Someday, if I ever cut back in photography I want to continue as a May photographer. I have always been in love with May and all its celebrations, beauty, and sunshine. For me, I am the happiest in May, eager to be outside and bask in the light and trees all around me. I am loving all these May sessions.

Caite and Tim fit a May sunset quite perfectly. Though Tim thinks he has more of a growl than a smile, he couldn’t help but truly smile with Caite laughing the whole evening. I work with Caite at United Way and after getting to know her and Tim through a few work outings and happy hours, I was so excited when she asked me to be their photographer. Caite is incredibly sweet, intelligent, and fun to work (and hang out) with. I love the work she does at United Way – in charge of the Youth Achievement Corps, a grant she wrote to have Americorps staffed in different communities. We are the proud recipients of 4 of her Americorps – who have transformed the way we work and get things done!

// These two are getting married in November at the Celebration Farm. I hope we can save up some of May’s warmth for their day!

Whenever I find myself in a new place, I always long to be known // not just familiar, but to have someone who knows my history, my story, and family. I can be around a million new people, but feel so alone when it’s all introductions and small talk. There is something deeply restful about being with a person who has lived your past and walks with you into the future.

Justine and Nate have been together for 8 years and are tying the knot this August. They first met in middle school and began dating in high school. I love that they have shared so much history and are now walking hand-in-hand into the future. They are such a gentle, low-key couple with the cutest dog ever. Coal quickly became Greg’s new buddy for our photo shoot.

When Jack and Sara first met – Jack thought Sara was way too pretty for him, so she was the one to ask him out. But Jack totally had it covered with the proposal. He had kept his ability to play guitar a secret from Sara (who adores men who play guitar — who doesn’t!), got a guitar into the Omaha Zoo and proposed under the waterfall in the rainforest, and of course sang a special song for Sara.

Jack is a pharmacist and Sara is almost a pharmacist – finishing up school now. They share such a peaceful and adoring love. Greg and I were busy shooting for THREE hours, totally not normal…but these two were perfect. I loved watching their share special moments together, totally at ease and patient while we shifted, moved, and took shot after shot.

They are having a super intimate wedding in their backyard this fall – the family shot list also includes 5 cats + dogs ;)

Happy Cinco de Mayo! Here’s a little love to start off your day.

Erin and Dave got married on April 28 in Marion, Iowa. It was a chilly, wet day with photo breaks for sweatshirts and huddling/cuddling together, but everyone spent too much time laughing to let the cold ruin such a happy day. Dave is probably the funniest groom I have ever met. Between his red beard and endless array of funny faces, jokes, and dance moves – he kept everyone rolling. Erin was a low-key bride, there to enjoy her day, family and friends, and her husband-to-be. She is probably equally hilarious and witty, so I anticipate much hilarity from the Kasper household, as I’m sure there already is. Aside from their ability to outlast anyone with laughter, Dave and Erin are grounded, sweet, and absolutely adore each other. Their ceremony was filled with tears, beautiful promises, and strong support and love from their family and friends.

The ceremony was held at Faith Lutheran Church in Marion, Iowa and the reception was at the Chrome Horse in Cedar Rapids. They filled their reception with a million unique details – my favorite being their favors: “Lucky in Love” envelopes with a lottery scratch ticket and penny inside (even though our table didn’t win any extra cash, despite the 1-in-5 odds). They also hired a balloon artist who crafted everything from beer mugs to crazy hats – for any brides wanting great dance pictures, bring in a balloonist, glow sticks, and a groom willing to start the dance with some solo moves ;)

Kaspers – we have loved getting to know you. We appreciate your generosity and kindness towards us, and wish you the BEST in the coming years!

ALSO…Greg’s highlight video will premiere when he finishes it ;)

Maggie and Theresia have been together for SIX years – and are tying the knot this May. They have two little ones and another on the way! Shiloh and Apple kept us all laughing. Shiloh guided us through a private reserve in Iowa City, where his preschool had gone during the summer. They kept their spirits high for 2 hours while we spun around, rowed on the boat, played monsters and bad guys, and blew bubbles!

Maggie and Theresia are beautiful in love – and beautiful mothers. Their patience, understanding, and compassion with their children is just a sight to behold. Greg and I walked away feeling like we had picked up a few parenting pointers. Maggie and Theresia spoke to Shiloh and Apple with respect and love – which was clearly evident in how sweet their children are.

I can’t wait for their wedding and to spend some more time hanging out with this beautiful family.