The Perfect Combo

It's no secret that I have been a major fan/supporter of Starbucks over the years. My obsession began when I moved from my small college town to Dallas post-graduation. In Dallas, where there's a store on every corner, it was hard not to give in. So, I did. Lattes, mochas, cappuccinos, frappuccinos, you name it. I was hooked. I don't know what they put in that stuff to make a sane person willing to spend $4 on a cup of coffee...

Anyway, I have tried many times over the last few years to give it up, without success. I could never do it. I could make it for a few days, maybe even a week or two, and then it was over. It was a losing battle. I craved the stuff, especially those stinkin' frapuccinos in the summer time. It's tragic, I know...

Well, I've been doing better. Last January, I decided to be hard core and stop. And I did. I'm super proud of myself!!! I got a french press and have loved the morning ritual of boiling water and making my coffee. It even tastes good. All of that would be well and good if it wasn't for this:

Last fall, wandering up and down the aisles of Wal-Mart (which is ALWAYS trouble) I came across the Starbucks Caramel Macchiato ice cream. DARN! I convinced myself that I just wanted to try it. I just needed a tiny taste of something sweet. Besides, it was much cheaper than going out and getting a drink. Huge mistake. I know better than to listen to inner dialogue. Once I gave in, I found out that this stuff is truly the perfect combination of vanilla, coffee, and caramel and better than ANY ice cream I have ever tasted. I didn't really need to know that.

On the upside, at least I'm (technically) saving a few bucks :) The battle continues...

Happy Thursday!

Intimidation, Fear, and Friends

Last night, I had the opportunity to chat with a few friends I made at the Escalate conference over Skype. After 20 minutes of trying to figure the Skype thing out, adding people, calling, hanging up, and wondering if our long-awaited conference call would actually happen, 10 or so of us quickly dove into conversation about photography, life, our joys, and our struggles.

In an industry that is so highly competitive, I am so thankful for this group of people who have made a commitment to challenge, encourage, and help one another out in any way possible. It has been a breath of fresh air for me to visit with other photographers in every stage who are going through the same experiences I am facing. As we talk through our challenges and our dreams, it is so incredible to brainstorm creative solutions with one another and gain the courage to continue walking forward through the intimidation.

Without people like this in my life, I would not be here today and my business would not be what it is. When I first picked up a digital camera for the first time in 2005, I had NO IDEA what I was doing. It was a miracle that anything turned out (maybe I shouldn't be admitting this here...). I am so grateful to photographers such as Brooke Robinson, who took a chance on me and invited me to tag along to weddings as her second shooter, who have given me the benefit of their hard work and knowledge, turning me to resources I never knew existed. They have had more influence on me than they even know.

Though I have hopefully grown a little since those first days, camera in hand, I am far from where I want to be; both professionally and as a person. I continue to face obstacles and challenges, get intimidated by the incredible work of other photographers, and some days don't want to get out of bed for fear of failing. Thanks friends, for being willing to stand beside me. It is my hope that, in the future, I can give back to you some of the encouragement and help that you have graciously given to me.

Mountain View Wedding: Keegan & Justin

I can't believe how quickly time flies. It seems like just yesterday that I was talking to Keegan for the first time, hearing all about the wedding that she and Justin were planning.

Well, the big day came fast! On May 29th, Keegan and Justin were married at Flatwoods Missionary Baptist Church in Mountain View, AR. Keegan was the perfect bride, happy, sweet, and smiling all day long. She was sooo excited to be marrying Justin, and it was easy to see why. Justin is the perfect gentleman, thoughtful and caring, certain to make sure that everyone and everything is taken care of, and simply adoring of Keegan.

I always say it, but I love getting to know my clients, both throughout their engagement and even after the wedding is over. Immediate following the honeymoon, Keegan and Justin moved to Springdale to start new jobs. I am sooo thrilled that they're up here and am excited for the friendship to continue.

Keegan and Justin, it has been such a pleasure getting to know you. I love you guys and am so excited to get to know you better as you start your married life here in NWA. I can't wait to show you around town and introduce you to Fayetteville!

Sharing a special moment with Dad





Seeing each other for the first time. Love these special moments!











We went out for some extended portrait time after the ceremony. This was the first time I've ever taken portraits right after the wedding and it was so fun! It was easy for everyone to be super relaxed and have a good time! Keegan was feeling a little sassy and WORKED the camera!

Mountain View Engagement: Anna & Brandon

Last week I was in bee-u-tee-ful Mountain View, AR for a wedding and had the opportunity to meet up with Anna and Brandon for some engagement pictures. Anna and Brandon have known each other for a long time - since high school. High school sweethearts abound this year! I have met Anna several times, but this was my first time to meet Brandon. I enjoyed getting to know them as a couple and hearing a bit of their story. They are planning a wedding this September at Anna's family farm.

We began the engagement session at a near-by bed and breakfast and then headed out to Anna's farm to finish up. As you can see, the scenery can't be beat!

Anna and Brandon, it was so fun to hang out with you guys! I loved getting to know you a little bit better and see a slice of your life. I can't wait for your wedding in September!

My summer wish list...

Now that the "unofficial" start of summer is here, I'm feeling the urge to run off and play hookie. The sun is calling to me from outside the window making it extremely hard to stay in and be the responsible adult that I aspire to be. It's not fair that only kids get to have summers off!!! Anyway, I started thinking about things I want to do this summer and put together my little list:

Hang out at the pool

Go camping

Cookout with friends

Live music at Concert in the Park

Late night movies at the drive-in

Summer Camp with the high school students of Fellowship Student Ministries

Spend some time at the lake

Go for sno-cones

Sit outside and look at the stars

Go to the rodeo

Go to the beach (no official plans yet, but open to invitations ;) )

Explore a few small towns in Arkansas

Give myself permission to eat lots of ice cream to cool off

Roadtrip with friends (fun anytime of year!)

So, these are just a few things I want to do for summer fun. What are your plans for summer? Do you have any fun ideas to add to my list? Can't wait to hear what everyone has going on!

Happy Wednesday!

Arkansas Wedding: Seth and Meghan: The Story

A few photos to share the story of Seth and Meghan's wedding day...

Seth and Meghan chose to see each other before the ceremony. I love this glimpse of their first look at each other. This is always a time full of emotion, excitement, and a few tears.

The pearl necklace that Seth gave Meghan as a wedding present.




Beautiful wedding details coordinated by the lovely Shawna Young of Young Designs in Little Rock.
Florals by Pat Mines


Koozies at the reception were a big hit!


Off to the honeymoon in the Dominican Republic!!!