sunset ceremony after sunset

I was so excited for Andrea and Brian's wedding this year-- they told their guests via their wedding website to allow for 'artistic expression and not tell the photographers what to do' (I am paraphrasing totally, but that's what I took from it). They understood and appreciated photojournalism, and that's something that thrills me! To work outside bounds.

Ceremony at the Umstead in Cary.




While the ladies prepped, Brian and the guys had portraits made.

one of my favorites. Andrea was not only a classic beauty, but wonderfully expressive!


flowers by Trebella Florist (always wonderful!)

Thank God for Canon equipment!

Reverend Kayelily Middleton and Rabi Ettin co-officiated. You can read the Reverends blog account here:

Brian looks lost in thought as he prepares to place the ring on Andrea's finger.

Another of my favorites.

I was prepared to do a few outside pictures with the couple, but it was just way too cold and dark. I'm glad we got a few!

Inside the front lobby area.



cool light fixtures--

wonderful cake! Here's where I realized I was in love with the walls in the Salon.





Look of love.

at their request...




And then the dancing began, just about the time we said goodnight. DJ Ryan from Island Sounds.



Congratulations Brian and Andrea. Thank you for allowing us the pleasure of working with you and your vendors. Lots more images coming late next week.

Associated with Other Photographers

Yay for color!

I did not get to meet or speak to Ashley or Scott before their wedding, but my creativity flowed just the same.

'Associate' is the fancy word for "I shot these for Elise Beall Photography". I admire Elise for the work she produces and the excellent customer service she continually provides her own clients. Next time I hope Elise will be able to come along, too!

678 album

Angel and Eamon had this funky wedding on an extraordinarily hot day. Still, we all kept our cool...and Angela picked some awesome images for her brushed chrome covered album.

Click here to view their book proofs.
I've been doing album designs like mad lately. Tis the season... Speaking of which, albums make great gifts for your inlaws and parents! We are currently offering a 15% SALE on all albums ordered before November 15th.

...does not include previously ordered albums/contracted books. New album orders only.

$1500 on me...

If you win. Photographik.org doesn't list just anyone, but what do you know, they list me. They also offer great advice to brides (something I keep meaning to do, add my two cents). And now... a contest!

Write a sweet little essay about your engagement and you're golden. You can use the $1500 towards paying for me for a gorgeous storyboard album, or to honeymoon with you in Jamaica*. Or whatever.

Enter by December first of '08. Winner announced on the photographik site on the 15th.
Good luck!

*separate room required.

Country Chic and Lots of Love

Zoe and Sean... it was beautiful!

original image... and finished image, minus me and water bottle. ;)

as a rule, I do not put brides in trees on their wedding days.

These gorgeous dresses were custom designed by __________ (Zoe? help?).

Figure-be-darned, I tried 3 of these flavors, and chocolate with salted-caramel frosting was a clear winner. But they were all fabulous. MMmmmm!

Thank you so much to all of Sean and Zoe's friends and families-- so much hospitality, spirit and good looks. It was my pleasure to work with you!