My Story
Married young, but so in love – Brad and I have been married for over 15 years. As native Pittsburghers and PITT alums, we were married at the beautiful Heinz Chapel where we said ‘I do!‘ in front of over 150 close family and friends. We partied the night away with them, and served up some family recipes for dinner. It was a blast.
Family and Style inspire my vision
Fast forward, and we now have four kids and have lost two amazing parents. Life has been mostly ups, but a few for-better-or-for-worse moments. We would not be where we are today if it weren’t for our family and friends.
We love our friends. We love our private wooded property. We value time and moments.
Photography has been a way for me to connect with beautiful people over the years. If you see me work, you see that I am incredibly organized and respectful. I treat others like gold, whether they are the catering staff or your VIP parents. I truly hope that your wedding day is the start of a beautiful life for you, as it has been for me!
Sandbridge Beach
My husband and I were engaged in Sandbridge Beach, VA and we continue to spend lots of time at this special vacation spot year after year.
Lately, we have been vacationing over the July 4th holiday week and we really enjoy the fireworks on the beach and the boat parade in the area!
Swim Meets
I can often be found at swim meets on Saturday or Sunday mornings, supporting our oldest who loves the sport! She especially loves Breast Stroke and we’ve got to see her swim at West Virginina University – we are very proud of her hard work!
We took this photo in our pool one evening – creating something outside of weddings and portraits is fun!
My mom, Carol
My mom was my best friend.
She was supportive, encouraging, and the best ear to listen to all of my random thoughts at any time of the day. She called me every New Year’s at midnight to wish me a Happy New Year, and she snuggled me on the couch as a teenager when life was hard.
She passed away in October 2022 and I miss her more than anything. The grief of her loss is always with me, but the experience of having and then losing her has shaped me as an individual. I value family and children with lots of wisdom.
University of Pittsburgh
My husband, Brad, and I met at the University of Pittsburgh in the Industrial Engineering department. He was the handsome, older PhD student, and I was the wild undergrad. After graduating, our careers went in different directions from our education – I started a wedding photography business and he worked for the USPS for 10 years and now does property management. Our education and time at PITT really shaped us as entrepreneurial problem-solvers.
Non-PITT clients: I still love you no matter what.
A secret: We actually cheer for Alabama football now, because Brad wanted a ‘winning team‘ – ha!
Lots of Personality!
Did you know – I live with a Princess?!
Each of my children have such interesting personalities.
My oldest, Joy, is a self-starter athlete.
My second, Bronco, is sensitive and loyal.
My princess, Paige, is silly and girly.
The littlest, Grant, is loving and curious.
I love watching them grow into unique individuals!
Deep Creek
Deep Creek Lake, Maryland holds a special place in our hearts. We have a log cabin on the lake and love to spend time there when we are able to venture south.
We enjoy boating, swinging in the hammock, eating s’mores, and enjoying a glass of wine in the hot tub once the evening winds down.
Our cabin is also available for rent through Railey Vacations if you’re looking for a place to stay in the Deep Creek area!
Travel
Brad and I love to travel – yes, without kids too! – we recently spent a week at a luxury resort in Isla Mujeres, and it was amazing! We usually pick our adventures as a mix of relaxation and adventure, so we can be seen in lots of places!
Some of my favorite travel includes:
– Argentina: so beautiful and cultured!
– Italy: give me all of the food
– South East Asia: I spent 3 months in Asia in college traveling South Korea, China, Vietnam, and Japan.
– Utah: Bringing it back to the US, I will go hiking in Utah any day.
Juggling It All
Here’s a cute photo of my four kids this past autumn season.
Fun fact: After each of my first three pregnancies, I photographed events within 2 weeks time.
With the last guy, I photographed weddings up until 38 weeks of pregnancy. I love my kids to no end, but I also value my work and find a way to juggle and prioritize both.
Taking on Challenges
This past summer, we took a two week road trip with our kids. We are BIG on adventure and taking on any challenge, even if that’s traveling with a big group. We never lean into excuses, but instead always insist on finding a way to make things happen.
Our road trip included Boston, Acadia National Park, White Mountains, Cape Cod, and New York City.
Friendship
These two women have been my best friends since 8th grade. We love girl’s dinners and vacationing together. We support each other, challenge each other, and lean into life together no matter our age. I love them!
Living the dream
A cup of coffee and a good workout are my go-to stress relief. I read great historical fiction books in my free time. I love stupid baking shows and have watched all of Game of Thrones. I know fashion, Dungeons and Dragons (random!), wine, and makeup. I’m always down for something new, and I take the time to pay attention to this beautiful life I’ve been given and Thank God every day for all of the blessings He has bestowed upon me.
Process
1) Learn more about your vision + people
Discovery
I love to learn about the two of you - what do you love, where did you meet, do you have a DOG?!
I love to understand your family and friends - who are the VIPs that will be celebrating with you?