Chicago | {Workshop and more!}

Just last weekend I was in Chicago for a few days and thought I would share a peek at what I was lucky enough to see (and do) while there. A workshop with Audrey Woolard is what brought myself and a friend there. It was a wonderful workshop, focusing on shooting in full sun and working with some great “tweens” who were not only beautiful girls, but all very sweet and fun to get to know. On the first day of the workshop, we had gorgeous weather…about 75 degrees and not a cloud in the sky…talk about a perfect fall day! The second day was even warmer! An added bonus on the second day was that it was the day of the Chicago Marathon, which is one of the six major world marathons…and the course took it RIGHT in front of the studio! How lucky were we…getting to see the VERY first group going by, including the handcyclers and then the first group of runners (with the top finishers being in that group!). Of course, we all had to take a few photos of the runners, who could pass up an opportunity like that, as well as a chance to cheer them all on! I traveled with a good friend, Connie, and we had a day on each end of the weekend to see some of the sights. I’ve been to Chicago before, but Connie had not, so it was fun to show her some of the highlights!

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Ayrianna turns 9 | {Puyallup Family Photographer}

Kudos to this delightful young lady as when we had her session it was one of those blasting 90 degree days here in the Puget Sound and she didn’t complain a single time! Ayrianna is not only a beautiful girl, but so very sweet, kind and caring and during her session, she was very relaxed and natural…it was just easy and fun to photograph her! As her mom calls this birthday…her “golden” birthday since it’s her last year of being in the single digits…it was touching to watch just how emotional her mom was watching her baby, who is turning into a lovely young lady…growing up before her very eyes! As any parent knows…watching your children grow up is a delight, but also a bit sad when you know that the little child who was so dependent and looked to you for everything is becoming more independent and doesn’t always need you. This family is a blast to hang out with…I’ve known them for a few years…and had the pleasure of photographing Aaron and Elizabeth’s wedding a couple years ago (such fun!!!) and they have gone from clients to friends, which is a true blessing with my job! So…as you will see, Ayrianna has a beautiful smile and eyes that sparkle and even more than that…she’s a strong and confident girl who I know will achieve whatever she puts her mind to in life!!

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Jenny & Mikey’s “Meowage” | Puyallup Wedding Photography

Although it has been nearly 2 months since this wonderful event, it seems like just yesterday and as I prepare this post, that the fun and lively wedding took place. It was held at Pickering Barn in Issaquah and what a great venue…it had everything and the perfect weather that day was an added bonus!! Sharing in such a special day with a couple is truly a gift and to be show them highlights of a day they will never forget is what I love! Even more special is sharing this day with good friends…I have known Jenny since we moved to Puyallup, almost 20 years ago. Our daughter and Jenny met on the first day of third grade and not only have they been friends ever since, our families have been as well. Watching Jenny grow up and now getting married…it doesn’t seem possible, but I’m so excited for she and Mikey and what the future has in store for these two! They just settled in Seattle and Mikey started his residency and Jenny will start at a new school, teaching first grade…so many changes, but together, I know they can conquer whatever life presents to them.

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