The thing is, is that I love Sara. Like a lot. Although now I realize that we aren’t very far apart in age, growing up, she always felt like a big sister to me. Sara and I would share the ice together every morning (I’m talking like 4:30am), and we also shared the same coach, Lisa. We would compete in the same states, compete on the same precision team, go to the same training camp in Colorado, and no matter how badly I wanted to give up, Sara was always the one rooting me on. That part of my life was a long time ago, but that’s something I have never forgotten. So when Sara called me all the way from Oklahoma to inquire about my shooting her wedding, all I can say is that it didn’t take long at all for me to say, “absolutely.” After all, she’s always been there for me. Now it’s my chance to return the favor.

I finally had the chance to meet the man behind Sara’s undeniable happiness last week when the two of them were in town for her bridal shower. Deren was everything that she had explained him to be on the phone all of those months ago. So incredibly kind and without a doubt the love of Sara’s life. We were able to walk around my neighborhood that afternoon to sneak some engagement photos that hadn’t been planned. But isn’t that the best? Come take a peek into their sweet loving ways :)

Congratulations Sara and Deren! I am so beyond excited to document your wedding day in Tulsa. See you in October!

I’ve had the honor of working closely with this charming little dance studio, Baby Take a Bow, for the past few months as they are going through a rebrand for their business. The owner, Kristen Ramirez, is beyond sweet and talented, and has brought so much life into Roscoe Village through her studio. During my last visit, I had the opportunity to watch some of her instructors as they danced to their favorite music, moving their bodies in ways we only wish we knew how. How gorgeous are they though, really? I was in awe, and was so grateful to be able to capture the beauty that they portray through movement.

Graham Ryan Steck. There are no WORDS to even express to you how darling and perfect this little boy is! Lucky for me, then, you are all able to see that for yourself through these images. He is just such a little love, full of smiles and laughter whenever he sees his mom being silly (she’s the sweetest, too, by the way) and looks identical to his kind and generous daddy. I couldn’t get enough of watching him play- if he didn’t have his elephant.. Hey! That’s okay, because he’ll go straight for his itty bitty hands and be happy as a clam. No more book? Hands. No more blocks? Yep, you guessed it.. hands! Even through teething he was so calm and quiet, focused on each and every activity that was put before him with his endearing and oh so adorable baby drool ;) and I have to be honest when I tell you.. I was so sad to see him leave.

Matt and Elisa, thank you so much for always thinking of me when it comes to creating memories for your beautiful family! It really does humble me to the core, and I will never be able to express my gratitude for all of the love and kindness the two of you (well, now three!) have shown me over the years. All my love to you, and I cannot wait until next time! xoxo