Baby Leo | Newborn

March 25, 2015

It was the moment Leo's dad, Del, turned to me and said, "You should get yourself one of these," (as in the sleeping baby he was holding in his arms) that I truly understood the depth of love Del and Andrea have for their sweet baby boy. This is why I love photographing newborns just as they are … wide-eyed in their cribs, cuddled by mom and dad, contently sleeping in their swaddle. The first days of life are so precious and innocent and exciting all on their own. These sweet and simple photos say it all.

Rhiana & Joe | Photobooth

March 23, 2015

Rhiana and Joe used our rockin' photobooth at their wedding reception. Nathan and his assistant, Matt, agreed it was the busiest photobooth they've ever run! Check out some of the photos!

Chrissy & Justin | Coffee Shop Engagement Photos

March 20, 2015

I am smitten with Chrissy and Justin … and their cozy engagement session! I know that photo of them up there surrounded by snow probably doesn't look like your definition of cozy, but just you wait until you get to the ones at Coquette Patisserie--the cutest French cafe and wine bar (macaroons, anyone??). I could have posted about twice as many photos of this cute couple, but take a look at my very favorites.

We got lucky with only a medium cold day in Cleveland (medium=more than 10 but less than 32 degrees ;) ), and Chrissy and Justin didn't complain once! I love, love, love how clean and bright the snow makes these photos look. If it wasn't for frozen fingers, I would shoot in the snow all the time.

Gosh, you two are so classy.

Then it was time for a little warm up! Note to future couples: Documenting the two of you doing something you love makes for the BEST and most unique photos.

Cheers! Happy weekend, everyone!

Rhiana & Joe | Brecksville Ohio Fall Wedding

March 19, 2015

The morning of her wedding, Rhiana greeted my assistant Caitlin and I at the door of her parent's house with the biggest smile on her face and a bowl of yogurt and berries in her hand. She was so joyful and relaxed and excited all day that you just knew she and Joe were entering into this true covenant of marriage. They think the world of each other and treat the other with such respect and adoration. It's really sweet to witness.

Sometimes you can just tell with certain people that family means everything to them. Rhiana and Joe are so good-hearted and speak so highly of their siblings and parents that I knew family was something really special to them. In fact, that's how they knew that they had found the one they would spend the rest of their life with … Rhiana's family welcomed Joe with open arms and vice versa.

Rhiana and Joe have started a little family of their own now--they even have a new pup named Indy--and I know their home is filled with so much love and acceptance and affirmation. You two are such great role models of how we all should live our lives. I'm so thankful I got to know you and document the day you became a family. Thanks for being so great, Rhiana and Joe!

Rhiana was such a beautiful bride. I especially love the headpiece she wore (that was also worn by Joe's mom when she was married!)

Rhiana and Joe didn't want to see each other before the ceremony but they still wanted to say a quick prayer together. This was the solution. :)

During the ceremony, Rhiana and Joe incorporated a Filipino cord and veil tradition. I love these special touches that make each ceremony unique!

After taking portraits at Brecksville Reservation, Rhiana and Joe made time to get ice cream at Honey Hut with their wedding party. THE COOLEST THING EVER! They all got their photo on the wall for finishing The Destroyer--a GIANT banana split with, like, nine scoops of ice cream.