Nick + Andrea Pt. 2: A Tropical Elopement in Jamaica | Sandals Ochi | Destination Wedding

Before my time with Nick and Andrea in Jamaica, I had never been there and I had never been to an all-inclusive resort. Let me begin by expressing how wonderful the staff and atmosphere was at the Sandals Ochi Resort. Everyone was so pleasant and accommodating, and some of the staff even got out on the dance floor with us before the night was over! It was such humble and genuine service. Not to mention, the tropical landscape was stunning, even in the middle of “winter”!

The warmth and excitement between Nick and Andrea was a constant throughout the trip. Andrea put lots of thought into the little moments and accommodations, too, from personalized handkerchiefs, to “hang over cure” bags in all of the guest rooms. I always felt welcome, even as the photographer. Both the bride and groom always kept the mood light with humor, making this destination wedding one we will all remember fondly for years to come!

Still Life with Harry's Bottle | Milwaukee, Wisconsin | Fine Art Photography

This photograph may seem simple in appearance, but holds a weight of meaning that requires explanation.  I captured this image at about 1 o'clock in the morning, after several emotional hours, lying there with my 5 month old son, Harry.  A realization had washed over me that my summer with him was ending.  We would both have to separate from the morning chats in bed, the daily explorations of new sights, sounds, sensations and tastes, the bright eyes and many kisses, my constant amusement, his soft hair, his smell.  As the pain became crushing and tears rolled down my face, I looked over at him in the moonlight.  Finally, I could make this photograph after months of creative block.  His bottle, entirely illuminated by the moon.

Nick + Andrea Pt. 1: A Slinger Engagement | Slinger, Wisconsin | Engagement Photos

I have known Nick for most of my life, so when he asked me to photograph his marraige to Andrea, I was of course honored, but also thrilled because it would be my first destination wedding assignment!

We began our time working together on the mainland, in Slinger, Wisconsin.  Nick had asked me to meet them at the Pike Lake Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest for their engagement shoot.  My husband and I have bounced around to the various locations of the Kettle Moraine State parks, but I had never been to this site specifically.  Wow, what a place!  I was able to create some of my favorite images ever of the couple because of the abundant pine trees and huge, rolling hills. 

One of their favorite cities is Nashville, Tennessee because they're huge fans of country music, so they both brought their cowboy boots along to the shoot.  We also had a blast, running around with their little dog, Lulu.

Andrea Lopez Quinceañera | Milwaukee, Wisconsin | Lifestyle Photography

When Andrea asked me to be her photographer for her quinceañera, I was honored to be a part of this culturally rich occassion.  A quinceañera is a celebration of a teenager’s fifteenth birthday and her transition from girlhood into adulthood that typically includes stunning dresses, a holy ceremony, and a reception into the night.  Andrea’s quinceañera (or, as the girls call it, her quince) was even more special to me, as she is one of my students!

The religious service was held at the beautiful, historic Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church on the South Side of Milwaukee.  The ceremony was solemn, yet celebratory.  Andrea looked effortlessly beautiful in her pink gown, and her family was oh-so-proud of their little girl.

After the ceremony, a traditional reception was held --- and the priest even stopped by! Andrea was sweetly blessed by her grandparents, and she and her quinceañera court performed not one, but two choreographed dances.  The birthday girl, her friends, and her family danced into the evening.  As I left the venue, I happened upon the younger children playing on a playground against a breathtaking sunset: a perfect ending to a perfect day!

Story Editor: Jackie Dunn

Ceremony and Reception at Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church