Steve + Kristi :: A Capitol Engagement

She's a Southern girl, he's from the Midwest. And if it weren't for a Georgetown piano bar the two may have never crossed paths. But they did. And they fell in like. And then in love. And now, a year and a half later, they're planning to vow their lives to one another in a southern ceremony fit only for, well, Steve and Kristi. It's a fairy tale of sorts, and one that could only happen between a man in uniform and a sweet girl from Alabama. Story book perfect? I kind of think so.

Steve is a Marine stationed out of the Marine Barracks Washington D.C.. The couple wanted a few shots around the barracks grounds and I oh-so-happily obliged!

We then moved inside for a few shots at the Centerhouse Officer's Club.

Steve's mug and Kristi's ring. Kristi, you're a lucky, lucky girl.

Before I show you these next few shots, I have to say that I love...no, Luuurve, when a couple suggests different ideas and locations for their pictures. In this case Kristi and Steve had the idea of heading into the nearby Metro station and playing around with the amazing architecture. Fortunately for us the station was empty and we were able to take full advantage of the gorgeous ceiling. This never would have happened if it weren't for the couple's suggestion!

A few pictures at the Lincoln memorial with some heavenly morning light and a beautiful couple in love...

...And a few shots in front of the Capitol building where Kristi used to work.

I truly cannot help but smile when I look at these photos. Steve and Kristi, your love is infectious!

And one last parting shot of a beautiful bride to be.

Steve and Kristi, thank you a million times over for having me shoot your engagement session. You two really do make a perfect pair and I can only imagine the exciting adventures that lay ahead for you. Congrats on your engagement and upcoming wedding and, really, thank you again.

Michelle

Craig + Tara :: A Georgetown Engagement

They're the type of couple a photographer dreams about booking. The bride is gorgeous, the groom handsome, and they're both excited about life, love, and, more importantly, each other. I booked Craig and Tara's May wedding having never met the duo. This made me both extremely excited and insanely nervous to finally meet them for engagement pictures last Saturday. After 48 (no exaggeration, forty-eight) emails back and forth, I already felt like I knew Tara. But after a few hours roaming the Georgetown streets in some gorgeous evening light, I can now say that not only do I know Tara, but I love her. If you knew her you'd love her too. Her contagious smile, her infectious laughter, her down-to-earth nature - she's really just great. What's more is that there couldn't be a more perfect match for Tara than Craig. Craig is patient, kind, funny, and never fails to remind Tara that she looks beautiful. It's evident that these two were made for each other. But not like salt is made for pepper or butter is made for bread. No, they're even more perfect than that. They're Craig and Tara.

We started out the afternoon on the Georgetown waterfront and couldn't have asked, begged, or pleaded for a more amazing day. It was obvious that someone high up was a big fan of this couple.

A special thanks to the Aveda Salon + Spa in Georgetown for making Tara's hair and makeup extra fabulous.

Oh, please! Just stop.

Craig insisted that he couldn't take a good picture. And I'm all, 'Uh-huh, riiiight'.

Goodness, Tara! You're absolutely stunning.

After a quick change we took advantage of the bright colors Georgetown has to offer.

And a few last shots on the waterfront. LoveLOVElove the love in this one.

Sigh...

Craig and Tara, thank you, thank you, and thank you again for asking me to capture this time in your life. You really are great and I could not be any more excited for your wedding this spring.

All my love (and then some),

Michelle

Good Homes + Excuses :: Life

'But they need a good home!' It's what I say when I've found something I really want to buy but can't find a way to justify. Those shoes? They're so lonely without a loving closet to live in. These letterpress thank you cards? They're so sad without a place to call their own. And this heart shaped cake pan? It's really just yearning for a happy family to take her home.

So yesterday, when Colton was wondering why I felt the need to buy an assortment of flowers and a new pair of earrings, my response was simple - they really just begggged to come home with me.

I've been known to suffer from buyer's remorse. If you're not familiar it's the awful pit in your stomach felt after buying, say, gladiator sandals circa summer 2008. They're cool in the store and yet painfully un-cool once you get them back home. I digress. Today I'm happy to say I'm still 100% confident in my purchases, especially the earrings which loosely resemble a pastel puffer fish hung from chains of gold. These puppies are totally still cool at home.

Happy Monday,

Michelle