Lauren + Ryan: Part II

As promised, here's part two of Lauren and Ryan's sweet and dainty affair! From blush bridesmaids, natural flowers, to the most perfect feminine touches. Their day was just a sweet mix of Southern cocktail hour at sunset and perfectly quirky vows, filled with ruffles and laughs in between.

And in case you’re planning a wedding, or perhaps you just love Lauren’s planned out details, here are a few of her ever-fabulous vendors from the day…

Venue: The Lakehouse Mandeville

Wedding Dress & Lace Duster: BHLDN

Bridal Prep: Marvilla Guest House

Makeup: Kendel with Makeup by Kendel

Invitations and Programs: Magnet Street

Paper Garland Flowers (pictured in Part II post): Love Embellished

Flowers: Florist of Covington

Videographer: BGP Productions

Photographer: Kali Norton

Lauren and Ryan, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for the opportunity to document this time in your life.

Pastels & Succulents - Kelsi + Darren

She's a girl who knows what she likes. Soft, Southern charm with the perfect pop of color is precisely how I'd describe Kelsi's taste in weddings. When we arrived to her room to start photographing that afternoon, the room was empty and it was like a heavenly bliss that allowed for us to document her details so perfectly, uninterrupted. The girls arrived shortly after we photographed her perfect succulent accented bouquets for us to catch a few key moments, then head out for a cushioned time block Kelsi and I had planned for photographs. The day just went as smoothly as the pretty shades of pastel were to my eyes. Here are a few of my favorite moments and details from Kelsi and Darren's day...

Everything was so soft, with the perfect interjected pops of sweet color for her Spring wedding.

I loved the style variations in the bridesmaid dresses, cohesively bound together by their matching bouquets and nude pumps.

And can we take a moment of silence to pay our respect for these fabulous boutonnieres? 

Their flower girl killed me. She was sweet perfection.

 Kelsi and Darren, I wish you a lifetime of happiness. Thank you for the opportunity to document your planning, details, and momentous day through my lens.

FEATURED IN: Emmaline Bride

So excited that it's Lauren and Ryan's wedding week AND their engagement sesh is featured on Emmaline Bride today! Hop on over to Emmaline's blog and check it out. (:

My Thoughts on Pinterest (For Brides)

Pinterest has become quite the topic of conversation over the past couple of years. From home decor, to meal planning, to throwing a fabulous party, the term "I got it from Pinterest" is a pretty common one. One of the main contenders on that list of "Pinspiration" topics is wedding planning. Now, before I go any further with this, I should note that I think the creators of Pinterest have executed a genius idea in the world of web browsing, and in fact, I do use it sometimes with outfit planning direction for sessions. However, there are certain elements that make Pinterest far less than a Godsend. Pinterest, unfortunately, sometimes creates expectations among brides that often have far more elements that come into play than just recreating a pretty picture. Not to mention that whole stealing someone else's idea thing...

In this post, I will outline some key points that photographers and other creative professionals in the wedding industry probably want you to know about WHY those pages of Pinterest photos you want recreated probably aren't helping you get the best final product from YOUR day.

PHOTOJOURNALISTIC OR "LIFESTYLE" PHOTOGRAPHY

These are terms you may have heard to describe photography in recent years. These coined terms describe natural, realistic, emotion-driven photography. New clients come to me and SO OFTEN the first thing they say is, "I want you because your images look so natural, not posed." Those images you see where a couple looks so natural, laughing or sharing a sweet little kiss? That's "lifestyle" esque photography. Yes, I'm probably directing them to some degree or another, but I'm not controlling their every "pose." I'm letting their movements and interaction with one another flow naturally based on the cues I'm giving them and their own individual personalities. We see our best work in candid moments of raw emotion.

What's my point? When us creative-brained people are focused on making sure we get the requested photos from your 5 page printed out Pinterest board, we MISS those candid ones. We're human, and if we have a creative-driven brain, it likely works in it's own particular routine of execution. Maybe you haven't thought of it this way, but we are artists. We WANT to create AUTHENTIC, FINE ART for you. So let us. (:

Here's a suggestion (since I know better than to think you'll give up Pinterest cold turkey)...Use Pinterest for a springboard of wedding inspiration if you wish, but make those ideas your own. Think of the bigger picture of your day, then change those small ideas to fit into an overall vision that is all your own. You do the planning, you lay out all of the pretties, then leave the authentic documentation of your beautiful work to us. If you've planned it ahead of time, there's no reason we can't come in and document your vision that has come to life with the creative eye you hired us for.

ELEMENTS OF NATURE AND THE FACTORS/PACE OF A WEDDING DAY

What you've probably never put much thought to when looking at wedding photos on Pinterest, or heck, even a tutorial of how to make paper bows, is that what you're seeing is the final product of that person's work, whatever it may be. For a photographer, it was probably a photo chosen among many more (not ever seen) taken from that session or wedding. It was very likely taken with his or her curated end goal for the collection of work in mind.

Additionally, there's a pretty whopping chance that that photo you saw on Pinterest was NOT a completely planned out moment--that moment that you're asking to be replicated. Doesn't that seem cheap to you? Don't you want your own, AUTHENTIC feelings portrayed in your photos?

Let me explain. You see, when I take a photograph, there are several different elements of creativity and structure going through my head at any given time (ie. lighting, focal points, location, time of day, angles, etc). These are in addition to choosing between posing, candid moments, and the end product I have in mind to cohesively piece together the entire collection. In fact, each location and the way I direct clients and have them interact is a unique combination to them. It's a mixture of my vision based on the elements (outfits, wedding details, venues) they've given me AND their own particular personalities. My goal is to make the photographs natural and representative of what is uniquely them. If I'm replicating someone else's idea, how can I organically portray my own clients?

MOST "D.I.Y." WEDDING PINSPIRATION YOU SEE IS NOT ACTUALLY D.I.Y.

The truth is, most highly pinned pins are photographs taken by photographers working with reputable vendors in the industry on the wedding. While I'm not saying that everyone needs or can afford a wedding planner, I am, unfortunately, bursting your bubble. These photos are more than likely taken by photographers working with Grade A wedding planners, florists, etc and are very intricately planned out.

And THAT is if the photograph you're seeing isn't actually a product of a "styled shoot." For those of you who don't know, a styled shoot is when many fabulous vendors come together to put their creativity to life. It's basically what us creatives would do if we had full reign all of the time. Styled shoots are BEAUTIFUL my friends, and they are a GREAT GREAT GREAT way to find wedding inspiration and direction, but keep in mind, there was a fabulous team put together to create all of those perfect elements you see.

Nonetheless, if they are DIY projects, it's not just throwing some twine on some mason jars and calling it a day. It's planning out tablescapes on your own, it's taking lighting into consideration, it's thinking about how that beautifully designed cake you ordered will look in front of a generic white curtain backdrop you've settled with from the reception hall because you "don't want to make any more decisions."

Why am I blabbing on about this? Because if you want something like what you're seeing, YOU need to put the planning and work in beforehand to make it happen--or hire people who will. You can even ask me for a little direction to see what your options are for making your vision happen. I want the absolute best for you, and for me. It's not impossible, it's VERY possible. It just requires preparation and communication. I'm a photographer, not a magician. I can't pull bunnies out of hats if you don't provide hats and bunnies. ( :

Kady and Brandon's wedding in this post, for example, WAS actually all executed by meticulous planning by her. Kady followed wedding blogs and asked the questions from professionals and/or did the research to achieve the picture perfect wedding she wanted. She hired someone the day of to simply keep things in order and and make sure her vision was executed smoothly. But most of all, she planned ahead of time, keeping in mind the final aesthetic and how the choices she made would look in photographs.

Am I saying everyone needs to go to these lengths? No. But I am saying that if you're envisioning photographs like you pin, then yes, you do.

TIMELINE PLANNING

Wedding days move quickly. They are filled with excitement, tons of people, and usually a bride who wants to relax (and should). This means she is not dishing out orders. And since the mother hen of the vision is NOT giving out orders on the day of, timeline planning for the day is essential.

In fact, if any of my current brides are reading this, they're probably laughing knowing I'd put this in here. I'm NEUROTIC about timeline planning in advance, y'all. I wine and dine them and we meticulously discuss and account for every minute of the day when we plan months ahead of time. Every photographer does not do this, but I do. Why? Because even if it's time marked off for simply WAITING or doing nothing, communication is clear and everyone knows what and when they are responsible for something. It sounds stringent, but I promise, it actually has quite the opposite effect when it comes to the execution of a more laid back, emotion filled day.

Why am I talking about timelines on a Pinterest themed post? Because those photographs you see pinned likely came as a product of time set aside for creative photographs. A timeline where the bride and groom did a first look, had a cocktail hour where they slipped away for styled photographs, or just simply slipped away. It's true. It's a less common practice in the South it seems, but in many other places, the married couple actually designates a "cocktail hour" of sorts for guests while they sneak off with the photographer for professional photos. You can read even more extensively about my thoughts on that time topic in a whole separate post I wrote, here.

The VAST, GEESH EVER-SO-VAST majority of photos you're probably drooling over on Pinterest are coming from the cushioned time block the photographer has to be creative pre-ceremony, during the first look, or during that cocktail hour. So, once again, if you don't give me bunnies and hats, I can't do the magic. And TRUST ME, I wanna work alllllllll of that magic for you.

Much like a marriage, we are a team. Communication, collaboration, and trust are absolute key. I can give you BETTER than what you see on Pinterest, because it will be authentic to you. But we must work on a basis of trust, communication, and collaboration.

THE FINAL WORD WE CREATIVE PROFESSIONALS WANT YOU TO KNOW...

We photographers, wedding planners, videographers, florists, venues, etc--have seen these styles of photographs and we may, very well, even know the artist(s) in the wedding industry who helped create it. We want nothing more for your final, beautiful outcome AND for our own careers, to achieve these same types of final products.We study blogs, we travel around the country to workshops, we study styles, we study the composition of others' great work. We admire it and we grow from it, but as respectable artists and creators, we do not copy it. We've probably already seen it and used it as a learning tool to make our own work more authentic, but never (or at least I hope never) to copy someone else's.

SO, when you're thinking about using Pinterest, I challenge you to instead approach it with a mindset of authenticity. I challenge you to, instead of copying, brainstorm an overall vision that you have for your day--feelings, style, and atmosphere that represents you. Ask the professionals you've hired for their personal and professional advice of how and where you may be able to reference to achieve it, then make it your own. I can't speak for other professionals, but I can tell you that I would gladly spend a little extra time than I'm paid for with a bride or client asking for my advice, because I know it means we are working together to create something authentic. And because your own is SO much better than any replica.

Stephanie + Joel - Part II

Happy first day of Spring! Oh how optimistic I am about blooming flowers and sunshine. As promised, here's the second part of Stephanie and Joel's sweet, sweet engagements. Since we are welcoming in the first day of Spring today, I thought it was appropriate to share this part with all of the pretty white blooms... 

These black and whites were both Stephanie and my favorites.

 I hope you enjoyed part two of these little lovers. Stay tuned for some Cabo goodness when they say their nuptials next May! Have a fabulous weekend, my friends.

Stephanie + Joel - Part I

I'm quite a girl. In fact, Preston wouldn't fight anyone on the notion that I'm as girly as they come. With that being said, we girls tend to have a bit of a rep for changing friends much more frequently than guys as we go into adulthood. Tis' ever-so-true. Stephanie and I were pretty attached during some of our younger years. As time went on, we drifted, then went on with our lives. But what I love as I look back on all of the various friendships I've had from childhood to adulthood, is that I look at where most of the ladies I've had the pleasure of being close to have grown to be, and well, it's just a beautiful thing, this life. Perhaps it has a lot to do with the fact that we are living out our twenties with eyes for adventure and ambition. Nonetheless, dream-inspired and goal driven seems to be a common theme.  This is absolutely true of Stephanie and her fiance' Joel.

Stephanie and Joel most certainly seize the day, and it's something I find so admirable about their relationship. After meeting Joel for the first time, I instantly saw the comforting love, security, and adventure he provides Stephanie. They are equals and they work life so beautifully as a team. This was so very apparent to me just from being around them. They even backpacked through Europe for 5 weeks last year, just taking time to soak in people, food, and culture. Are you in love with them yet? I am. (:

As I mentioned with a few past engagements, when photographing an old friend, a beautiful nostalgia comes into play. This was most certainly no different as I photographed Stephanie and Joel. We had a ball, laughing and chatting the entire time.

The comfort they had around one another seriously just found itself so perfectly on the screen of my camera.

Stephanie and Joel, you both exude beauty, inside and out. I'm so very grateful for the opportunity to spend more time with your contagiously warm and bright souls this year. And of course, I most certainly cannot wait to document you tying the knot in Cabo next May. Here's to love, travel, and doing life so big. Cheers!

Caitlyn + BJ

It's always particularly special to me when I have the opportunity to document a monumental life event of someone whom I've personally known for some significant portion of life. To observe them a little more intimately, through my lens, and see the true emotion that exists within them during this season in life. This is one of the many reasons I was overjoyed when Caitlyn asked me to document her wedding and this season in life for her and BJ.

You see, I've known Caitlyn with all of her sweet personality and smile that could light up a room since pre-school. In fact, there's a photo of us from pre-school with some other fine ladies that I grew up with that I tried to dig up for this post, but I couldn't locate it. Caitlyn's smile alone is so full of joy, it's no wonder BJ wants to spend the rest of his life with her. I've also known BJ for quite some time. He too has a welcoming smile and persona that leaves you feeling right at home.

Caitlyn and BJ both attended Southeastern, so photographs among the quaint streets of our little college town were nothing short of appropriate.

The above photo, to me, personifies the welcomed warmth BJ exudes, especially towards Caitlyn. And her smile below is that genuine Caitlyn smile I was speaking of. And just so we're clear, he definitely brought her home these flowers the day of our session, so she found it only appropriate to bring them along. I'm so glad she did. Ah, little sweet gestures...

I happen to love little detail shots to tie outfits, colors, and surroundings together. I particularly love the ones I snapped in this session, because I feel that they really show the personality of our adorable little college town. It's nothing extravagant in Hammond, Louisiana to most, but when I walk the streets, I feel so much appreciation for the personality in all of the little nooks and crannies.

Caitlyn and BJ, I adore the relationship you share just as much as I adore the two of you. I could not feel more honored and delighted to document this part of life for you. Here's to January, and the many years to follow.

Allie + Dalton

Mylanta, where do I even start? Allie was one of my best friends in high school. In fact, we were pretty much inseparable for a while. We drove to school together every day, lived only a few streets apart, and were pretty much together all hours that we weren't obsessing over school activities and insanely high GPAs. The insanely high GPAs makes me chuckle a little now. While that was undoubtedly so very important and I FULLY support striving for the highest academic achievements, our unwavering need for nothing less than a 107 percent was a little insane. I think, perhaps, I could have stressed a little less and enjoyed my youth a little more. Nonetheless, I can't say I've changed much--presumably, it's come in handy running a business.

Anyhow, as I went to college, Allie was a couple of years younger than me and, naturally, we drifted a bit. It was fine, though as we both have personalities that seem to fully embrace the change and seasons of friendships, which I love. I've always found that the best friends are the ones who understand these seasons, and nonetheless, can pick up right where we left off.

I hadn't seen Allie in quite some time before her engagement session, but you would have sworn we'd kept in touch weekly by the banter that ensued during. And, of course, I should have known that Allie would end up with a gentleman who fits right in, interjecting his own entertaining comments as if he's known a person for years. This is exactly how my Allie is. She's got a heart of gold, an adventurous spirit, and a drive for the utmost success. She's full of talent and her wit never misses a beat. After spending time with Dalton, I learned of his perfection for her, on all counts.

Being around Allie had me laughing harder than I've laughed in a long time. I forgot how absolutely entertaining she is. This girl could light up a room with her wit and ability to make people laugh.

This is pretty much how most of the session went, belly-aching, face-palming laughter. And then, OH THEN, there was Copper. Copper is the adorable little guy below, Allie and Dalton's 5-month-old "baby." He's SO smart too. He performed all of his little pup tricks for me and sat ever-so-perfectly for photos.

This next one was my favorite photograph from the session. Cozy, warm, AND cable knit cream...right up my alley...

We ended their session on the water at sunset just opening some beers and hanging out by the water--how I recommend ALL engagement sessions should be. We just relaxed, talked, and got some photos in that truly represent Dalton and Allie. Plus, they brought Shiner's Holiday Brew, Holiday Cheer, which I came across this year at Christmas time and is an absolute favorite of mine now. (:

Allie and Dalton, I'm so elated for your future together, on so many levels. I could not have picked a better match and I truly adore every aspect of you two and the start of what will be a life of beautiful adventure and, undoubtedly, never-ending laughter together. Moreover, I'm ever so grateful to have the honor of documenting these first moments of your life together. I love you both.

New Orleans Riverside Wedding - Casey + Brett

Much like the city in general, New Orleans weddings exude rich tradition and culture like no other weddings I've ever had the pleasure of attending or photographing. I feel almost as though a large majority of the culture of the city comes together, balled into this one night. For those growing up in South Louisiana, it's an intense feeling of comfort and of home as they begin their lives together under the celebration of such deep rooted traditions. Coming from beautifully large and close extended families, Casey and Brett chose to embrace all things rich in this culture on their day. All of the love, tradition, and comfort of the South...

They got ready at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, overlooking the boats and other happenings along the Mississippi River. I loved that both Casey and Brett were getting ready at the hotel, as it allowed us plenty of time to capture the details and emotion leading up for both of them.

As the emotion and tradition were both free-flowing, I felt it appropriate to use lots of black and white to convey the sentiments as I saw them.

As if the classic details weren't enough, the emotion that filled the day between family, friends, and all who love Casey and Brett left me in awe...

We don't always get a chance to document the men getting ready, but I  must say, it was quite entertaining watching these guys figure out the meticulous placing of their suspenders. Although, they seemed to have the bow tie part down, like the backs of their hands.

Casey has a twin sister, Jessica, as well as a younger brother, Nick. We couldn't help but have a little fun with Nick.

Their  ceremony was held at St. Francis of Assisi in New Orleans--and oh my word. Casey and Brett's ceremony was truly one of the most beautifully spoken ceremonies I've ever had the pleasure of witnessing. And well, the actual beauty within the architecture of the church simply speaks for itself. I also happen to love this little shot I snagged of the ring bearer giving high fives. (:

And well, I can't say I don't love the beauty in a crying bride, so very overwhelmed with the emotion of the day...

After the ceremony, we headed back to the Hilton to board the Creole Queen Steamboat and cruise The Mississippi. It was fabulous, and undoubtedly, the whole bunch knew nothing less than how to have the best time.  Casey and Brett, we truly felt like family surrounded by everyone who loves you so much. Thank you, truly, for allowing us to document your day.

A Southern Louisiana Wedding - Ashley + Matt

A girl born and raised near the mossy trees and cypress knees of South Louisiana, Ashley knew in every ounce of her being that her heart desired the most traditional Southern Catholic wedding with hints of all things reminding her of her sweet childhood and heritage. Both food lovers and raised near the bayous of South Louisiana, these sweet Southern elements came easily. I love the soft tones, mossy grey hues, and natural light that filled Ashley and Matt's day.

Ashley gifted her parents sentimental tokens of her appreciation on the morning of her wedding day, and for her mother, that meant Love You Forever by Robert Munsch. I'd like to imagine this book holds sentimental value for a few of us. I don't think I'll ever forget my own personal memories of the countless times my granny read it to me as a child...

Her wedding party was small and her colors were classic--all making for a timeless compilation of color and emotion to encompass the day.

Ashley and Matt did not opt for a first look, however, her dad hadn't seen her dress or any elements of the day, so she had a very special moment with him.

Ashley and Matt had a traditional Catholic Mass, followed by a traditional South Louisiana reception. If you know anything about South Louisiana weddings, you know this means the dance floor wasn't empty. (;

Both Ashley and Matt's mothers were not shy of a good time, and our cameras were thankful.

 Ashley and Matt, thank you for choosing us to be a part of your day. I hope for you nothing less than a lifetime of love, cherished moments, and happiness.

The Beards

With it being a time of thanksgiving, it's only appropriate that I should be blogging these two today. Perhaps they look familiar to you from their surprise wedding we photographed this past March or from my personal posts if you follow me on Instagram. You see, Connie was my bride. Mind you, I had never met her before she approached me about booking, but well, she's been the biggest gleam of sunshine in my life ever since. I knew from the moment I met her, like I do often times with people of her good nature, that she had a heart of gold and a optimistic fervor for life. She and Mike have become best friends to Preston and I over the course of the year and I could not be more grateful for their genuine presence, every single day.

Oh hey! They're superbly stylish too! We know I have eyes for photographs that look like they came straight out of a Jcrew or Banana Republic catalog, and well, here you go. (:

Hehe, this is Little Miss Riley. She's a dainty lady. We've dogsat her before and it was grand. That was before I had a monster of a fluffy puppy thinking everything as little as Miss Riley is a toy at his own personal service. Err...

This was one of my favorite photos from their session because umm, Connie has a little feisty streak that I love so dearly about her that Mike is always keeping in balance. It's quite a fun dynamic to be around.

Connie threw on a flannel shirt over her lace dress for the second half of the session and I LOVE the whole different vibe it brought...

 Connie and Mike, you two have truly become better friends than I ever could have imagined. I cherish your good nature, giant hearts, and love of good food every single day. I cannot wait for so many more adventures with you.

Lauren + Trey {engaged} - Part II

I just adore the class that these two exude and the sweet dynamic they share. In case you missed the first part of Lauren and Trey's session, you can check it out here. Now, if only I wouldn't be so antsy to see all of the fabulous planning Lauren has up her sleeve for October. Undoubtedly, it will be breathtaking.

For now, here's part two of their sweet engagement sesh...

Happy Friday!

Lauren + Trey {Engaged} - Part I

When Lauren and I began collaborating on the style of this session, I knew our outcome would be fabulous. And oh my word, it was just that! My jaw dropped and wheels started turning as I learned quickly how much I adored these two, how much this session would come to feel as though it were straight out of a Jcrew magazine, and how excited I'd be for documenting their wedding next October.

Lauren's a sweet Southern girl and an organization obsessor after my own heart. And Trey? He's just the type of comic relief most of us Type-A girls need for the perfect balance in our lives. That's just one beautifully pieced dynamic I learned about their sweet relationship. Scroll, and swoon, over part one of their classic, timeless style...

When Lauren showed up with red wine AND s'mores, there was no question she was destined to be my bride...

This little fella? His name is Teddy. He's perfect. Trey shared with me that he briefly debated naming him Chewie before they decided on Teddy...and then I died.

Lauren and Trey, from your sweet, Southern hospitality, to your classic style, to your inviting persona, you had me at "Hello." I cannot wait to get to know you even more and collaborate with you to create perfection for you next October. Stay tuned for Part II. Happy Hump Day!

Bethany + Chase {Engaged}

She's bubbly, he's chill and quiet. Friends for years and now planning to spend their lives together, Bethany and Chase wooed me full force during their session. Not only were they beautifully smitten with one another, but they were perfectly comfortable in front of the camera. In fact, they fell into place so naturally, it was almost as if I weren't even there -- just how I like it. (:

What I loved most about them was that even Chase was incredibly comfortable in front of the camera. But moreso, the interaction he had with Bethany that naturally unfolded from him taking the lead to make them both comfortable and natural, was so, so very beautiful to me. A man leading his lady so delicately is a beautiful thing. I adore these two so much.

I loved Bethany's low-back maxi with her soft curls. They both worked it! In fact, I told Chase I'll need to hire him to direct men for me at weddings. Kidding! But really...he was a pro.

There's little in life more beautiful to me than a happy woman. While, of course, happy people and general are great to be around, there's something specific about a woman. Every single time I capture photographs where I can tell, genuinely tell, that the woman in them is happy, content--that all is right in her world--I fell an immense feeling of satiety inside me.

Bethany and Chase, I absolutely cannot wait for our year of adventure and planning together. And what's more, I cannot wait to document you two becoming one next October. Stay beautiful, radiant, and in love always.

Chateau Country Club Wedding: Amy & Barret

Amy and Barret's Country Club Wedding was the perfect mix of glam, hints of preppy fab, and the creams I scream from the rooftops about. And as I mentioned in this post, the lighting and locations throughout Amy's entire day made it a photographer's heaven and created the perfect setup for nothing less than perfection in her wedding portfolio. Amy was timid, but I could tell time and time again throughout her day, that she is truly loved by the people who surround her. Her friendships genuine, her new marriage, already deep-rooted in love and family--Amy's heart shines golden. Scroll to see her soft details that made everything perfection.

After a long day of shooting, even Preston looked at me and noted how much Amy's preparedness and trust in me as her photographer truly made the day one of the smoothest ever for us. I loved Amy and Barret immediately, but after hearing her desires for big hair, an intimate first look with Barret, and the most classy forms of bling, she had me.

A special thanks to the fabulous vendors...

The entire staff at Chateau Country Club

Gorgeous blooms from Claire at Blumen Lendle

Brock and Natalie at BGP Productions

Hair and Makeup from the girls at Candies & Company

Some dope beats from Quinn with White Oak Productions

Cake from Haydel's Bakery

Amy's nerves were playing games with her in the beginning of the day, but she took care of that like a girl after my own heart...

It's a tie between birdcage and cathedral veils for me, but for Amy, oh my goodness she rocked this with her adorable bob like nobody's business.

Recognize this little angel? It's my sweet Ellis that I've been photographing since she was a wee little newborn. Ellis's momma, Jennie, is a long-time friend and old roommate of Amy's, and they were both in the bridal party. This alone, makes my heart so, so very happy.

It's always a toss-up if the little ones will be petrified or excited to walk down the aisle. Well, little mister Braden did it once, then said ever-so-adorably, "C'mon Ellis, let's go do it again!" The most perfect prelude to Amy's stunning entrance...

I adore this photograph so much. This is Berklie, being held by her great-grandmother. Capturing moments like this fills my heart to the brim.

Amy and Barret, thank you so much for allowing me to witness and document your day. I'm ever grateful and wish you nothing but countless years of happiness.

When a Bride Trusts Me...

Amy and Barret's country club wedding this past weekend is a fabulous example of how perfectly wedding elements from lighting, to details, to location all can come together and make the lighting and photography angels sing happy, happy tunes. Aside from coming to the table with fabulous details, vendors, and locations, Amy trusted me completely with the schedule and creative direction of her day. Oh, AND her guests were very polite as to use no iPhones, iPads, or flashy cameras in the aisles to take away from the photographs and intimacy of her ceremony! Woop.

When choosing quality vendors, putting full trust in their recommendations as professionals, elements can come together to create your perfect day--the one you've envisioned, the one you've seen in on Pinterest, the one you've seen in other weddings they've advertised.  After all, that's why you chose them. (:

Here's a tiny peek at a few of Amy's impeccable details that added to the perfection of her day. Stay tuned for a blog with her full wedding and vendors...

In the meantime, I've listed a few things to keep in mind when you hire a professional photographer that will help in getting you those Pintrest-esque photographs you've probably envisioned since you said, "I do."

1. GETTING READY LOCATION: While beautifully lit hotel rooms, country clubs, and plantations are another added cost for your already growing wedding day budget, they undoubtedly add a bright and airy picturesque feel to the start of your wedding day that sets the tone for your photographs. They are already clear of clutter and often well-lit, which helps eliminating distractions that you may not even realize take from the emotion of a photograph. Chelsey and Kaleb's wedding here is a fabulous example of what I mean by this.
2. DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS: If you haven't caught on by now, I swoon over some details. It's one of my favorite parts of adding my artistic touch to the wedding day. From table settings (which can surely be done on a budget in these Pinterest days), to perfume, jewelry, hair accessories, bridesmaids gifts, and shoes, all of these items come together to create an atmosphere around your day that is all your own. The more unique, the better! My brides find these elements in so many locations--Etsy, BHLDN, are among the top. The more you stay away from getting items like this at generic wedding places, sometimes the better.  I've found that the less accessories and personal touches a bride adds or provides to photograph on the wedding day, the less intimate the photos seem to be. If you missed it, I also wrote a post about being interactive in the creative process with your photographer, here.
3. SETTING ASIDE TIME FOR PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS: This is another big one! Many of my brides choose to do a first look, which allows us a nice chunk of time to get some creative shots of the bride and groom that otherwise often get missed due to the fast pace of the day. For those that choose not to do a first look, I suggest a cocktail hour for guests or a block of time after the ceremony to get some creative shots. This of course, means missing part of your reception, which is why many of my couples opt for a first look, or at the very least, a large block of time before the wedding to do separate bridal party shots and as many family shots as we can. This keeps the traditional altar or indoors family shots to a minimum, which dadadadummm, maximizes the picturesque look of your wedding day! I wrote a blog post about more of my feelings and suggestions on this here, which I urge you to read if you'd like more information.
4. LIGHTING: This is the absolute, without a doubt, biggest element that will add or take away from perfect documentation of the day. Photography (and videography) is ALL ABOUT FABULOUS LIGHT. I could scream this from the rooftops. Fabulous light will breed fabulous photography. Of course, there are some elements of lighting that cannot be controlled, like a dark church, but in all other regards, I urge you to pay attention to this factor when choosing locations for the day. Well lit getting ready locations, preferably with one or more large windows, and with reception halls, large, open dance floors, are among the top things to look for. We of course always bring alternative means of lighting dark areas, but there is nothing prettier in most photographs than natural light.

So, these are the main elements I recommend keeping in mind for the most fabulous photos! Happy Monday, friends!

Meet My Second Shooter...

He is my comic relief, my voice of reason amidst my frequent female freak-out sessions. He’s a genius brain and knower of any random fact. He is my avid video gamer, Pop Culture lover, Scout Sniper and Reconnaissance Marine. He’s my textbook reader and fixer of all electronic devices. He is my Mister Social, risk taker, and limit pusher.

He pushes me when I’m scared, picks me up when I fall, and challenges me when I’m stubborn. Our adventure in love has taught me more about life than I ever could have imagined, and brought me an eye for documenting life and love in a whole new light. It’s taught me to embrace life’s moments and the huge story, feeling, and era that lies behind each photograph. He connects with people and sees life in a whole different dynamic than I—and this is why he documents your day alongside me.

When you hire us for your wedding day, you're getting more than just a photographer and second shooter, you're getting a team of newlyweds who know the adventures, successes, trials, and monumental moments you will experience in this crazy next chapter -- because trust me, it will be crazy. And it will be beautiful.

Some of the most monumental times in your life are ahead. There will be beauty, there will be breakdown, there will be all emotions in between. There will be days when you need to listen to your wedding song after a fight or look through those pictures to remind you of how you felt at those moments, to remind you. This is why we document.

Upcoming Gulf Coast Date

If you are located in the Fairhope/Gulf Shores/Mobile/Pensacola area and would like to book your Lifestyle Session, senior session, or annual family session, contact the studio at kali@kalinorton.com. I'll see you then!

Making Time for Styled Photos on Your Wedding Day

The wedding day and events leading up can be a stressful experience, but there is something I've learned to mention to my brides in the planning process that creates monumental differences in the outcome and mood surrounding the entire day. One of the first things I discuss with my brides when we start the planning process is the first look or some designated time for creative photographs before the ceremony. I personally am a huge advocate of the first look, however, some of my brides do like to keep tradition and I can certainly respect that. This day is about you, your first day of starting your new life together, so it is certainly not my job to tell you ultimately to see your groom or not. I am a professional however, and what I can tell you is that it will make for a different kind of intimate and special experience on the wedding day and will add priceless benefits to the outcome of your photos. I'm here to tell you of the elements it can add, for you to personally weigh the pros and cons.

When I look back at my wedding day in its entirety, having a timeline of photographs from the entire day is very special to my memory. It's a time capsule, all you have left to look back on the feelings you felt and the people surrounding you. Despite that though, the photos that are most special to me are the ones that I can see the emotion between Preston and I. The ones that are professionally stylized, yet are photos where we had time to be ourselves and get creative with our friends and family before the wedding. These are the ones I could print to hang on my wall as a piece of art. And what I found wasn't at all that this took away from my wedding day, but instead, added a whole new element to it. We got to spend time with each other, close friends, and family before the ceremony and had styled photographs, as opposed to posed traditional indoors photographs, with those special people who were nearest and dearest.

Regardless of whether you decide to do a first look, I think setting some time aside in the wedding day timeline for creativity has great benefit. Here are my outlined reasons for feeling so strongly about it:

1. Having more time for photographs beforehand equates 100% to less stress during the entire wedding day. It allows the stress to be taken off of my brides and their families and their trust placed in me to do my job as it should be. It allows them to breath a sigh of relief before the ceremony and not have to focus on ANY sort of to-do list during the reception. Let's be honest, you've probably paid a pretty penny for 3-5 hours of reception celebration and I think you should enjoy every minute of that with your guests. You've worried and planned for this moment to be perfect for months, now it's time to enjoy it.

2. Arranging time for creative photographs means you have MORE time for photographs and more final photos. As a photographer, it is my job to tell you what scenarios will create the best photographic outcome. Hands down, time for an outdoors location and photo styling before the ceremony will create the best outcome. It allows for more photographs of the bride and groom, jazzed up family photos, and more time for creativity across the board. It allows you to get the most bang for your buck and utilize my creative expertise that made you want to hire me in the first place.

3. It allows for a calm, intimate moment with your future spouse before the hustle and bustle of the day gets your head spinning. You get that private moment with one another -- this does not happen after the ceremony is over.

Not all of my brides opt for a first look. Chelsey and Kaleb did not in these photographs. While Chelsey didn't want to see Kaleb before the wedding, she wanted creative, posed photographs with Kaleb, her wedding party, and family. We planned out her wedding day accordingly and had ample time for photographs. This made for a fabulous outcome. It allowed us to scope out all areas of the plantation and utilize the most beautiful spots for leisurely creative photographs. Chelsey and I collaborated based on the creative outcome she wanted and we created a photo situation perfectly catered to her desires. For her, a spin on tradition worked perfectly.

So, I encourage you to be open-minded. I encourage you to trust the professionals you hire for the creative mind and professionalism that made you hire them. I encourage you to collaborate, voice your desires, and listen to their suggestions. When all of these things mesh, the photographic outcome of your wedding day creates a end result more perfectly catered to you than you ever could have imagined. Trust me. (;

How to Join the Creative Process Alongside Your Photographer (For Brides)

This is a post for those of you who want more than just photographs documenting a timeline of events from your wedding day. It's for the bride who wants to feel something -- a bigger story, if you will -- when she looks back on her photographs. A story, that when she looks back, doesn't remind her of the miniscule happenings or stress surrounding the wedding, but instead, a story that tells her of her place, maturity, experiences at that moment in life. A feeling that tells of her place with her brand new spouse at that time -- of the ripe, new relationship. It's for the bride who wants to look back on her photographs and feel every inch of the person she has become since then. Because, for me, a beautiful nostalgia or prideful feeling of accomplishment are the greatest gifts photographs can give us...

There is a difference between a photograph taken by someone who's a stranger and someone who knows your style, your personality, and the dynamic within your relationship. What I've found to be the absolute key to getting organic images full of pure emotion and style, is an experience based firmly on communication. This is why I base the planning process with my brides on a system centered on certain specific points of communication that I believe to be essential to a welcoming relationship and great photographs.

Let's talk more about some ideal communication. Good communication breeds a relationship that makes a bride feel like a friend to me. In addition to our frequent emails, perhaps a Skype meeting or two, and maybe even a little dinner double date in my home, I encourage my brides to join me in communication in a few simple ways:

1. BLOGS AND PINTEREST: Let's face it, Pinterest has become a common theme of our generation and what a beautiful tool it is! I encourage you to create Pinterest boards for your own personal inspiration, but I encourage you to invite me to join the process. Even more than Pinterest, I encourage you to find wedding blogs that speak to you. Tell me about them. Tell me of your overall style, vision, and FEELING you're trying to acheive. This gives me such great insight on your personal style and a look you may be trying to achieve, but cannot put into words for me. It allows me to see and interpret your style, see what inspires you, and mesh them together after getting to know you to create the perfect curated story that is all your own.

With that being said, please don't submit to me specific Pinterest photos you'd like replicated. That's a different story and won't create anything authentic for YOU.

2. SOCIAL NETWORKING: Invite me to join your social network. While Pinterest is great for styling and creative direction, this allows me to get to know you on a more personal level. It allows me to interact and learn about your personalty, the things you are passionate about, or maybe a little of your relationship dynamic. Let's make the most of social media. (:

3. ENGAGEMENT SESSION: Engagement sessions are a fabulous way, and in my opinion THE BEST way, to join in on the creative process. During the process of collaborative planning for an engagement session, I truly get to know you as a couple, what you're like when you're not dealing with wedding-esque things, and the you that makes you two who you are. Essentially, engagement sessions allow me to really learn the foundation and dynamic of your relationship. They allow me to learn what the both of you are like behind the camera, your best angles, and how to make you feel most natural on the wedding day. Engagement sessions create the foundation for a beautiful tradition of taking photographs with one another. This is a tradition I feel very strongly about among married couples in the first years of marriage (and well, always) for the many benefits it brings. You can read more about those sentiments here.

I hope this post helps inspire you a little. I can't wait for us to become great friends!