family : Charlie, Olivia, and now Travis!

This morning I had the pleasure of playing with Charlie, Olivia, and three month old Travis. The girls wanted to hang out and play the rest of the day, and little Travis...he still has my heart. We were making up for some missed birthday pictures and making certain Mr. SweetiePants didn't miss his. Enjoy the preview!






I love when my cup is full!

yes! : Matt & Jenni

I've been warned. Matt is nothing but trouble and his boys...well, lets just say, I think Matt was being nice to me on Sunday afternoon. Jenni, you do know what you're getting into right?lol

We started at Townsend Park, but then wandered into the village of Cannonsburg for a couple of quick captures. Sunday was filled with nothing but laughter. My brides and grooms truly are the absolute best!


We're just starting to show some signs of color...my favorite time of year!


Hope you two enjoy your preview!

yes! : Craig & Kaprice

Sunday morning came bright and early...off to Holland to finally meet Kaprice and Craig! Mmmmmmmmm....carmel marvel from Bigby's. To my delight these two were better at waking me up than that $14 (yes, that's correct. I know I handed that girl a $20. Sorry, still a little bitter.) cup of joe. The laughter was endless!

And to make the morning a little more interesting...meet Belle & Zoe!

The wind off of Lake MI was a little out of control. Added to the laughter!


And into town! Oh, wait, there was that little detour...



Craig's request.

Last shot of the day. Fierce.

I hope you enjoy your preview as much as I enjoyed the morning!
August 2009 will be here very soon!

i do. : Jordan & Janine

Janine and Jordan...I love you both. Your families and your friends learned just how simply amazing you two are today. Not that they didn't already know that you're both amazing, but there's a new respect. One thing I tend to tell brides when they have their time lines in the works is "the only thing that truly matters at the end of the day is that you both were standing at the alter, vows said, and introduction as Mr. and Mrs." Not that your ceremony starts on time, your dress fits, your vendors show, or you both have rings, but that you were there together.

Ceremony took place at Hudsonville Christian Reform Church in Hudsonville, with reception immediately following at Creekside Greenhouse. This is one wedding I could not wait for this season. After meeting with Janine, and hearing about all of their plans, and that they included a greenhouse...this was one experience I was counting days for!

Janine is a natural beauty, but on her wedding day...beyond breath-taking.
I was told that this image is "so Janine."

The dress.
The sanctuary...bringing the outdoors in...what this family makes look so easy.

The ring.

First meeting.

Janine and Jordan.




First kiss.

The exit.

Boys behaving badly.

Creekside Greenhouse

First dance;

but wait, it gets better...



Bridal party dance...Electric Slide.

You've lost that lovin feelin, oh that lovin feelin...

And a shout out to a man with the tightest pants in wedding history! w00t!

Janine and Jordan, Thank you. Your day definitely kept everyone on their toes. I hope your honeymoon is filled with even more excitement!

stella event design : give a way week!

Received an email from Jessica over at Stella Event Design this afternoon. She's got some giveaways going this coming week for recent and upcoming brides!

Just check out her blog, comment, and possibly pocket some goodies! Good luck!

2009 Grad : Janna

It was a sweet break tonight spending time with Janna for her senior pictures knowing that the next two days will be filled with wedding and wedding preparation fun. Taking advantage of the last days of warm weather was fabulous wandering around downtown Grand Rapids.

A little bit of flare love.



I am totally lovin Janna's shoes!

Hope you've enjoyed your preview lady! More soon to come!

Annual Fund Drive for NILMDTS

With the Month of October being recognized as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, The Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep Foundation holds its Annual Fund Drive for six weeks starting in mid-September and ending in October. It is our hope that those in a place to make even a small contribution to NILMDTS will consider doing so allowing the organization to provide adequate resources, training, communication and tools necessary in support our amazing contingent of professional photographers who provide the gift of free remembrance portraiture to families in need. Your donations help the organization in many ways - By supporting the continued education of our volunteer photographers By allowing us to further our outreach to hospitals and hospices across the world By offsetting the costs associated with outreach efforts including Formal NILMDTS Training Seminars By supporting the Family Forum which creates a productive and supportive haven for healing By supporting the Photographers' Forum which provides a helpful environment for our member photographers to express their feelings and receive advice on the various issues that they face in this noble work By supporting the day to day operations of our Headquarters Offices Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep is recognized as an IRS 501(c)3 charitable organization (Tax ID#77-0656322) and your donations are always entirely tax deductible. When you donate, you will receive a thank you card that serves as your receipt as well as an enclosed card you may to send to the family of whomever you made the donation in memory of. With an average of 2-million hits per month on our web site, imagine if everyone contributed just $5 to the organization! Your donation truly will make a significant difference in the continued success of NILMDTS. There are several ways that you can donate to NILMDTS today. The first and easiest is to donate through our secure website by clicking here. NILMDTS is run 100% on donations and we truly could not provide the support necessary to our photographer volunteers without the kind generosity of donors like you. You can also pledge your support through iGive.com, an online shopping portal where a portion of all supported purchases you make online are automatically donated to NILMDTS. Click here for more information and to register! You may also send a check to our mailing address: NILMDTS Annual Fund Drive 7800 S. Elati St. #111 Littleton, CO 80120

NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, IRS EIN# 77-0656322.
All proceeds go directly into the operation of this organization to help parents who are experiencing an early infant loss.

©Copyright 2007 NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP

Congratulations Ju & Katie!

I know, I'm backwards blogging about Sunday before Saturday...but there were soooo many great captures from Saturday that I just could not make up my mind!

There was one point in the day that I over heard the wedding party talking about Ju and Katie celebrating their ten year anniversary. September 20, 2018. At their ten year, they will actually be celebrating twenty years together!

Ceremony took place at Park Congregational Church downtown Grand Rapids with the reception following at the University Club up top the 5/3rd building over looking amazing Grand Rapids.


The day was focused around pictures. Where to go and what to do. And it all took place via horse and carriage. Meet Fred and Charlie!

Like I said...narrowing the day down was a major challenge. So forgive me if the preview is a bit much!





The wedding party. Fabulous!





Sunset at the University Club allowed for some seriously yummy light.

The beginning of all festivities...the first dance.

An incredible day with an incredible couple. Have a wonderful time in Hawaii!

{09.21.2008} Celebrating 125 Years!!!

Happy 125th Anniversary Solon Center Wesleyan Church!

Pictured above: Pastor Doug, State Representative Tom Pearce, and Senator Mark Jansen.
Solon Center Wesleyan Church was being honored with a plaque from President George Bush.

Pictured below: Dr. Larry Birch.
Dr. Birch is the youngest son (at 84yrs young!) of Reverend Frank Birch who Ministered for Solon Center Wesleyan Church from 1915-1917.

Pictured below: Dr. Robert McIntyre
Dr. McIntyre is a retired General Superintendent of the Wesleyan Denomination.

Also, a huge CONGRATULATIONS to Pastor Tom Hollaway who was Ordained on Saturday!
Pictured below: Tom Schmidt (Wesleyan District Superintendent), Rev. Tom Holloway, Dr. Robert McIntyre

Today was filled with history, friends, and family!

Something I learned today. NEVER stand under emergency lights with a flash in a darkened sanctuary. You will not only set off the emergency lights, but you will also get the attention of every single person in attendance. Rule of thumb...just blame the photographer! *giggle*

{09.16.2008} Nyla's 1st Day Pre-4's!

My little school girl Tuesday morning. If you go back to the first day of school last year you'll notice she's now taller than the door knob. *giggle* My child!

"Mom! Get a picture of my nose!" Again, my child.

And that front door shot I wanted Tyler's first day...and a bit more silliness!

Why does she refuse barrettes? Yeah, my child.

After school Nyla told me about lunch, recess, seeing Tyler on the playground (Ty ran away from her), going to the motor room, her new friends Logan and Kirsten (I hope these are kids she met.lol), snack time, their 15 minute sleep time, she likes her new teacher, and that she's still to short to get on the toilet all by herself.

What did Tyler tell me? He can't remember what he did, but he didn't get a green, yellow, or red light (these are in-trouble colors).

{09.13.2008} Congratulations Steve & Lori!

Saturday was crazy! Lori and Steve are amazing. The weather posed some challenges for planned outdoor pictures, but it didn't dampen the festivities!

Ceremony took place at Grand Valley State University at the Cook-DeWitt Center. It's been awhile since I've been out there and forgot how long that walk (in the rain carrying equipment) was from the parking lots...still the same, as beautiful as ever! Reception followed at The Bluffs in Grand Rapids.


I love this dress all the way around. After getting it hung I couldn't figure out why areas were not lining up; then found out they weren't supposed to! Very unique rousing. (Did I say that right?)

Touch-ups are always necessary before walking down the aisle... when you're the flower girl!

Beautiful. I love the simplicity of this chapel. Even on dark days the light is amazing.

These two. It was a given there would be some laughter during the ceremony.

After the ceremony we grabbed umbrellas and took a short walk over to the Student Services Center.




One of my favorite parts of the day is the first dance. It's when they are the only two people in the room and they can focus 100% on each other.


Just a reminder about what we discussed before I left...we'll just call it a "puddle jump" extension!

Thank you for such a wonderful day! I hope you were able to enjoy the rest of your weekend before heading back to the grind. I can't wait to hear about your honeymoon later this fall!

{09.10.2008} Lisa & Corey

Wednesday evening I met up with Lisa and Corey for their epics in Grand Haven! We could not have asked for more amazing weather. Starting in town then finishing at the beach. You can tell it's nearing the end of summer when it brings EVERYONE out to take advantage of the perfect sunset.



Naturals in front of the camera? Most definitely!

And pass-up a red wall...NEVER! Lisa's hair looked fabulous to begin with, but this red pushed fabulous over the top!

I just love this. Corey checking to see if he should be smiling.

Thank you for an incredible evening! Looking forward to December! (brrrr....)

{09.07.2008} Stephen & Alicia

Sunday morning I met up with Alicia & Stephen in Holland at Tunnel Park. They are too sweet and so cute together. Their wedding will be June of 2009 in Grand Rapids!

Playing with a couple new presets... ya like?

After a handful of beach shots we then hit the streets of downtown Holland.


Don't you just love this building in the morning flare?



Thank you for such a wonderful beginning to the week!

{09.04.2008} First day of Kindergarten!

With as much as I wanted the traditional shot of Tyler standing on our front steps this morning he choose to pose by the car instead. "Duh, mom....you can not take your camera into the rain. Even I know that." So here's my capture.*giggle* My boy. The BIG kindergartner.

Nyla after a couple of squirrely moves around her brother, goofy kisses, and a good dose of stink-eye, finally smiled for me. What a mess these two are together. Their mine. ALL mine.

This picture was taken only seconds after the one above. I had to tell Miss Bitty that she wouldn't be starting preschool for another 12 days. She counted to twelve and then realized how long it took her to get to 12. We'll be getting first day pictures of her on the 16th! w00t!

I thought it was going to be hard leaving Ty this morning...he's my first baby. Nope, it was just the opposite. Maybe I do better sending them one at a time? He was so excited. Walked into the room, said good morning to his teacher, put his backpack away (with out being told), grabbed his name tag, walked over to the rug, stuck is right arm in the air and began a game of 20 questions. When picking him up I asked the teacher how he did. His reply "Tyler will be a great leader for me this year. He's also going to keep me on my toes." Yep! That's MY boy!

What did Nyla and I do from 8:45 till 3:26? What us girls do best...shop!

Oh, and if you're curious about last year, how much my kids have grown, and how I handled their first day, click HERE.*giggle* Maybe it's best I send them off one at a time. I unknowingly wrote out a goal too...sweet success. I love my jobs!

{08.31.2008} Congratulations Bill & Gennel!

When I arrived at Gennel and Bill's home on Sunday afternoon I was greeted with this sign. Lulani is their beautiful daughter who just came home from the hospital a week ago. I would have paid double the asking price to see Lulani, but she's not taking visitors till later this year due to being a preemie. As for photo's...I've got nothin. ::sniff sniff:: But I did get to briefly see her through the front window!

Gennel and Bill have quite the story. I met with Gennel to talk about wedding plans earlier this year. She was in the midst of planning this amazing wedding for August 31, 2008. Hall was booked, dress was purchased, etc. To then find out about three weeks later they were expecting, and not only expecting, but saving their little one. Their vows were exchanged at Bronson in Kalamazoo back in May. How many people can say they got married at a hospital?lol Lulani was born early. To go along with keeping with the celebration of August 31, Bill and Gennel were watching their little girl grow stronger every day, searching for, buying, and moving into their first home. These two are amazing, and their daughter alone is proof.

Ceremony and reception location was Pebblewood Golf Course in Bridgman, MI. Walking into the entertainment room there brought back some great memories from my teen years. Forever ago they hosted a teen dance night every Sunday. It was the place to be. Okay, now that I've aged myself...*giggle*

Gennel just before the ceremony to renew their vows. LOVED her dress! Gorgeous!

I love the wording they choose on their gifts. Sharing. This celebration was geared more around all of their neices and nephews. It was their day for family.

Bill was an absolute nut during the ceremony, and just never stopped. Seriously, look at how tiny Gennel is!

And they knew how to work a dance floor...


I hope this week you two are able to sit back, breathe, and enjoy your sweet time. It was an honor to be a part of your day. Thank you!

{08.30.2008} Congratulations David & Kim!

After meeting Kim and David for their Christmas Eve epic session last year I could not wait to see them again! It was FRIGID the day we were out, and then this past Saturday we were battling the heat. A perfect 180!

The day started at Philip Anthony Salon. As we were leaving the girls loaded up into an RV! With most everyone being from out of town they needed transportation. Who needs a limo anyways? And yes, I was watching the road, putting lipstick on, phone to my ear, finishing my coffee, and flipping through the latest Parenting magazine... You're now wishing you were that guy behind me right? *giggle*

Kim's dress was beyond beautiful.

The ceremony took place at Parish of the Holy Spirit in Grand Rapids with the reception following at Amway Grand Plaza, Pantlind Room. The entire day was wonderful!



Quick stop downtown before the evening festivities!


And of course we had to add a little back alley fun! I just LOVE this image!




The reception. The Pantlind room is amazing.


Kim and David, thank you so much for making me a part of your day! I can not wait to hear about Africa!

{EXPERIENCE} Let's make it an even 35!

Yes, I realize that 35 is not an even number. I love even numbers up to 10, but after that numbers need to be run in 5's. I know, I'm a dork.

2008's current schedule is 34 weddings. To end the year at 35 would be A-MAZE-ING!

I am offering $200 off package number 3 or 4 only with in the Grand Rapids area to my 35th contracted wedding for 2008!

Available 2008 weekend dates...
October :: 17 & 31
November :: 1, 28, 22, 29
December :: 6, 12, 20,27

Please check my calendar for availability!

Know someone who is quickly planning a fall or winter wedding? Contact me!
(As always, signed contract + deposit confirms your date!)