TLA, Philadelphia PA | The Dead Kennedys

On June 29th, I caught the Dead Kennedys show at the TLA in Philly.  Their tour manager hooked me up with a photo pass for the show, and I'm so appreciative!  The first band to open was Soul Glo, followed by Le Yikes Surf Club and The Welch Boys.  The Dead Kennedys went on around 10, and put on an entertaining and opinionated show, as always!  Here are a few photos from the evening!

(Yes, I know I have a diverse taste in music, and I wouldn't have it any other way!)

The Barn on Bridge Wedding | Danielle + Codie

Danielle and Codie are two of the kindest people I have ever met.  If you have had the pleasure of meeting them, I have no doubt that you share a similar opinion.  On top of that, they have been my most laid-back couple so far!  So, to surprise them, I decided to blog their wedding in time for them to enjoy a few photos while they are relaxing on their honeymoon.

My day started at Danielle's parents' house, where she and the bridesmaids were finishing up their final preparations.  Then, we headed to Blessed Teresa of Calcutta for the ceremony... which is absolutely gorgeous inside and outside!  After the ceremony, we snapped a few family photos at the church, then headed to The Barn on Bridge for the reception.  Their bridal party was so much fun!  Danielle and Codie were completely open to suggestions for photo locations, and even agreed to adventure through some weeds, thorns, mud, and rocks, and into the creek for a few couple's shots.  It was worth every second - the photos turned out great, and we shared a few laughs in the process!  The reception was perfect - complete with heartwarming toasts, delicious food, strong beverages, and lots of dancing.  LOTS of dancing.  Danielle and Codie even demonstrated their vocal skills by leading the band during Livin' on a Prayer, while Danielle's dad played the drums!  I had no idea everyone was so multi-talented!

It was hard to pick just a few photos to share!  I hope you enjoy these moments from their incredible Day #1.  Danielle and Codie, thank you again for allowing me the honor of being your photographer.  (And big thanks to my husband for assisting me!)

 

Florist:  An Enchanted Florist at Skippack Village

Cake Artist:  The Master's Baker

Band:  Slippery Band

Hair & Makeup:  Nikki at Gwendolynn Salon Spa

Bride's Dress:  Page Six

Bridesmaids Dresses:  David's Bridal

Groom and Groomsmen's Tuxes:  Page Six

Church:  Blessed Teresa of Calcutta

Reception:  The Barn on Bridge

Catering:  Robert Ryan Catering

Dresher Bat Mitzvah | Clara

2016 has turned into the year that I reconnected with a record number of high school and college friends!  A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of celebrating Clara's Bat Mitzvah!  (Clara's mom and I were sorority sisters at Lehigh University.)

The evening's theme was "Pajama Party", and it was so much fun!!  The decorations included larger-than-life lamps, and the dinner selection included pancakes!  When it was suggested that I could wear pajamas, there's no way I was going to refuse!!  I purchased my pajamas from a company recommended by Clara's mom, Deb - Punjammies, by Sudara.  If you haven't heard of the company, go check it out!  Their clothing is super comfy and cute, and it helps fund a great cause!!

I had such a great time hanging out with Clara, her mom and dad, and her two brothers!!  Big thanks to the super talented and kindhearted Sharon Wai for second shooting for me!  Mazel tov, Clara!  

 

Venue:  Temple Sinai

DJ/Dancers:  A Sharp Production

 

A Rainy-Day-Just-For-Fun Shoot

A week from today I'll be celebrating my 19th wedding anniversary!  I can't believe how quickly those years have flown by.  With my anniversary on my mind, and being trapped inside because of the rainy weather, Akina and I decided to unpack my wedding dress and have some fun.  I hope you enjoy the results of our impromptu 5 minute photoshoot.  I love love love how these turned out! <3

The Farmhouse, Delaware Wedding | Keri + Mike

A few weeks ago, I photographed my second Delaware wedding of the year.  And, just like the last one, I went to high school with a number of people in attendance - including the bride!  I'm so glad that Keri and Mike asked me to be their photographer.  Their day was so touching, and if you happened to be in attendance, you might have noticed me laughing, crying, singing, and dancing with them.  I get so emotionally involved with each of my couples, and this wedding was no different.  Keri and Mike just complement each other so perfectly - it's hard to find the correct words.  When you are around them, though, you can feel the connection between them.  I usually don't share many photos of the actual ceremony online, but I am today.  I love the way they looked at each other throughout the day, and want more people to experience that kind of love and joy.  They were so captivated by each other, I don't think they even noticed the rain during their (outdoor) ceremony!

Congratulations again, Keri and Mike!  I hope you enjoy a few of my favorite moments from your Day #1 as husband and wife.

Venue:  The Farmhouse

Flowers:  Belak Flowers

Cake:  Cakes by Kim

Band:  Bachelor Boys Band

Hair and Makeup Artists:  Town & Country Salon

Bride's Dress:  Forever Formals

Bridesmaid Dress:  Jan Rae Boutique

Groom's Suit:  Men's Wearhouse

Officiants:  Bob Wagner and Lyle Neal

Philadelphia Senior Session | Lizzy

Flashback to one of my favorite senior sessions ever!!  Lizzy recently graduated from Spring-Ford Senior High School and will be attending Temple in the fall.... and because of how hard she has worked while attending high school, she will begin college as a junior!!  Lizzy, I only met you recently, but it didn't take long to realize that you are talented, funny, athletic, and beautiful.  The world is yours to conquer, girl!  Go get it!

Here are a few of my favorite shots from our session together in Philly a few weeks ago!  The location, the light, the model - everything was perfect!

Rehoboth Beach Wedding | Lisa + Mike

Back in April, I photographed my first ever beach wedding!  It was the perfect setting for Lisa and Mike to exchange their vows, and to celebrate with their loved ones.  Mother Nature wasn't feeling very cooperative that afternoon, so we ended up waiting inside the rental house for over an hour waiting for the rain to stop.  As soon as the weather broke, we headed to the beach where Mike and Lisa officially became Mr. and Mrs.!  The rain must have scared the beach crowds away, and the light was perfect!!  (Maybe Mother Nature was secretly on our side after all.)  After the ceremony, we took a little stroll down the boardwalk before joining everyone back at the rental house for an evening of celebrating.  It was great seeing some of my former Governor Mifflin classmates again!  Big props go out to Chef Darrell for keeping our bellies full with his delicious and gorgeous culinary masterpieces!!

Riverdale Manor Wedding | Karissa + Chris

This spring, I was so fortunate to photograph the wedding of Karissa and Chris.  This was one of the most emotional ceremonies I have ever witnessed.  Karissa and Chris are two of the kindest and most genuine people I have met, and their love for each other is boundless.  I'm so honored that they asked me to capture their memories for them.  I shared in their laughter, tears, and dancing, and I am a better person because of it.  There was so much love - and fun - in the air that night!  Big thanks to April Westhafer for second shooting for me!!

 

Venue:  Riverdale Manor

Wedding Coordinator:  Maureen Raezer

Florist:  Cedar Hill Flowers

Cake Artist:  Oregon Dairy

DJ:  Holiday Sounds

Hair/Makeup Artist:  Tiffany Mohr

Wedding Dress Boutique:  Alfred Angelo

Tuxedos:  Men's Wearhouse

String Trio:  Cherrywood Ensembles

Officiant:  Marian Schappell

Reading Museum | Weaver Family Session

It seems like just yesterday I photographed David's newborn session.  It's so hard to believe that this amazing little man turned 2 recently!!  David's favorite color is yellow, so I suggested we venture out to this spot that had a field full of tiny yellow flowers!  Here are a few images from our Spring photoshoot at the Reading Museum!  

Scott's Run Lake Engagement | Ashlie + Eric

I recently met up with Ashlie and Eric to photograph their engagement session.  (It just happened to be the hottest and most humid day of the year, so far.)  They were such troopers in the heat and humidity, and we managed to capture quite a few great shots in spite of Mother Nature deciding to be a brat!  They are planning to get married in Maui next year, and I know that it's going to be absolutely amazing!  Congratulations, you two!!