Here's how you know I'm busy: when my blog is silent. I'm so busy shooting, shooting, editing, shooting, answering emails, shooting some more, and then editing, that blogging falls to the very bottom of my to-do list. And it's true- I'm in the home stretch of my busiest time of year right now, which means many long days and nights editing everything I've been shooting, designing albums, revising albums, ordering and delivering albums, editing, editing, editing, meetings, physical therapy (long story), appointments, phone calls, and trying to keep on top of emails. In about a month, things will be slowing down in terms of how much I'm shooting, so I'll have a chance to catch my breath. In the meantime, another sign I'm crazy busy right now is that I'm just now blogging engagement sessions of couples who have already gotten married. Yikes!

Such is the case with Dana and Chris. We met up at Chris' former boy scout camp near Seven Springs, where Chris spent a great deal of time as an adolescent, and returned as an adult to help manage the place. It was a beautiful evening and the light was warm and perfect as we began the session. I had met Dana almost a year prior when she reserved me to photograph their wedding day, but this was my first opportunity meeting Chris. As a couple, I found them genuine, lighthearted and caring. They are both quick to laugh and share a similar sense of humor. We had a great time exploring some of the beautiful grounds of the camp as the light turned to dusk. Here are a few of my faves from the session:

Such beautiful light:

I think this one is my fave. They are so comfortable and natural together. I thought this was a great moment between them.

I loved Brooke from the first email she sent me. Although I was already booked for the year, she said she loved my work, told me a little about herself and Alfie (even attaching a photo of the two of them) and their wedding plans, and asked if I would consider photographing their wedding. After an introduction like that, how could I say no? As it happens, I'm so glad it all worked out. Not only are Brooke and Alfie (and their families) incredibly wonderful people, their wedding was spectacular. Here are some of my faves from the weekend:

The rehearsal dinner took place in an old barn on Brooke's parents' property.

Followed by smores and a bluegrass band around a bonfire.

Julia and Mike shared their vows during a beautiful day rich with fabulous details. Here are some of the things that caught my eye throughout the day:

(loved those red shoes.)

Julia was a stunning bride.

Ceremony was held at Heinz Chapel in Oakland.

Julia's parents surprised them with a dove release after the ceremony

Then we walked across the street for some portraits at the columns at Mellon Institute.

After that we were off to the reception at the Pennsylvanian. The setup of the room was simply breath-taking. There was an artist set up in the corner of the room who was painting the reception as it was happening. I thought that was such a unique idea- giving the couple a piece of original artwork from their wedding day to display in their new home. (The image in the lower left hand corner is of the finished painting.)
 
The first dance:

Jeremy Ganss provided another great evening of entertainment.

The flower girls were pretty tuckered out by the end of the evening.

Julia and Mike- thanks for having Jaci and me along to photograph your day!

Ceremony- Heinz Chapel
Reception- The Pennsylvanian
Catering- Rania's Catering
Entertainment- DJ Jeremy Ganss
Florals- Hepatica Floral Design (412) 241- 3900
Bakery- Prantl's Bakery
Reception lighting- A.D.S. Lighting & Staging
Transportation- Elite Limo
Makeup- Jennifer Palermo
Bridal Salon- Bridal Beginning
Artist at reception: Pat Crouch Miyamoto (412) 341-2054