Coach House Pictures

This past Sunday morning a group of vendors met for the first time under the El tracks in Ravenswood to meet, greet, and collaborate on this shoot that Elaine from Shadowbox Dreams had been putting together for  while.  I think I'm not the only one who left that sunny morning totally inspired and grateful to be part of an industry that is so supportive, collaborative, and full to the brim with creative energy. Each of these ladies not only brings talent to the table but personality and passion for what they create. Thank you Elaine for inviting me to be a part of this fabulous group of ladies!  I hope we can all work again soon :)

Vintage Rentals: Shadowbox Dreams

Paper Bouquets: Little Spoon Events

Candles: Chicago Candle Co.

Wedding Suite: Chykalophia

Baked Goods: Bot Bakery

Graphic Artist: Chyrel Banias

Handmade Backdrops/Supplies: Penelope & Lala

The newest member of our family has grown so much since the day he was born! From his first days in the hospital to living the sweet life in his comfy new home. It's been fun being able to capture some of this cute lil guys first photographs. I can't wait to continue to capture future moments for him and his family to look back on. Now, stop growing Derek!  You are getting too big:)

A great career feature  posted last week on The Everygirl of the Chic Chicago Maternity Boutique Belle Up and the beautiful brains behind its operation Jamenda McCoy. Check out her authentic advise on business and how she balances motherhood and her career in style.

Photography: Coach House PIctures

Where do I begin with this couple?  Not only are Colleen and Alex high school sweet hearts but they lit up our session with so much love and positive energy that my face probably hurt just as much as theirs did from smiling so much throughout the afternoon.  I secretly think they made the sun shine brighter and warmer on this beautiful Fall Sunday afternoon. Joe and I truly couldn't have asked for any more. A special thanks to Shadowbox Dreams for the vintage prop rentals. Thank you so much Colleen and Alex for inviting us be in your lovingly playful presence!

We started off our engagement session with Bethany and Joel last week on a beautiful sunny fall day at there new home in Old Town. From there we walked to the Lincoln Park zoo and spent the rest of the afternoon getting to know this adorable couple while capturing there affection for one another. We were able to capture so may great shots of them together, that it was hard to stop shooting.  Joe and I are so excited to be invited to spend the day with Bethany and Joel again next August when they say there I Do's! We can't wait!!

 

From the outside looking into this cute Lakeview bridal shop, it's clear that Mignonette is unlike any other bridal shop in Chicago. Walking into this space is like stepping into a beatuifully curated bridal closet filled with one of a kind custom gowns designed and sewn by the talented shop owner Kpoene.  And of course what closet wouldn't be complete without accessories like veils, jewelry, and vintage men's suits to complete your bridal look. Kpoene created her shop to be a space where clients could shop, chat, and linger around for a while...which trust me is easy to do with all the inviting vintage furnishings and DIY decor she has surrounding the space. She even rents out her space to other vendors in the wedding industry to hold client meetings in.  Something that Joe and I are excited to be doing in the future.

If you're looking for a non-traditional, vintage inspired assortment of lovely bridal dresses and accessories be sure to stop by Mignonette and prepare yourself to be inspired and add to your list of go-to shops where you'll be happy to visit again with your mom and maid of honor in tow.

For our styled wedding shoot Joe and I wanted to create a mood that was romantic, soft, and  effortless. Tucked away in the woods The Grove Redfield Estate was our main inspiration for capturing gorgeous images around the property. Going through all the images this week has been so much fun almost as much as sharing  sneak peeks on Instagram and FB.   Joe & I would like to thank all the lovely ladies who collaborated with us on this styled wedding shoot this week.  Thank you for making our  shoot look (and taste) so amazing! And a special thanks to Carol for allowing us to take over the beautiful grounds of The Grove for the afternoon. Thanks ladies, can't wait to work together again soon!

Dress: Mignonette Bridal / Florals: Forget Me Knodt / Cake: Luscious Layers Bakery / Makeup: Pamela Jameson / Groom's Wardrobe: Victoria Wager / Styling: Coach House Pictures / Venue: The Grove Redfield Estate

 







This weekend I had the chance to visit the beautiful grounds and newly remodeled rustic barn at Emerson Creek Pottery and Tea Room in Oswego IL.  With lush views of farmland and working farms throughout the drive, when I pulled up to the space I felt like I was transported back to simple days and times. I meet with Zack, the Creative Director, who gave me the tour of the barn, tent, and grounds. Not only was he super friendly and helpful but he answered all my questions but he gave me a great feeling of the place. It's nice  when venues work to accommodate your preferences on DIY decor, seating arrangements, and helping you create your vision for such a special day. If you are looking for a truly unique, rustic and romantic venue to celebrate your wedding day I highly recommend driving out to Oswego, IL to tour the grounds and then stop by the Tea Room for some lunch too!  Contact the events coordinator set up an appointment for a tour.  You'll be glad you did!

Joe was working on a freelance job this weekend so he couldn't make the trip out with me.  I'm excited to go back soon so he can see it all for himself in person. This might be the place!!