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If you’re planning a wedding, you’ve probably heard a lot of advice. Some of it is helpful, some of it is overwhelming, and some of it… well, let’s just say you can take it or leave it. But nothing beats real couple’s advice from people who have already been through it!
Every wedding is different, but the biggest lesson? Do what makes you and your partner happy! Whether it’s focusing on the details that matter most, staying present in the moment, or rolling with the unexpected, these couples have some great wisdom to share.
Sally + Jacob: “Talk with your partner and discuss what’s truly important. For us, photography and food were the biggest priorities, so we made sure to invest in those. Decide together where you want to focus your budget and energy.”
Your wedding day should reflect your personalities. Whether it’s an epic dance party, a gourmet meal, or stunning photographs, choose what means the most to you and plan around it.
Kaela + Kyle: “Take time to be alone together throughout the day. The first look was an intimate moment I will cherish forever! The day goes by so fast—stay together at the reception and enjoy each other’s company.”
This is your day. Guests, family, and vendors will be everywhere, but don’t forget to pause and just be with your partner. Find small moments to soak it all in—those will be the ones you remember most.
Natalie + Tanner: “Find what works best for you and fight for what you want. If a detail is important to you, make sure it happens. Do your research on vendors—great vendors make planning and the wedding day so much less stressful.”
Your wedding is your vision. If something is non-negotiable, stick to it! And when it comes to vendors, having a reliable team makes all the difference. Trust me, the right people will make your day feel effortless!
Courtney + David: “We both work in hospitality and had NO idea how much planning goes into a wedding! Hiring a planner kept us organized and took the pressure off. It allowed us to actually enjoy our engagement. There are so many decisions to make, and having a guide is extremely helpful.”
A wedding planner isn’t just for extravagant events—they help keep everything on track. If you want to be fully present on your big day (without worrying about timelines and logistics), having someone to handle the details is a game-changer.
Courtney + David (Bonus Advice!): “On the day of, take it all in. We kept reminding each other, ‘take it in’—all these people are here to celebrate your love! It’s the best feeling in the world, and it goes by fast.”
Victoria + Cody: “Enjoy the day, don’t stress over little things, and just live in the moment!”
Jamie + Tanner: “Something will probably go wrong, but just go with the flow. Others won’t notice or care. Our day felt perfect, even though some details weren’t exactly as planned.”
Things might not go 100% according to plan, but that’s okay. The most important thing? You’re marrying your best friend. If you stay focused on that, everything else will fall into place.
At the end of the day, your wedding is about you and your partner. There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate your love, so make decisions that feel right for you. Stay present, soak in the joy, and don’t be afraid to let go of perfection.
The best weddings aren’t flawless—they’re filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. So enjoy every second. Take some of these real couple’s advice, and have the best day ever!
Senior sessions are always special, but getting to capture Raegan’s graduation session at Rockhurst University made this one even more memorable! As a 2024 graduate and a proud member of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association, Raegan has worked hard for this moment. Her excitement, pride, and joy were so clear in every single photograph.
Exploring Rockhurst & Finding the Perfect Spots
We spent the afternoon wandering around Rockhurst’s beautiful campus, stopping at all of Raegan’s favorite spots. She knew exactly where she wanted to go, which made the session feel so personal and meaningful. From charming brick pathways to the heart of campus, every location held special memories.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a Kansas City graduation session without some classic fountain photographs! In true KC fashion, we made sure to capture some fun, celebratory moments with the stunning campus fountains in the background.
Raegan’s Graduation Look: Timeless & Elegant
Raegan absolutely stunned in her senior session outfit! She wore a cream-colored mini dress with dainty flower apliques, giving her look a soft, feminine touch. Her gold heels with bows on the toes were the perfect finishing detail—classy, fun, and completely her style.
Celebrating a Huge Accomplishment
Graduating from college is such a huge milestone, and Raegan made sure to soak in every moment. Between tossing her cap in the air, laughing through candid shots, and taking in the beauty of her campus one last time, it was clear she was both excited for what’s next and proud of how far she’s come.
Why College Senior Sessions Are So Special
A college graduation isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s about celebrating years of hard work, friendships, and unforgettable memories. Senior sessions like Raegan’s capture all of that in a way that feels authentic and personal. Whether it’s posing by a favorite campus spot or simply soaking in the moment, these photographs become keepsakes that last a lifetime.
Raegan, it was an absolute joy capturing this session for you as a Rockhurst Senior! You are going to do amazing things, and I can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.
Every time I photograph a mom with her babies—whether they’re newborns or grown-up with babies of their own—I’m reminded why I love this work so much. The beauty of motherhood is messy, chaotic, and deeply moving, often all at once. And getting to freeze those fleeting moments? It’s truly an honor.
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of capturing so many different versions of motherhood. From a first-time mama cradling her newborn to a grandmother laughing with her granddaughter on her wedding day—every image tells a story that deserves to be remembered.
Some of my favorite sessions are the ones where moms let go of the pressure for everything to be perfect. When the curls are wild, the hands are sticky, and the kids are doing their thing—that’s when the magic happens. Those are the photographs that feel the most real. And let’s be honest, those are the moments you’ll treasure most later!
Often, moms are the ones taking the pictures, not being in them. That’s why I always encourage moms to step in front of the camera. You don’t need to wait for a special occasion. You just need to be present! Your kids will thank you for it someday.
Whether it’s a tender snuggle, a shared laugh, or a glance that says “I’ve got you,” these are the moments that matter. And on Mother’s Day, I like to take a moment to look back at those moments I’ve had the privilege of capturing. They’re quiet reminders of how powerful and personal motherhood really is.
Today, I’m raising a virtual glass to all the mamas—new, seasoned, bonus, chosen, and everything in between. Thank you for trusting me to tell your stories, frame by frame.
While we celebrate the beauty of motherhood, I also want to gently acknowledge the women for whom this day feels heavy. Whether you’re grieving, longing, navigating complicated relationships, or carrying quiet heartaches—I see you. There’s space for your story here too, and you’re not alone.
Wishing everyone a Mother’s Day filled with love, laughter, and maybe a nap.
One of the most emotional and intimate wedding trends I’ve seen growing in popularity is exchanging personal vows before the ceremony. More and more couples are choosing to share these heartfelt words privately, and honestly? It’s such a beautiful way to kick off the wedding day.
Why Couples Are Loving This Trend
Weddings are filled with excitement, nerves, and so many moving pieces. Taking a quiet moment before the ceremony to share personal vows allows couples to slow down, breathe, and truly connect before walking down the aisle. It’s a chance to be completely in the moment without the pressure of a crowd watching.
Plus, if you’re someone who feels extra emotional (or just don’t love public speaking), this is a perfect way to say everything in a more intimate setting. You still get to express your love in a meaningful way without the nerves of standing in front of everyone.
Creative Ways to Exchange Personal Vows Before the Ceremony
There’s no right or wrong way to do this! Here are a few ways couples are making this moment uniquely theirs:
- A First Look with Vows – If you’re already planning a first look, adding personal vows makes it even more special. The reactions, the happy tears, the love—it all makes for incredible photographs.
- Back-to-Back or Around a Door – If you want to save the first look for the aisle, standing back-to-back or holding hands around a door is a great alternative. You get to hear each other’s words while keeping the surprise for the ceremony.
- Writing a Letter & Reading It Aloud – Some couples opt to write vows in a letter and read them alone before exchanging gifts. This allows for private reflection while still making it a deeply emotional part of the day.
Why These Moments Make for Incredible Photographs
As a photographer, I love capturing these pre-ceremony vow exchanges. They bring out raw, unfiltered emotion, and those moments translate beautifully into photographs. The nervous smiles, the way couples wipe away happy tears, the way they really listen—it all tells such a heartfelt story.
These moments also help set the tone for the rest of the day. By the time the ceremony starts, the nerves have settled, and the couple is fully present, soaking in every second.
Making It Your Own
Whether you whisper vows in a quiet corner, read them through happy tears, or write them in a letter to be exchanged later, the beauty of this trend is that it’s completely customizable. The most important thing is that it feels right for you.
If you’re on the fence about personal vows before the ceremony, I say go for it! Not only will it be one of the most memorable moments of your day, but you’ll also have stunning, emotional photographs to look back on forever.
Let’s talk about a wedding day that had all the magic. Amy and Andre’s timeless and classic celebration at The Hotel Kansas City was joyful, heartfelt, and honestly just so fun. From start to finish, these two could not stop smiling (and neither could anyone else!).
They kicked off the day in style in their king lofted suite, which gave them the perfect space to get ready, relax, and soak it all in. The staff at Hotel KC even left them a handwritten note and a bottle of sparkling rosé—how sweet is that?! The balcony overlooking the Tudor Ballroom gave major romantic, old-school charm with its gorgeous wood details and stained glass windows.
Now here’s where things get extra sweet. Before the ceremony, Amy and Andre shared a first look. During the first look Amy surprised Andre with a custom painting she had commissioned of the two of them standing in front of the hotel in their wedding outfits! It was based on a moment that hadn’t even happened yet, and somehow it was still perfect. The painting is now proudly displayed in their home; such a sweet touch to the perfect day!
Favorite Moments + Memories
I asked them about their favorite moments of the day. For Amy, the moment things really hit was walking down the aisle and seeing all their guests. For Andre, it was stepping out of the church afterward and seeing all their people cheering them on. Such core memories.
Their grand entrance into the reception was another favorite moment—just this incredible wave of love and support from everyone in the room. And their first dance? “All Your’n” by Tyler Childers—a song they’d seen performed live together, which made it feel extra special.
When flipping through their wedding gallery, they’re instantly taken back to the bubble exit, the ceremony with Andre’s dad officiating, and all the timeless and classic moments in between.
Advice From the Bride + Groom
Their biggest advice for other couples? Do the first look. It gave them time to take photos early, feel relaxed, and enjoy every second with their people. And most importantly—do what feels right for you. Don’t get caught up trying to make everyone else happy. Your day, your way.
There’s something so special about summertime engagement sessions—especially when golden hour light meets the perfect downtown backdrop. Kaylan and Zach’s golden hour session in downtown Kansas City was a dream! We started at the historic Kirk Family YMCA building, then wandered to some of my favorite spots, capturing the magic of the city along the way!
Stylish & Timeless Outfit Choices
Kaylan and Zach’s outfits couldn’t have been more perfect for this session. Kaylan stunned in a white lace halter jumpsuit, which felt both modern and romantic. Her baby blue heels added a fun pop of color and complemented Zach’s blue button-up with a classic white pattern.
Golden Hour Glow & City Vibes
As the sun started to set, the golden hour light illuminated the city, giving everything that dreamy, romantic feel. The soft shadows and warm glow made each moment even more beautiful. We walked through downtown, stopping at charming alleyways, scenic overlooks, and a few hidden gems that always make for the best photographs!
Iconic Backdrops & Rooftop Views
Of course, when you are in downtown Kansas City it’s a good idea to capture the stunning Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in the background. The clean lines and grand architecture create an elegant contrast to the warm, golden tones of the evening light. With the city skyline in the background, every shot felt like a perfect blend of modern and timeless.
To wrap up the night, we made our way to a rooftop just in time for blue hour—that magical time after sunset when the city lights start to twinkle. The soft blues in the sky paired beautifully with their outfits, creating a romantic, cinematic feel. It was the perfect way to end such a stunning session!
Why Downtown KC is Perfect for Engagement Sessions
Downtown Kansas City offers the best of both worlds—historic charm and modern cityscapes. From grand buildings to glowing rooftops, every corner provides a unique backdrop that tells a love story in the most beautiful way.
Kaylan and Zach’s session was full of laughter, love, and that effortless summer romance. If you’re dreaming of a downtown KC engagement golden hour session, let’s make it happen! Whether you want golden hour glow, city skyline views, or both, I’m here to capture every magical moment.
There’s something undeniably special about black and white portraits. They strip away distractions, leaving behind nothing but raw emotion, beautiful light, and genuine connection. Whether it’s a quiet moment on your wedding day, the joy of a surprise proposal, or an intimate engagement session, black and white portraits have a way of making emotions feel even deeper.
Why Black & White Will Never Go Out of Style
Trends come and go, but black and white photography remains timeless. It’s classic, elegant, and full of depth. When you look at an old black and white portrait, it doesn’t feel outdated—it feels iconic. That same magic applies to modern-day wedding and engagement photographs.
By removing color, black and white images highlight the details that matter most—a soft touch, a tear-filled smile, or the way two people hold each other like no one else exists.
The Power of Emotion
Some moments are so emotional that they don’t need anything extra. A groom’s reaction as he sees his bride for the first time. A tear rolling down a parent’s cheek during a heartfelt vow exchange. The laughter of a couple, just moments after getting engaged.
Black and white photography makes those moments feel even more powerful. It draws your eyes straight to the emotion, allowing you to relive the feeling over and over again.
Where Black & White Shines on Wedding Days
Not every photograph needs to be black and white, but certain moments absolutely shine in it. Some of my favorite times to use black and white on wedding days include:
- The Getting Ready Moments – The anticipation, the quiet reflection, the final touches before walking down the aisle.
- First Looks & Emotional Reactions – Whether it’s with a partner, a parent, or a bridal party, these moments are filled with raw emotion.
- Ceremony Highlights – Vows, happy tears, the ring exchange, and that first married kiss.
- Dramatic Portraits – A black and white shot of a couple under twinkling lights or a moody embrace in a grand venue? Yes, please.
- Candid Reception Moments – Toasts, laughter, and the joyful chaos of the dance floor.
Black & White in Engagement & Proposal Sessions
Black and white works beautifully for more than just weddings. A surprise proposal captured in black and white feels cinematic and timeless. An engagement session with a mix of both color and black and white provides the perfect balance of modern and classic.
Imagine a photograph of a newly engaged couple, lost in laughter, with the city skyline behind them. Or a close-up of hands intertwined, engagement ring sparkling in soft light. Without color, the focus shifts completely to the feeling of the moment.
A Love Story That Lasts Forever
At the end of the day, the goal of wedding, engagement, and proposal photography is to tell your love story. Black and white portraits do that in a way that feels timeless, artistic, and deeply personal.
So, when you receive your gallery and see those black and white portraits mixed in, know that they were chosen with purpose. They are the moments that speak volumes without saying a word—the ones that will feel just as magical decades from now as they do today.
There’s just something about a springtime proposal that feels extra magical. Maybe it’s the fresh blooms, the golden light, or the pure joy of the moment. Whatever it is, Dylan and Emily’s proposal at The Plaza in Kansas City was full of love, surprises, and the sweetest setup you could imagine!
The Setup: A Romantic Surprise Under Twinkling Lights
Dylan had a vision, and he made sure every detail was perfect. I met him early to capture his setup, and let me tell you—it was beautiful. Under a stunning archway, he and some friends and family had strung twinkling lights to add a warm, romantic glow. A soft blanket was laid out, decorated with fresh red and pink flowers, making the perfect backdrop for such a big moment.
Then, the waiting game began.
The Moment Emily Said “Yes!”
Emily arrived at The Plaza with her friends, thinking it was just a normal day. Little did she know, Dylan was already there, waiting for her. As soon as she spotted him, her friends encouraged her to go to him while they stayed back to watch the magic unfold.
When Emily reached him, Dylan wasted no time. He got down on one knee, looked up at the love of his life, and popped the question. And, of course, she said YES! The moment was full of laughter, happy tears, and the kind of joy you can feel through the photographs.
Celebrating with Friends & Family
After the excitement of the proposal, Emily’s friends and family rushed over to celebrate! There were hugs, cheers, and lots of admiring Emily’s new ring. It was one of those moments where time seemed to stand still—just pure happiness surrounding them.
A Romantic Stroll Through The Plaza
With the celebration in full swing, Dylan and Emily took some time to soak it all in. We wandered through The Plaza, capturing moments of them together, freshly engaged and absolutely glowing.
Emily looked effortlessly elegant in a cream/tan knit dress and tan heels, perfectly complementing Dylan’s brown shoes, khakis, and baby blue button-up shirt. And let’s talk about the golden-hour light—it was perfection. The soft glow added the most romantic touch to their photographs, making the whole session feel like a dream.
The Start of Forever
Dylan and Emily’s proposal was everything a love story should be—thoughtful, joyful, and full of unforgettable moments. From the twinkling lights to the golden sunset, it was a perfect springtime proposal in Kansas City.
Thinking about popping the question? Let’s make it just as magical as this one!
Your senior session should be more than just pretty pictures—it should be a reflection of who you are! This is your time to celebrate everything that makes you, you. From your interests to your style, there are so many ways to add a personal touch to your session. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, I’ve got you! Here are some fun and easy ways to make your senior photographs totally unique.
1. Choose a Location That Feels Like Home
Think about places that mean something to you. Do you love the outdoors? A scenic park or flower field could be perfect. More of a city person? Downtown Kansas City has stunning architecture and fun urban vibes. Maybe there’s a special coffee shop or bookstore you always visit. The right location sets the mood and makes your session feel authentic.
2. Wear What Makes You Feel Amazing
Your outfit should make you feel confident and comfortable. If you love bold colors, go for them! If neutrals are more your vibe, embrace them. Bring a mix of casual and dressy outfits to add variety to your session. Don’t forget to accessorize—hats, jackets, and layered pieces add extra personality to your photographs.
3. Bring Props That Represent You
Props aren’t just for themed sessions—they help tell your story! Love music? Bring your guitar or favorite records. Play a sport? Grab your jersey, soccer ball, or letterman jacket. Into books? Let’s take a few cozy shots with your favorite reads. Even something as simple as a bouquet of flowers or a cool pair of sunglasses can add so much personality.
4. Include Your Favorite Hobby or Activity
What do you love doing in your free time? Whether it’s painting, skateboarding, baking, or playing an instrument, let’s capture you in your element. Action shots or candid moments of you enjoying your passion make for some of the most memorable senior photographs.
5. Think About the Vibe
Do you want your photographs to feel soft and dreamy? Bold and edgy? Fun and playful? Your style, location, and posing can all work together to create the exact mood you’re looking for. If you’re not sure, we can plan it out together!
Make Your Senior Session Unforgettable
This session is all about celebrating you—your achievements, your personality, and the exciting future ahead. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with it! If you’re ready to start planning a session that feels 100% you, let’s make it happen!
Some engagement sessions feel like stepping straight into a movie, and Danielle and Quentin’s was exactly that! These two brought style, personality, and a perfect mix of moody vintage charm and carefree fun to their session. With two incredible locations—the historic Hotel Phillips and the breathtaking Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts—they truly got the best of both worlds.
Moody & Romantic at The Hotel Phillips
The Hotel Phillips offered perfect vintage charm! The warm lighting, vintage decor, and classic architecture created the perfect setting for a session that felt timeless and cinematic.
Danielle and Quentin’s outfits were absolutely on point. Danielle stunned in a white jumpsuit with a lace sleeve overlay, paired with a sleek white blazer. Quentin looked effortlessly sharp in a black suit with a crisp white button-up. Together, they looked elegant with just the right touch of edge.
We started in the hotel’s library, sipping cocktails and capturing those intimate, stolen-glance moments. From there, we moved to the grand staircase, where their formal attire blended beautifully with the moody lighting and old-world charm. Then, things got even more fun! We creative with the classic old-school elevators and even had a blast on a luggage cart, proving that romance and laughter go hand in hand. The balcony shots added a dramatic, almost Gatsby-esque feel!
A Bright & Carefree Vibe at Kauffman Center
Then we made a total 180 and switched gears for the second half of their session. Heading to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, we left the moody, romantic atmosphere behind and embraced a fresh, playful energy.
Danielle changed into a red dress that popped beautifully against the soft spring colors. Quentin complemented her look perfectly in a soft purple button-up and jeans, adding just the right amount of contrast. The flowers were blooming, the trees were full, and everything about the setting was ideal.
We strolled around outside the building and every laugh, every sweet glance, and every little moment was a reminder of just how perfect these two are together!
The Best of Both Worlds
Danielle and Quentin’s engagement session was the perfect blend of vintage charm and playful fun. From the elegance of The Hotel Phillips to the fresh, joyful energy of the Kauffman Center, they got a session as dynamic as their love story.
Thinking about an engagement session that truly reflects you? Let’s plan something magical—moody, romantic, playful, or all of the above!
