Seattle Wedding Photographers - Photoblog of John & Jenna Karwoski

Will & Alison's Wedding | 10.10.09

2009-10-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

From the first time we met Will & Alison, we were excited at the opportunity to work with these two! What a dynamic couple! Two of my favorite things about Alison, are her beautiful & sincere heart and the the other... she gets these amazing expressions on her face that can make just about anyone smile! Will, he's quite at first but one of his best traits, I've learned, is just how much he adores Alison! Their love for one another makes John and I remember why we do what we do. We just couldn't be happier for them both.

Alison works for the fire department and Will, lets just call him "Officer Will", proudly part of the Bellevue Police Force. The fire department, where Alison works, was nice enough to let us use some of these great props. And a friend of Will's dropped by to lend us a prop too.

Both of these two come with an amazing group of family and friends. The toasts were touching and we just felt privileged to be a part of such an amazing day.

Alison & Will, thank you for sharing such a special day in your lives, with us. You are both amazing people and together, now as husband and wife, you guys are unstoppable! Congratulations!

If you were a guest and would like to view more of Alison & Will's pictures as they become available, please sign their guest book here.

Photographers: Yours Truly

Church: Bastyr University Chapel
Venue & Catering: The Bellevue Club

DJ: Austin Beaver, NiteLite Entertainment

Florist:

Nina & Paul's Wedding | 10.3.09

2009-10-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

While I (Jenna) didn't have a little sister of my own growing up, from the time I was about 12 or so, there was Nina. She is the little sister to my best friend growing up. Now, all grown up and beautiful as ever, John & I had the privilege of capturing her special day.

After years of dating, Paul finally popped the question last year about this time. A years worth of planning, finally her wedding day was here. Everything that she'd spent time on, making each detail just so, was about to come together. Nina's sister (one of my dearest friends) Barbi, flew over from Ohio to be a part of her little sister and best friends, day.

Joined by both of their family and friends Nina and Paul exchanged vows.

Thank goodness the weather report was wrong. We were able to capture these beautiful moments down at the Kirkland Waterfront.

What a beautiful day! Nina & Paul, John and I are so very happy for you! Nina, you have become such an amazing and beautiful woman! I'm so glad to be part of your life and we are so grateful to have been there to capture your day for you!

Congratulations Nina & Paul! If you'd like to see more of their pictures, as they become available, please click here to sign their guest book.

Photographers: Yours truly
Church: St. Madeleine Sophie, Bellevue
Reception Venue & Catering: Hilton, Bellevue
Flowers: TJ Blooms
Entertainment: Emerald City Productions

Kiley & Cody | A Country Wedding 9.12.09

2009-09-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful drive up to A Country Location in Arlington, WA. A gorgeous property with barn, huge willow trees, a pond with row boats and even a croquet court to keep guests busy.

We walked up to the second floor to the bridal suite and there she was in her beautiful white gown, anxiously anticipating meeting her groom at the alter.

Taking this last walk with her father as a single woman, Kiley gazes towards her dashing groom.

Married at last and these two couldn't be happier!

Kiley & Cody, to be a part of your day and your lives means the world to us! Thank you for sharing your big day with us. Congratulations to you both!

If you would like to view more of Kiley & Cody's images as they become available, click here to sign their guest book.

Photographers: Yours Truly
Venue: A Country Location

Ashlee & Drew | Wedding

2009-09-13T10:45:00.000-07:00

This was a very special wedding for John & I. Pastor Greg, better known to this beautiful bride as "Dad", married John and I just over 3 years ago. It was such a blessing to be asked to be part of and to capture his daughters big day.

Ashlee & Drew are such a vibrant and outgoing couple. We had a great time with them down at Gene Coulon Park during their pictures.

Usually waiting for a bride at the end of the isle, Greg was now walking his very own little girl to a man he would soon call son. What an awesome feeling it must be to know that you're giving your daughter to a man who is deserving of your precious daughter.

Congratulations to you Ashlee & Drew on your marriage! Hope you are having a great time on your cruise! Thanks for letting us into your lives and for sharing your big day with us!

If you were a guest and would like to view more of Ashlee & Drew's wedding, as they become available, click here to sign their guest book.

Ceremony & reception held at: New Life Church
Photographers: Yours truly

Jeremy & Lisa | Aftershoot

2009-09-13T10:40:00.000-07:00

Jeremy & Lisa were married just over a year ago. We got together with these newlyweds (and their pooches) for some more picture taking! :) We thought we'd share a few of their beautiful shots with you. Happy Anniversary you two!

Happy Anniversary Jenna | 3 Years

2009-09-02T09:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary to my amazing wife!

Jenna, our third year has been filled with all kinds of greatness. Thank you for making my life so enjoyable, I look forward to each and every day to come.

All my Love... John

(This is us last year in Friday Harbor for our anniversary)

Nicole & Stuart | Wedding

2009-08-30T11:20:00.001-07:00

I guess I'd have to say it's rare that we meet a couple for the first time on their wedding day, yet walking into Nicole's suite at Willows Lodge it's like we had just walked into a room of a friend we'd known for years! Even though we'd never met face to face, big hugs were exchanged and it truly felt like we'd known each other for a very long time. We just LOVE having these kinds of bonds with our couples. :)

We hung out for a couple of hours with Nicole, her sister (aka-MOH) and close friends while they got ready. It was nice to have that time with her since this was technically our first meeting. John and I find ourselves meeting some of the most amazing people and Nicole, Stuart & family were no exception.

We heard though the grapvine that Stuart, like most guys, wasn't "thrilled" being on the lens end of the camera, but the fact is he was awesome. Maybe it was because his focus was now on his stunning bride, maybe becuase we were in fact at a winery. Either way, it looked as if he'd been doing this all his life.

The ceremony & reception were held at the Novelty Hill/Januik Winery. A beautiful and romantic contemporary atmosphere, just perfect for these two. A variation of the winery's beautiful wines were tasted during cocktail hour and with many out of town guests there was lots to talk about. Stuart & Nicole take the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife and the rest of the evening was spent enjoying the company of their guests and each other.

Nicole & Stuart it was pure pleasure spending the day with you both! Thank you for allowing us to be part of your special day!

If you would were a guest and would like to view Nicole & Stuart's wedding pictures as they become available, click here to sign their guest book.

Photographers: John & Jenna Karwoski | Seattle Wedding Photographers
Accommodations: Willows Lodge
Venue: Novelty Hill/Januik Winery
Catering: Novelty Hill/Januik Winery
Flowers: Woodland Flowers
Hair: Jennifer Robinson

Pendora & Will | Wedding

2009-08-26T11:48:00.000-07:00

A long history between the two, Pendora & Will exchanged vows that included unconditional love to each other and to their two beautiful daughters.

Pendora said that she had always envisioned getting married at the Lakewold Gardens. Beautiful plush green lawns, romantic little trails that lead to enchanting gardens, this place was beautiful. Unable to book this venue for her wedding she did the next best thing. She arranged it so that we could intertwine the beauty of this place with the two of them and the love they share. Will first lay his eyes on his bride and we could just see the connection. The rest of their pictures were taken here and putting the two elements together, here is what we came up with. :)

During the ceremony, the sun was shinning and the wind was blowing. So what do you do when the wind starts to blow your veil this way and that? That is what a good maid of honor is there for!

They exchanged promises with an audience of close friends and family. Many who came from afar.

Dances were shared and many lasting memories were made. Pendora & Will, it was such a Joy to be a part of your day! We wish you all the best in the world to you and your family!

To view more of their wedding pictres as they become available, click here to sign their guest book.

Photographer: Seattle Wedding Photographers | John & Jenna Karwoski

Pictures: Lakewold Gardens

Venue: Lacey Community Club

Catering: Snuffin's

Taylor | 9 Months

2009-08-20T11:00:00.001-07:00

What a joy it has been to watch this little one grow up. The Levy's are dear friends to our family and we've had the privilege to watch Taylor go from this tiny little girl to this beautiful 9 month old, who's now crawling around and pulling herself up on just about everything.

I had such a great time yesterday with Gretchen & Taylor and my little Ellie was SOOO good. She just slept in Taylor's swing allowing me to capture all of these great images.

Life as a mommy | Part I

2009-08-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

2 months, 4 days and 6(ish) hours ago, I became a mommy. Eleanor (or Ellie as we find ourselves calling her) was born after 2 years of "trying", several rounds of IUI procedures, 40 weeks of pregnancy and finally, 30 hours of labor. Eleanor Francis Karwoski was worth every second!

Being a mommy has been the most thrilling, adventurous and breathtaking experience I have ever found myself a part of. From the moment I laid my eyes on my little girl, I was in love. Her big eyes locked onto mine almost immediately as if they were telling me that the two of us were destined to be inseparable. How right Ellie was! We haven't hardly left one another's side since she's been born. ;) While I may not have the full freedom of being a stay-at-home mommy, I have the next best thing. I am a work-from-home mommy. :) I've found it a bit difficult, almost trying at times, but none the less exciting, getting back into the swing of things. I've been blessed with a daughter who sleeps through the night (for now) and who takes a 2-3 hour nap (almost) every morning. During my "free" time I try to get my butt into gear and get online answering emails, working on (down selecting) weddings, portraits, blogs, albums and what ever else comes my way. I tell ya, 2-3 hours is just not enough time to get everything I'd like to get done, done. But... it's a start and I'm grateful.

Being photographer's, John and I pretty much keep one of our cameras handy at all times so that we can capture those ever so adorable candid moments. I don't want to miss a single smile, laugh or even crying fit. I can tell you that we have not hundreds but thousands of pictures of our little girl already. However, only a small percentage of those have made it to our editing room. I would like to share with you some of the pictures we've taken over the past two months.

Ellie and her first month of life...

I just couldn't wait to play dress up with my little girl.

I decided I wanted to get some of her in her nursery...

Her big comfy nursing chair

And her crib, which she really doesn't sleep in yet.

I told John that I wanted some pictures of the two of us in her nursery. Here is what my darling husband captured. Ellis is now 2 months old.

Mike & Devinne | July 25, 2009

2009-08-15T22:45:00.000-07:00

I have spent almost a year getting to know this bride & her awesome family in a way that I don't usually have the pleasure of doing. When we first met with Mike & Devinne late last Summer, they were expecting their 2nd child. It was maybe a month after we'd met that I had gone to take pictures of their adorable son, Dylan who was celebrating his first birthday. A couple months later I was back capturing her pregnancy and the following week I was at the hospital with Devinne, Mike & Dorris (Devinne's mom) as she went through her labor and delivery. The newest member of the family, Alana was born! To be a part of such a personal, intimate and emotional time, this family holds a very special place in my heart.

Fast forward many months and their wedding day is now upon us. We walked in as Devinne & her maids were getting ready. The mood was light and fun. A day that Devinne has been looking forward to for so long is finally here! The kids had to get ready for the big day too. Dylan getting his hair cut was entertaining and adorable... for those of us watching. NOT for Dylan. :)

Looking over the golf course, John sets up Mike for his first look at his bride to be. I remember the look on Mike's face when he turned around and saw her for the first time that day... the look on his face could have read, "the mother of my children, today, finally becomes my wife!" Yeah, I could have had a tear in my eye. ;)

Her daddy walks her down the isle, giving her hand to the man she'll spend the rest of her life with. I can see the tears forming in her eyes which is replaced with a huge smile as she is handed off to her husband to be.

After a quick wardrobe change, Devinne looked stunning as she and her husband walked into this room full of family and friends, introduced for the first time as Mr. & Mrs. Kynaston.

Lots of dancing, chatter and laughter filled the evening. Memories were made and the rest of their lives had finally begun. Congratulations Mike & Devinne on your beautiful marriage and your priceless family! John and I are so happy for you both and are very grateful to have been part of your day!

If you'd like to view more of Mike & Devinne's wedding pictures as they become available, please click here to sign their guest book.

Photographers: Yours truly

Venue/Catering: Echo Falls Country club

Flowers: Kathi's Floral

Chair Covers: Floratouch Chair Covers

DJ: A Sound Celebration

Rob & Esther | July 24, 2009

2009-08-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

Walking into the bridal suite we found Esther and her maids were getting ready for the big day ahead. We exchanged hugs... I hadn't seen her since their engagement session last year. It was so great to see the smile on her well deserving face. The room was filled with her dearest friends, mother and now me. Standing in a room full of people who have created bonds that took years, it was great to capture these moments that will forever be etched in her mind as the moments before she became Mrs. Limjoco.

We met Rob at the winding staircase in the Woodmark. Seeing the love, excitement and anticipation that’s been building to this moment is to be blunt why John and I do this. Watching Rob turn to see his beautiful bride to be was so heartwarming, did I mention we love this couple!

As I watched her mother & father walk her down the isle, I could see just how much love & joy was flowing through her. Their beautiful traditional Filipino/Catholic wedding came to conclusion and the rest of the evening… no, the rest of their lives began.

They were greeted by all of their guests waiting on the dock as they arrived via the Woodmark II, a beautiful 28’ Chris-Craft. The evening unfolded in perfect harmony. Both John and I had moments with tears in our eyes. The toasts were personal and touching and the first dances were exactly what they should have been. A memorable time of reflection and joy for what the future has to bring.

It was so hard to leave this wonderful party. If it wasn't for our beautiful,
brand-new baby girl Ellie, waiting for me at home, I'm sure John and I would have been there closing the place down right along with our amazing bride & groom.

I can say that this couple along with the family & company they shared are a perfect example of what keeps John and I doing what we do. Can this really be our "job"? What a blessing it is to be surrounded by people who are celebrating their love for one another and remind us what is truly important. Congratulations to you both on your marriage. John and I are so happy to have been a part of your day and to capture each precious moment for you. May God continue to bless you both.

If you'd like to view more of Rob & Esther's wedding pictures as they become available, please click here to sign their guest book.

Photographers: John & Jenna Karwoski | Seattle Wedding Photographers
Wedding Coordinator: Wendi - Ethereal Events
Church: Holy Family Catholic Church
Venue/Catering: The Woodmark
Florist: Creative Colours
Band: Goody Bagg Entertainment
Videography: Millstream Productions

Candice & Chase | July 22, 2009

2009-07-27T08:53:00.000-07:00

A personal and more intimate day for this Southern Belle and dapper gentleman, who traveled all the way from Texas to Brinnon, WA on the Hood Canal to share with close family, their love for one another. When John and I first met these two, it was Winter, there was still snow on the ground. A 180 from what they were used to, being from Texas and all. The freezing rain, snow and slush wasn't enough to stop them from having a great time with their engagement photo's. We had a great time with them as well and are so grateful to have had that chance to get to know them better.

A mid-week ceremony at his Grandparents beautiful property on the Hood Canal was the setting for a perfect day. The weather was beautiful and the mood was relaxed. A total of just over 30 guests gathered to witness Candice & Chase's vows and celebrate a very apparent love between the two.

It was a wonderful day and these two surely deserved it! I only wish that I (Jenna) could have been there to witness it myself. I was here at home taking care of my 6 week old little girl and I just couldn't leave her for the entire day, with it being more of a destination wedding. Fortunately our dear friend and fellow photographer, Steve Smith was able to attend and shoot with John. Thanks Steve so much for all of your help!

Candice & Chase, I truly enjoyed getting to know you both. I wish I could have been there with you on your big day, but I know you were in very good hands with John & Steve. Congratulations and we wish you all of the best! Let us know the next time you're in Washington, we'd love to see you!

If you'd like to view more of Candice & Chase's wedding pictures as they become available, please click here to sign their guest book.

Photographers: Yours truly

Catering: Herban Feast

Florist: Petals Flower Shop

Alicia & Jon's Wedding | 5.24.09

2009-07-12T11:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have to warn you that I may be a little biased when it comes to this bride, she's my cousin. :) I have to say what a privilege it was to be a part of her special day. Really, I was in the bridal party & John of course was the photographer.

We share not just a typical cousin relationship but also a great friendship. She is someone I've admired for so many years. Although she's a few years younger than me, I've always looked up to her for the strength she has in her faith, her hope and the sweet, tender, giving heart she was blessed with. Alicia, is an amazing women and her new husband Jon is one lucky man!

Now, that I've said all that about my sweet Alicia, I don't want you to think that he's the only lucky one in this equation. Alicia met Jon, over a year and a half ago and from the start, he's proved how much he loves, respects and adores my wonderful cousin. He is exactly what she deserves. I am so proud of my beautiful cousin for all that she's accomplished and for picking such a wonderful man to spend the rest of her life with. I am also so grateful to have gained such a wonderful guy as part of my family.

Okay... on to the details of the wedding! :) Alicia & Jon were married at their home church, Rose Hill Presbyterian in Kirkland over Memorial Weekend. Pastor Brandon and his wife Jenean have been a close part of Alicia's life for many years, starting back in Alicia's school days as her youth pastor. It was a great honor that he was able to perform their ceremony.

After the ceremony we were off to Golden Gardens Bathhouse in Seattle for their reception. You may recall the amazing weather we had Memorial Weekend, so it wasn't much of a surprise just how busy this beautiful Seattle park was. Parking was a nightmare for guests but once everyone arrived and settled in, the rest of the afternoon and evening went off with out a hitch.

It was a wonderful day and I am just so happy for my cousin and her new husband. Whom, by the way are currently enjoying their 3 week honeymoon that includes a cruise to Alaska & a week up in Canada at Whistler.

Jon & Alicia, we are just thrilled for the both of you and can't wait to hear all about how amazing your honeymoon was!

UPDATE: Wow, where did the time go! It's taken me a little while to get back up and going again since Ellie arrived... Jon and Alicia stopped by the visit the other day, the smiles on their faces are as bright as ever!

If you would like to view pictures from Jon & Alicia's wedding as they become available, please click here to sign their guest book. You will receive an email once their pictures are available.

Ellie is here!

2009-06-16T23:10:00.000-07:00

Yes she is here! Eleanor "Ellie" Francis Karwoski is here! Jenna and I are sooooooooooooo excited (and a little tired). I just wanted to share a couple pics; I should be posting a short movie in the next couple days.

Thanks to everyone for their prayers and wishes through this long process, it has meant the world. Jenna and I are so very blessed and feel grateful for this amazing gift. Looking at this little girl takes the wind out of me over and over again.

All our best,

John & Jenna

Baby Statistics;

Gender: Female (that's what I do, even the dog is a girl)
Weight: 8 lbs 1 oz
Height: 20 inches (if she was taller, she could be a baller)
Born: Saturday @ 2:37am June 13th, 2009
Labor: Very long but natural, super awesome AMAZING work Jenna, I'm so proud of her!
Hair: Some and dark
Eyes: Not sure what they will be, now they are this cool grey... they already have the power to melt me :-(
Name: Eleanor Francis Karwoski
Special name facts: Her middle name Francis is from her father and great grandpa Karwoski
Nickname: Ellie and Ella

The final countdown | T minus ? to baby

2009-06-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share a couple pictures of my beautiful and amazing wife, what an incredible 40 weeks this has been. Jenna I'm so blessed to have you as my wife, what an amazing mother you are, and will be to our daughter... I can't wait!

I love you babe!

Josh & Nichole's Wedding | 5.9.09

2009-05-20T14:04:00.000-07:00

Josh & Nichole have been nothing but terrific since the first day we met. Easygoing, accommodating and sincere to the core is how I'd describe these two.

They've spent years together as a couple and finally, now are the happy married couple they've always been meant to be. Saturday May 9th is more than just the day these two were married. It was they day they celebrated their love and commitment to one another and a way to share it with their family and friends.

Some may call their ceremony simple. And some may call their reception low key. What we'd have to call there ceremony is heartfelt, funny & most of all, totally Josh & Nichole. Seriously, their vows consisted of a reading, Dr. Seuss style. :)

Their reception... well lets just say that it wasn't necessarily a typical reception. The most important thing for these two was for everyone to have a great time and to share with them this special milestone in their lives. BUT... don't think for just one second that they didn't put their fun, different and corky twist on things!

There were no traditional wedding cakes here. No-siree! Instead, days before, Nichole spent hours and hours baking multiple cakes. Each representing who they were as a couple. How did they taste? AMAZING comes to mind! :)

Who says you need champagne to toast? Not these two. How about Jello shots! A little tricky to get out of the glasses, they were still a big hint with guests.

Open bar anyone!?!? How about a bar full of almost any rum & all of the mixers you could need. To top it off... lets just go ahead and make these drinks in buckets!

Josh & Nichole, you were such a pleasure to work with. John and I are just so glad to have had the opportunity to get to know you both.

John & Jennifer | 5.2.09

2009-05-08T10:29:00.000-07:00

We first met with John & Jennifer back in 2007. This last weekend they tied the knot and shared their special event with about 200 of their closest friends and family.

If you remembered the crazy weather we had this past weekend, you'd remember that for the first part of Saturday it was Sunny & nice and then all of the sudden, just like Seattle, it began to rain like crazy. Thank goodness we were able to get some pictures outside before the monsoon came rolling in.

The bridal party was full of energy & we got some great impromptu shots of them and all of their energy.

Congratulations John & Jennifer! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your special day.

To view more of John & Jennifer's wedding pictures, as they become available, please sign their guest book here.

Photography: JFK Weddings | Seattle Wedding Photography
Ceremony: Lady of Fatima
Reception: Spirit of Washington Event Center, Renton

Happy 2nd Birthday Reese!

2009-05-03T18:27:00.000-07:00

It'd been a whole year since I last saw this little angle. Reese Turned 2 this weekend and it was time for her 2 year pictures! I've had the privilege of capturing some of her most precious milestones, 6 months, 1 year and now, her at the 2 year mark. It's been so great watching her grow over the past year and a half and I am very much looking forward to continue to capture this little one through out her childhood. I love the age of 2. The great amount of growth that happens between 1 and 2 is just so fun to see. Last year she still needed mommy's assistance with the little things such as walking or climbing the stairs and this year, Reese was much more self efficient and it was so cute holding a conversation with her.

Back at her house, we headed out to the back yard and while mommy & I chatted and caught up a little, Reese just played around us entertaining herself, but mostly us. :) It was a beautiful day outside and they have this gorgeous wooded area out back so we took a little walk. Reese posed a little for me and then it was off to change outfits... and activities. You see, her attention span, like that of most 2 year olds, was about the size of my pinky. To keep her occupied, we had to change up activities every so often. :)

Refreshed and ready for some more action she pulled then posed in her little red wagon. I got a few more shots of her and Mommy before she called it quits. I have to say, Reese did an amazing job for me all afternoon. I knew my time was up because well, Reese told me so! :) If you know toddlers, they have a very specific way of letting you know they've given you all they are willing to give. For Reese, it was burying her head in mommy's shoulders when I tried to snap any more pictures. It was very cute.

I had more than enough time and opportunity to snap away to my hearts content and as you can see, I wasn't left with nothing. Here are just a few of the 70+ keepers. I don't know about you, but these eyes and this smile still, just melts my heart!

Sally & Chris | 4.25.09

2009-04-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

I have to say that this wedding was one of the most intimate we've done, to date. Sally & Chris were married at the Canlis in Seattle. Joining them in their celebration, were about 20 of their closest family and friends, many who had flown in from out of town.

I met up with Sally and her cousin, at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Seattle where she was getting ready while John headed to the Canlis.

Chris & Sally, saw one another for the first time that day, at the alter. I know Chris had to have been blown away at the sight of his beautiful bride. The ceremony was performed by Greg Holman, who also married John and I almost 3 years ago. The ceremony was very meaningful, honest and endearing.

While their guests enjoyed cocktails & hors d'oeuvres, we took our fabulous couple to Kerry Park for some pictures of them enjoying one another, against the beautiful Seattle Skyline.

The rest of the evening was spent, much like a family reunion. As family and close friends went around the table sharing memories and advice for the newly married couple, it was impossible to miss just how close and loving this family was. It really was awesome to watch.

Chris & Sally who are spending their honeymoon, as I type, in Jamaica were so wonderful to work with. From the moment we first met to sharing their intimate day, we knew that these two were very special. Thank you so much for the privilege and the honor of capturing your day. Your family & friends are quite the testament to who each of you are and we're blessed to have been involved in your day.

If you would like to view more amazing pictures from Chris & Sally's wedding (as they become available) please sign their guest book here.

Photography: JFK Weddings | Seattle Wedding Photography
Venue/Catering: Canlis Reasturaunt
Hotel: Pan Pacific
Flowers: Willow & Bloom
Cake: Creme de la Creme

Eric & Jessica | 4.18.09

2009-04-21T09:38:00.000-07:00

Eric & Jessica are one of our fabulous couples from a string of referrals that started back in 2006 with the fabulous Jamie & Ryan. I've said it before and I'll say it again, WE LOVE OUR REFERRALS!!! Of course the business is awesome but SO much more than that is the history that comes with each one. Last year we shot John & Suzanne's wedding at the Hotel Bellwether in Bellingham and from this awesome couple we were paired up with Eric & Jessica.

We started off at Willow's Lodge in Woodinville where the bridal party was getting ready. John arrived a tad bit earlier than I did (this pregnant lady doesn't move as fast as she used to, lol) and was already in the swing of things when I walked into Jessica's room. As I turned the corner, I caught a glimpse of Jessica and almost died. This woman, already stunning and beautiful, just lit up like a dream in her elegant soft pink gown.

Now it was time for her to go meet her groom. Under the beautiful willow tree we unveiled to the groom, his stunning bride. After a few private moments we took them down a short path for a few more pictures. It was only a matter of minutes that we were on the path before Jessica noticed she was being ATTACKED by gigantic killer ants! Okay... they weren't killer ants and they were gigantic. Really there were tiny little black ants but they did seem like they were attacking/biting her poor feet. It wasn't long before we abandoned this spot. Fine by us because here are some of the shots we took after leaving that location.

Once finished at Willows Lodge it was off to the Hollywood Schoolhouse just down the road. A few more bridal party pictures and portraits and it was time to surrender to the bridal suite to await the ceremony.

The ceremony, which was performed by one of our favorites, Kent Buttars of A Heavenly Ceremony (voted Best Seattle Officiant in 2008-Readers' Choice and 2005 Readers' & Editors' choice in Seattle Bride Magazine) was beautiful and sentimental. I just love how they tell the story about the couple, how they met and fell in love. Makes me smile every time.

The entire day was filled full of family, friends and most importantly love! With an amazing family on both sides, and an awesome group of friends, this day seemed to hit perfection!

Eric & Jessica, it has been such a pleasure of ours to be a part of your special journey. Thank you for trusting us and for letting us into your lives. You've given us yet another reason to love what we do. Congratulations to you both and we hope our relationship only grows over the years! -Jenna & John

If you would like to be notified when the rest of their pictures come available, please sign their guest book here.

Photography: Yours Truly
Venue/Catering: Hollywood Schoolhouse
Flowers: Kari Hammett-Caster
Officiant: Kent Buttars, A Heavenly Ceremony | Check out their Blog

Michelle's Senior Pictures

2009-04-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

Well, rain didn't keep us from shooting Michelle's senior pictures this week. Monday... the ENTIRE day (at my house anyways) was dry and I had high hopes that it would stay dry through her my upcoming senior session. WHAT WAS I THINKING!?!?! :0) On our way up to her house (where we would be shooting her session) it started raining, the temperature steadily dropped, and yup, even some wet snowflakes grazed our windshield! Go figure, right?!? Well, that wasn't going to stop me from doing what I was going to do. In fact, it didn't stop Michelle either. Rain or not we went right ahead as planned.

Michelle, with her parents (oh did I mention that her parents are in fact John's Aunt Donna & Uncle Greg?) lives on Spring Lake in Renton. Basically an awesome picturesque sort of place. Since it was raining like crazy we really didn't get to spend any time out by the lake so we were left to shoot almost entirely indoors. Now I've done family sessions indoors and never had a problem, so why couldn't I shoot an entire senior session indoors? What was awesome is that we actually had 2 homes to shoot in. Aunt Donna & Uncle Greg own both the home on the lake and the one directly behind it (which is great for large family gatherings!). We started off in their house and then worked our way up to the other house (which we like to call the "party" house). I was actually looking forward to shooting in there because it has this awesome retro feeling to it.

On to our senior... Michelle, a student at Tahoma Senior High started off her senior session in her gown (she purchased in Florida) for prom just a couple of months away! Now, I've known Michelle for just about 4 years and when she walked out into the living room in her gown, I couldn't stop thinking how this adorable young girl I first met, had turned into this elegant and stunning young woman before me now!

Usually I shoot my portrait sessions alone. However, being 8 months pregnant, I decided to call on my husband to come and assist me. Even with his help, I think I still did a pretty good job getting the job done. :) WARNING: the next couple of photo's, not the most attractive (of me)! :)

Even though the majority of her pictures took place inside, we did get her outside for a few in between the downpours.

Josh & Nichole's Engagement Session

2009-04-07T16:00:00.001-07:00

We met Josh & Nichole just a few short weeks ago and will be shooting their wedding coming up in May! Getting down to business we scheduled and shot their engagement session this past weekend. Josh works at Korum Ford in Puyallup (where cars cost less! lol) and so we had the privilege to use the shop since it is closed on Sunday's. Cool cars, power tools, cars up on lifts... you name it, we had it, and shooting there was awesome!

Josh and Nichole are such a down to earth, not to mention hilarious couple! This was the first time either of had had professional pictures and were a little nervous at the beginning of their session. It didn't take them but a split second before the seemed right at home in front of the camera. If they were nervous, I couldn't tell! They were laughing and flirting with one another all while John snapped away! The energy these two have between one another sure makes them a blast to be around! John & I had a great time and I even stepped in for a quick photo with Nichole. :)

We can't wait for their wedding, just a month a way! Thanks guys for an awesome afternoon! See you in a few weeks.

Taylor Victoria | 4 Months

2009-03-25T13:15:00.001-07:00

Our dear friends Ben & Gretchen's daughter, Taylor is already 4 months old. In fact, she's almost 5 months! Where does the time go? Anywho, Here are some of my favorite images from her 4 month shoot. I just can't wait for our little girl to arrive... these two are gonna be buddies for sure! :)

Project Nursery | Mission Compete!!!

2009-03-23T20:05:00.001-07:00

I (Jenna) couldn't be happier to have our little girls nursery all finished! John and I have been working so hard since Friday night. The prep work took many hours... the painting was a whole days adventure and the chair railing and wood stripes between the colors was one back breaking adventure!

I always dreamed of creating a beautiful nursery for my baby, but this... this is more than I ever expected. John and I worked so hard and to have it finally finished is such a relief! Now... we wait for the baby shower and once we have all of her bedding and decorations, we can complete our little princess' room. Oh yes, there will be more pictures to come but for now... here is the completed nursery!

I just have to thank my wonderful husband for putting so much into project nursery! I couldn't have done it with out him. In fact, if I had it to do by myself, the room would have been one color and the paint job would have been "eh" at best! :0) Thanks John for making our daughters room perfect! I love you and can't wait to start this new chapter of our life. There isn't another soul on the planet I could imagine loving this much, working with, having a family with and just living each day with. You are more than just the man I married, you are my best friend!