JONES FRESH 48 NEWBORN - South Bend, Indiana Newborn Photographer

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

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

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

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

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. 

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

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

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! 

SHARON & NATHAN ENGAGEMENT SESSION - South Bend, IN Wedding Photographer

It's not often that the stars align and you get a perfect couple, on a perfect evening with absolutely perfect golden-hour lighting...but that's exactly what happened at this epic engagement session in South Bend, Indiana. The comfort and love these two shared with each other was so special and fun to photograph and makes me all the more excited for their upcoming wedding (sure to be a completely beautiful occasion). 

When Sharon and Nathan and I met to discuss their wedding photography goals this winter, it was obvious that these two were meant to be. Despite having some opposite interests (like the fact that she loves horses and horseback riding and he's, ahem, allergic), they complimented each other perfectly. 

This only became more apparent at their engagement session where they laughed, joked and snuggled. We all know that e-sessions can feel uncomfortable sometimes, but its always my goal to make that a thing of the past and these two easily slid into a comfortable pattern in front of the camera. Between learning how to dip and simply holding hands while they walked, taking stunning photos of these two was a simple task. And can I nerd out photographer style and just RAVE about the epic light we had that night? I couldn't believe the luck we had with these soft pink clouds and gorgeous golden lighting. It was a photographer's dream come true!

I'm so appreciative to Sharon and Nathan for giving up their evening to let me capture some fun photos for them before they take that forever walk down the isle! 

A Day in the Life with the L Family - South Bend Family and Newborn Photographer

Normally, a Day in the Life (DITL) session includes me following a family around while they do their normal routine and daily activities. This DITL, however, was oh-so-different. And oh-so-wonderful! 

When Mom contacted me and requested photos of her newest baby, it sounded normal enough. Then she added that she wanted to also capture his baptism. Fantastic! Oh, yeah. And all of their extended family will be there during the day and for the baptism. How truly special is that? 

Baby Boy was an incredibly calm and alert little guy and it was obvious from the moment I arrived that this little guy was surrounded by so much love! It never stops melting my heart to see babies enter this world with such an abundance of love. Baby Boy was passed from grandma to grandma, uncle to uncle, grandpa to grandpa and he took it all in stride, just soaking it all in calmly...actually, sleepily!

Next, out came the Christening gown. In case a gorgeous white Christening gown isn't special enough, this one had a whole story behind it. This gown that Baby Boy was about to be baptized in was worn by generations of men before him, including his own dad. To have this amazing gown dawning so much meaning on his special day before God was probably one of the coolest things I've had the privilege of documenting. 

We ended the day at the beautiful church and huge baptism pool where everyone gathered and watched with emotion and pride as Baby Boy was promised to the church and to God. It was nothing short of beautiful and humbling. I felt so blessed to have been a part of it and I truly hope that these photos captured this family's day in an accurate and beautiful way. Thank you, L Family, for including me in this big day!

T & T Engagement in the City - South Bend Wedding Photographer

I don't have enough good things to say about this fun couple! When we first started planning their photography goals for their wedding day, I knew this was going to a blast to work with them. So when we decided to go ahead with some engagement photos as well, we were all really excited! We planned a fun, rustic-chic, country session for February. 

[Insert Indiana weather].

For about two solid weeks before their session, we got RAIN. And not like normal spring showers; we are talking torrential, non-stop rain and dangerous flooding to boot. Rather than letting that dampen (bad-pun intended) our progress, this easy-going couple were totally willing to do a 180 and decided to trust me and do a city session in Downtown South Bend. Not what they had envisioned but they were willing to give it a try! 

The day of their e-session was so windy and still really cold, but these two pushed through, laughing the entire time. It. Was. So. Worth. It! First, we took a walk down towards the theatre and documented some hand holding, giggles and cuddles (to warm up). Then, we pressed on to the LaSalle Building where his company did the windows for. Finally, we headed back downtown to get some fun dancing-in-the-street images. They were frozen by the time got done, but in the end, the results speak for themselves. Can't wait for this Plymouth, Indiana wedding in August! Thanks for letting me document your love story, T & T!

SOUTH BEND MICHIANA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER - TRIBBEY WINTER WEDDING

This wedding was special in so many ways. This couple has been together for a long time and they have been through so many life experiences so when they reached out and asked me to document their wedding, I was so excited to do it! Seeing their wedding plans and hearing their love story had me so ready for this winter wedding.

This couple was so easy going from the get-go. They were a perfect mix of traditional and unique; choosing to skip out on some of the more old-school traditions but also mixing in the important parts (like including her grandmother's ring and not seeing each other before the wedding). From the moment I got to the venue and went upstairs to the beautiful bridal suite at The Allure in Laporte, I knew this would be a fun day. 

The bride was so laid back and calm and she and all of her bridesmaids were just having a genuinely good time chatting and getting their hair and makeup done. When Chelsea gave out her bridesmaids gifts and some hand written letters, the tears and laughter flowed freely. And the groom and groomsmen were about as chill as they come! 

When the beautiful ceremony started, there wasn't a dry eye in the house as Chelsea recited vows not just to Shaun, but to his daughter, too. It was a truly special wedding ceremony that went perfectly! The reception that followed was upbeat and fun with lots of family making priceless memories with the newly married couple. I was so honored to have captured the photos of the biggest day of this new family's life so far.

Venue: The Allure in Laporte, IN

Dress: Here Comes the Dress

Hair: Maitraya
Makeup: Meg at the Mane Attraction

SOUTH BEND FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER - NOTRE DAME BAPTISM

I love getting to capture regular, every day moments for families. It brings me joy to help document the beauty that can be found in simple moments. But I also love documenting big moments, too! And when this lovely family reached out early this winter in hopes of having their family's newest additions baptisms captured, I was so excited! This was going to be epic for so many reasons.

First, it wasn't just one or two babies being baptized...it was FIVE babies. This extended family had decided to get together at The Log Chapel at Notre Dame to have all of their babies baptized together. How special is that? And if that wasn't enough on its own, these babies came from all over the country for this special day...even as far as Alaska. Yup, you read that right: Alaska. 

From the very first moment I arrived, there were smiles and laughter all around. Families greeted each other excitedly and swapped babies while they waited for the ceremony to start. Once everyone had settled into the historic chapel, the service and baptism began and it, too was filled with light hearted laughter as well as tear jerking and heart felt words. Each baby was baptized individually and documenting their different reactions was so special. This was absolutely an event that deserved to be remembered and I am so humbled and honored that I could be the one to do that for them and I hope that these babies will grow up and look back at this moment with smiles and the warmest of memories!