BELLY BIRTH OF BABY M - Michiana / Indiana / Michigan Birth Photographer

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When you have five babies due within a ten week span, and they all decide to come in ten DAYS, its always an exciting time! Baby M was originally due in mid-August, but after his pregnancy caused some complications (and scares), for mom, it was time to schedule a c-section. While this didn't fit into the parents' original natural birth plan, it was what everyone involved felt was necessary and best all around and it was just as beautiful if things had gone as planned (but lets be real here, do babies EVER follow the plan?!). 

Meeting these two sweet parents was such a joy. At their consult, it was clear that they were prepared and thrilled to be welcoming another baby to their family of three and from what they said, big sister was more than ready to take on the new role, too. 

After it was decided that a belly birth was best, we changed up our plans and I experienced the most laid back, on-schedule delivery of my photography career. We met at the hospital bright (well actually dark) and early at 5am for check-in and surgery prep. After hanging out with their amazing and hilarious nurses for a couple of hours, mom was wheeled off to surgery right on time at 7am and baby was born at 7:33am happy and healthy despite being nearly 3.5 weeks early. Everyone was nestled in the recovery room and I'm not sure I've ever seen two parents more in love with their new baby. Mom just kept repeating, "I can't believe how cute he is! I can't believe how much I love him already!" and Dad's teary eyes in the delivery room and inability to look away from baby's face made it pretty clear how he felt about his new son. 

Thank you, V family, for including me in this amazing birth story!

KATIE AND BRET'S WEDDING DAY - Indiana and Michigan Wedding Photographer

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Ahh, another rainy day wedding! Thankfully, we got the best of both worlds and the rain held off long enough for us to squeeze out some bridal portraits before the torrential downpour started during the ceremony!

When I first met with Katie and Bret, I was excited to be working with two teachers (because I'm a former and hopefully future teacher down the road). They were so down-to-earth and easy-going, I knew that this would be a great couple to work alongside and document their love story. We were able to chat and plan like we'd known each other for years. 

From the time I arrived on the wedding day, the bridal suite was filled with laughter from everyone there. With beautiful bridesmaids and adorable flower girls running around, there was no shortage of fun and chaos in the prep time. The guys were not to be outdone of course, and they offered their own smiles and jokes during the prep.

When I stepped away to do the detail shots, I also go to photograph some very meaningful cufflinks dedicated to the groom's late brother. I love when people incorporate such special and sentimental details into their wedding days. Even when people can't be there, its so beautiful when they're still included and honored. 

The reception that followed the beautiful, traditional church ceremony was packed with a wide variety of classic rock and modern hits which packed the dance floor (especially with kids)! No one was left without some fun memories on this beautiful June 21st wedding and I am so grateful that Katie and Bret chose me to capture their day for them. 

Vendor list can be found at the bottom of this post.

Ceremony: Pine Creek Church of the Brethren

Reception Venue: Holy Family Parish Hall

Hair Artist: Ashley Ditmer, Salon Rouge

Dress: Brides by Young

Groom/Groomsmen: Louie's Tux Shop

Florist: The Speckled Fox Flowers and Gifts

Photobooth: All About the Selfie

DJ/Band: Scott Bovenkerk, "Bov Knows Music"

Cake: Over the Top Bakery Cafe

Popcorn bar: The Savory Kernal

BELLY BIRTH OF BABY Z - South Bend, Indiana Birth Photographer

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I first met this sweet set of parents shortly (and I mean VERY shortly) after they found out they were pregnant. They were clearly very excited and wanted to make sure they documented every moment they could of their newest addition. As we talked, they revealed that about a year prior, they had lost a full term baby girl shortly after birth. After going through this tragedy as well as a c-section, they had high hopes for this birth to be both healing and wonderful. I was so humbled to be chosen to be a part of this amazing story.

Fast forward eight months and I got the text: "I'm 90% sure my water broke!" Game time! She was one of the statistically few mommas whose water breaks before contractions even started. After I met them at the hospital, these two did all the right things and worked hard alongside their doula to get baby to drop down and get labor to progress, but baby and mother nature had other plans and after nearly 24 hours of labor, the decision for a c-section was made. While it wasn't what they had hoped for, they handled everything with positivity and a smile. 

After what was probably the fastest c-section I've experienced, a healthy 9lb1oz baby boy arrived safely into the world! Seeing these two parents welcome their new son and compare him to pictures of their daughter was absolutely beautiful. I am always so excited and humbled to be included in this intimate and private time as families grow, but this story was especially beautiful and I am so beyond honored to have been there to capture it!

Doula services provided by Doulas of Michiana. 

BABY L'S FRESH 48 - Granger, Indiana Newborn Photographer

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I've had a whole gang of baby boys born in a very short (and very chaotic) ten day span, so when I got the text saying Baby L, GIRL Baby L, had arrived, I was super excited to get my girly vibes on. And she did not disappoint; between her adorable feminine features and pretty little outfit, she completely filled up my lacking girl quota. 

When parents J and B reached out and asked me to do their newborn Fresh 48 photos, I was so excited. We have known this sweet family for years and watched their 2 year old son grow up into the cutest, smartest little guy around. So when I found out I was going to get to capture this awesome sibling meeting plus her beauty shots, I was more than thrilled. 

Baby L ended up coming a couple of weeks early but I think everyone was ready to meet her, including big brother! Sometimes, sibling meetings of young kiddos don't always go as you might hope, but big bro G was all about investigating his new sister. He walked in with a smile on his face that didn't leave the entire time I was there. He climbed right into bed with his mom and immediately started touching and staring at his little sister with genuine curiosity. His smile and laugh lit up the room when Dad played with him and you just knew that this was going to be one happy household once everyone was home! 

Thank you, S family, for letting me document this adorable meeting for you!

JONES FRESH 48 NEWBORN - South Bend, Indiana Newborn Photographer

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I first met the Jones family when they contacted me about a one year milestone session for their (now) oldest boy. I ventured out to their adorable wooded home where their even more adorable one-year-old was happily awaiting his Mickey smash cake...dressed as Mickey. Holy cuteness. As we did the smash cake and then some candid documentary style photos in their home (including a sweet sink bath and story time in the nursery), it was clear what a sweet and caring family this was.

Then, a handful of months later, I got the exciting inquiry from momma for a Fresh 48 session in July! Nothing makes me happier than watching families grow so I was more than a little excited to get to document big brother meeting his new little brother. Then, Mom also applied for my in-home maternity session model call and was chosen. So when I got the text saying she was being admitted to St. Joe Hospital one early July morning, I was really looking forward to seeing this family again.

Baby Logan was such a good little guy who loved nothing more than being held by his momma and being swaddled in a nice warm blanket (he was NOT a fan of being down to the diaper...but who could blame him?). He was so handsome and unblemished and just the epitome of newborn perfection. Now sometimes, doing a Fresh 48 for a family with two-under-two, it doesn't always go as you "dream." There are often tears and the first bouts of jealousy...but not from this big brother! He was all smiles and genuine interest in his new baby brother and he even shared his very favorite stuffy with him (that's about when my heart became a big puddle on the floor). I can't wait to see this family's journey and I truly hope I get to be there to document more milestones for them in the future!

MICAH & CAMERON COUPLE SESSION - Michiana Wedding Photographer

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Another amazing session for two old students! I always thought that kids wanted to get away from their old teachers ASAP, but I'm so glad to have the chance to document so many awesome people I've met through teaching. Micah and Cameron both had me for Sophomore English and were both super fun and hilarious people. 

When Micah reached out to me to get some couple photos for them when Cameron was home from his military duties in the Marine Corp in California, I was super excited to do that for them. Not only are they a lot of fun, they're both epically adorable, too. One of the challenges that happen when you want a sunset session in summer is the fact that the sun doesn't set until 9:45pm! So when we me, it was way close to my bedtime (just kidding, I'm a total night owl; I'm typing this blog post at 11pm) but the pictures were so worth it! I am so excited to see where life takes these two and I hope that I get to be there to document it for them.

Thanks for lending me some of your precious time together, Micah and Cameron!

LEXI & AUSTIN'S WEDDING - South Bend, Indiana Wedding Photographer

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Every wedding is unique. Every wedding is special. There is no arguing that! But for me, this wedding was kind of extra special. Why? Because I've known the bride since she was a toddler!

Growing up, her cousin was my best friend whose family salon also did my hair. I remember Lexi running around while I got my awesome, chunky platinum blonde highlights (thank you 2000's hair trends). Fast forward to my very first year of teaching high school English and guess who happened to be in my Freshmen Honors class? None other than Lexi! If that wasn't enough, the way the schedule fell each year, I ended up having her for all four years of her high school career (sorry, Lexi, but thanks for putting up with me). In those four years, I got to know her beyond just a student and my friend's little cousin; I got to know what an awesome person she was. 

Once she graduated, she was one of those students who I kept in touch with. I followed her journey into real estate and happened to reach out to her when I stumbled across our dream home online. So she sold us our forever home two months later! During all our many encounters while buying and selling homes, she decided to hire me as her wedding photographer. 

Although I know Lexi better than Austin (obviously), I knew right away they were made for each other. They were one of the most fun and relaxed couples I've had the pleasure of working with and it is without a doubt that they have a lifetime of adventure and excitement ahead of them. Their Sunday wedding was filled with joy and laughs (not to mention her bridal party was made up of other old students of mine) and genuine love and fun. I was so honored to be a part of their wedding and I can't wait to follow the rest of their journey in the years to come.

Congrats Lexi and Austin!  

KRISTYN & CHRISTIAN'S BERRY FARM WEDDING - South Bend, Indiana Wedding Photographer

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This wedding had it all: perfect weather, a gorgeous venue, a beautiful and loving couple and so many unique and diverse elements! 

When I first met Kristyn, it was at The Bridal Spectacular at the Century Center. While I meet many brides there, Kristyn was actually there as a vendor, too! She is a manager at the amazing Granger boutique Simply Yours Bridal and Formalwear. I was flattered and excited that out of all of the photographers there, she was drawn to my humble booth and work. After chatting and then meeting up with the couple a few weeks later, it was pretty obvious that we were a great fit! 

Kristyn and Christian had chosen to get married at The Blue Barn Berry Farm in Syracuse, Indiana. This venue is stunning on its own but with Kristyn's simple rustic touches, she transformed it even beyond it's original beauty. Another thing that added to the truly unique nature of this wedding was Christian's family, many of whom traveled from outside the country to attend! The ceremony was even translated into Spanish as it was happening. Oh, and they also shared two first dances: one in English and one in Spanish. How cool is that? 

Needless to say, this was a wedding to remember. The genuine smiles and love that was shared between families made the night fly by and watching everyone dance together to a wide array of music was just the cherry on top!

Congratulations to Kristyn and Christian. You are a beautiful couple with a beautiful life ahead of you. Thank you sincerely for letting me document your day.

See bottom of post for vendor lists!

 

Photographer: Borne Back Photography

Venue: Blue Barn Berry Farm in Syracuse, Indiana

Bridal Hair: Alaina from The Cutting Edge Salon

Makeup: McKenna from The Cutting Edge Salon

Dress: Simply Yours Bridal and Formalwear

Groom's Attire: Jim's Formalwear

Manicures/Pedicures: Creative Touch

Flowers: Martin's Super Market and South Bend Farmer's Market

DJ: Connor Beckwith

Rachel's In-Home Maternity Session - South Bend Birth, Fresh 48 and Newborn Photographer

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When you think "Maternity Session," you probably think of expecting women draped in flowy gowns standing in the middle of a beautiful field or river. That's been the trend for awhile now and while it does result in some truly stunning photos, I tend to favor the more real and honest moments of a woman's pregnancy. Think sipping decaf coffee while your other kiddos run around happily while you prepare breakfast with your hubby. Sound familiar? Well, let me assure you, it is no less beautiful than the flowy gown photos! In fact, in my eyes, they're even more priceless and gorgeous . 

When I arrived at Rachel's home that she shares with her two daughters and lumberjack husband (no really, he's a lumberjack by trade!), I immediately felt at home. The family's house was so cozy and welcoming and full of bright colors and happy energy, it was impossible not to feel like part of the family. Having known Rachel through her doula work (we've shared birthing mommas multiple times before), we had plenty to chat about. Actually, we probably talked too much because in nearly every other photo, I caught Rachel answering one of my 101 questions! 

Watching Rachel mom is like watching the wind blow: it's natural, effortless and effective. Her girls were so well-behaved and sweet, not to mention they both adore Rachel and their Daddy. My favorite time was when the family played together on Mom and Dad's bed, laughing and giggling in a way that you could just tell happens each and every day. There's no doubt that sweet baby girl #3 will be entering a house filled with fun and laughter and an over abundance of love. 

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BLAKE & KRISTI'S ENGAGEMENT SESSION - Goshen, Indiana Wedding Photographer

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When some people think of engagement sessions, they think of the awkwardness of being in front of a camera. When this couple got in front of the camera, they simply turned on the laughter. I kid you not, this session was so filled with hysteria, we had to work just to get a few images of them NOT laughing!

When I first met Kristi and Blake, I knew they were a fun couple. They were both so open and funny and so intrigued with the idea of documentary photography for their wedding, I knew we'd be a perfect fit to work together. We chatted like we'd known each other forever and it was obvious that they were super excited about their upcoming wedding that they also get to share with their kids. 

What I didn't know, is that they are absolutely hilarious. From the very start of the session, we were all cracking jokes - some more appropriate than others - and having a great time. Despite some dreary skies and the first truly decent weekend of the year, their cheer and hilarity brightened everything right up. As we walked the property, they were up for anything and some of the outtakes, which I will be kind enough not to share here, had me cracking up over my keyboard as I was editing. 

I genuinely can't wait for their beautiful wedding this year and I'm so excited to be a part of it! 

Baby Norman's Newborn Session - South Bend Family and Newborn Photographer

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There is nothing quite like a beautiful newborn girl baby (I mean, I may be a little bit biased being a girl mom, but still). And Baby K was no exception! With her dark, swirly hair, full cheeks and pouty little lips, she could melt even the toughest of hearts. Look out, Dad. You've got a heartbreaker on your hands!

When I arrived to this newborn session, I was already so in love with the nursery and the lighting. When Mom hits up pottery barn for nursery furniture, how can you go wrong? These sweet parents had clearly put so much thought and planning into this girl's arrival. And did I mention how kind and welcoming this family was? As we got to talking, I found out their super exciting story!

Right around the time Mom was having Baby K, Dad (who was the Notre Dame Girl's Soccer Team Assistant Coach) found out that the head coach was retiring. Nothing like having a baby and having your job rocked at the same time, right?! Well, shortly after Baby K's debut, Dad got some insanely exciting news: HE would be the new head coach! What could be better than having a brand new, healthy, happy baby and getting your dream job at one of the nation's best colleges? I think it's safe to say that this story had a very happy ending.

Watching these new parents caring for and loving on their baby girl was so heart warming. Dad would expertly swing Baby K, who loves to be moving, in his arms and mom offered the softest and gentlest snuggles. There's no doubt that this baby girl's days are going to be filled with an abudnance of love and smiles. Thank you for inviting me into your home, Norman family! 

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