Heather Hoadley Photography

2011 Holiday Cards

2011-11-18T01:27:00.001-06:00

One of the things I look most forward to this time of year is putting together new custom designed Holiday cards! Yes, this means that you can only get these particular designs through me, and I always offer every year... you may use any photo that your heart desires! It can be one from a mini session (I'll be announcing the dates for these next week), or one from a previous session, or yes, even a photo you might have of your own.

Here are this year's designs options....

{4.25 x 5 sizes}...

{4x8 sizes}...

And here are the prices and other needed info...

You may contact me (417) 343-9544
or by email: heather@heatherhoadleyphotography.com if you are interested in placing an order!

Edward + Kayla + Savannah

2011-09-15T09:29:00.000-05:00

Springfield, MO

I had the privilege of meeting this family this summer, first for the maternity session and then a few weeks after that in their home after the beautiful Miss Savannah had arrived! Here are some of the favorites...

Christian + Mandy

2011-09-09T07:30:00.000-05:00

This wedding day was one of the most unique weddings that I have been a part of and I absolutely loved every minute of it! It was a Greek Orthodox wedding and all I can say is... WOW! Beautiful ceremony that was full of the truest meaning of marriage and symbolism.... I was in awe from the moment I walked in the church the night of the wedding rehearsal.

It was also very important to them that I capture the details of the day.... check, check, and check!!! This is only one of my most favorite parts of a wedding :)

The shoes, oh the shoes! :)

Part of the ceremony is to wear these floral crowns which like everything else is symbolic. These were in place of flower bouquets.

These cupcakes were more like art than they were like food... and Mandy, could you be any more beautiful? Nope I don't think so!

Gorgeous smile! And why all smiles??? wait for it...

Why, because of the dancing & singing bridesmaids of course! They kept doing a ballerina dance for the beautiful bride along with songs from the Sound of Music. Hilarious!!!! Hmm... now if only I could take them these two to all my weddings and sessions, they would be such a hit!

I love this shot because it totally sums up how relaxed and happy Mandy and her gal pals were all morning long. It just makes me want to grab a glass of wine and have a seat on the couch to join in on all the laughter!

Yes it's definitely good to have friends!

So I thought the entire upstairs of Mandy's house was quite possibly the neatest home I'd ever been in with all of her decorating, but THEN the girls take me downstairs and um... HELLOOOOOO... the girl has one heck of a music room (and yes she can play all instruments). Jam session anyone? Oh I think so!

This is one talented and gifted gal, a true artist in so many ways! (Mandy you are my hero!)

Okay so the ceremony... Let's just say, I walked away wanting to know how to become greek-orthodox! I love when things have meaning and symbolism.

This was a hand-carved piece outside the church which was something that Christian loved... breathtaking!

Before heading to the reception, I got some alone time with Christian & Mandy...

So cute...

LOVE these next ones... so much love between them!

Stunning!

Christian's posing :)

LOVE the light!

The details continued at the reception... honey, candy, tea bags, notes for the bride & groom, paintings throughout the restaurant, and the food, oh my goodness, endless amounts of food!!!!

The beautiful mommies!!!

And they're off!

My photo op with Christian & Mandy...

Springfield, MO

Ceremony ~ St. Thomas the Apostle: Eastern Orthodox

Reception ~ Touch

Florist ~ The Flower Merchant

Wedding Cake ~ Flavorful Art

Hair ~ Premier Salon

Make-up ~ Mandy with MAC and Chanel products :)

Dress ~ David's Bridal

Suit ~ Express

Mandy + Christian Q&A

How did the two of you meet?
Mandy- We were set up by Christian’s sister-in-law and her sister (confusing, right?). We started
conversing on the phone which eventually led to our first date at Flame downtown where apparently they only serve raw meat appetizers (yum).

Describe the proposal…
Mandy ~ Christian proposed on Valentine’s Day. After work I took a nap (a daily necessity) and promptly got into some lovely mint green pajamas. Christian cooked one of my favorite meals that my grandmother Margie used to make (salmon cakes, potatoes, and mac and cheese)-so sweet. When I awoke, with my hair askew, we began to set the table. As I began talking (or whining) about needing a fork, he got down on one knee and presented me with his grandmother’s ring. It was so special and beautiful. I immediately said YES and began calling my family. I couldn’t even eat my dinner (what a waste, but so worth it).

Favorite detail of the wedding?
Mandy ~ I thought the flowers were magnificent and such an amazing surprise. They were beautiful and added another perfect touch.

Favorite memory of the day?
Mandy ~ Our photo shoot together after the ceremony. It was very private and the first time we really had gotten to talk. It was nice just to have a moment away from the chaos.
Christian ~ Seeing Mandy for the first time in her dress. I thought she was so beautiful and was happy to know that I would be waking up with her every morning.

Funniest memory of the day?
Mandy ~ When my matrons of honor, Paula and Julie danced and sang to make me laugh in pictures. They were the perfect touch to keep me relaxed and treated me like a princess, who obviously needed cupcakes from the Cup, although if you notice I’m not the one who wore the crown (hmmm).

Christian ~ I almost choked on the sacramental wine. My thoughts?? “Don’t embarrass myself”.

Favorite wedding purchase?
Mandy ~ My favorite wedding purchase (which I didn’t actually purchase-my sweet mother did) was my dress. It wasn’t a dress that I would’ve ever picked out but it turned out to be one that I fell in love with. It made me feel so beautiful and elegant (and was the second one I tried on-good). It’s still hanging where I can see it every day.
Christian ~ The wedding crowns because of their beauty and symbolism. It’s significance…the beginning of your journey as husband and wife.

Where did you go for your honeymoon?
Mandy ~ Oh, we were supposed to go on a honeymoon? What? To be continued….

If you could do it all over again, is there anything that you would change?
Mandy ~ The only thing I would change is the heat index because I hate being hot and I start to swell up (pretty, huh).
Christian (as told by Mandy J) ~ Christian would have music at the reception so he could show us his moves (which I have yet to see). Actually, he wanted to have a dance with his wife…so sweet. I nixed that off the bat. Who wants to see me do the duck dance in a beautiful dress? (I’m so mean).

Any advice for future Bride & Groom’s?
Mandy ~ My advice is to keep things simple and relax with your friends and family. We had the best time with no stress which captured the entire day and the symbolism of what a marriage is supposed to be.
Christian ~ Ditto!

Any final thoughts you would like to share?
Mandy ~ Just a note…Looking back at our pictures, I have to say that Heather did an amazing job capturing the entire feeling of the day. I have never had pictures that exude such joy and happiness from everyone. She also captured my admiration for my wonderful husband. I can see it in my eyes. I didn’t think it was possible. Her artistry is beautiful and her spirit lovely. Thank you for making our day so special.

And MY final thoughts to that??.. THANK YOU!!! Christian & Mandy I cannot tell you what an honor it was to be asked to photograph such an important day in your lives. I love my job so much, but it is comments like this that remind me of WHY I love it. As much as I enjoy the artistic side of it, it is an even bigger reward to know that I have hopefully given to you all that you had asked of me. I wish you both such joy and happiness as Mr. and Mrs. Patton!

Bryan + Jessica

2011-08-04T19:04:00.000-05:00

Rogersville, MO
Samuel Cedars

I had the pleasure of meeting Bryan & Jessica about a year ago and photographed their engagement photos in the fall and now their beautiful wedding. The ceremony took place outdoors and was absolutely perfect!

Here are many of the favorites that I had from the day...

One of my all time favorite ring shots...

L-O-V-E!!!!!

So here's a funny... back during their engagement shoot Jessica had hoped for some shots in these big fountains in downtown Springfield. To make a long story short, fountains that normally shoot up to about 7 or 8 feet in the air just kind of dribbled up about 3 feet and then shut off completely before we were done with the photos. So now here we are, getting some formal shots in, and as I have them posed here I kind of chuckle, as I ironically see a small fountain in the background :)

Both of these were shots Jessica was hoping to try for and the whole reason I would want to get a Cinderella style dress if you ask me! :) But then you add in Jessica's incredibly beautiful smile and gorgeous eyes and it turns out EVEN better!

This was a fun one! The way the reception hall was set up, the groom had to wait in the reception area, and then the bride was just on the other side getting ready so they could hear each other but definitely made sure not to catch a peak before the ceremony! So we thought we would have some fun with it and the moment was just the cutest :)

Definitely one of my all time favorite cake toppers!

And now for a little Q&A :)...

How did Bryan propose?

Bryan came home from a trip and told me he had something for me. I begged him to give it to me, but he decided it would be fun to joke around about it. He made me try to guess what the gift was. I was guessing everything I could think of but of course I wasn't getting it right. When I finally gave up and said "just give it to me!" he finally pulled it out from behind his back and said "Will you marry me?" One of the greatest moments of my life!!

What was your favorite memory of the day?

I have many favorite memories from the day...all the preparations, make-up, hair, decorations. My most favorite would be finally walking down the aisle and seeing Bryan's face.

What was your funniest memory of the day?

Shoving cake in Bryan's face and when he went to retrieve the garter from under my dress.

What was your favorite detail of the day?

I was really thankful that I didn't have to take care of any details. Many of our family members made sure everything went to a tee.

What was your favorite wedding purchase?

I would have to say...my shoes!! I was so happy to find them!!

If you could do it all over again, is there anything that you would change?

Not a thing. I didn't think anything could have been better.

Any advice you might have for future Bride & Groom's?

Hire a wedding planner and never prepare food on your own!

Where did you go for your honeymoon?

We got a treehouse in Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Any favorite memories you would like to share about your honeymoon?

We had a great time laughing at the "Ghost Tour" in the Cresent Hotel. It sounded so much better than it was though...we never saw any ghost!

* Bryan & Jessica... I wish you nothing but the best in life and all the happiness in all of the world! I have had such a good time working with both of you and hope to continue that through the years :)

~Heather

Ellianna

2011-08-03T18:45:00.000-05:00

In-Studio

I had the privilege of getting to meet Ellianna at one month old. She was just about as precious as could be and the funniest part of all was that about half way into the photo shoot and her just really not being too happy I find out that her favorite place is outside. Apparently she was far too cold and the second we got her out in the heat (thankfully it wasn't quite as hot as its been this week, but it was still hot) she fell right to sleep and was as peaceful as could be! Once she was asleep we just started playing dress-up and I just kept on shooting.

And now for the favorites...

A very special pair of hand sewn booties :)

I don't think I have ever seen a bikini quite so adorable looking as this one...

And of course it's not complete without the sunglasses... oh this was just too fun!

beautiful mommy + beautiful baby girl = lots of "awwwwe's :)

One of my favorite's...

ooh, and this one too!

AND this one! :) But this one I have to admit I was soooo happy about. I can't tell you how many times I will be in the middle of a photo shoot with a sweet little newborn that is just so cuddly and sleepy and just as I go to move, put my camera down for a second, change out a prop, or whatever, I get this... the big, sleepy, oh so cute, and very unforgettable, baby yawn. And I MISS it more often than not... but ooh yeah, not this time!!! :)

I can't wait to see you again very, very soon Miss Ellianna!!!!

Kayla + Edward + Baby Savannah on the way!

2011-07-29T16:34:00.000-05:00

Willard, MO
In- Studio (Back Porch Tea House Flowers & Gifts) / Outdoors (Jackson St. Park)

I just heard from Kayla today and found out that Miss Savannah did come about a week early and there were some complications but that now both mom and baby are home safe and sound and I get to go meet the precious angel first thing in the morning! So to celebrate the good news, I wanted to show off some of the favorites I picked out from Kayla and Edward's maternity session....

Gotta love the shoes!!! :)

I think this might be one of my all time favorite belly shots!

Now there's a very, very gorgeous mommy and daddy!

I absolutely cannot wait to meet Savannah tomorrow! Thank you Kayla & Edward for allowing me to be a part of such a special time in your lives :)

Darrell + Michelle + Trevor

2011-07-21T15:38:00.000-05:00

Willard, MO
In-Studio/ Outdoors (Jackson Street Park)

I was so happy to see this family once again, but this time for Trevor's 9 month photo session, and wow he'd gotten big!!! It has been so wonderful watching Trevor grow through his first year and I can't believe in just a month I will get to see him at his BIG first birthday party!!!! YAY!

And here are some of the favorites... oh and in warning, this family is adorable and I couldn't help but pick out waaaay too many favorites to show off :)

Loving those overalls!!! It's one of my favorite things about little boys :)

I so love this one!!!! It's not always an easy pose to pull off, especially with a little one that doesn't really want to lay down for you so I had to be quick, lol!

Cute story... just as we were done and were heading towards our cars we were by this tree and Michelle stands Trevor next to the tree and we all started to laugh and can you guess what we had in mind with this pose??? Think 1980's-1990's... Senior Pictures.... ? LOL We were thinking Trevor could get in some early practice. :)

Thank you so much Darrell, Michelle & Trevor for such a great time! I really really really can't wait for the birthday party!!!!

Eric + Kristi + Erin + Emily

2011-07-13T13:54:00.000-05:00

Springfield, MO
Nathanael Greene Park

I have had sessions with this family a few times now and each time I feel like I get to know them a little bit more and more. And to watch these precious girls get bigger each time is just the sweetest thing! For this last session, Kristi wanted to use the hosta garden at Nathanael Greene and I'm so glad she did. It was such a beautiful setting for this family and after some shots in the garden we took a stroll for a little ways around the pond, met some geese, and played on the perhaps the coolest teeter totter I've ever seen (it was a giant grass hopper).

Here are a few favorites...

This family, I tell you what... every time, they always seem to have the best family shot!

Thanks again guys, and I can't wait to see you again soon!!!

Scott, Zenobia, & Lydia

2011-07-11T05:24:00.000-05:00

Willard, MO
In-Studio/ Outdoors

I have been lucky enough to have the opportunity to photograph this family a few times now since Lydia was born and each time I have such a wonderful time. Lydia is just the cutest little girl and always so full of smiles. There's no denying where the smiles come from since her parents are some of the kindest, gentlest, patient, and sweetest people I know!!!

This session was for Lydia's first birthday but then also happened to take place on Scott and Zenobia's anniversary and they were so happy to be spending the day all together as a family! I told you... sweetest people ever!!!!

Here a just a few favorites from the session that day...

Blair {baby portrait photography}

2011-05-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

Willard, MO

One of my favorite things about my job is watching a family grow from the time towards the end of a pregnancy all through their babies first year. It was about this time last year when I had the pleasure of being able to do Shannon & Carrie's maternity photo's. They were definitely a fun couple to work with right from the start and I have enjoyed working with them each and every time since then. I just can't believe it was already time to do baby Blair's 9 month photos.

We started out inside the studio area...

I remember clear as day when we did the maternity photos, towards the end of the session Shannon and Carrie were up and ready to venture outdoors so I had them follow me out to some nearby farmland. At one of the stops when we got out of our cars they mentioned noticing my KU Jayhawk sticker on the back windshield of my car. Okay, so this might have just made them my new best friends because they too are KU fans! And soooooo, guess what they brought for Blair to wear as one of her outfits?!!!! :)

I think it makes for the THE best outfit ever!!!!

Time to venture outdoors...

And then down to the park which by the way made for the first time Blair got to just sit in the grass, and so guess what she instantly became fascinated with?!!! :)

I so love this one!!! Such a beautiful, beautiful family!

Okay, so in case you haven't been noticing, Blair was rather hard to make smile that day. She was not in to my tickling by any means :) But boy oh boy, the second Dad started tossing her in the air, holy cow, smiles galore!!!

She is loving that beautiful mamma too!

Another one of my favorites from the day...

Thank you Shannon, Carrie, and Blair for a wonderful time on such a gorgeous day!!! You guys, as always, are a joy to be around, and I cannot wait for the 1st birthday photos. Bring on the cake!!!!!! :)

In-Studio ~ Back Porch Tea House/ Village Flowers & Mercantile

Outdoors ~ Jackson Street Park

A few words I would like to share...

2011-05-28T10:37:00.002-05:00

I am never, ever, ever, ever one to be able to say much about my personal life in any certain kind of public manner. But as I sit here this morning looking and editing away at another session of a beautiful family, a family who like so many others have continued to come to me and ask me to be apart of special milestones in their families lives, I can't help but truly feel like one of the luckiest girls I could ever be.

And so maybe it's the long hours I have been putting in lately which have left me a bit sleep deprived, or perhaps watching the terrible and extremely devastating wreckage unfold through photographs and videos of what happened in Joplin a week ago. Or maybe its then seeing that we as a human race can care so much for our friends, family, and neighbors as I've seen so many of us pull together to help in any way that we possibly can. Or heck, maybe its even catching a few of Oprah's last words of wisdom for all of us this week as I grabbed yet another box of tissues.... yes many, many tears seem to have been shed this week! But there seems to be this very heavy weight on my heart this morning, this extreme urge to want to share with all of you my thoughts and feelings for a moment to say... THANK YOU!

Like I said, I have never been one to speak of my personal life. Mostly because I feel that we all have our past, we all have our troubles, and we all have our trials in life, with certainly some having more than others. But I just want to say to all of you, thank you! As some of you may know, I am now a single mother and have been for a little over a year. Since that first day I have taken on the concept of taking one day at a time. And have been able to do so with such confidence and courage not only because of the wonderful friends and family that I have in my life, but also because of the amazing clients that I have. I don't even like to say the word "clients", because really truly, I think of all of you as my friends.

Every time I get a phone call, or an email, or some type of message asking to be squeezed in to my crazy calendar I am blown away. Yes my calendar is crazier now more than ever and has been for a while, now that I am raising these two absolutely wonderful sons of mine on my own, but I always somehow make everything work. If there's a will, there's a way, and I feel so truly blessed every time I get to add another session or wedding to my calendar!!!

Yes I work so hard on each and every session, along with each and every photograph that stands before me on my computer screen, but nonetheless, I feel so honored to be a part of your lives. When you ask to have me be a part of a moment in your life, I realize through and through how lucky I truly am. I get to be there for all the special milestones in a baby's first year, or be there for that one time of year you are able to get your kids and husbands/ wives to come together for those family photos, or be there as you try to pull together any kind of memorable item that will help tell who are as you about to pass the day of graduation. And then there's the brides and grooms who allow me to be there for what is very much one of THE biggest days in your lives, and the special birthdays or amazing anniversaries you are getting to celebrate! Not one of these moments is more or less important to me than another because ALL of them are "moments" in YOUR life. I know in a passing it can just seem like photographs to some people but I want you all to know that it is so much more than that to me and that I truly feel honored with every phone call, every email, and every message that comes before me!

Through this past year, I feel like you have all held my hand without even knowing you were doing so, and you have helped me keep my head up high and be able to keep calling this dream of mine, this thing that just started out as merely a hobby, be able to keep calling it a job. A job that I am so lucky to have and love every single minute of it. And then on top of all the confidence you have shown in me, you have also stayed so patient with me as well as you wait to see your finished products. Again, you have no idea how thankful I am for this, and cannot thank you enough! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! I love my sons, my parents, my family, my friends, my job, and ALL of my clients who I want to all know that you will forever be a friend in my life!

Okay, there, phew, I said what I have wanted to say for so long now!!! :) And now I must get back to work!!!! I hope you all have a wonderful and fabulous Memorial weekend, and please, please, please, stay safe!!!!

J.R. + Kerri {St. Louis Wedding}

2011-05-26T13:55:00.000-05:00

St. Louis, MO
April 29, 2011

Once again, this Springfield, MO gal had the opportunity to venture up the interstate to St. Louis for another absolutely fabulous wedding. Kerri came to me back in the fall after I had done their friends wedding. I cannot begin to tell you how absolutely delighted I was to be asked back to St. Louis again.

And so the planning began between Kerri and I as the details were coming together. And as the date got closer, the more excited I became. I think one of my most favorite emails was Kerri asking me if I had seen the news on the announcement of Prince William's wedding date. Yep, turns out Will and Kate and had declared to marry the same date as J.R. and Kerri!!! : )

I of course was up bright and early around 4 AM along with so many others in this world (whether they want to admit it or not) watching the historical royal wedding unfold as I began getting ready for the day and finishing up my packing before getting on the road to photograph J.R. and Kerri's wedding. Oh my goodness, it was by far the best way ever to get myself motivated and become super excited for such a big wedding day!!!

Now yes, the royal wedding was of course beautiful in so many ways, but they had nothing on J.R. and Kerri!!!! The love between these two was all that was needed that day!

I think this might have been one of the sweetest moments I have ever captured (well, okay, I have a lot of favorite moments, but STILL, this moment was ultra sweet). The bridal party had a large room in the basement in which to get ready. As it was about time to head up the steps for the ceremony, the girls were all gathering their things, including myself, scurrying around with smiles and giggles galore. And then as I started to walk out the door I turned around and there was the oh so sweet and wonderful Kerri. Being perhaps the calmest that I have EVER seen a bride moments before she was about to walk down the aisle. Just waiting patiently as if nothing else was going on around her, no noise, no chaos, nothing, just complete and utter silence as she stood at the front of the doorway gently grooming her bouquet of flowers ever so delicately. Just waiting so patiently for the moment she has been waiting for, the moment to finally marry the man of her dreams. *sniff sniff* beautiful Kerri, absolutely beautiful!!!

One of my most favorite ring bearers, and such a GOOD boy!!! He walked so proudly all the way down the aisle to his daddy! And that flower girl, not only did she look like a princess, but wow can that girl dance (more to come on that one later)...

Awwe, always some favorite moments to capture, the groom as he sees his beautiful bride for the first time, and then those last steps of a father with his daughter...

This actually was my first time photographing a Catholic wedding and I soooo LOVED every minute of it! The ceremony, the newly renovated and oh so gorgeous church, the lighting, oh my goodness... I could go on and on, but bottom line, love, love, loved this ceremony! And then when I sat down to process and edit the photos, I am not kidding when I say my eyes filled with tears of joy all over again as I remembered all of the special moments. I know, I know, could I BE any sappier.... HA, holy cow I sincerely hope not! : )

This is one of those types of shots I "thought" I had captured but wasn't completely sure that I had done in just the way I hoped for, until I saw it on the screen before me... and when I did see it, I got goosebumps! The maid of honor is also Kerri's sister and the love between these two is so wonderful and as I see Kerri look at her sister in this photo it definitely reminds me of the bond I witnessed that day...

This was another "moment" during the ceremony that I remember so well. J.R. and Kerri had just finished up their portion of the communion. And as the Priest passed by and moved his way to the aisle to begin the process with all of the guests, Kerri and J.R. looked right at one another with a HUGE sigh of relief, followed by warm laughter, as if saying "phew, we made it!"...

Now for the kiss!!! And just as the royal couple had shown on the famous balcony that morning, it was a quick, "hope you got that" style of a kiss. Phew, thank goodness I was fast!!!

Looking over to the Bride's family with the "We did it" look!

Once the ceremony was over and the wedding party loaded on to their party bus, we jetted off to a gorgeous nearby park! Kerri had thought of the location months beforehand and it was P-E-R-F-E-C-T! The scenery, the privacy, and wow, the timing of the sun in the sky... are you kidding me??? LOVED it!!!!!

Kerri, I know I told you this a thousand times that day, but you are SOOOO beautiful!!!

Another email I remember receiving from Kerri, was the one where she let me know she would be having, uh... nine bridesmaids! I without any hesitation let her know this would make for the largest wedding party I've ever photographed, but that it wouldn't be a problem! It just wouldn't! We could make it work no matter what. And then when I saw many familiar faces within the wedding party thanks to previous weddings, I KNEW this would be the best group EVER!!!! And sure enough... it was! :) Thank you, thank you, thank you to each and every one of you for making my job not only easy, but super fun, full of laughs and oh so enjoyable!!! Love you guys!...

My personal favorite of the gang....

I know I mentioned it before but these sisters are amazing! Truly the most amazing, and the best of friends that sisters could be. Maybe I get a tad jealous of siblings like this so easily because I am an only child, who knows. I did however, somewhat jokingly, but yet somewhat seriously ask during the family photos if I could join them for Christmas this year. Okay, I'll be honest, if I got the invite I would totally be there in a heartbeat! Sarah and Kerri, you two are the best and so lucky to have each other!...

And because of the coincidence of wedding dates, J.R. and Kerri decided they couldn't let it go unnoticed when it came time for the wedding parties entrance into the reception...

Of course the love between the sisters would seem like no surprise if you had the chance to witness their father's speech. Serioulsy, grab the tissues! Are you ready?... He loves his family so very much and I will never forget his speech (and I KNOW, crazy right, I'm not even a member of this family.... I swear I am not an orphan, I love my own family but I instantly became so drawn to these people you would have thought twice about that, lol). I remember he spoke about the fact that the most important thing to Kerri about the wedding was having all of her and J.R.'s family and friends there. And then there was a long pause as he glanced down the very LONG table to which 20 members of the wedding party sat...phew, seriously, it was a REALLY long table, lol! He said she could have asked for sooooo much more, and he would have given her every last bit of it, but she didn't do that, she just cared about the people that mean so much to them. And THIS photo... *sniff sniff* I truly hope that I have at least shown within it, even just the slightest bit of the emotion that was within this father's speech, and the love he showed to his daughter through his ever so kind and sweet words!...

When it came time to cut the cake, this little man was front and center! Like seriously, I had to ask him to come stand "next" to me so that he wasn't in front of the bride and groom in the shots. I have to admit little guy, you and I were thinking very much alike that night!!!...

Another personal favorite....

And J.R.'s mom, soooo cute! I don't think I ever, not one single time that day, saw her without the biggest smile on her face! ESPECIALLY when she would look so proudly at her son!...

Oh boy, these two also happen to be great at singing!!!...

And last but not least, the amazing flower girl! I have seen my fair share of show stopping young dancers at some of the receptions I have had the honor of attending but this girl, holy cow!!! Wow, are you kidding me???? I would give anything to be able to have even just a fraction of her dancing abilities!

J.R. and Kerri, there is not a single doubt that the love between you two will never fade, but rather, grow stronger with each passing day. And I wish you nothing but the best and a life full of happiness!

J.R. & Kerri

St. Charles, MO

Ceremony: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton

Reception: Heart of St. Charles

Wedding coordinator: Ashley Bleazard

Florist: Schnucks

D.J.: Rob Puhse

And now for a little Q&A....

How did he propose?

J.R. proposed at our home at 8:30 in the morning. He woke me up by fluttery roses in my face, I woke up to him down on one knee with a ring box open. It was just us, in our home, very intimate, romantic and perfect.

What was your favorite memory of the day?

All the stress that led up to the that one moment of a boy watching his bride walk down the aisle. And the bride looking at her future husband

What was the funniest memory of the day?

When we did our grand entrance J.R. stepped on my train and ripped it... he the day couldn't be perfect.

What was your favorite detail of the day?

Flowers

What was your favorite wedding purchase?

My dress and the Picture Booth at the reception. The picture booth is great for a large wedding.

If you could do it all over again, is there anything that you would change?

I wouldn't change anything at all, it was a dream come true.

Andy advice you might have for future Bride & Groom's?

Don't sweat the little stuff, it's just about you and your significant other. Everyone else will be in the background on that day.

Where did you go for your honeymoon?

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Any favorite memories you would like to share about your honeymoon?

Beautiful Island, no one speaks English, make sure to relax and do things you wouldn't do at home and make sure after a booze cruise to get on the right bus home, otherwise its a long night with you and your partner!

For the first time I was lucky enough to have a photo op with the Bride & Groom, thanks to one of the wonderful guests :)

About a month prior to the wedding, I spoke with the mother of the groom who's wedding started this wonderful train of weddings for me in St. Louis. Turns out her and I were thinking very much alike because we both wanted to make sure that we got a photo of all of us together and so here it is.... starting to the left, the beautiful and super, super sweet, Geri Perry, and then her son, Brett and his beautiful wife Tori (Brett's phone call trying to sell me services with AT&T is what started it all!!!! WOW, I never would have seen that coming and a lesson learned to ALWAYS answer your phone even if it is a sales person!) And then to my left is Brett's beautiful sister Shannon and her husband Adam Rockey. I got a call from these two just a few months after completing Brett and Tori's wedding.

Each time I have packed up my stuff and gotten into my car to head back to Springfield I have felt so sad because each one of you have shown me such gratitude when the truth of the matter is that I am the lucky one, and the one that is truly so grateful. You have all asked me to be a part of one of THE most important days in each of your lives in hopes to try my best at capturing each special moment that passes by throughout the day. Thank you so much and I mean it when I say I hope to see you all again VERY soon!

Mother's Day Photo Contest (the latest standings)

2011-04-28T08:04:00.002-05:00

The Mother's Day Photo Contest is still going on and will end at midnight on May 8th (Mother's Day). The winner receives a $100.00 gift certificate for Heather Hoadley Photography!!! It can be used however the winner chooses, whether it's for a high school senior photo shoot, a family portrait session, upcoming birthday party, wedding, whatever, the choice is yours!

Don't worry, there is still plenty of time left in the contest if you have not already entered. To enter all you have to do is post a photo which tells what motherhood means to you to the Heather Hoadley Photography fanpage. Then have your friends "like" your photo. The entry with the most "likes" wins! Please click here to read the complete list of rules or to hear more details.

There have been some absolutely adorable photos entered so far. Some people are also adding captions to tell the story of the photo. A caption is not required, but I do think they are very heartwarming to read! Here are the latest standings:

1. Michelle White......................60 likes
2. Laura Haselden.....................37 likes
3. Emily Aronis........................36 likes
4. Miranda Stratton...................22 likes
5. Wendyjo Hance....................16 likes
6. Michelle 'Sgroi' Cramer..........9 likes
7. MattandSheila Shipman........21 likes
8. Maryanne- Jason Keck...........9 likes
9. Kristi Eslick-Cantrell..............5 likes
10. Dawn Eckstein.....................5 likes
11. Joney Williams.....................4 likes
12. Kristi Atkinson.....................4 likes
13. Jenny Brown Torres.............2 likes
14. Bre Brooks...........................2 likes
15. Meghan Howard- Brawdy.....1 like

Anyone can vote as long as they are fan/ liker of Heather Hoadley Photography, so be sure to post a link of your photo entry to your personal page and get as many of your friends as you can to cast their vote for you!!!

Mother's Day Photo Contest!!!!

2011-04-25T09:21:00.001-05:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner, and to celebrate, I thought a photo contest seemed most appropriate! The contest consists of showing off a photo that tells what motherhood means to you! The winner of this contest will win a $100.00 gift certificate to Heather Hoadley Photography! The gift certificate must be used by July 31, 2011 or else your session, wedding, or special event must be scheduled by this date. The photo MUST be a photo taken by YOU, or a photo that you have permission to submit into a contest, absolutely no exceptions!!!

To enter the contest, simply post your photo onto the Heather Hoadley Photography fanpage, and then have your friends and family "like" your photo by clicking the "like" button. The photo with the most "likes" wins the $100.00 gift certificate, plain and simple! You must however, be a fan (a.k.a. "liker") of the fanpage to enter the contest. Again, the photo must show or tell some sort of story of what motherhood means to you. The contest will run until midnight, May 8, 2011 (Mother's Day).

Your photo can represent motherhood, maternity, pregnancy, mother relationships and everything in between. This might be a photo of the mother in your life, a photo of your children, maybe you with your mother, or maybe a photo you have taken of a mother reading a story to her child, a mother holding her child's hand as they cross the street, or a mother looking down at her growing belly in anticipation of her baby she will soon meet... I think you get the idea. You can be as creative as you would like, have fun, and or reflect on the special memories you might have from this very special day.

Here is an example of a photo that tells what motherhood means to me...

This is a photo of my grandmother, Daisy McCubbins-Morse, when she was a little girl on the left side (the girl wearing the dark bonnet and plaid dress), and then a photo of me when I was about the same age on the right side. See any resemblance??? My mother has always kept these two photos side by side to one another in a matted frame in our home and then a few years ago, she gave me a copy of these matted photos as a Christmas gift. This photo means so much to me for so many reasons. First of all, it always reminds me of my own mother because my mom was Daisy's only child with dark hair and brown eyes just like her, and then I am Daisy's only grandchild with brown eyes and dark hair just like her. This has just always been interesting to me for some reason.

The photo also means so much to me because it reminds me of the strong line of women that are in my family and the trials and triumphs we have all survived as children and mothers. I never had the opportunity to meet my grandmother as she passed when my mother was only the small age of 5 years old. And perhaps this tragedy has formed a bond between my mother and her siblings which spread down throughout myself and all of my cousins. A bond of unconditional love that we all share with each other and our own children and the helping hands we all lend to one another in order to try and be the best mother's we can possibly be.

Mother's Day is a very special day to me and I would love to have all of you submit a photo showing off why it's a special day to you as well!!!

And now for the details...

OFFICIAL CONTEST RULES:

1.) You must have taken the photo or have permission to submit the photo into a contest! No exceptions!!!

2.) Only one photo entry per participant

3.) Winner receives a $100.00 gift certificate to Heather Hoadley Photography. The gift certificate must be used by July 31, 2011, or your session, wedding, or special event booked or scheduled by this date.

3.) Entries must be submitted by Facebook fans or likers of Heather Hoadley Photography and posted onto the Heather Hoadley Photography fanpage.

4.) The photo with the most "likes" wins. The contest will run through midnight, May 8, 2011 (Mother's Day)

5.) No purchase or payment necessary to enter or win.

6.) The photo subject must show what Mother's Day means to you.

7.) You must be the owner of the copyright of the image submitted. Photographers retain the copyright to their photographs. Your submission is your guarantee that you are the author and copyright holder of your photo.

8.) Photos must be appropriate for posting on our website and should be commonly acceptable in a family environment. Obscene, provocative or otherwise questionable content will be not be considered and immediately removed from submission. Heather Hoadley Photography retains sole discretion as to what constitutes inappropriate content.

Good luck!!!

Justin + Jennifer + Beckham + Makenna {child/ family portaits)

2011-04-21T11:44:00.000-05:00

Willard, MO (In-Studio @ Village Flowers & Mercantile/ Back Porch Tea House)

It is so hard to believe, but last weekend was already time for Mr. Beckham's 6 month portraits. This family is just about the sweetest and most patient and loving family I have ever met. Seriously, this was now the third session since Beckham was born, and every time the entire family is always so calm, happy, and just seem to always be full of life. I don't even think I have seen one tear shed, or even one slightest bit of an unhappy face. I think it's safe to say these parents are my hero's!!! : )

During each session I have had with Beckham I have included the family as well and tried my hardest to get his big sister Makenna in several photos. She is definitely getting more brave and by golly this last session she was really having a great time. My next goal is to get her talking more. I'm told she talks non-stop at home, and I think I heard her voice for the first time ever on Saturday : ) Nonetheless Makenna did a fantastic job and boy oh boy, the camera sure does love those beautiful eyes of hers!

Okay, enough of my babbling... how about we get to some of my favorites from their session. I think narrowing down the favorites is by far, the hardest part of my job!!!

These are two seriously adorable kids, and those eyes... wowzers!!!!

So sweet!!!!

It was a bit tricky to keep him balanced on the chair... big thanks to Daddy for his help on this one : )

Precious, and oh so sweet!

Doing some shopping while Mommy was getting Beckham changed into a different outfit...

You would never know that he had enough of photos by this point : ) In between cries, Mommy got some good laughs going! YAY for Mommy!!!

And here they are, the sweetest, most patient, and happiest family ever!!!! : ) I can't wait to see you in July for Beckham's 9 month photos!

Logan {children portraits}

2011-04-19T09:10:00.000-05:00

Willard, MO (In-studio & Jackson Street Park)

Logan came to see me last week for a photo shoot just days before his 3rd Birthday! He was SUCH a cutie, and I mean, we are talking a soon-to-be heartbreaker! It took a little while to get him to warm up to me but wow, once I cracked him out of his shell a bit, he was just all smiles : )

To start with he wasn't too sure about leaving his mommy's side... perhaps a bit biased opinion being a mommy myself but oh my goodness, I think this shot is soooo precious!

This was one of the first shots I got of him after he broke away from his mom, and the expression I think is just so priceless and so real. There is no cheesy or fake smile, it's like I can almost see him look at me and think "okay, I can do this... here goes nothing" Love it!

And now we are really getting brave!

He wanted to go just outside the shop but definitely wanted to take the chair. Logan, I think this was a perfect idea! : )

After we were done with the studio, off to the park we went just as we promised the big guy we would do (hey, sometimes bribery is a must need!!!!)

By this point, Logan was becoming "too" good at putting on a smile, and was becoming what his mom said was his "cheesy smile". The perfect cure for this, in case you were wondering, is LOTS and LOTS of tickles!

Time for some serious play time now!!!

Okay, so Logan had sandals on and just like my own boys, rocks and mulch started to get in his shoes. What do we do when this happens...uh, we go barefoot of course! And of course the more he played, the dirtier his feet would get. I don't know what it is about this, but to me this is a very very very classic kid thing, much like ice cream all over the face after eating an ice cream cone, or mud all over the legs because they can't resist jumping in a puddle! So it became a brief mission to get a creative shot of these oh so, very cute and yet oh so irresistibly dirty feet! LOL!!!! : )

Such a perfect day for a good swing!

Logan I hope you had the bestest of a third birthday!!! And I really, really, hope you enjoyed that cake with sprinkles : ) Thanks for coming to see me, and I sure hope I will get to see you again soon!

Don't forget to leave a comment below!!!

Trevor + Kortney + Baby on the Way {maternity}

2011-04-14T16:33:00.000-05:00

Willard, MO (In-studio + Jackson Street Park)

Not only did I have some beautiful weather to work with, but add in a wonderful couple like Trevor and Kortney and I find myself about as lucky as I can get! Okay well, it may have been just a tad bit too windy but who cares. : )

Kortney's perfect belly... not a single bit of a stretch mark... yep I'm jealous!!!

And then there's the beautiful eyes as well...

These might just be one of the cutest pairs of shoes I've seen yet! Proof that I could never ever afford to have a little girl because how on earth you could pass up items like this, takes more will power than I could ever have!

After the studio shots, we headed down the street to the local park. I so love this next shot! Kortney was really hoping to use some balloons in some photos outside just for fun. I am pretty sure Trevor thought we had lost our minds for thinking we could make balloons work on a day when it was too windy to even fly a kite, but thankfully Kortney has a good grip!

So sweet...

And two more favorites...

Thank you so much Trevor & Kortney for allowing me to take part in such an important part of your lives! I absolutely cannot wait to meet your little girl!!!!
~Heather

Don't forget to leave a comment below!!!!!!!!!!!

Kesley turns 1!!!!

2011-04-11T17:55:00.000-05:00

Willard, MO (In-Studio)

Kesley got to be my very first client in the new studio space (with the exception of the few shots I got of my youngest, but I don't think he really counts ;) )! And even better than that, she is also going to be turning 1 year old very soon!!

She is a bit more limited physically for her age because she was a premie when born, but I still think she did absolutely wonderfully and my goodness she is adorable! That smile is most certainly a contagious one, or at least it got me smiling and giggling every time I saw it : ) After about the first outfit, she did start to get a little tired, but then after not having all day, who can blame her. So many of the shots we had to be a bit more creative and have her momma hold her or daddy soothe her in some way while I kept shooting.

Here are a few favorites that I have narrowed out from her session...

For the first part of the session, Kesley's mom put her in what I thought at the moment was THE most adorable vintage outfit, which actually had belonged to her grandfather when he was a baby.

See what I mean, such a cutie! I loved how she just looked up at me just as I took the shot with her perfect grin :)

Now I had said I "thought" the first outfit was THE most adorable, that was until I saw the next one. And what made the next one even better was the fact that her mom made it for her! Totally reminded me of the crazy talents that my own mother has in the gift of sewing and being able to follow a pattern (those things might as well be in chinese if you ask me).

This was when she was really starting to get tired (I'm so sorry Kesley... I still say you were being the best trooper ever!!!).

Yes, even she loved her dress! So much so, that she just couldn't stop looking at it and playing with it!!

Daddy knew just how to soothe his baby girl. The look on her face here almost brings tears to my eyes because I can totally remember the moments after my boys would fuss for so long, and just as I finally got them to settle down and they were about to fall asleep... they would just lay there for a moment with their eyes just barely open... oh my goodness, so precious : )

And last but not least, we got into our birthday outfit, which of course was made by her oh so talented mommy! Jenny, you did awesome with these outfits, seriously!! Just as I was about to shoot this pose, her mom said the most perfect comment "It's my party and I'll cry if I want to!" Love it!

B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L

Happy first birthday beautiful sweet Kesley!!! I absolutely cannot wait to see you again!

New studio space!

2011-04-05T20:02:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow I will begin packing things up at my location in Republic and then start heading to my new location in Willard, MO. My space will be within the business of The Back Porch Tea House/ Village Flowers. This has been a move I have thought about for quite some time but well, to be honest with you, have just been too scared to give it a go until now. This is a big step for me, and the nerves are kicking in! :)

However, along with the nerves comes great anticipation and excitement and I know that after the newness of the idea sets in and I get things set up, I'll be as ready as ever! Along with this new location I will also still be offering photo sessions outdoors, and on location just as I always have done!

So stayed tuned and by the end of the week I will have more details and hopefully some photos as well to show off what things are looking like!

Spring Mini Photo Sessions!

2011-03-25T10:44:00.000-05:00

Woo-hoo, Spring has finally arrived! And guess what that means??? It's time for Spring portrait mini sessions! You may schedule your mini photo session anytime between now and May 15th, but I am only offering a total of 10 sessions, so be sure to hurry and schedule your session today!!!

SPRING!!!

2011-03-16T09:43:00.000-05:00

Okay, wow, it seems like I have vanished from my Blog and Facebook fanpage here lately. It sometimes can get hard to juggle all the gazillion and one things that are required within this business and I have been focusing on all of the revamping, but more importantly, getting my office and studio more organized! Hint, hint... this is why having an employee or someone working with you would be a dream come true some days! :)

I thought I would take a moment this morning to let everyone know that Easter is quickly approaching! This brings joy to my heart, and makes me want to jump up and down like a little girl with pigtails because that also means spring, sunshine, flowers blooming, green grass, leaves on the trees... Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Okay, sorry, I get carried away just thinking about it!

Easter approaching also means SPRING MINIS are coming soon!!!! All the final details and packages will be announced very soon, so be sure to stay tuned!

Shelby

2011-02-09T14:31:00.000-06:00

In-Studio (Republic, MO)

Can you say adorable???? Shelby was about the most stinkin cute little girl during her photo session. So much so, I kind of wanted to keep her :) Here are a few favorites from her session...

Justin, Jennifer, Makenna & Beckham

2011-02-07T19:34:00.000-06:00

In-Studio (Republic, MO)

I realize that time flies especially when it comes to how quickly babies grow, but wow! I absolutely cannot believe it was already time for Beckham's 3 month shoot!!! I feel so lucky to get to capture all of his milestones for the first year of his life and cannot wait to see him again in 3 more months. Miss Makenna is a little on the camera shy side of the fence but I am determined to change that before the year is up!!! :)

Weddings!

2011-01-26T08:39:00.000-06:00

High School Senior Sessions

2011-01-26T08:26:00.000-06:00

Maternity, Newborn, Children/ Teen, Family, & Engagement Portraits

2011-01-26T08:17:00.001-06:00

Are you expecting or have a new addition in your family? The Baby's 1st Year Session Packages are the perfect opportunity to capture all the big milestones during such a precious year! These session packages must be paid during the first session and can be used all the way up through your baby's first birthday. When you are ready to place your portrait order you may also purchase any of the A la Carte items or print packages listed above.

Valentine Mini Session's and Valentine Cards

2011-01-18T12:06:00.001-06:00

Valentine's Day is now quickly approaching! That means it's time to schedule your Valentine mini session and choose from one of the many Valentine card options I have created this year. I am only offering a limited number of mini sessions this year and at this time there are only 3 slots left, so hurry and schedule today! You can schedule your session for any day up through February 2nd, and you can pick from the one of three mini packages below...

The card sizes are 4x6, 5x5, or 4x8 and all cards include envelopes. Here are examples of all the cards that are being offered this year...

4x6's...

5x5's...

4x8's...

2011 Valentine Card Pricing

You may choose a photo from a previous session or from new session. All sets include envelopes.

set of 25 cards........$32.00

set of 32 cards........$40.00

set of 48 cards........$60.00

You may contact me at heatherhoadley@gmail.com or call (417) 343-9544 to place your card order!

Reuben + Stacie + Gracie

2011-01-17T13:40:00.000-06:00

Republic, MO (In-Studio)

My latest newborn was such a treat and I was very anxious to see her. I have gotten to know her momma, Stacie the past few months as she has been my hairdresser (does a fantastic job too by the way ;) ) I would see Stacy every week or two and as the months grew on I kept thinking one day the baby would be here. She had went in to the hospital with contractions back in the middle of December at which point she was told it would be any day. Um, yeah, any day like 3 weeks later!!! She finally went in to be induced one week after her due date and I don't think I have ever seen a more anxious momma. And of course, as always, mommy was beautiful than ever even after having a baby only a week beforehand!

Here are a few favorites from Miss Gracie's newborn session...

Shannon, Carrie, & Blair

2011-01-10T15:52:00.000-06:00

Republic, MO (In-Studio)

Once again, I had the pleasure of having Shannon & Carrie in my studio along with the beautiful girl, Blair. One of the greatest parts for me offering Baby's first year packages is allowing me the chance to really get to know the families and then of course, being allowed to watch the babies grow!

Here are a few favorites from Blair's 4 month session...

Scott, Zenobia, & Lydia

2011-01-09T19:42:00.000-06:00

Republic, MO (In-Studio)

Scott and Zenobia came to see me for the first time shortly after Lydia was born. And I was ecstatic to get to see her again, and oh my she is getting so big and oh, oh, oh so cute!!!!! Here are a few favorites from their Holiday mini shoot...

Kaile

2011-01-01T13:30:00.000-06:00

Downtown Springfield, MO

I was so happy to finally have the chance to do this session, especially since Kaile's mom purchased the session at an auction that was held back in May. I had donated a large portrait package to help raise money for the new Northwest Greene County Kiwanis Club in which I am a proud member. The auction was a huge success and I was thrilled to have been a part of it!

Kaile, who is a senior this year at Ash Grove High School, wanted to wait until the fall colors were in place before we did the session, and I definitely feel we succeeded in making that happen! It was a little on the chilly side the morning we had the session, but nonetheless, Kaile was a trooper and did an amazing job.

Here are a few of the favorites from the session... (Kaile's sister hoped in a few of the photos as well!!!)

Brian + Ashley + Kimberlyn

2010-12-27T14:02:00.000-06:00

Republic, MO (In-Studio)

As with most every year come holiday time, things got a little hectic for me and my photography world. I kind of didn't stay on top of the blogging like I normally like to do so I am using my day back at work today to play a little bit of catch up. I can't think of a better place to start then with this beautiful family!

Brian and Ashley came to see me in the fall as they were still expecting their beautiful daughter Kimberlyn. We spent most of the time in the studio but as luck would have it, it was a gorgeous day in Missouri that day, so we also were able to venture outside for a few at the end.

Here are a few favorites from their maternity session...

And then came little Miss Kimberlyn!!! Beautiful baby girl! And yes, look closely, her mama had already gotten started on painting those cute little toenails and fingernails : )

I always love putting together these newborn collages!!!

Hallie

2010-12-07T09:07:00.000-06:00

Republic, MO (in studio)

I am having the absolute joy and honor of getting to know Hallie and her parents and watch her grow through her first year! She is just absolutely beautiful and oh my goodness....all I have to do is look at her and that smile just glows from ear to ear!!!!!

Here are some favorites from her 3 month session...

I can't wait to see you again very soon Miss Hallie!!!!!!!

Clint & Rachel

2010-11-26T11:07:00.000-06:00

Downtown, Republic, MO

Clint and Rachel have been trying to have their photo session for a few months now but life kept happening so they weren't able to see me until just recently which meant for a rather cold windy day. But no worries, these two, holy cow, talk about some tough cookies. I don't think Rachel had a single goosebump on her even when in her gorgeous short-sleeved dress.

These two were also such a tremendous amount of fun to be around and instantly felt at ease around me!!! Oh and did I mention they were a knockout gorgeous couple to say the least???

Kirsten & Hunter

2010-11-25T20:23:00.000-06:00

Downtown, Springfield, MO

It might have not seemed like the smartest or wisest of ideas to take two small kiddos to the downtown area with just me and their momma, but we did, and man oh man am I glad!!!!! These two are doing better and better with their photos each time I see them! For those that don't know, these two adorable little kiddos are rather special to me and I absolutely adore every minute I get to spend with them and am honored each time I get to take their photos : )

One for Kirsten & Hunter

2010-11-25T07:25:00.000-06:00

Loved this photo waaaaaaay too much to not post a little sneak peek!!! More coming soon!!!

Seth + Lauren + Kinley

2010-11-23T18:35:00.000-06:00

In- studio, Republic, MO

Although little Miss Kinley did not want to sleep a wink, she still was just as beautiful as could be!!!

So sweet how much Daddy LOVES his little girl!!!

Lauren is one pretty mama!!!!

Okay, so anyone that knows me, knows how much it absolutely pains me to show this next photo!!!! ;) However, I am doing so, knowing that just a few days after this shot was taken, I had a little KU baby girl that I will soon be able to show off as well!!!!

Kinley, I truly hope that I will be able to watch you grow and continue to get to see you as the months go by!!!!

Beckham

2010-11-22T15:17:00.000-06:00

In-Studio (Republic, MO)

Another sweet, sweet, sweet little newborn baby boy!!!

Holiday Mini Sessions/ Holiday Cards

2010-11-18T11:29:00.000-06:00

The following is all the details regarding this years Holiday Mini Sessions! The mini sessions have proven to become quite popular and therefore will most likely book up quickly since only a limited amount of sessions are available. If you are interested, please be sure to contact me as soon as possible. You may email me: heatherhoadley@gmail.com, or call (417) 343-9544 to schedule your appointment today!!!

Below is the information that I had previously posted regarding the 2010 Holiday Cards that I have designed....

The Holiday season has come upon us once again which means that greeting cards are now available! You may use a photo from a previous session or schedule a new session.

All cards are a flat, one-sided 4.25 x 5.5 sized card and include envelopes and a keepsake box!

You may choose from the following custom designs that I have created for the 2010 Holiday season (please note: I have given sample greetings and text for each card, however you may choose your own wording for your cards! Also the white shadow box around each card is part of this blogs template and will not appear on any of the following cards.)

Pricing:

25 cards.....$40.00

32 cards.....$45.00

48 cards.....$65.00

60 cards.....$82.00

75 cards.....$100.00

100 cards...$125.00

150 cards...$160.00

Jared + Sandra + Kamryn

2010-11-17T09:05:00.000-06:00

Phelps Grove Park, Springfield, MO

I first met little Miss Kamryn when she was just a baby. She has proven each time that she is quite the beautiful little blonde haired girl who's eyes are simply, unforgettable! And her little voice, oh my goodness....Yes it just makes me want to hug-a-bug her all day long!!! : )

Most of the work I have done with this family has been in studio and I think we were all anxious to get some good outdoor photos. Wow, hands down, I honestly think this family had me booked for THE most gorgeous day of the entire fall season, and it started out looking like it was going to be a rainy day. But as the time drew closer, the clouds parted and well, gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous weather!

Yes, I have probably added far too many photos into this blog, but are you kidding me??? How on earth does one try and narrow down favorites of this cutie pie??? Sooooo, here you go...

Brad & Allison

2010-11-15T11:35:00.000-06:00

Silo Hill Farm, Willard, MO

Meet Brad & Allison! I will have the honor of photographing their wedding next October, and am pretty excited to do so since the wedding will be in Salem, MO and reception in my hometown of Rolla, MO. And no we did not know one another beforehand...another case of it's a small world!!!

For the engagement shoot, we discussed the idea of doing it in Salem, but then they decided they wanted to try out Silo Hill Farm which is the location that I spent much of my time at during the past month, :). Being more of the outdoorsy type (which I LOVE) meant they were up for anything!!!

Oh Allison...gorgeous eyes!!!

Oh how I love to play in the middle of a field : )...

One of my favorites because to me it just shows how down to earth these two are, not to mention crazy about one another!

Okay, these are all favorites...this shoot was too hard to narrow down just one or two

Such a perfect kiss :)

I had the chance to ask Allison a few questions about her and Brad...

1.) Where did you two meet?
   Brad and I met my sophmore year in High School, so yes we are high school sweethearts.
(oh my goodness, how cute is that!!!)

2.) How long have you been together?
   We have been together for a little over 3 years.

3.) How did he propose?
   Brad proposed to me on our three year anniversary, after a day full of fun adventures. He surprised me with our dog and my favorite color, purple, bow tied around his neck. When I saw Tyson come around the corner, I saw a purple bow and behind him, Brad on his knee.
(wow Brad, you did good my friend....like picture perfect, belongs in a movie good!)

4.) What are you most looking forward to on your wedding day?
   I am most looking forward to Brad's face at the altar when the church doors open for me and my father, to walk down the aisle. I can't wait to see his reaction.

Matt + Katie + baby on the way!

2010-11-12T19:56:00.000-06:00

Springfield, MO

Katie called me early on during her pregnancy with her exciting news of having a baby on the way. Her and Matt wanted to do a total of three sessions throughout the pregnancy to help document the experience. My favorite part of this is that it has allowed me to see the two more often and I feel like I have gotten to know them so much more than had we just done one regular maternity session.

Here are a few favorites from each of the three sessions...

Robert + Melanie + Baby Liam

2010-11-09T10:52:00.000-06:00

Republic, MO (in studio)

I first met Robert and Melanie in August when they came to me for their maternity photos. And now I recently got to meet the newest addition of their family, baby Liam!!!

Liam is about as precious as a baby could be! Although he did not like to be out of the arms of his mommy or daddy, I managed to get a few shots of him almost sleeping! He kept me on my toes, and I was allowed to think creatively for this session to say the least!

Here are a few favorites...

Holiday Cards

2010-11-08T18:23:00.000-06:00

The Holiday season has come upon us once again which means that greeting cards are now available! You may use a photo from a previous session or schedule a new session.

All cards are a flat, one-sided 4.25 x 5.5 sized card and include envelopes and a keepsake box!

You may choose from the following custom designs that I have created for the 2010 Holiday season (please note: I have given sample greetings and text for each card, however you may choose your own wording for your cards! Also the white shadow box around each card is part of this blogs template and will not appear on any of the following cards.)

Pricing:

25 cards.....$40.00

32 cards.....$45.00

48 cards.....$65.00

60 cards.....$82.00

75 cards.....$100.00

100 cards...$125.00

150 cards...$160.00

Joe + Wendy + Ethan + Logan

2010-11-05T14:30:00.000-05:00

Silo Hill Farm, Willard, MO

This family was such a blast to work with. I am slightly partial to boys since I have two of my own, but being around them made me feel as though I was in a flash forward of what my own will be like in about 4 or 5 years, LOVED it!!!

Thank you so much guys for doing all that I asked of you and showing me such a fun time!

Now for a few favorites from their session...

Bill + April + Sarah + Jarett + Hannah

2010-11-05T11:40:00.000-05:00

Ritter Springs Park, Springfield, MO

I met this wonderful family at Ritter Springs towards the end of September. For those of you who are familiar with this park, it is not in the best of shape right now. Apparently new sewer or water lines are being run straight through and everything is such a mess. This left us limited as to what we could do as far as photos go. However, it did not phase this family a bit, in fact they had already scoped the place out and found some areas they knew would work.

I had such a good time getting to know this family throughout the shoot, and the kids were just the best! Here are a few favorites from their session...

David & Min

2010-11-01T09:27:00.000-05:00

Springfield, MO

Meet David & Min, the Bride & Groom who's wedding I photographed back in April. I have known these two for several years, which makes being asked to be their photographer all that much more special. When you combine David, one of the funniest guys I know, with Min, one of the funniest girls I know with a twist of kindness and well, let's just say she will tell you how it is...you will be sure to have the greatest time ever!!! I have shared lots of laughs and good times with these two, and the afternoon of their Bridal session they were up for trying anything!!!

Here are just a few of my favorites from the day...

This one makes me smile!!!

David making Min laugh, like always : )

I know they thought I was crazy when I asked them to do this, but oh how I love how it turned it out!

Look close, they are laughing again....seriously, I love these two!!!!!!!!!!!! And those shoes of Min's...wow. This is the kind of girl you want to take with you when you go shoe shopping. I rarely see her without heels on, and every pair she wears is more fabulous than the last!

Awwwwwwwwwe :)

David & Min, I absolutely enjoy every second that I am around you two and I can't to see you again soon!!!!!!!!!!!

Seth + Lauren + baby girl on the way!!!

2010-10-18T16:39:00.000-05:00

Republic, MO (studio)

Seth & Lauren came to visit me in my studio and were ready to go with some super cute baby items! And with the beautiful weather we have been having, we also got to do some shots outside as well. I am so anxious to meet their baby girl once she arrives, although probably not as anxious as Seth & Lauren, as they are still waiting and will be going in this Thursday to meet her, ready or not!

One of my favorites of the day...

And another fav.....

Congratulations once again Seth & Lauren, and I hope to hear from you VERY soon so I can meet your baby girl!!!!

Bryan & Jessica

2010-10-15T22:09:00.001-05:00

Springfield, MO

I would like to introduce to you, Bryan & Jessica, one of the sweetest couples who will be getting married next fall! I had such a great time with these two and cannot wait to be a part of their wedding! They will be getting married May 28, 2011 at Samuel Cedars in Rogersville, MO which by the way is an outdoor venue, my favorite...WOO-HOO!

I could immediately tell how much they both just absolutely adore one another from the moment they sat down across from me at a local coffee house. It was so sweet and definitely touched the sweeter, sappier side of me : )

Our session started at Jordan Valley Park and we were anxious to make our way to the fountains. It was very crowded around them when we first arrived so I suggested we use some of the other areas first and then work our way down the bottom of the hill. Not such a good idea....you'll see why later!

For this next shot, I used both sides of a hill, but really liked how the silhouette version turned out

So we make our way down to the fountains, and there are still at least a dozen kids playing around and just wouldn't budge, so instead we decided to use the stone river like part that leads down to the fountains first.

And yes, they really truly are as sweet as they look in every single photo! I wonder how many times I said "awwwwe" as I worked on these photos???

We've done all we can, and so we go to the fountains, which by the way are on some kind of timer and shoot up every few minutes or something. I get Bryan & Jessica just where I want them, and I finally notice who I think were parents asking at least two of the 5 or 6 kids to move so I can take pictures. Not kidding, I bet we waited more than 10 minutes for the kids to finally move. I just kept promising it would only take me 2 minutes and then we would be out of their way. So finally everything is all set, I go to snap the photo...I'm waiting, it goes to shoot up and only goes about 2 feet up rather than the probably 8 feet it normally does. A mom just looked at me and says, yeah, they are scheduled to shut off at this time every day. Hmmmm, so you already knew this as you watched me waiting oh so patiently for everyone to move. Thankfully, it gave us a good laugh, and we still had some more places to go. But in any case, here is the shot of the lovely fountains! HA!!!

And finally, one of my favorites from the day...

Some of the questions that I asked Jessica...

1.) Where did you two meet?
   Bryan and I actually dated in high school for a while...it was my senior year and Bryan was getting ready to go off to college. We kind of just met by chance and started talking all the time. We weren't together very long because he was going off to college. Shortly after he graduated, he looked me up on Facebook and we have been together ever since.

2.) How long have you been together?
   We have been together for almost a year and half this time.

3.) How did he propose?
   Bryan actually went "home" (Springfield) for the weekend to see some friends. Apparently they all went to the mall and he told me he had gotten me something but he wouldn't tell me. When he got home that night, I kept begging him for it, but he was teasing me and told me it was a Christmas gift. Of course, I was throwing a fit, I didn't want to wait, so I kept begging and begging. He went out to the car to get it and came back in with it behind his back. I was in the bedroom getting ready for dinner and when he came in the room with his hands behind his back I knew he had my present. So I said "is that my present?" He said, "you have to guess what it is!" I kept naming off random things like shoes, clothes, cd's, whatever I could think of. After a while I was getting frustrated and said "ok babe just give it to me, I give up?" Then he brought it around and I saw that it was a jewelry box that was open with a ring in it and Bryan (being kind of shy and nervous about the whole thing) mumbled "will you marry me?" and I acted in such disbelief about the whole thing and couldn't believe it! It was the LAST thing I was expecting! I said "are you serious??? oh my gosh, yes I'll marry you!!" It was one of the greatest moments in my life!

4.) What are you most looking forward to on your wedding day?
   Bryan would say "joking around" shoving cake in my face! But I think we both agree on our first dance as husband and wife. I would also have to say that another thing I'm looking forward to is the look on his face when he first sees me coming down the aisle. To me, the look on his face will always be a moment I will never forget.

See...I told you those two are the sweetest!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bryan and Jessica, I cannot WAIT for May 28th to arrive! I had such a great time with you for this engagement session and am so ansy to see what a beautiful bride and groom you two are going to make!

Madilynn

2010-10-13T08:20:00.000-05:00

Republic, MO (studio)

I met Madilynn in March just before Easter as she was only about a month old. What a lucky girl I am to be asked by her parents to be there for special milestones throughout her first year! This little one is such a cutie pie to say the least, but this came to no surprise as I had the chance this past weekend to meet the entire family including her older brother and sister. I adore this family and absolutely cannot wait to see them again very soon!!!

Adam & Shannon

2010-10-11T10:59:00.000-05:00

St. Louis, MO

I first met Adam & Shannon when photographing Shannon's brothers wedding about a year and a half ago. It had been one of my favorite wedding's of the year, so when Adam & Shannon called me last winter to ask if I would be willing to travel to St. Louis once I again, I was not only ecstatic from head to toe, but also felt so truly honored!

This wedding was one I will never forget for so many reasons and so needless to say, there were way too many photos to choose from....I tried my best to narrow them down and hope that it shows the true beauty of the day, starting with some of the most important details of the day I do believe.

Shannon had such a beautiful dress...almost as beautiful as she is!

Adam & Shannon were married at a chapel on the campus of University Missouri-St. Louis. Wow, talk about magnificent, not to mention the immense picture perfect lighting coming in at the time of the ceremony! I was in heaven : )

This one makes me smile : )

Adam is definitely as sweet of a guy as he looks. Awwwe, just look at him as he first sees Shannon!!! And props to Shannon for keeping it cool as she made her way down the aisle.

I always find it so special when lost loved ones are remembered during a ceremony, but this was a very unique and perfect way. Adam & Shannon lit a candle for each grandparent and parent that were there with them in spirit that day. So beautiful...

One of my favorite shots to try and capture is that moment that the Bride & Groom make it out of the ceremony site and are alone as husband and wife for the first time. This is not always an easy shot to get, but I'm so glad I got this one...

Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous Bride!!!!

Seriously, could these two be any more in love....Awwwweeeee!

One of my favorite times of the day was the BIG chunk of time that Adam & Shannon allotted for the entire wedding party to travel to Forest Park for photos. I was in a for a big surprise though, let me tell you! I don't consider my town of Springfield, MO to be all that small, but when compared to St. Louis, it's about the size of a dot : ). Proof of this was going to a destination like we did and literally having to "wait our turn" for our chance to get a photo in ANY of the areas throughout the park. There were at least 5 other wedding parties everywhere we went it seemed. Good thing this group had stopped for "refreshments" to keep them tied over on the bus. All in all, it really was so much fun, and the day would just not have been the same without it...not to mention all the wonderful photos we got! :)

So I am in the midst of getting a shot of the wedding party, when all of a sudden all the guys start going CRAZY with cheers and before I know it, they take off running full speed ahead for the golf course behind me. Apparently, they had been watching a husband and wife playing, and were ecstatic when the wife made her tough shot. So funny!!!!!!

Luckily, because of this, I got the idea of perhaps asking this very nice lady if we could borrow her clubs for a moment. Sure enough, Shannon was thinking the exact same thing and so off we went!

That a girl!

Did I mention how much I LOVED this wedding party????

One of my favorites of the beautiful bride & groom...

Now on to the reception... Adam & Shannon had some of the BEST ideas I've ever seen. One of them was a candy table complete with little bags for everyone to stock up on their favorite candy. I'm sorry, but uh...this should be a mandatory thing at ALL wedding receptions!!! : )

Another favorite...

Shortly after Adam & Shannon asked me to photograph their wedding, I heard from them again. But this time with some news that no one ever wants to hear. Shannon's father had gotten very sick and passed away. This was so incredibly heartbreaking, especially after knowing how close this family was and how much Shannon's Dad meant to her. It was her dream to have her Dad at one of the most important days of her life and so the family saw to it that his presence was there throughout. One of the hardest times came during the reception. Brett, Shannon's brother had walked her down the aisle and also tried his best to take his father's place by giving a speech, but when it came to the Father- Daughter dance, Shannon just couldn't have that replaced. So instead, Shannon took a moment to talk in front of everyone and tried to put into words how truly wonderful her Dad was. Adam stood by her side the entire time holding her hand and keeping her strong. And then a slideshow was presented of some of the many memories the family had through photographs. Adam, Shannon, her mother, her brother, and his wife Tori and their son Max all stood together as they watched.

Once the slideshow was over, and everyone was able to hug and wipe their eyes, somehow, the family was able to pull themselves together and start to celebrate the joy and love that had filled the room by so many people who truly and deeply care about them.

After a few moments had passed, the night moved on to other dances including the wedding party dance. LOVED this one.... I'll start it for you.... "Life is a mystery, everyone will stand alone, I hear you call my name..."

"When you call my name, it's like little prayer..." Every time I hear this song now, I will always think of this dance and fantastic group of people and.... SMILE!!!

And yet, another great idea. I've seen the photo booth thing before, but this time, everyone put their strips of photos into a book for Adam & Shannon and signed a message to them. Awwwe, LOVE this!!! With all the family and friends that filled the room that night, you can only imagine how good of a job everyone did completing this "project".

Here's another first sighting for me...invisible double dutch...in dancing style! LOL!!!!! I have to admit, I really, really, really wanted to put my camera down a few times and jump in and join in on the fun. I'm telling you, these people really know how to celebrate!

But perhaps one of the funniest times was when Shannon and one of her bridesmaids joined in. By this point, just about everyone had spilled their drink a time or two so the floor had become a bit slippery to say the least : ). This didn't make the situation any less funny though. Michelle, the bridesmaid, fell not just once, but then got up and fell yet again!

Many props and "costume" changes took place throughout the evening.... : )

Cheers to one of the best groups of people I have ever met!

Adam & Shannon, thank you sooooo much asking me to be a part of your special day! There is not a doubt in my mind that you two have years and years and years of happiness together ahead of you, and I truly wish you nothing but the absolute best in life!!!

Adam & Shannon Questionnaire...

What was your favorite memory of the day?

Dancing with all of our family and friends at the reception. We had a blast.

What was the funniest memory of the day?

When my cousin Michelle ran in to do the invisible double dutch and slipped and fell and then proceeded to get up and try again and slipped in the same spot.

What was your favorite detail?

My favorite detail was my wedding party. Everyone looked so perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better looking wedding party. They are pretty great people too!

What was your favorite wedding purchase?

I would have to say my dress. I loved it and I want to wear it again. Maybe in 50 years it will still fit haha!

If you could do it all over again, is there anything that you would change?

I would have taken time to go to the photo booth and the candy bar. I expected to have a ton of candy left over and there wasn't so I missed out on all the goodies.

Any advice you might have for future Bride & Groom's?

Take time to have fun at your reception. There are so many things that have to get done, but make sure you get the chance to eat, drink, and dance because it all goes so fast.

Where did you go for your honeymoon?

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Any favorite memories you would like to share about your honeymoon?

My favorite memory about the honeymoon was not having a plan. We woke up every morning when we wanted to, took naps when we wanted to and did whatever we wanted to. Our biggest decision of the day was where we were going to eat dinner!

A few of my favorites:

1.) Seeing Shannon in her dress

2.) Waiting our turn amongst all the other wedding parties at Forest Park

3.) Adam not being able to take his eyes off Shannon. His eyes would dance every time he saw her.

4.) Fearing that Tori (my other favorite bride from last year) might go into labor at any given moment...her due date was only 6 days away at the time!

5.) The playlist at the Reception...one of the best of all times

6.) Shannon's "costume" changes throughout the reception. Let's see I believe there was a Hawaiian Bride, Construction Bride, and Dark Angel Bride!

7.) The photo booth album...a seriously great idea.

And my least favorite moment:

Having to say goodbye to the Perry family at the end of the night. Unfortunately, Brett & Shannon are the only siblings, but I truly hope our paths will cross again at some point!

Don't forget to leave your comments below!!!

Darrell + Michelle + Trevor

2010-09-30T16:51:00.000-05:00

Republic, MO (in-studio)

Meet Trevor, the newest addition to Darrell & Michelle's beautiful family. He was just as cute as could be but also very alert at just one and a half weeks old. I LOVE babies, but Trevor, oh my, I wanted to hold him all day long!!!

Of course I absolutely love all the sweet precious photos from throughout Trevor's session, but this next one...I can't help it, it's definitely one of my favs. Everytime I look at it I can't help but hear my Dad saying to me, "well I'd cry too if you put that hat on me". I should also mention, that even though Trevor was very alert throughout the session, he never once cried, not once, except for the hat incident! : )

Darrell & Michelle, I sincerely enjoyed getting to meet you guys and can't wait to see Trevor again. I am always amazed at how much they grow and change in just a few short months or even weeks for that matter!!!

Phillipsburg Christian Cowboys

2010-09-29T20:25:00.000-05:00

The Back Porch Tea House in Willard, MO

As many of you know, I am a member/secretary of the Northwest Greene County Kiwanis Club and am so proud of this club and what I think is in store for us in the future! Our club counselor, Kyle Gibson has just been itchin to introduce a band from his hometown of Lebanon, MO to one of our meetings. So last Monday the band came and played for almost the entire hour of our meeting. They were A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! I would describe some of their songs as Gospel, Bluegrass, and maybe even some that were the old style rock-n-roll. Anyone who knows me, knows this is TOTALLY my kind of entertainment!!! Not to mention they were just some of the kindest most down to earth gentlemen and such a delight to chat with. I absolutely cannot WAIT for them to visit again...oh I do hope that it is sometime soon!

Pssst....I perhaps heard through the grapevine that they might start providing live entertainment at the Back Porch Tea House during the new dinner hours which are Thursday and Friday nights. Between this entertainment, and the homemade delicious food that Pam Askren and her stuff cook up, I might be visiting this place often!!! : )

I wish I was savvy enough, oh and also perhaps had the bands CD, to incorporate one of their songs as background music while you look at the photos...but instead for now, the pictures are all I have for you!

Even though the other two members said not to fuss on the topic because it will just make his head explode, I can't help but mention that this next man is one heck of a guitarist (take notice to his guitar by the way, possibly the coolest I have ever seen). He is so good in fact, that he is also a member of Iowa's Rock-N-Roll Hall of Fame!

I just have to give it up for this next guy, Kyle Gibson. He is our group's counselor and also the kindest, dearest of a person. AND it took a lot out of him to get up a sing a song or two with these guys due to troubles with his vocal chords and the fact he will be having surgery on them in the next coming months. Kyle, you did great my friend!!!

Thanks again guys for coming to pay us a visit, we all enjoyed it sooooo much!!!

Robert + Melanie + baby on the way!

2010-09-28T11:28:00.000-05:00

Republic, MO (in studio)

It is now time for you to meet Robert and Melanie who moved to the Marshfield, MO area not too long ago after living in New Orleans. Culture shock to say the least, but so far, they are happy to be in our area, and I of course am so happy that they found me! They are one of those fascinating couples that I probably could have spent all day talking to (me talking too much, imagine that...HA).

So here are a few favs from the day...

If you have been a follower of my work, you will know that I am big fan of props in the studio, especially for the maternity sessions! Here's why...

Just one example of the fascinating things about this couple...Robert is a tattoo artist and made some stunning paintings for the baby's room. I was soooo happy they brought these to their session and couldn't wait to incorporate them in!

Seriously, Melanie, you are just absolutely gorgeous!!!!!!!!

Showing off their New Orleans pride!!!! : )

Robert & Melanie, thank you once again for coming to see me, it was such a pleasure to meet you both! I can't WAIT to meet Mr. Liam!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kirsten & Hunter

2010-09-27T17:18:00.000-05:00

Marshfield, MO (city park)

These two adorable little kiddo's are my cousin's babies and of course are two of my most favorite subjects. Kirsten can make you laugh like no other kid around let me tell ya! She is like a giant sponge soaking up any and all information around her. And then there's Hunter, who is a nice balance with his calm and relaxed attitude on life and quite frankly, is just about as cute as can be!

When we got to the park, Kirsten was asleep in the car, so we stayed close by the car and got Hunter's photos done first. This park is amazingly beautiful, with huge trees, lots of hills, and a crystal clear creek running through. I have only got to do photos for my cousin outside the studio one time and that was when Kirsten was turning one and and Hunter wasn't born yet. So to get both of these outside was so wonderful! Being outside the studio always gives so many more options not to mention all the beautiful scenery!

So here are a few of my favorites of Mr. Hunter (it was REALLY hard to narrow down favorites from this session).

I'm kind of partial to the quilt we used in these photos, because my momma made this for Hunter. And the fabric is the same fabric that I used when we made all the bedding and decorations for my boys when they were babies...which was too long ago it seems (sniff, sniff).

The rocking chair and teddy bear in this next shot are my Aunt's from her childhood. There's stories behind the items that I wish I could tell off the top of my head (and this is why I should write things down the second they are told to me rather than the whole "mental note" thing).

Next up was Miss Kirsten, who I am not kidding you, always reminds me of a china doll. She just has this face that photographs so amazingly well, and her eyes always seem to pop against that snow white, flawless skin of hers. I couldn't wait to use this bridge in a shot, and then was shown the centerpieces that were going to be used for her first birthday party and well, of course was sure to race to grab these perfect photo props!

Eeek, so happy to see this shot once I got home because I do believe this is the BEST smile I have ever gotten from this girl! It's just a face that screams, I am so innocent and never do anything wrong.... LOL.

Oh my goodness, this shot was a heart stopper in the making, and I am sooo not kidding. Having these two on a bridge this close to the edge without having their momma directly in the shot was probably one of the most nerve racking shots I have done yet. I can recall a few others where I was climing a rock roll or hanging over the edge of a bridge. Okay, here's the secret...their mom was actually only a few inches from Hunter but I photoshopped her out. But still...it was a one, maybe two shot try and that was all I could stand for!

And lastly, we decided for some water time!!! Definitely one of my all time favortites for these two!!! : )

I love you guys oh so much! Happy 2nd Birthday Kirsten, and Mr. nine months Hunter...see you soon for your 1st Birthday shots!!! I can't believe it's already been a year!

Adam, Ashley, Caden & Riley

2010-09-23T09:43:00.000-05:00

Republic, MO (in studio)

This family came to visit me when the newest addition, Riley, was only 1 1/2 weeks old. Not only was Riley sooooooo adorable, but Caden was also just full of life and such a joy to be around and did fantastic in front of the camera.

Riley didn't sleep completely soundly throughout the session, but still would calm down for me each time I would pose her. This first photo I just absolutely love the fact that I caught a grin in action. It makes me smile every time I see it!

Playing with some hats, I can't help it... I always feel like a little girl playing with her baby dolls...

Hands down, my most favorite diaper cover ever!

During Riley's feeding I got to take Caden over and play with him for a bit. I know I said this before, but he was SO fun...fast, but fun!

Speaking of being fast...these next shots were a good test of my quickness because Caden liked holding his babysister, but only for a second...no worries, mommy & daddy were VERY close by, lol.

As much as I love doing the newborn poses with just the babies, there is nothing quite like getting to see mommy & daddy with their babies. Ashley and Adam are such loving parents, and I loved how much it showed as they would look down at their baby girl!

Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous family!!!!!!!!!!

Adam, Ashley, Caden & Riley......you all were so much fun to be around! I truly hope that I get to see you again soon!!!

Aiden's 1st Birthday

2010-09-22T08:39:00.000-05:00

Phelps Grove Park, Springfield, MO

I first met Aiden in my studio when he was 6 months and he is one of the cutest babies I have ever seen. Seriously...picture perfect cute! But then with as pretty as his mamma is, it's no wonder. Up until now I have only had Aiden for mini sessions and just snapped away like crazy for the entire 30 minute length of time because I just can't get enough of him, and so when his mom wanted to do a full session for his first birthday I was ecstatic! She scheduled it months beforehand and so of course come time for the session, there were some crazy and nasty storms that day so we had to reschedule. Luckily second time was a charm, it was incredibly hot and sticky, but like I always assure everyone...the ickiness of the heat doesn't show up in photos. It kind of takes out a bit of the fun for the photo shoot, but the end result is just as good as any other day!

We picked Phelps Grove park because of the massively large trees and the size of the grounds. It's a great place because you can always find an area where there aren't people or else they are so far off in the distance that I can get them out of the shots. Needless to say, I was excited to have the photo shoot here, but then when I saw Jocelyn (Aiden's mom) come up with all the bright colored balloons and adorable birthday shirt she had made for Aiden I got even more excited. I mean really, is there any better photo prop than balloons???? I think not!

Okay, it is kind of tricky to get the boy to smile, but with that adorable face of his, I'm not sure it matters!!!

Jocelyn had been working on getting him to give her kisses...awwe, I love this next shot, such a great moment!

We had to try the bubble thing a few times, in order for him actually want to try and catch the bubbles or at least notice them. : ) Okay, so maybe there is another great prop beyond balloons....bubbles!!!

One of my favorites from the day...

Well enough of all this, let's eat some cake!

And last but not least, here's another favorite from the day...

Happy 1st Birthday Aiden!!! Up next, Mr. Aiden in his halloween costume, woo-hoo! See you soon.

Kurt & Sandra

2010-09-15T21:47:00.000-05:00

Willard, MO

I first met Kurt & Sandra last summer and then photographed their engagement photos in the fall. It was one of my all time favorite sessions, because being kind of city girl myself, they took me around family farm land and were up for anything I asked them to do. They climbed hay bails, laid in fields that had just been rained in the day before, climbed fences, and trotted through barns...I loved every minute of it. And even better, it made me so incredibly anxious for the wedding day!

They both attend college in Kansas, and since I am a HUGE KU fan, well, it was if our paths were meant to cross. : ) Being busy with school, I was absolutely blown away with every last detail that they managed to cover, including all the items that Sandra found using Ebay. I had no idea that Ebay was such a useful tool. But she was determined to have a fantastic wedding and stick to their budget, and wowzers, I think it's safe to say it was more than just fantastic, but a dream come true.

Getting to hang out with the girls while they get beautified is always a fun time, and these girls made it extra fun. Rashel Fent did their hair and also Sandra's makeup. I have had the pleasure of knowing Rashel for a while now but this was our first chance to work together. This girl does some amazing work!

Neither Sandra, nor her sister ever wear makeup, and so we got some good laughs as their makeup was being applied, especially in this next photo as Sandra's sister asked what an eyeliner was. In their defense though, these are two gorgeous gals that don't even need makeup...so jealous!

Why hello beautiful eyes!

In the midst of the waiting game as everyone gets ready, a couple of the girls snuck over to check out the cake a friend was setting up. And wouldn't you know, she just happened to have a tub of extra buttercream icing.....YUMMMMMMMY! Sorry, but there was just no way I could resist that. : )

After hanging out with the guys a bit in their game room, we went out for some photos. It was HOT, and the bluest of blue skies without a cloud in the sky. This doesn't exactly make things easy for a photographer, or easy for guys in tuxes, but they did not complain at all. In fact, they were determined to show off their handsome good looks! I'd say mission accomplished! : )

And one of my favs....

Well that WAS one of my favs until we went back inside. The light was peaking through a tall window by the door so picture perfectly that I couldn't resist taking Kurt by my side and I got this....one of my all time favorite photos...

When it comes to weddings one thing that I love to do is use some of the waiting time to take special items such as the dress, shoes, and rings out on adventure all by myself. For me, this part of the day is like setting the scene for a painting or something of the sorts you could say. I had been excited for the moment with the brides dress and shoes before the day had even arrived because I just knew that girl would wear her cowboy boots, and sure enough...she did! I giggled in excitement to say the least.

The girls were very anxious for the time in front of the camera and oh how I loved them!

This was one of my ideas for the girls...

And this was their idea...G-E-N-I-U-S, or should I say, L-O-V-E this pose!

It's never a wedding without an adorable flower girl and ring bearer...

While waiting for everyone to be seated the boys were sharing stories and then one of the groomsmen decided they needed to go over their "plays" one last time. So funny...

Okay just another moment that I loved during the day was at the end of the ceremony. The talk that day was about the "kiss" because Sandra has NEVER wanted or dared to kiss Kurt in public...like, ever! So when the time came, even the minister got in a last joke and well Sandra, just in case anyone missed it, here ya go....

As I have made mention, Kurt and Sandra are all country, and tears even filled my eyes as Kurt made mention in his vows about how Sandra would be his hunting and fishing buddy. (sniff, sniff...seriously the sweetest). And so when I saw the cake topper, I thought wow, there's no doubt about it, this was made just for them!

And for the Groom's cake...perfection!

Anyone who knows me, knows that I am an ice cream fanatic and therefore my opinion is a little biased, but still...this has to be one of the best ideas I have ever seen at a wedding reception...ice cream sundae's, are you kidding me??? I may have caved for the icing, but somehow I managed to just hide behind the camera for the sundae's, but my stomach growls every time I see these photos.

It's payback time for the Groom on this one. Apparently at one of the groomsmen weddings, Kurt had participated in decorating the car and then put a dead fish in the car...that's right, a dead fish! Needless to say, the wedding party couldn't get to Kurt and Sandra's car fast enough. And yes, that is cellophane wrapped from top to bottom of the car. When they were finished, Kurt's brother did go out on the back roads in hopes of finding a dead animal to put on top, but no such luck. Still, as hot of a day it was, I was glad I wasn't Kyle when it was time to go home. : )

After watching the battle take place on the car I head back inside. It's the end of the reception and we are waiting to head out for shots with just Kurt and Sandra, and as I turn the corner I see this...oh my goodness, oh my goodness, so stinkin adorable!!!

The love between these two is so evident, and heartwarming. And the fact that after a long wedding day when it was over 100 degrees, that they still were so anxious and determined to get some great shots of just the two of them...well, I definitely felt honored.

The sweat that was pouring down these two was crazy, and look...pure beauty still just radiates from this bride!

We forgot the bouquet, but no worries, because her friend's mom who's house we were at had flowers in all directions and so she picked a few...you are a life saver, thank you!

Always having fun it seems...

Kurt & Sandra, I truly hope this is not the last that we will see of one another, because I have enjoyed every minute I have been around you. The two of you are such an inspiration and are the definition of true love. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of such an amazing day, and I wish you nothing but the absolute best!!!

Now...don't forget...I love comments, so be sure to post yours below!!!

Mom + Dad + Fat Bob!

2010-08-26T16:17:00.001-05:00

Lions Club Park in Rolla, MO

This past summer, my parents wanted to go out and get some photos of one of their toys. The other was left at home (1996 Corvette). I have a vision to eventually get both toys out to a picture perfect place and get photos of them both together, and I'm hoping we can do this someday. Until then, I felt like I was making a stride in the right direction by at least getting my parents in some of the photos with the bike (my dad is not exactly one to be in front of the camera).

I wish I could tell you all the data, stats, whatever guys talk about with their bikes and cars, but uh...I just know it looks great and is incredibly amazing to ride! My dad had a yamaha bike when I was a little girl and he would always take me for rides around St. Joe. Then we moved to Rolla, and the bike quickly got sold. So now, about 15 years later, he got another one. He started with a Sporster but only after a few short months realized there was a reason mostly girls rode these bikes, and upgraded to the Fat Bob. My parents are now very rarely home, because even if it's cold, they can go for a ride in the Vette, but I love to see them enjoying life the way they are and hope someday way, way, way in the future (lol) I can do the same! I'm enjoying life, but uh, not in such a carefree fashion you could say.

So here are some of the photos of my amazingly wonderful parents and the bike...

And remember...I LOVE comments, so share away!!!