thankful to be doing something that I am so passionate about, and that I simply cannot get enough of. I am also so excited to be in such an amazing industry with so many talented and kind people.
Before I started shooting weddings I worked in the fashion photography business for almost 6 years. It is the base for my experience and knowledge, and I must thank the photographers that I assisted who taught me so much and truly made my style what it is. With that said, the fashion industry is in stark contrast to that of weddings. While assistants and digital techs would recommend one another, most of the industry (especially the photographers) kept to themselves and were rather secretive about techniques and styles amongst each other. It was a very competitive industry that can be difficult to navigate and work in. For the last three years I have been exposed to the support, openness, and amazing compassion that the wedding photography industry offers. It is so refreshing to me to see the top professionals in the business open up about everything from business practices to the most unique technique. Every professional is there to help each other and build relationships with the people that might be considered their competition. I can't say enough about these people and how they have inspired me.
Now home, and back to my usual desk and computer, I can only reflect on what I have learned. I am inspired, energized, and so excited to get back to work! Thanks so much to everyone that has offered so much of themselves, have I mentioned that I love what I do!!
Vegas Baby!
Feb/15/09 02:34 PM
On Valentines Day, I
got on a plane and headed to Las Vegas to attend
WPPI! I jump started my trip with the Get Simple
seminar with KISS. It was amazing!, and I can't wait
to hit up everything else that WPPI has to offer. I
will be back thursday and thanks for your
patience!!
The Miami Marathon, wooohooo!!!
Feb/02/09 10:47 AM
After getting done with
Gabby and Enrique's wedding, I hurried home to catch
4 hours of shut eye before I woke up at 4:30 in the
morning to run the Miami Half Marathon. It was my
third time running the race, and this year there were
more people than ever.. a whopping 30,000!!! With
30,000 people all gathered in downtown Miami at 6 am,
the energy is amazing, and the lack of sleep was far
behind me. The race took us over the Macarthur
causeway, through South Beach and back into downtown
and the weather couldn't have been better. This year
I ran my best time yet, 1:48, and had a blast! Can't
wait to do it next year, and I already signed up! My
friend Jon from Jon Scott photography
happened to be there
shooting the race and here is an image he captured
of us heading into South Beach, thanks Jon!
Merry Christmas Eve
Dec/24/08 12:11 PM
From this months issue
of Oprah Magazine, I adore this image taken by Bruce
Weber. This is the first year that Chad and I will be
spending Christmas here in Florida. This photograph
reminds me how much I miss the mountains and snow,
and that maybe I need more dogs.....
Things That Inspire
Dec/23/08 02:05 PM
For me, the holidays
have always brought feelings of reflection and
nostalgia. They remind us to slow down, take a look
around, and take it in. To appreciate those people we
love, and to embrace what we have, rather than what
we want. This year more than ever, people are looking
at their lives, their stuff, and making changes.
Realizing that maybe happiness cannot be measured in
the inches of your flat screen, but rather the pitch
of you laughter or the company gathered around a
holiday meal.
Photographs have forever been a way to look back at how far we have come, where we started, and to relive the joys of another time. I (obviously) have a huge passion for images and what you can learn about someone in a single frame. One of my goals for 2009 is to share what inspires me on the pages of this blog, and maybe in the process, inspire you along the way. This month in Martha Stewart Weddings, one of my favorites, the back page titled 'a look back' had this image, with the following text. It is such a joyful image that truly captures their day and I loved what they had to say about it.
'This joyful wedding photo of Mariano, Margaret, and their youngest guest (the son of one of their friends) was featured in our 1995 inaugural issue. The baby "was like our little mascot that day, a symbol of things to come," says Margaret.'
"Margaret and I met in 1991, at a dinner party at an Italian restaurant in Greenwich Village. IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT, or as we Italians say, 'Colpo di fulmine.' What I loved most about her was her eyes, and that true to this day. They're beautiful. But so much has changed since we first met. For one thing, our relationship has strengthened enormously, and having four children together has brought an incredible amount of joy to our lives. It used to be that my idea of perfection was cycling home in the dark, with fireflies lighting the way. Now, my perfect day is waking up in the mountains during ski season, hitting the slopes with my family and doing something we all love together. That, to me, is exhilarating." -Mariano, Martha Stewart Weddings
Photographs have forever been a way to look back at how far we have come, where we started, and to relive the joys of another time. I (obviously) have a huge passion for images and what you can learn about someone in a single frame. One of my goals for 2009 is to share what inspires me on the pages of this blog, and maybe in the process, inspire you along the way. This month in Martha Stewart Weddings, one of my favorites, the back page titled 'a look back' had this image, with the following text. It is such a joyful image that truly captures their day and I loved what they had to say about it.
'This joyful wedding photo of Mariano, Margaret, and their youngest guest (the son of one of their friends) was featured in our 1995 inaugural issue. The baby "was like our little mascot that day, a symbol of things to come," says Margaret.'
"Margaret and I met in 1991, at a dinner party at an Italian restaurant in Greenwich Village. IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT, or as we Italians say, 'Colpo di fulmine.' What I loved most about her was her eyes, and that true to this day. They're beautiful. But so much has changed since we first met. For one thing, our relationship has strengthened enormously, and having four children together has brought an incredible amount of joy to our lives. It used to be that my idea of perfection was cycling home in the dark, with fireflies lighting the way. Now, my perfect day is waking up in the mountains during ski season, hitting the slopes with my family and doing something we all love together. That, to me, is exhilarating." -Mariano, Martha Stewart Weddings
Brides in the Limlight Event at the Miami Seaquarium
Dec/19/08 10:16 AM
Last week Chad and I
attended a Brides in the Limelight
event at the
Miami Seaquarium's
Sunset Cove. Sunset
Cove is a new venue available for weddings, and
has an amazing view of downtown, right on the
water. The event was very well put together with
food, drinks, and entertainment from DJ's to
dancers. It was a great chance to meet other
vendors and I can't wait to attend the next
event!!
Golf. Wedding. and Catch Up
Dec/15/08 06:14 AM
It has been a crazy
December (as expected), and I am so behind!! I am
determined to get caught up over the next couple of
days, and will get you caught up on what has been
keeping me. In the meantime, last weekend I had the
privelage of shooting Nikki and Justin's wedding at
the Westing Dilpomat in Hallandale. Just days prior,
the groomsmen headed out for a manly round of golf
and took me along to document. Here they are... More
to come!!
Family, Holidays and the Steeplechase
Dec/01/08 12:44 PM
This weekend, I ate too
much, probably drank too much, but had a great time!
I hope you did the same, and had a happy and safe
holiday. We had a lot of family in town (including my
Dad and future in-laws meeting for the first time!)
which was wonderful to be able to spend time with
them all, and it couldn't have gone better. On
Saturday we headed to the Palm Beach Steeplechase,
which was amazing! I can't wait to go next year, I
think it is going to be a new tradition. Lots of
hats, tailgating, horses, dogs, and of course
beautiful weather! Here is a glimpse..
Holiday Cards!?!
Nov/19/08 11:48 AM
Today I thought, like I
do every year at this time, ' I should really start
my Christmas card so I'm not scrambling last minute'.
And like every year, I continue on with whatever I
was doing before and don't think too much more about
it until December 1st, then December 15th, then the
Post Office announcing the Holiday Postal Deadline.
Procrastinate? Never!
So while I am going to attempt to get a jump start this year, (and stick to it), I thought I would remind all my clients as well, not to procrastinate! I know this year people are on a budget more than ever, and I think it is a great year to think about postcards (a low cost option), and using an image from your engagement session, your wedding, or your portrait session that we have already shot. Here are some ideas...
So while I am going to attempt to get a jump start this year, (and stick to it), I thought I would remind all my clients as well, not to procrastinate! I know this year people are on a budget more than ever, and I think it is a great year to think about postcards (a low cost option), and using an image from your engagement session, your wedding, or your portrait session that we have already shot. Here are some ideas...
Axl and Georgia's Day
Nov/14/08 11:58 AM
This past weekend my
dear friend Georgia from New York came for a visit.
She is a very talented fashion photographer that I am
sure will one day be gracing the pages of top
publications and ads. Aside from her photographic
talents, she is also blessed with more energy than
any person I know. I would consider myself pretty
high energy, when I'm with Georgia, my opinion sways.
She spent the day with my dog, Axl, and in the same
day the hit the dog park, the dog water park, and the
dog beach. Wow! Axl slept for about two days
after.... Georgia shoot these images with her iPhone
and I was so proud to see Axl's leap into the water
(we've been working on that!), and here he is at the
end of the day on the beach. Come back soon Georgia!
Election Day!
Nov/03/08 04:57 PM
It's Election Day! It's
very exciting and a bit nerve wrecking too, but I
hope no matter what it brings positive change to
America. I'm so excited that so many people are
charged up and out voting! Chad was Napoleon Dynamite
for Halloween, and if you can't decide who to vote
for....
My Wedding Update
Oct/30/08 09:02 AM
After going back and
forth, and trying to decide WHERE to have our
wedding.. we have also had to figure out the WHEN. We
haven't been in a big hurry to set a date, or plan
much of anything for that matter, but it had been our
plan to tie the knot sometime in 2009. However, after
finding the the right venue has proved very
challenging, and it seems that it is simply bad
timing for most of the important people in our lives,
and bad financial times for almost everyone, we have
decided to wait until 2010. We are still planning on
Lake Tahoe, which to not do a winter wedding leaves
you with about 3 months during the summer when you
won't really have a chance of a freak snowstorm. So
as of now we are thinking of June 2010. It sounds so
far away, but if things keep up the way they do I am
sure it will be here before we know it. This will
give us the time to do it right, save money, and
hopefully give our guests enough time to get prepared
as well.
I definitely feel less stressed out with this decision and can focus on the projects at hand for KT Merry Photography. I have not made any vendor/venue decisions yet for the wedding, and think I will slowly start to now. Does anyone know of a great property in Lake Tahoe that would rent it out for my wedding?? Any other ideas? We're only going to do it once, better do it right!!
I definitely feel less stressed out with this decision and can focus on the projects at hand for KT Merry Photography. I have not made any vendor/venue decisions yet for the wedding, and think I will slowly start to now. Does anyone know of a great property in Lake Tahoe that would rent it out for my wedding?? Any other ideas? We're only going to do it once, better do it right!!
Craziness and Puerto Rico!!
Oct/27/08 04:45 PM
Well, the last week has
been a little crazy busy, and I have been a bad, bad
blogger. However, I will make it up!! I am so happy
that season is back and the weather is finally
getting cooler! I am busy with new and past brides
and getting ready for the Wedding Salon Event
at the Biltmore,
November 10th. Which is invitation only, but if
you'd like to go be sure to email me and I'll get
you on the list so you can come see us!
This last weekend I was in Puerto Rico for Veronica and Jeremy's wedding. It was beautiful, and reminded me how much I love destination weddings! I will post more tomorrow but here is some eye candy for now!
This last weekend I was in Puerto Rico for Veronica and Jeremy's wedding. It was beautiful, and reminded me how much I love destination weddings! I will post more tomorrow but here is some eye candy for now!
My latest Wedding Inspiration Board
Oct/16/08 08:15 AM
Though I haven't had
much time to work on planning my wedding, I have
still been collecting ideas, images, and inspiration.
We are gearing more towards a wedding in Lake Tahoe
(the area I'm from), and haven't set a date, but
looking at late this summer (if a miracle happens) or
early summer 2010. Its been incredibly hard to find a
outdoor venue on the lake. I have been looking at
private homes mostly and many have restrictions
(curfews, yuck!), or are just way too expensive. We
are set on having everything mostly outdoors, and
would love to either have the lake or a ranch type
setting.
If you are a bride, I have found it very helpful to put together inspiration boards to show the feel, and mood that you would like on your day. It can give you a focus and direction. Here is my latest:
If you are a bride, I have found it very helpful to put together inspiration boards to show the feel, and mood that you would like on your day. It can give you a focus and direction. Here is my latest:
Bunny?
Oct/02/08 08:33 PM
Today I was on my way
home with my dog, Axl in tow, when I decided to stop
into a local dog park to let him run around. On my
way in I saw a little black bunny hop into the woods.
I know there are no wild bunnies in South Florida,
but I didn't see where he went in the dark woods. So
we headed into the dog park, Axl ran around like a
maniac, and after getting throughly covered in mud,
we were on our way back out. I decided to keep my
eyes peeled in case I saw the dark little bunny
again, and sure enough I did. He was sitting in the
woods, just barely off the road, clearly out of
place, and not quite sure what to do. Someone must
have dumped him. When I walked up to him, he hoped
right up to me. So I picked him up and he rode in my
lap all the way home. I gave the little guy a bath,
some lettuce (which he scarfed!), and let him hop
around the house. He was clearly someone's pet, and I
think even litter box trained. Axl has been having a
great time 'babysitting' him and has made it his
personal job to watch his every move.
Unfortunately, I won't be able to keep him (I already feel terrible having my big dog in this little condo), and I think my fiance would not be very happy (I tend to want to keep any furry thing that enters my life). So if you know of anyone that might have a good home, please email me. Here is the little guy... I nicknamed him Jack.
And of course some Axl pictures..
Unfortunately, I won't be able to keep him (I already feel terrible having my big dog in this little condo), and I think my fiance would not be very happy (I tend to want to keep any furry thing that enters my life). So if you know of anyone that might have a good home, please email me. Here is the little guy... I nicknamed him Jack.
And of course some Axl pictures..
Lani and Steve, Miami Design Destrict
Sep/17/08 05:29 PM
It was so great to have
my friends Lani and Steve here for the weekend.
Though they are not engaged (yet!) I couldn't help
but do an 'almost E session' with them in the design
district. Have fun on your cruise you two, and can't
wait to see you again!!
Welcome Reese Ann Roeder!
Sep/15/08 10:33 AM
Yesterday my cousin
Sara, (who's belly appeared in earlier posts), gave
birth to a baby girl whom they named Reese Ann
Roeder. So cute! I am so happy for them and cannot
wait to take a picture of the cutie, too bad they are
all the way in California! Now we will have a little
flower girl for my wedding! Congrats Sara and Amos
and I can't wait to meet Reese!!
Lani and Steve, Sneak Peek!
Sep/14/08 06:58 PM
One of my best friends
Lani and her boyfriend Steve spent the weekend with
us visiting from Virginia Beach before the left for a
cruise (fun!). I have know Lani since we were both 10
years old living on the same Marine base in Japan, a
long time! It was so great to see her and meet Steve,
and I couldn't resist taking them to the Miami Design
District for some portraits.. here is a sneak peek
and I will have more soon!
Check out the post below for my NEW MOBILE NUMBER!!!
Check out the post below for my NEW MOBILE NUMBER!!!
New Mobile Number!
Sep/14/08 06:54 PM
After almost 5 years of
living in Miami I am finally changing my mobile
number. Unfortunately it had to be an instant change
and I lost my old number immediately. So please give
me a call at: 305-788-3049! I am often on location,
on the road, or out of the office so if you need to
speak with me that I now my primary number...
thanks!
a little behind the scenes..
Aug/11/08 02:31 PM
My Wedding Inspiration Pages
Jul/30/08 02:19 PM
So I have put together
some pages of ideas and inspiration from colors,
locations, looks and feels. I think I really like the
feel of them and would like it to be something
outside, romantic and in the country. The problem is
I haven't seemed to figure out where that is yet..
any ideas??
Nevada, California, My Ring!
Jul/17/08 01:07 PM
After shooting Lisa and
Richard's Wedding at the Moorings in Islamorada I
hoped a flight to Reno, Nevada then drove to
Bridgeport, CA for Jaime and Bob's Ranch Wedding.
Both weddings were great and it was so fun to go from
a beach wedding in the keys to a ranch wedding in the
mountains.
On Monday I shot portraits of Riana in Lake Tahoe, who competes in beauty pageants and is working on her modeling career. Yesterday I shot belly pictures of my cousin Sara, (she is 7 months pregnant!), in the wine country Murphy's, CA. It has been a great photo tour, and I was set to leave this morning to go back to Miami until US Airways canceled my flight! ahhhh! I love air travel! So now I am waiting to see what they can do, I have been on hold an hour so far!
Can't wait to share they images from this last week! In the meantime here is a picture of my beautiful ring! (I just got engaged.. read further!)
On Monday I shot portraits of Riana in Lake Tahoe, who competes in beauty pageants and is working on her modeling career. Yesterday I shot belly pictures of my cousin Sara, (she is 7 months pregnant!), in the wine country Murphy's, CA. It has been a great photo tour, and I was set to leave this morning to go back to Miami until US Airways canceled my flight! ahhhh! I love air travel! So now I am waiting to see what they can do, I have been on hold an hour so far!
Can't wait to share they images from this last week! In the meantime here is a picture of my beautiful ring! (I just got engaged.. read further!)
Finally! Thailand-Koh Tao
Jul/10/08 01:24 PM
Koh Tao was obviously my favorite part
of the trip.. seeing thats where I got engaged! It
is considered the second top dive destination in
the world next to the Great Barrier Reef. It only
really began to be developed in the 1980's and
much of the island is still jungle and treacherous
dirt roads only accessible by dirt bikes. Even
more popular are the wooden banana boat taxis that
surround the island. The island is raw and
beautiful with clear turquoise waters. We stayed
in a bungalow at Sensi Paradise that was unreal. The people,
food, water, fish and beaches were incredible. I
can't wait to go back!
The pier from the mainland where we took a two hour catamaran to get to the island
our bungalow
Restaurants on the beach, food so spicy you sweat!
you could see the fish in the water from the side of the boat
sunset from our balcony
At night, cocktail in hand, you could sit on a Thai cushion on the sand and watch the fire show
The pier from the mainland where we took a two hour catamaran to get to the island
our bungalow
Restaurants on the beach, food so spicy you sweat!
you could see the fish in the water from the side of the boat
sunset from our balcony
At night, cocktail in hand, you could sit on a Thai cushion on the sand and watch the fire show
Thailand-Chiang Mai
Jul/10/08 11:05 AM
Chiang Mai is the
second largest city in Thailand next to Bangkok, with
bustling night markets, temples, and rivers. While we
were there we shopped at local food markets, took a
Thai cooking class, and even went white water
rafting.
Bangkok
Bangkok
Bangkok
Bangkok
Thailand- Outside Chiang Mai
Jul/10/08 10:58 AM
We stayed with a Thai
family in a small village outside Chiang Mai. We ate
home cooked food, the kids taught us dances, and the
next day we cycled through the village.
They lit this paper hot air balloon and released it to the sky, kinda like homemade fireworks..
At the local temple we made a food offering to the monks
A house in the village
Housewives sewing purses, bags and clothing to sell
We hung out with and taught a class of 10-11 year old kids at the village school
They lit this paper hot air balloon and released it to the sky, kinda like homemade fireworks..
At the local temple we made a food offering to the monks
A house in the village
Housewives sewing purses, bags and clothing to sell
We hung out with and taught a class of 10-11 year old kids at the village school
Thailand- The World's First Elephant Hospital
Jul/08/08 05:49 PM
On the same property as
the conservation center, though they are not
affiliated, is the first elephant hospital in the
world. It was established by an organization
called Friends of the Asian
Elephant and has been been treating
elephants for issues from rapid environment
changes, sickness, and threats from man for almost
15 years. Like most great organizations helping
animals are in need of continued support, to learn
how you can help, click here.
The first elephant we were greeted by was a 2 yr old elephant named Mosha that had stepped on a land mine while following her mother who was working for illegal loggers. She had to walk out of the jungle for 2 days before reaching a road to be transported to the hospital. After amputating much of her leg, she is going to be fitted with the first prosthesis to ever be made for an elephant. She was so sweet and like most babies, just wanted to play.
Unfortunately, land mines are a common problem and seven years ago this elephant, Motala, stepped on one. Once she reached the hospital, she under went surgery performed by over 150 people to amputate part of her leg. She is now 46, and has had a rigorous and difficult recovery, though they are working on a prosthesis for her as well.
This elephant was being treated for eye infections that had left her almost blind. A couple of the blind elephants that weren't able to go back to their home now have permanent homes at the hospital.
The first elephant we were greeted by was a 2 yr old elephant named Mosha that had stepped on a land mine while following her mother who was working for illegal loggers. She had to walk out of the jungle for 2 days before reaching a road to be transported to the hospital. After amputating much of her leg, she is going to be fitted with the first prosthesis to ever be made for an elephant. She was so sweet and like most babies, just wanted to play.
Unfortunately, land mines are a common problem and seven years ago this elephant, Motala, stepped on one. Once she reached the hospital, she under went surgery performed by over 150 people to amputate part of her leg. She is now 46, and has had a rigorous and difficult recovery, though they are working on a prosthesis for her as well.
This elephant was being treated for eye infections that had left her almost blind. A couple of the blind elephants that weren't able to go back to their home now have permanent homes at the hospital.
Thailand- The Elephants
Jul/08/08 04:40 PM
We visited the
Elephant Conservation
near Chiang Mai.
Alongside photography, animals have always been a
passion of mine and to see these amazing animals
firsthand was something else. They are incredible.
Elephants are very important to Thailand's history, spirituality, and economy. Unfortunately, like much of the incredible wildlife in this world they are suffering from habitat loss, illegal logging work and continued exploitation. The Conservation has become a safe haven for many of these amazing animals.
The Elephants daily bath
Have you ever seen how an elephant drinks water.. check it out!
Elephants are very important to Thailand's history, spirituality, and economy. Unfortunately, like much of the incredible wildlife in this world they are suffering from habitat loss, illegal logging work and continued exploitation. The Conservation has become a safe haven for many of these amazing animals.
The Elephants daily bath
Have you ever seen how an elephant drinks water.. check it out!
Thailand- Lamphang
Jul/08/08 07:48 AM
We took a crowded local
bus to the village of Lamphang. We stayed at
the Riverside
Guesthouse, which was, of course, on the
river. It is a simple, but beautiful collection of
dark wood rooms with orchids and thai decorations
in every corner. It hadn't taken us too long to
get used to sleeping in the heat with no AC, we
were pretty used to the constant sweating.
We got in town just in time to
catch the last bit of the local sunday market.
You could buy just about everything you can
imagine, and eat so much great food all for what
converts to pennies of a US dollar. We loved it!
The Riverside
The Sunday Market
The river from the restaurant we ate at that night..
We got in town just in time to
catch the last bit of the local sunday market.
You could buy just about everything you can
imagine, and eat so much great food all for what
converts to pennies of a US dollar. We loved it!
The Riverside
The Sunday Market
The river from the restaurant we ate at that night..
Thailand-Sukhothai
Jul/08/08 07:29 AM
From Bangkok we left
with our group and headed by train up north to
Sukhothai. We stayed at a great guesthouse
called J & J. The next morning we were up
early and went cycling through the old city of
Sukhothai. We walked through the first kingdom of
thailand, and road our bikes through the small
streets that led from temple to temple.
J&J
We spent a lot of time traveling by songtaew.. pretty much in the back of s truck with two benches....
The old city
At one of our temple stops these locals were selling live eels, frogs and turtles. You bought them and let them go in the nearby lake. They say the turtle brought a long life, a frog brought a good job and the eel health.
We wanted to buy them all to let them go, but in the end we set this turtle free...
J&J
We spent a lot of time traveling by songtaew.. pretty much in the back of s truck with two benches....
The old city
At one of our temple stops these locals were selling live eels, frogs and turtles. You bought them and let them go in the nearby lake. They say the turtle brought a long life, a frog brought a good job and the eel health.
We wanted to buy them all to let them go, but in the end we set this turtle free...
Thailand- Bangkok
Jul/07/08 09:48 AM
After over 24 hours we
arrived in Bangkok in the middle of the night. We
stayed at an adorable boutique hotel called
the Old Bangkok Inn in the heart of Bangkok. It had
great dark wood loft rooms, and served an amazing
breakfast with all sorts of local fruit.
The next day we walked the city and headed to the Grand Palace. It was gorgeous..
That night we moved to a new hotel in the backpacker district of Bangkok. We walked Khao San Road which is full of street vendors, tourists, Thais, dogs, everything you can imagine.. and a little crazy! The first 8 days of our trip we traveled with a company called Intrepid Travel, we had a great group of 12 people from Ireland, Australia, England, and Canada and a super cool guide from Thailand we called Ben (her nickname). We meet everyone that night.
The next day we walked the city and headed to the Grand Palace. It was gorgeous..
That night we moved to a new hotel in the backpacker district of Bangkok. We walked Khao San Road which is full of street vendors, tourists, Thais, dogs, everything you can imagine.. and a little crazy! The first 8 days of our trip we traveled with a company called Intrepid Travel, we had a great group of 12 people from Ireland, Australia, England, and Canada and a super cool guide from Thailand we called Ben (her nickname). We meet everyone that night.
Back from Thailand!
Jul/07/08 09:28 AM
I am finally back from
Thailand! Thanks so much for everyones patience while
I have been gone, but now it is back to business as
usual!
As you may have guessed I took so many images on the trip, so for the next few days I will be blogging the images from each day.. so get ready!
Along with the images I will fill you in to the details of the journey, but I will fast forward and let you know that while we were in the island of Koh Tao Chad popped the question, and I'm engaged! It was a beautiful island (you will see), it is a beautiful ring, and I couldn't be happier. Soon I will know what all my brides go through firsthand when it comes to planning.. can't wait!
Enjoy!
As you may have guessed I took so many images on the trip, so for the next few days I will be blogging the images from each day.. so get ready!
Along with the images I will fill you in to the details of the journey, but I will fast forward and let you know that while we were in the island of Koh Tao Chad popped the question, and I'm engaged! It was a beautiful island (you will see), it is a beautiful ring, and I couldn't be happier. Soon I will know what all my brides go through firsthand when it comes to planning.. can't wait!
Enjoy!
Off to Thailand!
Jun/17/08 11:47 PM
Tomorrow
morning (445 am, ahh!), Chad and I will be on our way
to the airport to head for Thailand. We should get
there some 24 hours later and will be there until the
2nd of July on VACATION! I am so excited! And yes, of
course I will be taking tons of images, so expect a
lot of blogging sometime after the 3rd!
Until then, if you need any immediate assistance you can call Mary at (775) 450-6957 for information on packages and availability. I will also be checking my email periodically so feel free to contact me as well and I will do my best to get in touch with you.
Here is a map of our route, plus three days at the end of this trip on the the island of Koh Tao.....
Thanks for your patience while I am away and I can't wait to share the images with you, until then........
Until then, if you need any immediate assistance you can call Mary at (775) 450-6957 for information on packages and availability. I will also be checking my email periodically so feel free to contact me as well and I will do my best to get in touch with you.
Here is a map of our route, plus three days at the end of this trip on the the island of Koh Tao.....
Thanks for your patience while I am away and I can't wait to share the images with you, until then........
Ohio!
Jun/17/08 11:15 PM
This last week I have
been in Ohio, hence my lack of blogging. I really
wanted to blog about the Cicadas (terrible screeching
creatures that swarm Ohio every 4, 7 or 14 years),
but I simply lost the time. So here is a picture of
the lovely little creatures. I hope that you never
come in contact with them.. earplugs don't even help!
My main purpose in Ohio was not to see these lovely bugs, rather to see my boyfriend Chad graduate after 7 years of college! (No, he is not a doctor, but very well educated!) It was a packed weekend with dinners and celebration, and great relief! He will be starting a new job in Miami in July and living there full time, Finally!
My main purpose in Ohio was not to see these lovely bugs, rather to see my boyfriend Chad graduate after 7 years of college! (No, he is not a doctor, but very well educated!) It was a packed weekend with dinners and celebration, and great relief! He will be starting a new job in Miami in July and living there full time, Finally!
Murphys California
Jun/05/08 01:53 PM
I made it to Murphys,
California and got a chance to visit with my cousins
Sara and Shelby. Sara has been in some of my previous
posts for her bridal session and with her husband
Amos. She is now 6 and 1/2 months pregnant and so
cute! Can't wait to come back in July and do belly
shots, and then I will have to some back to shoot the
new baby! Can't wait!
Shelby is 17 and an actress. She goes to a private boarding school in California for theater.. watch our hollywood! Here we all are...
I also did have a sneak into a winery to do a little wine tasting.. this is one of my mom's favorite places called Vino Moda. It is a brand new winery, and they make the wine right there in town. The wines were great and one of the owners even took us in the back to sample next year's port from the barrel. What a treat, I will be back to buy a bottle next year!
Shelby is 17 and an actress. She goes to a private boarding school in California for theater.. watch our hollywood! Here we all are...
I also did have a sneak into a winery to do a little wine tasting.. this is one of my mom's favorite places called Vino Moda. It is a brand new winery, and they make the wine right there in town. The wines were great and one of the owners even took us in the back to sample next year's port from the barrel. What a treat, I will be back to buy a bottle next year!
Onward!
Jun/05/08 01:41 PM
Wow! What a crazy week
it has been! After leaving Mexico City I went to
Reno, Nevada and headed home to Gardnerville which is
about an hour from Reno. I was great to see my
family, and I always love dropping into the valley to
lay my eyes on the snowcapped mountains, so
beautiful!
On Friday, we headed to Murphy's California and took one of my favorite drives over highway 4. It is a very steep, windy road that is closed most of the year, but now is open during the summer months. It is full of great views the whole way, you just have to stay on your toes as it is a single lane road most of the way and you never know what is coming around the corner... ahh!
There is still so much snow up there it is amazing.. here is mosquito lake, nice name eh?
Lake Alpine
On Friday, we headed to Murphy's California and took one of my favorite drives over highway 4. It is a very steep, windy road that is closed most of the year, but now is open during the summer months. It is full of great views the whole way, you just have to stay on your toes as it is a single lane road most of the way and you never know what is coming around the corner... ahh!
There is still so much snow up there it is amazing.. here is mosquito lake, nice name eh?
Lake Alpine
Baby Luca
May/22/08 10:37 PM
Among us girls we have
also had little Luca staying with us. He is Aria's
baby, and is the happiest little baby I have ever
met. He can't stop cracking up all day. He has been
an amazing sport trekking around Mexico, and takes it
all in stride. This morning we were playing a little
peek-a-boo with the camera, so funny! He will be a
ringbearer on Saturday, gonna be so cute!
Mexico City!
May/22/08 10:17 PM
Mexico City!
Finally I am able to blog! I have been in Mexico City since tuesday, and it has been great! I am here for Jeremy and Paola's wedding (in the previous post from Key Biscayne) and a bunch of us girls came early to stay with Paola and her mom. We have been finalizing the details of her wedding (now I know what you girls go through, gosh!). It has been a great way to see such a large city and get a feel for it from a locals view. It is a busy, bustling, and slightly chaotic city with great food, a great vibe, and lots going on.
We have started each morning running in the park. It is a forest with great trails and hills, and then finishing with a glass of fresh squeezed juices for $1! Love it!
We just checked into the hotel tonight and the festivities begin tomorrow, can't wait to have more to show!
Finally I am able to blog! I have been in Mexico City since tuesday, and it has been great! I am here for Jeremy and Paola's wedding (in the previous post from Key Biscayne) and a bunch of us girls came early to stay with Paola and her mom. We have been finalizing the details of her wedding (now I know what you girls go through, gosh!). It has been a great way to see such a large city and get a feel for it from a locals view. It is a busy, bustling, and slightly chaotic city with great food, a great vibe, and lots going on.
We have started each morning running in the park. It is a forest with great trails and hills, and then finishing with a glass of fresh squeezed juices for $1! Love it!
We just checked into the hotel tonight and the festivities begin tomorrow, can't wait to have more to show!
Dog Days of Summer
May/19/08 09:16 AM
Well, summer is back!
Not that it ever really cools down here, but it is
heating up quick! So yesterday I took Axl out for
some swimming, and as you can see he was as happy as
ever. This is the bay behind my house, perfect for
fetch!
Such a good retriever!
Such a good retriever!
Paola and Jeremy's kinda wedding, Key Biscayne
May/04/08 01:29 PM
Yes,
it was Paola and Jeremy's KINDA wedding. Paola and
Jeremy are great friends of mine that will be tying
the knot on May 24th in Mexico City. My boyfriend,
Chad and I have the pleasure of being in the wedding
party and can't wait! However, they decided to get
hitched here before going to Mexico just for the
legality aspect to avoid any issues. What started out
as a trip to the courthouse turned into a super
casual family ceremony on the beach followed by a
BBQ. So, it was their wedding, kinda.
Here are some shots from the afternoon in Key Biscayne, I can't wait for the huge wedding in Mexico, watch for those images on May 24th.. even though I will have bridesmaid duties, you know I will be sneaking in some photos! Congrats guys!
I love this shot!
Jeremy and his Dad
Jeremy and Paola's buddies from the Coast Guard even did a fly by!
Here are some shots from the afternoon in Key Biscayne, I can't wait for the huge wedding in Mexico, watch for those images on May 24th.. even though I will have bridesmaid duties, you know I will be sneaking in some photos! Congrats guys!
I love this shot!
Jeremy and his Dad
Jeremy and Paola's buddies from the Coast Guard even did a fly by!
Scottsdale, Arizona
Apr/06/08 11:49 PM
I have been in
Scottsdale since Sunday (and just now blogging, so
sad!) I have been super busy and have finally sat
down to share some of my surroundings. It has been a
great break from the oppressive humidity that rules
Miami, however I hear it does reach 115 degrees in
the summer! Yikes! Thank goodness it is April!
Scottsdale is a great little town, with lots of art, restaurants, and of course, the desert... love the desert!
The Salt River..
I was walking through town, and there was a dog fashion show going on. Hilarious! Runway and everything..
We shot this car in the desert, what a beauty!
I hiked Camelback Mountain on Saturday. It was amazing!
Scottsdale is a great little town, with lots of art, restaurants, and of course, the desert... love the desert!
The Salt River..
I was walking through town, and there was a dog fashion show going on. Hilarious! Runway and everything..
We shot this car in the desert, what a beauty!
I hiked Camelback Mountain on Saturday. It was amazing!
Axl and Marley and Me
Apr/06/08 10:54 PM
Axl (my dog) was cast
in a hero scene of the movie Marley and Me this week. He made his first big
screen debut aside 'Marley' a very talented yellow
lab, Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson. The scene
was an obedience class where Marley misbehaves
terribly. It is incredible to watch the 'star' dog
work, for being so well trained he certainly had
no problem being a bad dog for a scene! Here is a
picture of Axl, look for him when the film
releases on Christmas Day!
On another note, I am very happy to report that Oprah did a show on Friday on puppy mills and the reality of where most pet store puppies come from. I hope that it helps bring to light the sad truth of how many dogs are suffering, and by purchasing dogs from them we are fueling a cruel and horrible industry. April 10th is ASPCA Day, check out their website if you are interested to see how you can make a difference in your community. Save an animal and adopt a rescue!
On another note, I am very happy to report that Oprah did a show on Friday on puppy mills and the reality of where most pet store puppies come from. I hope that it helps bring to light the sad truth of how many dogs are suffering, and by purchasing dogs from them we are fueling a cruel and horrible industry. April 10th is ASPCA Day, check out their website if you are interested to see how you can make a difference in your community. Save an animal and adopt a rescue!
Wellington WEF Horse Show
Mar/25/08 11:00 PM
For those who don't
know, my other passion in life (besides photography)
has always been horses. I spend most of my off days
with them, and many of those days this time of the
year up at the show in Wellington. Right now some of
the most talented horses in the world are competing
in Wellington, and great to watch. Here are a few
images from the show.
A little nap between classes.
The first two images are Amanda on Ricky from my barn, Grassy Ridge Farm. The last images is one of the Grand Prix horses, crazy!
A little nap between classes.
The first two images are Amanda on Ricky from my barn, Grassy Ridge Farm. The last images is one of the Grand Prix horses, crazy!
BARKAPALOOZA, Markham Park
Feb/11/08 02:39 PM
Yesterday
Nicole and I headed to Barkapalooza
with Oliver and Axl. It was pretty amazing. There
were so many dogs, every color, breed, and size
you could think of. They had performances, races,
and lots of fundraising for local rescues. It was
a great way to spend the afternoon.
This Bulldog was giving out kisses for a dollar to help raise $2000 needed for his ear operation....
This is the biggest great dane I have ever seen, he weighed 170lbs, he makes Axl look like a chihuahua....
Save a life and adopt a rescue!
This Bulldog was giving out kisses for a dollar to help raise $2000 needed for his ear operation....
This is the biggest great dane I have ever seen, he weighed 170lbs, he makes Axl look like a chihuahua....
Save a life and adopt a rescue!
Freedom Yacht Management and the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show
Nov/02/07 03:34 PM
One of my good friends,
Josh recently started his own company
Freedom Yacht Management
that specializes in
yacht maintenance, detailing, and record
management. I just shot his new marketing images
while they were preparing for the Fort Lauderdale
Boat Show. Here are a few...
Casa Morada, The Florida Keys
Oct/31/07 10:46 AM
This last week Chad,
Axl & I headed down to one of the Florida Keys
secrets, Casa Morada. A small resort (with only 16
suites), in Islamorada, it is quiet, beautiful,
and somewhere I will definitely return, and did I
mention dog friendly?
Axl an Chad in the Kayak..
Axl.
An amazing trip! I can't wait to get back!
Axl an Chad in the Kayak..
Axl.
An amazing trip! I can't wait to get back!
Ironstone Vineyard
Oct/15/07 10:51 PM
Last week I had the
opportunity to visit Ironstone Vineyard in Murphys,
California. I arrived on the last day of their grape
harvest to capture new marketing images for them.
What a beautiful place.....
Fly Fishing and Ohio, again!
Sep/20/07 09:51 PM
If you would have asked me a few years ago if I would spend my weekends off in Ohio, or even go there for that matter, you might have been greeted with 'Are you nuts?' Well, love can do funny things to a person... like send them to Ohio twice in one month! My boyfriend and I drove (DROVE!) to Ohio where he will finish up a construction program he is in. He will be staying there for 9 long months, and I must of course return to Miami. However, even though it was a somber trip, we did manage to have some fun and enjoy the great weather...
He did his best to teach me to fly fish, and after about 10 minutes I decided I better stick to taking pictures.. here they are:
We also checked out the Fleishman's Estate (as in the people that invented margarine), now called Greenacres. It is beautiful and old and just opened to the public. Recently, Chad's parents were at a wedding reception held there (their first one)- What a gorgeous place for a wedding! Maybe I will start shooting in Ohio... hmmm...
As always great to get out of dodge, back in Miami now.... Looking forward to cooler weather!
Kiss and Show it!
Sep/13/07 01:07 PM
Party Party!! Last
night was the Kiss and Showit Bash for everyone here at
PartnerCon in Los Angeles. Super Fun!!! Some free
booze, dancing girls, and yes, a photo booth!! I
love photo booth! Every wedding I shoot is now
required to have one... (well not exactly, but
would be cool right?). I think that I when I hit
the lottery I will get three of them and put them
all over my house....
Was a great party, we sported our Kiss hats (they did ensure free drinks).
Here we are (Sara, Myself, Liana, and Nicole)
Kevin Swan and the Girls!
And they had the coolest dancer, she did her whole routine with a hula hop. Sounds strange, but actually was pretty hot. I think that Britney Spears should give it a try.....
Booze, Music, Props, Lots of Photographers, and a Photo Booth... Hilarious!!
Yup.. we are big dorks, its been confirmed.
Was a great party, we sported our Kiss hats (they did ensure free drinks).
Here we are (Sara, Myself, Liana, and Nicole)
Kevin Swan and the Girls!
And they had the coolest dancer, she did her whole routine with a hula hop. Sounds strange, but actually was pretty hot. I think that Britney Spears should give it a try.....
Booze, Music, Props, Lots of Photographers, and a Photo Booth... Hilarious!!
Yup.. we are big dorks, its been confirmed.
Welcome to Los Angeles!!!
Sep/12/07 02:41 PM
After waking up very
early, we (Nicole Kent & I) boarded a plane in Fort
Lauderdale to Los Angeles to go to Pictage Partner
Conference. It is my first conference and I am so
excited to experience it as well as help
out Liana Lehman, (who we just spent time with
at Photo Biz Bootcamp in Atlanta).
After such an easy trip, we arrived at the hotel ready to go. We got the booth set up and started to see swarms of photographers in the hotel (somehow they all have a look!). I have already meet so many great people and spent the afternoon catching up on Liana's educational DVD's so I knew what to talk about today, and learn a thing or too!
We got our booth ready, I have already listened to a speaker, gotten completely motivated, and realized again how much I enjoy this type of stuff. I am on information overload, again... ahhhh!!
It is a great thing though!
Here Nicole and I are at our booth...
After such an easy trip, we arrived at the hotel ready to go. We got the booth set up and started to see swarms of photographers in the hotel (somehow they all have a look!). I have already meet so many great people and spent the afternoon catching up on Liana's educational DVD's so I knew what to talk about today, and learn a thing or too!
We got our booth ready, I have already listened to a speaker, gotten completely motivated, and realized again how much I enjoy this type of stuff. I am on information overload, again... ahhhh!!
It is a great thing though!
Here Nicole and I are at our booth...
Ohio
Sep/04/07 04:46 PM
Got to spend this last
weekend in Cincinnati with my boyfriend Chad and his
family. Was great to get out of humidity for a little
fall like weather. They have so many trees, rivers
and it is completely unlike Miami. Even took the dogs
swimming!!
This is Burton, who couldn't quite figure out what the camera was doing, and if he should eat it or not...
Tucker, the OCD Border Collie that stares at Aquariums for hours on end.. (I wish I was that cheaply entertained!)
He can be a little intense, but when it comes to retrieving and watersports he is always game...
Stock's BMW, a little racecar, and so fun to ride in!!
All in all was great, but back to the heat for me!!
This is Burton, who couldn't quite figure out what the camera was doing, and if he should eat it or not...
Tucker, the OCD Border Collie that stares at Aquariums for hours on end.. (I wish I was that cheaply entertained!)
He can be a little intense, but when it comes to retrieving and watersports he is always game...
Stock's BMW, a little racecar, and so fun to ride in!!
All in all was great, but back to the heat for me!!
Austin &Angela
Sep/04/07 03:42 PM
I went to Cincinnati
with Chad to go be a GUEST at the wedding of Austin
&Angela. I must say that it was so fun to
actually watch a wedding! It was a great wedding, and
Austin &Angela have an amazing connection that
could be felt by everyone.. Though I was a guest, I
couldn't help but grab a couple shots. Here are a few
samples...
I need to pick one that will be framed as their wedding present. Let me know what you guys think..
Bella. What an appropriate name
And, they could dance too!!
I had a great time, thanks for having me!!
I need to pick one that will be framed as their wedding present. Let me know what you guys think..
Bella. What an appropriate name
And, they could dance too!!
I had a great time, thanks for having me!!
Lets get started!!
Aug/22/07 01:19 PM
Well, after a long
wait, a couple bumps along the road, I finally have a
Blog!! Welcome should be a fun ride.. Lots of posting
to come!!