Married! Ryan & Mary

Ryan and Mary were married a couple months ago and I absolutely adored their wedding day. So much happiness, gorgeous girls, handsome men, beautiful details, and adorable kids!

Mary and her bridesmaids got ready at her mom's house, which was filled with memorabilia of Mary's childhood, which I just loved.



While Mary was getting her makeup done, she was given a gift and a card from Ryan, that she was told to open before the ceremony. When she opened the gift, there wasn't a dry eye in the room. He had given her a band of blue diamonds that she really wanted but didn't think she would get until she gave birth to their first son. How sweet is that? She was shocked and so incredibly happy, it was great to watch.



Everyone then headed to the ceremony at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Webster Groves.



A wedding day is emotional for anybody, but especially for Mary, whose father had passed away in the recent months. They set up a beautiful tribute for him so that he could be a visible part of the ceremony.



Mary's uncle was proud to walk her down the aisle.



And how cute are these kids?! Everyone needs to have kids at their wedding! My husband and I have been invited to a few weddings recently where kids were not allowed. I just don't get it - kids make everything so much more fun!



From the ceremony we headed to Forest Park, where about 25 other wedding parties were having their pictures done. Somehow, we were able to get away from the crowds and find spots where no one else was.



Then we headed to their reception at the City Cottage, which was this really cute and cozy little spot in the city. It is a country inspired space with a landscaped patio, exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, & more. I actually didn't stay for the reception - just got detail shots before the festivities began. To be honest, I didn't really want to leave, I felt very comfortable there and I could tell everyone else did too.



And before I end this blogpost, I want to share the e-mail that Mary sent me, after she saw her finished photos.

"Hi Cindy – I LOVE what I see!!! Thank you for being so attentive and truly capturing the day. I am so happy I found you and will definitely spread your name to anyone who is looking for a great photographer.

If my mom said it once, she’s said it 5 times… “I really think Cindy could be big, as she continues her career” She was very impressed with your professionalism, creativity, and said you were a pleasure to be around. Your creativity shows through in these pictures and from my standpoint reflects the true artist you are. Thanks again for everything."

I have to say, this was one of the nicest e-mails I've ever received, and it meant a lot that she took the time to write it. Definitely the reason I love my job is getting e-mails like this.

Congrats again guys!

Nico at 6 months

My baby is 6 months old. I've been anticipating this age since he was born. Sounds weird, because most parents wish time could stand still. But newborns are difficult, especially mine. My older son, Jack, was very colicky and Nico followed in his footsteps. I knew once Nico turned 6 months things would start getting a little easier, and I was right. 6 months is a pretty awesome age.

Here's one month..



Two months.. (yes, he's a very strong little guy)



Three months..



Four months..



Five months..



And now.. SIX months!



These pictures will make you want to hug him and squeeze him. He is so much fun.

First we used this crown, which was from Jack's Where the Wild Things Are themed 1st birthday party. He looks pretty cute in it, huh?

















Then I used this soft blanket I found at Home Goods that I thought would be perfect for baby pictures. Nico had fun eating it.







I'm a hat person. I love hats. I bought the hat below from Gap Kids for my son Jack when he was 2 and he absolutely refused to wear it. So I just had to use it for these photos. I know it's a bit ridiculous, but it's awesome. And Nico didn't mind it at all. He is also wearing my favorite sweater of his from H&M which he is about to outgrow.













He looks a lot like me in this picture.



Nico is our last baby and it is sad to see him reach milestones knowing that I won't experience that again (until I have grandkids..). But I also look forward to the future so much and seeing my boys grow to be best friends. Nico is such a great joy in our lives and completes our family.

Parker

Slowly but surely I am catching up on blogging the sessions I've done over the last couple months. Here is 2 year old Parker - such an adorable little guy, and so busy! Definitely reminded me of my son at that age. He definitely gave me a workout - I chased him all over the park. He was a ball of energy and so much fun!



Worn out!