BLOGOCITY

Our 1st Wedding of 2011 - Connie & Jim

2011-03-03T19:43:00.000-06:00

Lisa and I shot our first Winter wedding a few weeks ago, and as usual, had a great time capturing the moments of this life event. We had perfect winter weather, and a couple that was madly in-love with each other.

We began with a pre-shoot at the firehouse that Jim is a Captain at, and then headed to St. Charles for the wedding at the Conservatory. Loved both locations, especially the Conservatory. I had never been there, and was loving all the greenery in the midst of our stark winter wonderland.

We also had a third shooter on this one. Kim Neff did a great job and fit with our team perfectly! We will hopefully be using her as a 2nd shooter (if she's not already booked) when we have instances of more than one wedding scheduled on a particular date!

Here's some of the wintery charm of Connie & Jim's day . . .

Connie & Jim,

Thank you so much for choosing us to capture this life event

for you. You were so great to work with, and made this

a wonderful beginning to our first year of being an official team!!!

Our best to you both!

Kelly & Lisa

A Princess Party to Celebrate Kate's 3rd :):):)

2011-02-22T19:34:00.000-06:00

Lucky for me, Kate has been one of my most photographed little ones. From newborn to now, I have enjoyed every chance I've had to take her picture. She has a charmingly adorable personality to go along with her irresistibly cute self. So when her Mom asked me to capture this event for Princesses, I was happily up for the challenge!

The extravaganza began with a visit from an older princess singing, telling stories, and playing games with all of the younger princesses, and finished on a grand note with the smashing of the princess crown pinata.

It was an afternoon fit for a little queen, and down to the candy that filled the pinata, one that Kate will cherish looking back on someday. It made me really miss this age with my own girls.

Kate watching the arrival of the 1st Princess :)

Wow, Mom (my BFF) is loving this moment!!!{snickering to myself}

That's Grandpa in the background :)

A sweet moment with Grandma.

Watch-out pinata, Kate is serious about wanting her candy!!!

Dearest Kate,

It was a was a absolute joy and privilege, as usual!

I'm so blessed to have been charged with

capturing the details and moments of another of your

birthdays. Happy Birthday dear, sweet, beautiful Kates :)

Huggies,

Aunt Kell

Amber & Chad - The Proposal - A Perfect Precursor to The Love Day!!!

2011-02-13T09:16:00.000-06:00

Had an absolute blast on this one!!!!

Lisa called to tell me that we were being hired to capture the proposal of Chad & Amber, and that it would be a sort of "under cover" job. We were to meet at Anheuser-Busch Headquarters, and were to basically follow them on the brewery tour. At the end of the tour the staff was to take us back to the stables where the "The Proposal" would ensue.

Oh, one key component, was our story of why we were following them around with our cameras - very similar to paparazzi. We came up with a story of how this was an assignment for a photography class, and the theme was photojournalism.

How fun, I mean I felt like we were on an episode of Candid Camera (for those in my age-group) or Punked (for those of the current generation). Toooooo fun, and one of our favorite jobs to date. Plus, Amber was totally cool and went right along with our supposed assignment, and made documenting this awesomely fun.

She did not suspect a thing!

Oh, the snow was a total bonus, and made it even more perfect, despite the fact that we didn't really dress for it!!!

That is Amber & Chad directly ahead of Lisa-Girl.

He was so sneaky. LOL

We act like kids with our cameras sometimes - this seriously makes

me giggle out loud :):):):):)

Now back to the stables . . .

and this look of bewilderment :)

and then the look of surprise. {big smile as I recall the moment!}

My partner, the fabulous Lisa Scherer, taking the first "official" engagement pic.

What an event :)

Chad & Amber,

LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this job! We felt so honored to

document this for you, and can't wait for the next time

we get to work with you, happy planning :)

Hugs,

Kelly & Lisa

Four Big Sisters Got Their Little Bro - Meet The Whittles :):):):):)

2011-02-04T19:26:00.002-06:00

I must preface this with the fact that I ADORE this family, and looking at these just makes me love them even more! They are as beautiful inside as they are outside, and what an honor it was to capture some of their first images of their Baby Boy Garrett with his Big Sisters and his Amazing Parents.

I have known Jason since he was in Junior High playing football with my twin Bros. Back then I was in high school approaching college, and I had the typical mentality of a girl of that age - I didn't really pay much attention to Junior High peeps.

Fast forwarding through the years, there were family gatherings with Jason's family, and the memory of his Mom teaching us how she could do a double back-flip. Which my Mom tried 15 years later at a family reunion, and ended-up with a collection of metal in her leg to fix the multiple breaks in it!!! It's not what you think, but on the lead up to it, my Mom landed very wrong!!!!

Fast forward 2 more years, while we were caring for my Mom in our home as she was dying of Cancer, and me walking into my home from running an errand, and I find a house filled with my brothers and Mom, Jason and his gorgeous wife Natalie, their kiddos, a nephew, Jason's Mom (one of my Mom's most treasured friends), and the most amazing arrangement of Sunflowers that I have ever seen.

Our house was filled with the laughter that story telling generates, and lots and lots of farewell tears. It is quite a site to see a professional football player and his family that emotional, and as I think of it now, my eyes are over-flowing with tears. (I know that is shocking to you regular blog followers - LOL)

It is one of my most treasured memories of that very hard and sad month, and I can still hear my Mom reveling in the fact that they made the drive to St. Louis to say their goodbyes.

Anyway, I wanted to give the history of the connection with these customers, because they so deserve the recognition of how incredibly amazing and thoughtful, and truly good that they really are . . .

Without further ado - The Whittles & Their Newest Addition . . .

I know I mentioned that Jason was a professional football player (for 4 teams!!!!), and yes he was in

a Superbowl with the Giants!! It was very cool seeing him on tv during the Superbowl.

I loved this helmet idea. Isn't it amazing how little he is?!?!?!

Dear Jason, Natalie, & Kiddos,

As always, I can only say the kindest of words to you all.

You are an amazing family. You are the kind of people that everyone

loves to be around. I'm soooo incredibly blessed to know you.

How lucky was I, to have the honor of capturing these for you?

I can't thank you enough -

these give me so much happiness :)

Biggest of Hugs,

Kelly

P.S. Huge hugs to you Lolly! I miss our email conversations, and hope

you are doing awesome!

Reminders of a Great 2010!!!!!

2011-01-28T18:01:00.000-06:00

So my final activity of saying "goodbye" to the prior year's holiday season is always taking down the Christmas/Holiday cards from my friends and family. I always put it off until the end of January, because I soooooo bask in the joy of having a wall full of familiar faces, coupled with kind and sweet thoughts, decorating the space surrounding our television.

This year was no exception. However this year, I added another category of great peeps to that holiday card "art display", and it was my customers who were kind enough to share a holiday card with me.

Glimpses of these on a daily basis reminded of what an incredible first year of business I had, and how truly blessed I am to earn an income doing what I absolutely love with every fiber of my being.

Thank YOU from the bottom of my heart to all of my Customers :):):)

Thank you all for spreading the word about my dream of doing this for a living.

Thank you all for being sooooo encouraging and supportive.

And, thanks for making my 2010 business year a success beyond what I could ever have imagined :)

GIANORMOUSLY HUGE HUGS!!!!!!!!!!

Kelly

My BFF & Her Fam :)

2011-01-18T18:50:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure how I managed to get my BFF's family session blog out of order (I think it was the enormous amount of Fall business I had - THANK YOU TO MY FABULOUS CUSTOMERS!!!). However, it is evident by the looks of quite a few of these (there is still wonderful Fall color in some of the backgrounds), and I must apologize to my BFF for neglecting her!!!

Anyhow, here is her family's gorgeousness. It turned into one of my favorite shoots of the year, because getting 3 little kids with energy levels that exceed a local power plant - to be still - is absolutely hilarious. And, the shoot had this adorably sweet ending, with my BFF being the awesome Mom that she is to her so-cute-I-could-eat-her-up daughter, Kates . . .

Dear BFF (& Fam)!

I love you guys. I'm a better person for having you all in

my life, and I am blessed more than words

could ever describe, by having you there all of these years :)

Thanks for being your awesome self, and thanks for being

an amazing friend through thick & thin.

The Biggest of Hugs,

Kelly

Meet The Collop Family!!!!

2011-01-11T21:52:00.000-06:00

I was really excited and nervous for this inside December shoot. You see, I'm pretty much an outdoor photog. I haven't had enough experience with indoor shooting to feel like I have an indoor comfort zone, so I was very nervous. Luckily I have a very good photoging friend (yes it's Lisa), who gave me the idea to shoot in St. Charles at The Foundry, and I ended up loving the backgrounds and the lighting it granted us!!!

The Collops came to me via the "Grandkids" Shoot (thanks for passing my info. along Kathy :). Not only are they a beautiful family, but they were wondrous to shoot as well. Isabel has done some modeling, and knew exactly how to contrive magic in front of my lens, and for a 3 year old, Michael was a little charmer. Oh, and their parents were as nice as I could have asked for, and welcomed whatever I suggested - I LOVE people who are this great to work with :)

I also loved the fact one of the kiddos looked exactly like Mom, and the other kiddo looked exactly like Dad. Observe for yourselves . . .

Dear Collops,

I can only say the most positive of things about you :)

What a sweet and beautiful family you are, and how I will look

forward to the day I get the pleasure of shooting you all again!

Best of everything for each of you, and I hope 2011 brings you the

changes you are seeking, Emily ;)

Hugs,

Kelly

Three Girls & A Boy :)

2011-01-05T21:37:00.000-06:00

I met this awesomely sweet family through the equally awesomely sweet Smith's, who were thoughtful enough to pass my name along :):):)

When I spoke with Lisa, she gave me the option to chose a new venue, and I was blissfully happy with what we got on this late and very brisk Fall day. Which, by the way everyone is dressed, looked like an early Fall day. Not the case, but I had some very good actors, and I think they did an outstanding job of faking warmth as we made our way around Wash U!!!

See for yourselves . . .

Lisa, Matt & Girls,

What a delight you all were! Matt, thanks for missing the last part of your

football game. I know it was not an easy thing for you to give up, and I

appreciated having you there for this shoot :) Lisa, you are a delight to chat with, and to

shoot. Plus, you look just like Sarah Brightman, so that makes you even more fabulous

than you already are!!! Girls, you are awesome just being your girlie-girl selves.

I can't wait for the next time I get to see you all :)

Big Hugs,

Kelly

The Oesch Family - A Wonderful Dose of Inspiration for the Approaching New Year!!!

2010-12-29T10:16:00.000-06:00

I found Jenna and Rett through an email sent from my dear friend Gayla (yes the Gayla that is Mom to the precious and beautiful Anna). She sent out a email about a co-worker that was not only experiencing the anticipation and excitement of the upcoming arrival of her first child, but who also had been thrown one of those life curve balls that leave everyone asking why?

Jenna was diagnosed with Breast Cancer after she went in for her 13 week check-up, and her OB discovered a lump.

Yeah . . . I know, it leaves everyone one in disbelief to read/hear those words.

Anyway, those of you that know me or who follow this blog, know that I lost my Mom to Cancer a year and a half ago. So I decided to reach out to Jenna and Rett, and lucky for me, I got to spend an afternoon capturing them and their Baby Bump, Baby E, who I found out is officially Baby Emma (again a connection - my first born is Emma :)

They are the kind of people that you feel drawn to: sweet, kind, successful, totally in-love, and projecting the aura of soon-to-be-parenthood. They are inspiring, and if you are looking for a good dose of that inspiration you can check-out their blog at www.oeschfamilyblog.blogspot.com, where they have documented their emotional journey through their first pregnancy and their fight against Cancer.

Every time I get an update from their blog, I walk away in awe of the triumph of the human spirit, the power of love, and the wonder of knowing that we are all blessed with family and friends to help us get through the hard times.

Oh, imagine that, I have huge crocodile tears in my eyes . . .

Meet Jenna, Rett and Emma :):):):):)

So I brought a chalk-board prop (thanks for the idea Lisa), and I asked

Jenna and Rett if they could say anything to their daughter, what would it be?

They quietly chatted, and Rett wrote their response to my question . . . love the pink letters.

Jenna, Rett, and Baby Emma,

It was truly an honor. You were one of my favorite shoots to date.

Your spirits inspired me, and you continue to touch my heart when I get

updates from your blog.

I wish and pray for your health and your happiness.

And, I can't wait to read of your never-ending joys of

becoming a family!!!

Gianormous Hugs,

Kelly

Chris & Amanda's E Shoot

2010-12-19T08:56:00.000-06:00

This November E shoot took the cake!!! Chris and Amanda gave me total creative freedom on backgrounds. I mean they went with whatever I suggested, and even gave me courage when I was a bit apprehensive about this one particular spot. Let's just say there were a few characters that made this "Mom" tilt a bit to the nervous side, and yes, it is because I have lived in the "County" for too long!!!

Anyhow, these are some of my absolute favorites of the year, and putting these out here just brings the smiles to my face again. Amanda is another one of those gorgeous girls that should be modeling full-time, and with Chris, they both created magic in front of my lens . . .

Chris & Amanda,

Thanks for being so generous with me in my need for

different backgrounds!!!! I'm so crazy happy with

everything we got, and I'm sooooo excited to work

with you again in the future :)

Hugs,

Kelly

Meet the Whites!!!!

2010-12-13T06:44:00.000-06:00

This gorgeous family came to me via the Fabulous Janet Maihles (once again, love you Girlie) and what a story came from this one. Debbie, Joe, and myself are all native Iowans, and through further conversation, I discovered Joe is from the same small, quaint, charming, blink-and-you-will-miss-it town in northeast Iowa that my Mom grew up in. Yes . . . can you believe that irony????? And through further conversation, Joe told me that he used to run errands for my Great Grandma. He lived right across the street from her!!!! I mean really, I would love to know the odds of that one?!

After our conversations on family and friend connections, we had a great afternoon of warm November light, and despite a super busy Forest Park, we got some great images of this beautiful family of 5!!!!

Dear Whites,

You were a pleasure to work with, and the Iowa

connection made it exceptionally special and memorable!!!

Thanks for being your sweet and easy to work with selves,

and Alex, could you share some of that energy with me? I would

love to just have a fraction of what you have!!! LOL

Hugs,

Kelly

Meet 4 Boys and a Mom!!!!!

2010-12-05T22:22:00.004-06:00

So Angie is one of those amazing peeps that you just LOVE to be around. You know the kind that are so nice they make you smile just by being in their presence? The kind that once you've been given the chance to be around, for even a small amount of time, you get in your car and you think about how lucky you are to know such people?

She's the kind of person that makes you want to be a better person. Oh, and she's always smiling, which is another factor that just makes me happy. So when she called me to schedule a shoot (I met her through my BFF and the beautiful Mrs. Schultz), I was super happy and bursting with anticipation, because I don't get to see her that often!

Here is her beautiful and energetic fivesome :)

How's this for a view?

We had a great location at Angie's parents that had a

to-die-for view.

Angie and Jimmy wanted me to get this shot of their

youngest in a coat and hat that Jimmy had worn as

a child. How adorable is that?!

Angie, Jimmy & Boys,

I was honored that you contacted me for this,

and I soooo appreciated how good 3 spirited boys could be

for pictures. I know it's not the most fun, but you managed

to hang with me enough to get some GREAT shots.

Thanks for the change of venue, the vintage car,

and thanks for just being you!

Big Hugs,

Kelly

Meet The Spectacular Spampanis :)

2010-11-28T19:55:00.000-06:00

Another spectacularly gorgeous family to document, and yes I know I say it all the time, but I really am sooooo blessed to get such amazingly beautiful and sweet customers. These four had wonderful personalities, and once again I owe the fabulous Janet Mailhes a huge thanks for sending them my way, oh, and a very sincere "thank you" to the fabulous Tisha Pinson for her seconding on my photoging services :)

When I booked this shoot I was super excited to have the locations left up to me by Kristen, the stunning Mom, Wife, and Arbonne Representative (who should also be a Model) of this shoot. I got some great shots at their home, and then we headed to 2 new spots I have driven by a thousand times, and have always wished to shoot at. See what you think. I swear, every time I look at these, I go into some form of smiling trance at how mesmerizing they are as a family . . .

Cute and adorable don't even begin to

touch on little Mia and her personality!!!

I love Chase's version of what he should look like

in pictures. Below is what his parents

thought he should look like. Way to switch it up Chase :)

I told you Kristen should be a model,

and she is even more stunning in person.

Wow . . . Um . . . Huh . . . are there words for how great this is?

Dear Spampanis,

What a delight you were to capture at this point in your lives!

I loved the creative freedom you gave me with backgrounds.

I am crazy, insane, happy with what we got

of your spectacular family :):):)

Patrick, thanks for being a trooper, and wanting these to turn out

amazing for your wife. Kristen, I thought you were positively a dream

to work with. You are the type of customer I absolutely adore.

Thanks for you kindness and your sincerity.

Bigs Hugs,

Kelly

Meet the Smith Family!

2010-11-21T08:27:00.000-06:00

I adored meeting this sweet family of 5 for another great shoot in front of one of my favorite spots, The Muny in Forest Park. This was my 2nd official "furry family member" shoot, and Cassie and her family were all smiles and full of energetic charm.

I have 3 dogs that are on the "very naughty" side of the behavior chart, so it was delightful to see a beautiful and well-behaved golden retriever that is clearly a treasured member of this family. At one point, when we were near the water, there was this duck swimming around taunting poor Cassie. And she, much to my complete and total disbelief, maintained total composure. That would not have happened if my dogs had been there, and I will spare you the details of what I'm envisioning. It is not pretty . . .

Here are the 5 beautiful members of the Smith Family :)

Check out Cassie's composure at the taunting duck in both of these,

amazing control :):):)

Dear Smiths,

It was such a pleasure meeting you!!!

I loved your sweet personalities, and am so happy with

how they are shining brightly on everything we

got that day :)

Hugs,

Kelly

Meet The Pfabulous Pflums!!!!

2010-11-17T09:11:00.000-06:00

This pfabulously adorable and sweet family found me thanks to the awesome and gorgeous Mailhes Family (thanks once again!) We met on a delightful Fall day in Old Town St. Charles, and what a dream they were to shoot and interact with! It doesn't get any better than this, and I was once again reminded of why I love this job with all of my heart and soul.

The sight of this adorable little girl, who's personality is shining before the camera, and who has 2 beautiful parents that clearly adore her totally gives me that warm fuzzy feeling :)

Dear Pflums,

Thanks for being awesomely sweet and easy to work with!!!

It was a total pleasure, and one that I would love

to have again someday. Oh, and Brant, thanks for

sucking it up and hanging in there despite feeling awful.

You went above and beyond :)

Hugs,

Kelly

Michelle & Paul's Wedding - Part 3 of 3 - The Reception

2010-11-15T12:14:00.000-06:00

The finale of this unforgettable event . . .

OK, these next 6 weren't exactly the reception, but were

taken right before, and I just had to get their awesomeness

out there for all to see ;)

Awe, the reception!!!

Michelle & Paul,

What an honor!!! Thanks for choosing me to document your day.

It was a fantastic treat, and one that I will cherish forever.

I wish you a lifetime full of happiness together :)

Big Giant Hugs,

Kell

Michelle & Paul's Wedding - Part 2 of 3 - The Ceremony & After

2010-11-11T07:51:00.000-06:00

Here's the Ceremony and After. It is filled with fantastic and unforgettable moments from a ceremony that brought me to tears multiple times. For those of you that were there (& probably those that weren't), these will probably have the same effect - so you have been warned. {smiles}

Oh, and before I forget, I owe a huge thank you to my AMAZING, KIND, SUPPORTIVE and TALENTED second shooter and FRIEND, Lisa Scherer. She's everything I could have ever asked for in a second shooter, and I'm convinced she was sent to me from above :)

Lisa's geniusness

The Bub taking his job very seriously :)

My View

Lisa's View

I soooooo LOVE this look in my Mom-In-Law's eyes when

Michelle was given away. Pure emotion, and a very good attempt

at keeping the tears from streaming.

Right after the ceremony, and a few priceless moments of alone

time. Paul is checking out what Michelle had inscribed on his ring.

Oh look, it's the kiddos thrilled to have to pose for pics. LOL

Yes, we had this fantastic breeze that allowed us to get Michelle's

veil flowing beautifully.

My View

Lisa's View

My Favorite Flowing Veil Shot

And yes, she was a model and sooooo knows

how to create magic in front of the camera :):):)

How's this for skies?

We could not have ordered a more perfect background.

Final glimpse of their incredible day coming soon . . .

Michelle & Paul's Wedding - Part 1 of 3 - Getting Ready!!!

2010-11-07T11:23:00.000-06:00

Being chosen to shoot a wedding is truly an honor. It's an event with endlessly planned details that consume hours and hours of time, and there are no opportunities for attempting to recapture a moment. It also happens to be the realm of photography that I truly can not get enough of! So when my sister-in-law and her fiance asked me to be their wedding photographer, I was nervous, excited, humbled, and had 10 months of building anticipation.

Their Fairy-Tale-Day came on October 23rd.

It was marvelous and glorious, and a bunch more of those adjectives that are used to describe the beauty of "life events." It was also especially heartfelt because so many of our family members were there to share in the occasion.

Here's the beginning of their amazing day . . .

The Mothers of the Groom & Bride

Handmade with tons of love by my Mom-In-Law

My girls don't get a lot of quality time with their Aunt Michelle

because she lives in New York City. So when they do get time with her,

it is a huge highlight for them. Oh, and it was an added bonus moment

that Aunt Lisa was doing everyone's hair :)

Niiiiiiice . . .

the photographer should really be more mindful

of her reflection (Giggles . . .)

Our Matron of Honor

Lilly was the fourth Flower Girl :)

My Bubbie, not happy to be wearing a tux,

and being his adorably grumpy self :)

Hayden and her Aunt Melissa are two of those family

members we were blessed to spend time with.

My Boo helping her Aunt Michelle.

LOOOOOOVE this priceless shot of my Father-In-Law's

first glimpse of Michelle in her dress.

The kiddos bursting with excitement for their approaching limo ride!!!

The Ceremony will be up in a few days!!!

Meet The Ference Family!!!!!!

2010-11-01T06:54:00.000-05:00

Can't get enough of this splendidly gorgeous family of 5! Tara is one of the coaches of my daughter's Girls On The Run Team. She's one of those amazing people that can balance being a Mom, working full-time, coaching, and being involved at school!!!

We shot around St. Alban's golf course, and I was thrilled with the variety of backgrounds and colors we were afforded when Fall colors were at their prime. Dazzling hues and light were everywhere, and those factors coupled with the engaging personalities of these 5 made for some fantastic images of them being a family . . .

Dear Ferences,

Thanks for the opportunity to capture you all being

your delightfully awesome selves!!!

I LOVE what we got, and will have a hard time choosing

which of these will go into my top images of 2010!

Hugs,

Kelly

Omar At 9 Months!!!

2010-10-25T19:14:00.000-05:00

How lucky was I, to get the call to do Omar's 9 month shoot? Those of you that check in with my blog on a regular basis will recognize him from a Spring family shoot. He has these unforgettable eyes, and a dreamy and sweet disposition that could melt anyone's heart. I could take pictures of him for hours, because he is just this happy-go-lucky little soul that never seems to get upset about anything, including me holding a camera up to him capturing his every move.

I also got the added bonus of getting to shoot a few shots of his very pretty older sister Emma, and his equally sweet and charming parents! I love these customers - they make my job awesome :):):)

Christy, Eli, Emma & Omar,

Once again, it was an absolute pleasure!

You are the kind of customers we photogs dream of, and I truly

appreciate your business. I so look forward to the next time

I get to see you all :)

Hugs,

Kelly

The Delectably Adorable Anna at 3 Months

2010-10-20T06:57:00.000-05:00

One of the best things about this job is getting to see the changes that occur within the 1st year of life for my smallest customers. I got the see the changes that the first 3 months gave to little Miss Anna, and they certainly made her more adorable, more beautiful, and much more irresistible.

I also got the added benefit of getting to hang with her parents (who I love and adore) for a few hours on a gorgeous Fall Saturday. Because they had to wait so long to make this precious addition, it is especially bittersweet to hear and see them "being parents." They are such naturals, as I knew they would be, and it made me smile more than once witness the love, frustration, and wonder they/we experience every single day in this life-long commitment.

What a beautiful family they have become :):):):):):):):):):)

Gayla, Sean & Anna,

You have no idea what a gift it is to be able to document this

progression for your family. I soooooo look forward to the moments and

memories we get in the months and years to come!!!

Big Giant Hugs,

Kell

Vegas Speakeasy - Craig's Roaring 40's Birthday!!!!

2010-10-17T21:49:00.000-05:00

OK Fantastic Blog Followers, here's the final installment of the Gontkovic Vegas celebration of Craig turning 40! It was a wondrous affair from start to finish, held at the Palazzo Hotel in the private dining room of Dos Caminos.

You will see for yourselves the amount of planning, energy, and creativity Dawn famously showered Craig's Roaring 40's Birthday with . . .

The Band -

The Royal Crown Revue is out of LA,

and has been around for 20 years.

You might even recall a few of the band members

from the movie "The Mask" with Jim Carrey!!!

www.rcr.com

Love this shot because of Craig's Dad looking on

in the background, as Craig was dancing with his Mom :)

The Fellas

and The Flappers

Dawn wrote this book incorporating the slang and terminology

of the 20's, while simultaneously giving every single guest a

"20's inspired" roll and character name!!!

Our gift bags included Dawn's Book, these canteens, a disk with

some of Craig's all-time favorite tunes, and other goodies!

Dawnie & Craig,

BRAVO AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

This was one of the best birthday parties I have ever

had the privilege of being a part of.

Thanks for choosing me to document the enduring moments.

Thanks for making us feel like a part of the

"inner circle," and thanks for the hundreds of belly-laughs and

feel-good memories :):):):):)

Big Huge Hugs,

Kelly

Getting Ready for Craig's Roaring 40's Birthday!!!

2010-10-15T11:55:00.000-05:00

So the premise of Craig's Roaring 40's Birthday was a detailed theme that borrowed style from the 20's. To aide the girls, because these are not easy hairstyles or make-up to replicate, Dawn offered them all the opportunity to have both professionally done in her top-floor suite at Mandalay Bay.

I kind of had an idea about how people would "get into" the theme of this momentous celebration, but I really got an accurate feel when I showed up to capture the "girls-getting-ready" event. They had amazing hair stylists working their magic on the locks, and one adorably gorgeous and talented make-up artist to make the transformations happen. And I as usual, I enjoyed watching the elements come together before my eyes . . .

Aaaah, the thoughtfulness and appreciation :)

The Ensemble

Love that Vegas Cityscape in the Background!

Dawn's Headband

Many thanks to Kelly for helping me with this one!!!

I was struggling with hangers, and she gave me the genius suggestion to

lay them on the bed :):):)

Yes, I still can't stop thinking about these shoes and how marvelously

they went with Dawn's entire outfit!!!!

Loved this glimpse of simplicity out of the corner of my eye.

The Beautiful & Incredibly Talented Make-up Artist :)

Hair Stylist Magic :)

And now . . . . . . . .

for the finished Masterpiece . . .

Oh . . . I had to throw this one in of me and the Hub :)

Wow, how bout that FABULOUSNESS?!?!?!?

Check back in a few days for the

unbelievable birthday bash that

Dawn threw for Craig - AMAZING & UNFORGETTABLE!!!

Viva Las Vegas Part 1 of 3 - The Gontkovic Vow Renewals!!!

2010-10-13T16:42:00.000-05:00

Soooooo super excited that this was my first OFFICIAL destination job, and what a marvelous occasion to be able to capture, and to be able to join in celebration!!!! The weekend was meticulously planned (by the stunning Mrs. Gontkovic) to celebrate Craig turning the BIG 4-0.

What a festive vibe from the moment we arrived at Mandalay Bay! I loved meeting the Gontkovic's friends and family from around the country and the world, and loved the amazing details that Dawn poured her heart and soul into. Those details made this one of the most amazing celebrations I've ever been a part of - a positively superb and fun weekend!!!

Our merriment began with a to-die-for-dinner at the Wynn, and was followed by a vow renewal performed by one of Sin City's finest Elvis' impersonators. We all remarked that the dinner at the Wynn was one of the best we have ever had, and the Vow renewals were the most memorable I have ever witnessed, and could easily have rivaled the latest Glee episode. We all acted silly, and had too many gutteral laughs to count! And, even though I was instructed to plant myself in one of the guest chairs (by the Elvis Chapel Official Photog), I still managed to seize some of those paramount moments that made this 1st evening in Sin City soooo indelible!!!

EnJoY . . .

Our gathering place, and a quick shot of Deb (myBFF), myself,

and the Fabulous Dawn Gontkovic!!!

On to the Amazing . . .

Dawn's crazy-fun personality!!!

More Of The Wynn

The Guys enjoying the show during dinner!

The Crazy BFF w/ Dawn cracking up in the background!

Craig's 1st B-Day Desert of the Weekend!!!

The Vow Renewal Location!!!

The Vow Renewal Entourage

- A loud chuckle just escaped from me :)

Ohhh, look it's Elvis walking our returning Bride

down the isle, and Dawn being her blushing/gushing self. LOL again!!!

Is this a case of deja vu, or have I seen this scene before at a wedding?

It's Rich getting in trouble for texting during a wedding ceremony.

Huh, it seems so familiar to me?!

Priceless-Craig-Faces :)

OK Glee fans, was I joking about the rivalry?

Does this not look like it could be an upcoming episode?

How bout that Elvis singing his heart out in the background?

And now . . . reintroducing, Mr. & Mrs. Craig Gontkovic!!!!

{Big Huge Smiles}

Dawn & Craig,

I'm sooooo happy and honored that you chose me to document

this weekend of fabulous fun & festivities!

It was a blast, and I can't wait for you to see the rest.

-The Best Is Yet To Come :):):)

Hugs to you both!

Kell

Introducing ALL The Grandkids!

2010-10-05T14:56:00.000-05:00

When I got the inquiry for this shoot, I must admit I was a bit apprehensive about shooting 10 Grandkids ranging in ages from 3 to 19. Of course, the older ages didn't intimidate me, but I thought it would be interesting to see how the younger ones did in a crowd of their cousins.

I was not disappointed. In fact, this was a shoot that I enjoyed beyond anything I could have expected and it spurred my imagination in posing. I was so lucky to have a group of kiddos with fun personalities who were willing to go for variety, and parents who were willing to let me push the safety limits a bit :) I loved capturing each of their personalities, and I loved capturing their interaction as cousins.

Here they are in all their energetic delight . . .

Parents & Kiddos,

This was my best group shoot to date :)

Thanks for being troopers, and thanks for letting me have oodles of fun

with a variety of posing and backgrounds.

It was an absolute delight to shoot and edit :):):):):)

Hugs to You All,

Kelly

Meet The Hinds Family :)

2010-09-27T06:21:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure of getting to know Kari on a parent/teacher level because she was the Boo's 2nd grade teacher (Boo is my middle child aka LaLa who happens to live in LaLa Land about 99% of the time!) . This feat alone would automatically qualify her for sainthood, because Boo is known for her love of being a social butterfly.

Her status as "social butterfly" can at times be an all-out challenge to the fibers of one's patience, and Kari was able to make it through the school year with her sanity fully in tact . . . I think . . .

Kari, Thank You again for getting Abbey through second grade!!!

Anyway, Kari and her husband Chad have 2 adorable and very energetic little guys, that made me chuckle quite a few times throughout our shoot. Meet Kyle & Drew and their parents . . .

This shot makes me laugh out loud every time I look at it :)

The boys were annoyed with their parents, because they had their

own ideas about what they wanted to be doing. Clearly those

ideas weren't in agreement!!! LOL

Again, I look at this and it just cracks me up!

I forgot how much kiddos move at this age, and it reminds

me of the past with my own energetic little buggers.

Kari & Chad,

It was a pleasure, and I enjoyed every bit of energy your

little guys managed to expend during our time together! lola

And, despite the light the approaching storm gave us,

I'm crazy about the images we captured of your adorable family!!!!

Hugs,

Kelly

Meet The Future Mr. & Mrs. Chester Hill!!!!

2010-09-20T19:58:00.000-05:00

OK . . . I have been waiting for their E Shoot for months, and I prayed that the weather would bring magical lighting to us. Their shoot date finally arrived, and yes, the lighting had those amazing golden tones that added to their beauty and their love for each other.

I had a total blast trekking around Forest Park with Ashley and Chester for a couple of hours, and was sad when the fading light forced us to wrap our shoot. I could have gone on indefinitely. They are amazing and so fun to work with, and they are both beautiful inside and out. And, even though it's a year away, I can't wait to spend their wedding day with them, capturing all those special moments and emotions.

Here they are in their engaged fabulousness :):):):):)

Looooove those sunflares that made these look

like a magazine spread :):):)

A & C,

Lisa and I are so excited for your wedding day next year!!!

I am truly honored that you chose us, and I wish you

a happy year of anticipation and detail finalizing :)

Hugs To You Both,

Kelly

Manuella's 1st Birthday - Glimpse #2!!!

2010-09-14T21:50:00.003-05:00

After editing these, I'm thinking about asking Paulo and Anna Marcia if they would like a 40 year old daughter!!!

Just joking, but it is so fun to look back through these and relive the moments of such a great celebration. From the food, to the cake, to the company, it was an amazing day, and one that I was honored to be a part of.

Enjoy the 2nd glimpse of their touching day with their irresistably adorable daughter . . .

I LOOOOOVE the look on a 1-year-old's face

when the entire crowd starts to sing Happy Birthday!!!

Positively Priceless!!!!

Time for a catnap after all the

fun and excitement :)

Well that rest only lasted about 20 minutes, and then

it was on to the next festive moment!

Without a doubt, my favorite shot of the entire day.

I loved catching Paulo with a moment of alone time

with his precious daughter. This almost brings tears to my eyes.

And then the 3 of them . . .

yep the tears are in my eyes about to spill :)

I don't think it can be much more adorable . . .

Happy 1st Birthday dear sweet Manuella!

You are such a loveable little soul, and you are sooooo blessed to

have so many people that love and adore you!

Paulo & Anna Marcia - Thank you so much for having me

document this wonderful party. I enjoyed every single minute of it :)

Hugs,

Kelly

Manuella's 1st Birthday Party - The First Glimpse!!!

2010-09-11T23:27:00.000-05:00

What a wonderfully colorful, detail-filled 1st Birthday party Manuella's parents hosted, to celebrate her special milestone! I have to say that it rivaled small weddings, and I was told many times throughout the festivities, that in Brazil this is a very common extravaganza.

I must note that I was absolutely beside myself with excitement to be chosen to document the unforgettable moments of this day. I treated this amazing event like I was shooting a wedding, and that is one of the reasons I'm late getting this blogged - 600 shots to edit and sift through, and then I get to design a wedding quality album for her (sooooo super excited, I can hardly stand it :):):):):).

One other note! I was just going to do one blog for this occasion, but after a week of editing, I have realized that I would definitely need two blog posts. There was just too much amazingness to put into one. So here is the first look at Manuella's special day . . .

How about these unforgettable details?!?!?

I swear . . . there is little else that is more adorable than those

first few teeth in a big, wide toothy grin :)

Manuella and her Big Bro, Joao Paulo!

With her stunning Mom, Anna Marcia

and again with Big Bro.

Getting some special bonding time with Grandma!

Adorable Guests!

Manuella's awesome Daddy (Paulo) was the videographer of the event!

Those beautiful dark brown eyes.

An adoring moment with Grandpa.

These moments turned out better than I could have

expected. They just make me smile from ear to ear!!!

Again with those eyes that I can't

get enough of!!!!!!!

Be sure to check back in a few days to see the rest of her

positively fantastic 1st Birthday Celebration!!!

Meet The Kitzelmans!

2010-09-01T19:46:00.000-05:00

I guess if there is such a thing as a family of BFFs the Kitzelmans would be classified as ours. From the moment I met Julianna (when her oldest and my middle child had preschool together 4 years ago) we hit it off. After doing playdates together, we both determined that our husbands would be a good fit. So we got together for an evening of food (Derek's an AMAZING cook & should be a chef), beverages, and conversation, and the rest is history!!!!

We had been wanting to get this shoot planned before Julianna headed to Brazil in June for her annual 2 month trip back to her home and family, but we were both too crazy busy. Finally, after she got back, we got it on the calendar and here they are, doing what they do best . . . being a sweet and beautiful family of 4 Girls & a Boy :)

How about those gorgeous Brazilian

genetics just dominating this pic?

Derek is one lucky dude to be surrounded by this

amount of beauty (and hormones lol) everyday!!!!

I think this is my favorite of the day?!

Or this one is a close second!!!!

Yes, the love those two have for each other

is always this apparent. It really is the sweetest

thing to witness :):):):):)

Notice where the baby is?

She was done with the shoot thing!!!

As with everything that involves you guys,

I had a blast, and I loved catching you being your adorable selves!!!

Hugs, Kell

A Day of Starr Power :)

2010-08-27T19:29:00.000-05:00

I had an event last week that I would liken to seeing your favorite Rock Starr at a venue where you actually see the performer on an intimate level. I attended the St. Louis Shot Party at Ameristar Casino, and was awestruck at the amazingness of the local photoging Rock Starrs (Clary Pfieffer, Kelly Manno, Kelly Park and Michelle Ross to name a few), as well as the Mack Daddy Rock Starr of the Day - the featured speaker, Jasmine Starr out of LA!!!!

I would compare the impact of her presence to the feelings a Tween would have seeing Justin Bieber from 3rd Row Center (why 3rd, because I've never known anyone who actually got 1st or 2nd), or me in high school seeing Jon Bon Jovi in person (no that never happened, no matter how much I tried to telepathically make it happen).

Simply put, I was a nervous and giddy photoging Mom. I didn't know whether to cry or scream - imagine those videos of Beatles' fans when they came to the US the first time. I know . . . it's not pretty.

Thanks God & Mom, for helping me keep my composure :), and helping me keep my emotions together enough to appear to be a professional. {more prayers of thanks!!!}

Anyway, back to the Shot Party day! It was a day of learning from the Rock Starrs, and we even got to shoot models around the Casino. I was not at all excited about this part of the day, and it ended up being one of my favorite parts of the event. I had no idea a Casino would be such a fun and awesome background. I was wrong.

Michelle Ross was our group leader, and she was positively awesome about sharing, encouraging, and answering all questions from our group members. And, despite there being 30+ uber eager photogers bumping into each other to get a shot, I got some images I was really happy with, and walked away with some great new knowledge!

We were so lucky to get a real-life engaged couple,

and their emotions were so awesome to capture!!!

I could not get over those amazing eyes :)

I got this shot of my dear friend and Wedding Photoging Partner,

Lisa Scherer (she's one of the kindest peeps you will ever meet

and we work like a dream together),

when our Models went to do a quick wardrobe change.

The Mack Daddy Photoging Rock Starr of The Day -

JASMINE STARR! WAIT A SECOND, I hear Angels Singing!!!! LOL

Jasmine & her Wedding Photoging Partner JD,

who happens to be her partner in life and her hubby!!!

The two of them shooting a wedding together would be

like Plant & Page, making their magical music. Sorry for those of you

youngsters who have no freakin' clue about who I'm talking about!

More singing Angels! Yes, I got to meet her, and JD actually used my

camera to get this shot!!!! Yes, I had to keep the emotions in check a big, bad way :)

The One Year Anniversary

2010-08-21T11:38:00.000-05:00

Today marks the anniversary of the saddest event I have dealt with to date. I lost my Mom one year ago today. I have cried every single day this past year. My heart aches as much today over her loss, as it did a year ago. Granted, it's not as constant and intense, but it is always there near the surface.

I had no idea that the slightest thought/place/word/memory would trigger a flash flood coming from my eyes. It doesn't matter where I am. Songs are the biggest trigger, and my brothers and I chose some fantastic songs for her funeral (Over the Rainbow, Forever Young, I Hope You Dance, Dancin' Queen, The Good Stuff, Time to Say Goodbye, I Have a Dream). Every single time I hear one, I lose it.

This is the last pic I took of her. It is crappy quality, horrible lighting, was taken with a point and shoot, and when I look at it, I see that her spirit had already begun to move on to the next life. Her color lacked her trademark vibrance, and the fun that she always projected in life, was gone.

How I yearn for just one more minute with her. Even though I told her hundreds of times how much I loved her and got to say my good-byes, I would say it again with 1000 times more heartfelt love. I would remember every detail of her response, and I would cherish it as one of my most prized life experiences . . . because now I know what it's like to live without her.

My Wonderful Mom with My Boo on August 2nd, 2010

Oh wait, here come the tears again. This is the 11th freakin' time I have cried today (I keep adding to that number as I write), and it's only 11:00 in the morning!!! I have so many tear stains on my glasses, that I can hardly see out of them!!!! LOL w/ tears streaming down my face.

Maybe I should go lock myself in a closet for the day? Thank God you all can't see my blubbering right now - it is not pretty :) My kids keep looking at me like I have lost it - I guess you could say that is partially true. I lost my Best Friend, and more importantly I lost my Mom.

One more thing, TAKE LOTS OF PICTURES. They are your visual link to everything that was, and they are priceless. I couldn't make myself take pics while she was with us for her last month of life. I was too sad and overwhelmed by what was coming. I regret it with everything that I am.

Uh-Oh . . . sobbing really hard this time, gotta go :)

Caitlin & Devin - A Sample of Their Remarkable Day

2010-08-19T22:46:00.000-05:00

I second shot again for my Gal-Pal Lisa Scherer on this stunning August wedding, and we both agreed that we captured some of our greatest images to date. Caitlin & Devin, the locations, and the attendees made this a positively awesome event to document, and once again my love for capturing weddings was one of the final thoughts I had before I fell asleep that hot summer night.

I loved every minute with them, and their families.

What a day :):):)

The details Caitlin chose for the day, made her a

simply elegant and gorgeous bride.

LOVE that emotion in the attendants - I have a huge smile on my face looking at this!!!

This wasn't even posed. I just happened to turn around, and look

at this moment my lens just happened to find. . . sigh . . .

I could not get enough of those smiles,

and looks of pure love.

On to the reception location:

Malmaison at St. Alban's

Seriously? . . .

I mean does it get any better? . . .

OK . . . yes, it certainly does and it did!!!!

Her eyes were absolutely mesmerizing, and both Lisa and I

were insistent on getting a close-up of them to truly capture how

stunning they are.

Delightful Details!!!!

Lisa-Girl working on getting her ring shot :)

LOOOOOVE watching those little cutie-pies.

Once again Lis, it was an absolute delight

and pure enjoyment working with you :)

Caitlin & Devin,

You are a sweet and wonderful couple!

My best to you - may you have a very happy & wonderful life together!!!!

Hugs,

Kelly

Bells Turns the Big 1!!!!!

2010-08-09T08:40:00.000-05:00

Who can resist the adorable age of 1? It is one of my favorite Birthday parties to witness and to be a part of! It is also one of my favorite events to document in pictures. I love the thought of these priceless moments, frozen in time, that will bring her parents to tears when they look at these 10 years from now!!!!

Happy Birthday my dear little niece!!!! You have been this blog's most frequently blogged about, and I have enjoyed capturing every stage of this past year ;)

Bella's 1st Birthday also has another special meaning to my family. Her Birthday was the day we brought my Mom home with us a year ago. She came home with us so that we could take care of her during her last month of life :) Imagine that, I'm crying again . . . lol . . . through my giggling at the thought of what an emotional nut-job I am at 40!!!

Here's Bells being her stunning, cutie-pie self . . .

This is one of those irresistible moments that one year olds are famously

loved for. See the progression in these 3 shots

- they make me smile hugely!!!

Love these happy little details!!!

I wonder if one of these 1st Birthday hats has ever remained

in it's intended spot for the entire party?

Is this look so crazy stinkin' cute?

This is the look she was giving her audience as we were singing

"Happy Birthday to You" - - -

PRICELESS!!!!!!!!!!

"Oh my, what's this deliciousness sitting right before me?"

(My kiddos love it when I narrate baby thoughts :):):) )

"Jeez, this is awesomely squishy . . ."

Sorry, again with the narration. I can't seem

to help myself, the thoughts just keep

popping into the melon!!!!!!

Bells and her Units!!!!

How adorable is that baby chubbiness?

I'm so sad at the thought of these little wrinkles

and pudgeys disappearing with the

active toddler she is about to become :(

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, YOU ADORABLE GIRLIE-GIRL!!!!!!

LUV U, AUNT KELL

Renee & Todd - The Celebration of Their Marriage!

2010-08-03T06:42:00.000-05:00

The Fantastic Lisa Scherer and I embraced capturing the details, the moments, and the memories of this positively joyful celebration . . .

Todd & Renee are both chefs at Mazara Bistro in Clayton

(he's the Executive Chef and she's the Pastry Chef). That being said,

Todd was particularly excited about the food details for the evening!!!

Without a doubt, the most beautiful cake

I have ever seen in person.

Extraordinary attention to detail!!

This was hands-down, the sweetest Mother-Son Dance

I have ever seen, and it brought both Lisa & I to tears :)

Renee & Todd,

I was honored that you chose me to capture your day - it was

one of the greatest weddings I have had to date :)

You are both incredibly kind & thoughtful, and

I wish you the absolute best of everything in your life together!

Hugs, Kelly

Kudos for the Fantastic Festivities:

The Event's Amazing Details: Todd's Mom Donna (and Renee & Todd)

Fabulously Amazing Food: Tony Marino's Catering

The Stunningly Beautiful Cake: Encore Baking Co.

The Band: The Reeling Gilly's (they rocked it!)

Tents & Such: Weinhardt Party Rentals

Lisa, once again we worked like a dream together.

Thanks for your amazing work and your friendship ;)

Renee & Todd - After the Nuptials & Before the Party!

2010-07-29T07:15:00.000-05:00

I'm positively crazy about these shots, that me and the Amazing Lisa Scherer, captured of Todd & Renee and their family at Longview Park! What a beautiful couple, what a fantastic family, and what a stunning backdrop!!!!!

I have never seen a couple look soooooo lovingly at each other

soooooo many times.

Renee looking at her husband - ABSOLUTELY AMAZING & PRICELESS!!!!

Again!!!!!!!

And Again!!!!!!

I can't even handle how

storybook-like they are!!!!

How lucky is Renee to have 4 new Bro-In-Laws?!?!?

What an amazing family to be a part of :)

I mean really - does it get any more amazing than that? :):):):):)

Check back in a few days for a glimpse into the magic

of their celebration of their marriage!

Renee & Todd - The Prelude & The Nuptials

2010-07-26T10:06:00.000-05:00

You probably recognize Renee & Todd from my Bro-in-law's wedding last month, because Todd was the Best Man, and both Todd and Renee (both chefs) created the amazing wedding cake for that event. Needless to say, I was positively happy, honored, and excited that they chose me to capture the details of their wedding day on July 17th.

I must also give them kudos for being one of the sweetest and most thoughtful couple's I have shot to date. They were constantly checking on me & Lisa (my wonderfully awesome second shooter), making sure we were enjoying the festivities, and made us feel as welcome as their guests. I was so lucky to be a part of this event, and am soooooo crazy happy with so many of the moments we were able to witness and capture.

Enjoy the fantasticness of their day . . .

Renee was so stunning and is such a sweet & thoughtful person :):):):):)

Yes, Corinne (Todd & Renee's niece) is a positively, irresistibly precious flower girl.

I could not stop directing my camera toward her!!!! LOL

Corinne and her little friend.

More of Renee's absolute gorgeousness!!!!

The very sweet and handsome groom :)

Corinne's Brother Donovan, the Ring Bearer, clearly reflecting

on his upcoming responsibilities!

Todd's parents and the Hosts of the Festivities

I love this thoughtful smile on Todd's face, captured seconds before

Renee came down the isle.

Todd's brother Scott was the officiant, and added to

the magic of their day.

I'm so lucky to have my pal & second shooter Lisa's perspective & view!

Mr. & Mrs. Todd Bale!!!!

Be sure to check back for sneak peaks at the rest

of the day's fantasticness - coming soon!!!!!