With 547 votes, in FIRST PLACE is Delaney and her tea set!
She sure did put up a fierce fight! Delaney was our Best of 2010 winner! Two years in a row!!!! She sure did want that title again!
Enjoy your free session and disc of images. You guys surely deserve it!

In a VERY close second place, with 542 votes, is Avery, Melissa and Ryan! A special gift for you… a $75 print credit for your very close second place win. Thank you so much for all your efforts! SERIOUSLY, you guys ROCK! (I am aware this is a different photo. I was asked to remove the photo on the railroad tracks as this was dangerous. So here is another beautiful photo of this awesome family.)

In third place is Miss Mansfield. She loves a good running! (Or maybe her mother does so she can win a free session. ) You are BEAUTIFUL, Ashley. Inside and out!

In fourth place, these two adorable little boys. How perfect is this?!

Thank you everyone for your tremendous support with voting and “liking” Crystal Jo Foto. Looking back at these photos really makes me feel successful and proud of the imagery produced. I know how important these are to the folks in them. Memories that will last forever. I am forever grateful to be such a big part of making them possible. Thank you all for the Best 2011. I’m looking forward to many more happy, successful years!

You are ALL winners in my heart!

Here are the other photos I’ve selected as my favorites of 2011. In no particular order…

Eat, Drink and Be Married was the theme of the day.  And that they did!

This wedding goes down in history as THE FUNNEST BUNCH OF PEEPS WE’VE EVER PHOTOGRAPHED.  I know that is a HUGE thing to admit.  Well, if you knew them, you’d TOTALLY AGREE!  They were SO hilarious. I just giggle thinking about it.

Pinnacle Golf Club.  In my hometown…Grove City.  We are so proud to have it here.  When you drive back here and approach this beautiful building it doesn’t even feel like you are in Grove City or Ohio, really.

Margaux’s present to her groom.  A travel box full of memories and a place to keep new ones.  (oh, and a snazzy watch.)

You’ll see this in play later…

Trying to get this cool dress shot was kind of a BIG deal. The groom was EVERYWHERE. We were hiding behind corners looking for him so he wouldn’t see us carrying her dress. And when we found the perfect spot, I realized… I’m short. I couldn’t reach the dag on iron thingy. Roberta saved the day. With her tall legs. Shew. Needless to say, I’m pretty darn proud of these cool dress shots. And notice the brides taste in fabulous hangers.

The gold mirror in the center was her grandmother’s mirror.  Brought here so Margaux could see her beautiful reflection while getting ready on her wedding day.
About to make her first appearance in her wedding gown.

Margaux was such a STUNNING bride.  And just so naturally happy.  She has THAT personality.  The type of person you just always wanna be around because you know you are going to laugh, smile and be yourself.  Love you Margaux, rock it out girl!

The bride excitingly asked me to do a photo session with the girls where they do all kinds of fun poses, switching it up vogue style.  Um, yes.  Rock it out.  Rock it out.  ROCK IT OUT.  YOU GUYS ARE HILARIOUS!
Awwwwww, so cute!

They were so happy and full of laughs.  I had to make no corny jokes to get these reactions…ALL NATURAL FUN!  (Margaux, I have to show you this picture hanging up in my dining room.  All big and fabulous.)Kissing cousins.  (They’ve done this since they were little.)
Jewelry worn by four generations.  Here’s proud momma showing it off.
These groomsmen were AWESOME. They pretty much posed themselves. I’d say, now look cool…and I’d get this FABULOUSNESS right here…
Ha.  This photo cracks me up.  It reminds me of that Duck Hunt Nintendo game.  I came across this while editing and busted out laughing.  Ana or Roberta, whoever captured this or set this up….HILARIOUS!
Hello, Mr. Weinandy.

Hahahhahahahahhaha.  Adam looks so scared.  The bridesmaids look so even more.
Handsome.  Times Six.  And the red sunglasses are SERIOUSLY too cool for school.
Red socks, too!  Even the dad’s had them on!
Groom.  Groom’s dad.  Bride’s dad.  Good stuff.
It’s good luck for your bridesmaids to sign the bottom of your wedding shoes.  (I may or may not have made that up, but it sounds good, huh?!)
My fave from the day.  I love everything about it.
It’s ALMOST TIME!!!!

Margaux’s dad told jokes as they walked down the aisle. She was literally laughing out loud. It was SO cute.

He read a book about what father’s are supposed to do on their daughter’s wedding day. (what a good dad!) The book recommended saying something funny while walking down the aisle. It worked. She was cracking up!
She took his breath away.

They wrote their own wedding vows. They were witty, endearing and personal. LOVE.

Second fave from the day.  (Okay, I can’t just pick one.)
Listening to the soloist sing.  It was pretty amazing.  Not a dry eye in the house.
What is this?
Margaux is short.  Adam is tall.  What do we do about this?  Stand on a stool for the first kiss.  DUH.See the stool.  Hehe.

OFFICIALLY OFFICIAL.

Roberta had to climb on the roof for this.  (Love you, Berta.  Way to be superwoman!)
The balloon release. In remembrance of their loved ones that could not be physically present.
Can I have a third favorite?  Because this would be it.  (Ana’s view with the 135L)
My view with the wide angle.

Roberta’s view from the roof.

Stunning.  Just stunning.
Ha.  Adam, I love the knee bend.  :)
Rock it out.  J. Crew style.  (Ellen, you’re so cute!)
These guys are AWESOME.  We seriously tried this shot like ten times.
And Margaux rocks my socks.  I didn’t realize she was doing a straddle jump (And HIGH) until I was editing.  Makes me laugh.
Red heart rings.  A fun touch.  And the guys showing off their fancy watches.

This just happened. I asked her to sit on his lap.  And this.  Magical.
Aren’t they cute?!

Yay, spin around and around and around. Like a pretty princess on your wedding day!

This, right here, is what it’s all about.

Um, I love this.  Adam, frame this and put it on your desk at work.  Your co-workers will flock.

It’s all in the details!  (Margaux is a graphic designer.  Obvi!)

Let’s PARTAY!

The first dance is not a good one unless there is one dip and a butt bump.  UH HUH.

Oh La La.
Light Girl, working her magical light.

Soulja BoOOOYYYY!!!!

Sweet treats.  The different icing and cake denoted by the color of heart on the top of the cupcake.  Pretty clever!
This heart denotes LOVE.  Cake flavor = Happily Ever After with a diamond sprinkle of FUN.

This lady told me right after this picture that the last time her husband did this while they were dancing (on vacation) she broke her foot.Good times had by ALL!

The Jo Foto Booth…

Ashley and Demi, trainers at That Gym on Grandview, could NOT GET OUT OF THE FOTO BOOTH.  There is seriously like 30 pictures of them.  Craig said everytime they would go to the restroom or bar they’d stop at the booth.  Crazy kids.  

Behind the scenes. (Where ALL the fun happens!)

Best picture RUINER EVER.

Or is she?

Cutie pa-tooties.  Tasha came to run the foto booth.

I love to cuddle with my brides.  
Love that smirk!

Papa, papa, paparazzi.

Dude, she totally started it.

Tasha, did Light Girl steal your tripod?  Thief.
And every post should end with a picture of my baby girl.  She loves to PLAY, PLAY, PLAY while mommy edits, edits, edits.  Precious Pixie Pie.

To see the awesome video slideshow, click HERE.

Margaux and Adam, thank you SO much for giving us the GRAND privilege of photographing this very special day.  You both are amazing individuals and even more amazing together.  I love your laughter and joy.  It’s so infectious.  Enjoy your beautiful lives together.  FOREVER.  UH HUH!

September 16, 2011. A Friday. A GREAT DAY!

Special purse made just for Holly from her Aunt.  The fake make up apply… it is SO funny!How cute.  Chanden was the ring bearer.  He’s only 7 months old. The groom looking out of the window on his wedding day….At the exact same time the bride looks out of the window in her room…Holly really cracks me up. I always try to tell silly jokes to get some natural reactions and giggles. She just blurts out, “If you talk about pooping or farting, I’ll laugh.” MMMMmmmmkkkkkkkk, NO PROBLEM Bride! It was the ongoing joke throughout the day. I’m sure her grandparents and extended family thought I was pretty sick when I was talking about bowel movements during the family formal session. Oh well, Holly laughed. That’s all that matters, right?!

The bride and groom happily decided to see each other before the ceremony.  They shared a very special moment in the gardens at Franklin Park.  Isn’t this the prettiest little colorful place for a first look? Answer: oh yeah!

Elegant vintage looking flowers by Flowers on Springtree Lane.  And, another something special.  Caleb’s mothers engagement ring attached to the bridal bouquet so she could be there on his wedding day.  LOVE.
Can you say ROMANTIC?!  I’m in love with these flowers.A touch of purple.  It was everywhere.  But not overkill.  Caleb even looked so cool sporting some purple.  You guys OOOZZzzz cuteness!
The glamorous bridal party.
Oh, I did say they were glamorous, right?!  Ha…
Um, yes, more purple, please.  How do you make the whistle sound?  PPPpfffffeeeee, weeeeerrrrrrreeee.  Yeah, these ladies deserve a whistle.
Holly, I love this photo of you.  So elegant and timeless.  And I love how Caleb is walking out of the front door.
I look at these and think…how romantic. We were right beside the historic house in this beautiful green covered walkway. It was just them (and the annoying photographers/paparazi). They were cool and calm as can be. Just chilling. About to get married.

Mmmmkkkk.  This PLACE, Taylor Mansion, was like a photographers dream.  Endless GORGEOUS backdrops.  We were in heaven.  Everywhere we turned.  Ohhh, go over there.  Ohhhhh, over there.  Ohhhhh, kiss right there!!  Such a magical hidden nook for a wedding.  Great choice, Holly and Caleb!
Sometimes you have to show people what to do, you know, how to look beautiful.  Pfffffft.  WE ARE FUN!  LIGHT GIRL, you are so light.  Ha.



Beautiful details on Holly’s wedding gown!

Holly, you were the prettiest bride!Cutest ring bearer EVER.  Check out his mini ring pillow.  Love him! (You can see more of him HERE.)Here comes the bride.Caleb looks so proud and confident.
Holly looked so pretty staring at her man. And this fountain was very special to her. She kept talking about how she was excited it was on during her ceremony. It had floating rose pedals. So magical.

Beautiful.More details.  Ribbon necklaces and purple nails.  Love.Happiness.Ha, Holly, I’m not sure what you guys were doing here but it looks like you are maybe twisting his arm.  Yew betta marry me, yew foo!Jennifer is a special client of mine.  She is Chanden’s mommy.  She’s sooo easy going and joyful to be around.

Jennifer, you looked so beautiful on your sisters wedding day.  Your speech was witty and touching.  I could really tell how close your relationship is, how much you guys love each other and how happy you were to watch her marry her best friend.

You are an awesome woman! Now sister of a Longwoman.  :)Ring exchange.  The unbroken symbol of love.
Officially OFFICIAL!
And a love dip to go with it!Pretty, pretty details. EVERYWHERE! Ana, the “Deets Queen”, aka, fabulous detail photographer, is da bomb!

Mustache pint glasses.  Yes, please.
They are so CUTE!
Fist pump.  We’re married.  (Caleb, your ring rocks.  Very masculine. Holly, yours isn’t so bad either.)

And…more details!  Check this out.  Signature Drinks.  The Liquid Longman (their last name) and Love Potion #9.  Adorable!  Oh, and some great stuff on tap, too!

My fave from the day….

This was completely real.  Not staged at all.   It must have been the first time they looked at each others rings together.  On their fingers.  A happy realization that they will be together forever.

The grand entrance to the PARTAY.
And folks, guess what Holly’s most memorable part of the day was?  In her own words, “bumping our booty’s upon entering the reception.”

Yeah, CAKE. I’ve never seen one like this. Covered with white chocolate curls. Made special by Anita Kline.

Please don’t hurt me with that knife, Holly.  I’ll give you my wallet, my keys (to the Jo Foto Mobile), my antique lunchbox, whatever you want!

First dance to “The Luckiest” by Ben Folds.

Father/Daughter danced to “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder.

Oh, I have to tell you about this fun detail!  The DJ played songs as a release to the buffet.  So all of the guests had to listen to hear if the song was the same as the song in the center of their table and this was the cue to head over to the food.  It was awesome.  The song would change and the table with the next song would stand up and hoot and holler.  Such a fun and interacting way to release tables for dinner!

The bar was in an old carriage house at the end of the tents.  I just have a feeling this photo will be a near and dear heirloom.  As soon as I snapped it, this sweet old man said, “I’m 84 and she’s 87, still going strong.”  SO SWEET!

Check out THIS “guestbook”.  A guitar!  Music is special to this couple.  So are their wedding guests. So why not remember the two with this awesome keepsake!

Where they said “I do”… at night.Enjoy your lives together, Longman’s!  You are so perfect together!

The Jo Foto Booth is SO MUCH FUN.  Just look.  You’ll see…

Some behind the scenes fun…

We stuffed the bride and her big dress in the Jo Foto Mobile. I played chauffeur and felt so VERY importante!

Ana (Light Girl) played photographer in the back seat. Roberta ate cookies.

The cookies fueled her for an afternoon of SO MUCH FUN.

I like to show a little leg.  And touch a little leg.

We are cute.  And it’s extremely hard to get these ladies OUT OF THE FOTO BOOTH!
I love this.  Musta been a funny photo.  (Love you guys!  Thank you for ALL of your help!!!)
Roberta was so jealous of my martini light.  She says it was my “Drink till she’s cute” hat that she wanted. I think it was my sweet light.Kids will be kids….

Hey Longman’s, You guys are SO fabulous! I wish you nothing but happiness and a life full of successful bowel movements. Pretty sick, huh? You know you giggled. On a more serious note…thank you for being YOU. For letting us enjoy the day with you. And for sharing your love with the world. Have a wonderful, happy, loving life together. Forever.

If you’d like to watch a video slideshow with MORE pictures, click HERE. OH YEAH!

Their Vendors…

Reception and Ceremony Site – Taylor Mansion
Video – True Video
Caterer – Upper Crust Catering
Cake – Anita Kline
Flowers – Flowers on Springtree Lane
DJ/Band – Ryan Smith
Ceremony Music – Saxophonist: JD Little (friend); Vocalist: Eric Schnittke (friend)
Hair and Make up – Hair: April Kellogg from Kenneth’s; Makeup: Alison Feamster
Invitations – Kirsten Marinko (friend/co-worker)
Jewelry – Earrings from Etsy seller chloeesboutique
Rehearsal dinner – Chile Verde Cafe
Wedding gown designer – Maggie Sottero

……………………………

Their Songs….

processional – “Marching Bands of Manhattan” by Vitamin String Quartet
recessional – “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” by The Darkness
grand entrance – “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N Roses
first dance – “The Luckiest” by Ben Folds
cake cutting – “Smooth Criminal” by Alien Ant Farm
father/daughter – “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder

……………………………

Their Answers…

What was the most memorable moment of your day?

Holly – Other than the permanent smile that was glued to my face all day the most memorable moment of our wedding was getting to see Caleb before the ceremony…..oh and bumping our booty’s upon entering the reception. )
Caleb – The most memorable moment for me was reading the vows that I had written. I had rehearsed them so many times and it was the point during the ceremony when I felt like it was only Holly and I standing up there, nothing else mattered. I will remember that FOREVER.

What was your favorite detail?

Holly – Hands down, the cake. Not only did it taste amazing but it looked amazing. I absolutely loved the chocolate curls covering the cake…it was so romantic.
Caleb – I really liked the guitar guest book. It felt really personal and unique to us, it’s a tangible part of the wedding that we’ll be able to look at every day and remember!

Any advice for future bride/grooms?

Holly – Personalize, personalize, personalize!
Caleb – Write your own vows, it’s worth it. And take time to enjoy the details, the day moves so fast!

If you could do it all over, would you change anything?

Holly – Nada, it was everything we wanted it to be…so unique and so us.
Caleb – I would have studied time travel and designed a sophisticated time machine to allow me to relive the entire wedding once more. (And I wouldn’t change a thing from the wedding)

Where did you go on your honeymoon?

Holly – Curacao – we had such a great time. Now I want to go back… )
Caleb – Kind of hard to answer this any differently…..we went to Curacao. It was DA BOMB. Waking up to the sound of the ocean and not going to work was way too painful so we decided to come back to the states.

How was your experience with Crystal Jo Foto?

Holly – Our experience with Crystal Jo Foto was amazing. She is an extremely talented photographer whose creativeness is out of this world. Oh – she’s loads of fun too! )
Caleb – We’ve been so happy with choosing Crystal Jo Foto for our wedding and engagement pictures. She’s done a truly un-rivaled job with everything, each time I see new photos I’m amazed with everything. Well worth it, wouldn’t recommend anyone else!!

Married. Happy. Together. Forever.

It couldn’t have been a more special day.

I love both of these images SO much!  Look at the littles.  You’ll see them in both photographs.  :)

Time to get ready!

Jeremy.  The HANDSOME groom.  (Great job with these Ana!)

And some pretty PRETTY detail shots from Tasha.

Walking down the hill for her first look.  Jeremy was waiting on the bridge behind her mother’s house.

I love First Looks!  They make the wedding day so much smoother.  We got done with ALL of the pictures before the ceremony.  And they got to see each other for the very first time on this special bridge in the backyard of the home where Lara grew up. Jeremy is one of those guys, you know, that knows how to make a girl feel special.  He loves her very much.  And it’s VERY OBVIOUS.

Pretty flowers by Flowers on Orchard Lane

One of my favorite things about Lara…the joy she brings to everyone around her.  She’s just a BEAUTIFUL person.

Jeremy clearly knows how to make Lara just MELT.  And giggle.
And dip.

Lara’s mother.  Her hat made me think we were at the Royal Wedding.  Love it!Carpe Diem.  Sieze the day.  Rather appropriate for this day, huh?!

Um, this is AWESOME.  You guys are SO perfect for each other.  A little Yuengling.  Anyone and everyone.  Time to celebrate!

Love the purple.
This bridal party was LOADS OF FUN!  Yayyyyy!
Love the party in the back!

Uh huh.  Fab-you-lus-ness!

Handsome fellas.
He was flirting with Tasha BIG time.
Jeremy, you ROCK!

Goin’ to the chapel.  Gonna get married!  (This was Lara’s fathers car.)Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  Love never fails.  (I love this, Light Girl!)
Her brother walked her down the aisle.  Very touching.

Lord of Life Lutheran in Dublin.


It’s OFFICIAL!

Lara.  I love your braid.  I still can’t believe you did your own hair!

The reception was at St. Charles High School in the Walters Commons.  It was AWESOME!

This is probably my FAVE from the day!  I love the reflection on the cool floor.

The cake was a replica of Lara’s wedding gown.  Cake by Jan Kish.  Cookies by Jeremy’s momma.

This makes me giggle big time.  The bridesmaids waiting for the grand entrance into the reception.  They look like the children watching the rain in “The Cat in the Hat”.  They want to come out and play!

The GRAND entrance.

Speeches from LOTS of siblings.

Love, love, love!  (Geek speak…new lens…Canon 135L shot by the lovely Light Girl herself. Uh HUH.)
The Sabering of the champagne bottle.

A unique and enthusiastic way of opening a bottle of champagne, called “the art of sabering.” Jan Kish (cake designer) opens the bottle of champagne by slicing off the top of the bottle with a long saber and toasts the bride and groom.  WOW!  (Awesome shot, Tash!)

Let’s get this PARTY STARTED!

5 Hour Energy + Champagne = Shirts flying off on the dance floor

See the purple lights.  Attention to detail.Here we are with the lovely bride and groom.  Aww.  Fun!

Some behind the scenes….

Thanks for all of your help with the sameday slideshow, h-band.  I love you bunches!

Gettin’ jiggy wit it.

Rock it out, ladies. You guys were SUCH a HUGE part of making this day successful. I can’t thank you enough. For the fun. The photos. And for knocking over my light stand for the umpteenth time, ha. I play. I play.

Um, I thought I had TWO assistants today?!

Y’all musta been off somewhere playing!

Lara & Jeremy ,

Thank you SO VERY MUCH for trusting us with your wedding photography.  I know this is such a special day for you both.  We were VERY honored to be there and everyone made us feel so welcome.  Thank you for making us feel like we are the best of the best.  We adore you SO.  Good luck in your future journey.  Together.  Forever.  Big BIG hugs to you and all of your lovely family.

Vendors…
Reception and Ceremony Site – Lord of Lutheran Church and St Charles Preparatory – The Walter Commons
Video – Family Video Treasurer
Caterer – Berwick Manor
Cake – Jan Kish
Flowers – Flowers on Orchard Lane
DJ/Band – Tommy Nutter
Ceremony Music – Mr. David Parkes- Singer, Mr. David Robinson- organ
Hair and Make up – Waldo’s on High (Short North)
Wedding Planner – JLauren Events
Invitations – Peabody Papers (Grandview)
Jewelry – Bridal & Formal (Cincinnati)
Rehearsal dinner – Brio
Wedding gown designer- Monique Lhuillier
……………………………

The JAMS…
processional – Pachabel Canon in D / Bridal March (Jonathan Cain Version)
grand entrance – Black and Yellow by Wiz Khalifa
first dance – Making Memories of Us by Keith Urban
cake cutting – The Way I Am by Ingrid Michaelson
mother/son – What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong
……………………………

Fun questions…
What was the most memorable moment of your day?
Bride – Seeing each other for the first time on the bridge!
Groom – Definitely seeing each other for the first time. I always knew Lara to be beautiful, but she truly looked like a princess that day!

What was your favorite detail?
Bride – Wearing that DRESS!!!
Groom – The song Lara walked down the aisle to. It was perfect.

Any advice for future bride/grooms?
Bride – Try to avoid sitting near the buffet…everyone walking by stops to say “congratulations”
Groom – Other than hire Crystal Jo, I would say make sure you take a moment that day just for the two of you. Take a step back and breathe in everything you spent so much time putting together.

If you could do it all over, would you change anything?
Lara – Nope. It was AWESOME!!!
Jeremy – I agree, it was perfect. So amazing.

Where did you go on your honeymoon?
Both – Montego Bay, Jamaica – Secrets Wild Orchid & it was AMAZING!!!

How was your experience with Crystal Jo Foto?
Bride – Crystal was by far our favorite & most important vendor! I would recommend her to anyone and everyone!!! She made the day so easy & comfortable…as she did for our engagement shoot!! Crystal is the BEST & we are so happy we chose her!!!
Groom – Ditto that. She was amazing and did an extraordinary job with not only us, but the bridal party.

Wanna see more?  Click HERE to see the video slideshow.  WEeeeeeeeeee!

July 9th, 2011 at Liberty Presbyterian Church.  They had a quaint little ceremony in a darling little chapel with just 25 of their closest family.  It was relaxed and easy and PERFECT.  Just like these two.

Joan, you are BEAUTIFUL!

A first look before the ceremony.  LOVE!

It’s almost time!

Waiting anxiously to walk his bride down the aisle.

Ron’s face is priceless.



Such a quaint little chapel.  Perfect for this couple.  The chapel was built in 1820.  It is the oldest continuously-used worship building in Delaware County.

Ringing the church bell after the nuptials. I’ve never seen this before. What a happy way to celebrate! DING, RING, happy sounds!

Love the love kick.

Joan and her children.  Her son flew in from California.  Oh, happy day.

Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Konrad.  We wish you a lifetime of health and happiness.

A little behind the scenes. We look cool. No matter what!

The ceremony and reception was at the Franklin Park Conservatory. There are beautiful butterflies everywhere. AWESOME! These little colorful boogers make everyone smile.

I LOVE the lighting here.

Elise.  You are BEAUTIFUL.  SO BEAUTIFUL.  Inside and out.  Xoxo.

Dennis…you’re so handsome! Look, all of these guys think it’s so funny how handsome you are.

There’s just something about this that I love.

Beautiful bouquets made by Elise’s Aunt from Chicago.  She’s about to open her own flower shop.  I’m thinkin’ it’s gonna be a hit!
This is priceless.  A million years from now, she’ll know, they’ll be loving her still.
Pretty in pink.
About a month ago, Elise and I got up at sunrise to shoot her bridal session.  Her plan…to gift her father this very photo before she walked down the aisle.  It has words from their father/daughter song.  I’m sure it was a moment he’ll never forget.

This may just be THE best giving away I’ve ever witnessed.  Elise’s dad said some very emotional, kind words to Dennis.  It was so heartfelt and endearing.
Which, of course, resulted in happy tears.
Priceless moments.  Why I love my “job”.

The way he looks at her…SO much love.

And she looks back at him the same way.If you want pretty pictures for your outdoor ceremony…get married in the evening.  It was so perfect.  The lighting, the temperature, EVERYTHING.

Elise, you are so adorable!


The wind picked up Elise’s veil at the exact moment of their first kiss. MEANT. TO. BE.
I love his shy squinty smile.

Here it is again.

This bridal party was SO well behaved. I’m used to the rowdy ones. They followed directions and were very quick to get into “position”. Thanks guys..wanna be my bridal party role models?



Oh, oh, oh. Be still, my heart.

Love. Love. Love.

Ohhhh la la.

Mr. & Mrs. Sullivan!

A slow dance with dad suddenly turned into a funny choreographed get down. Hilarious!


Fun times had by all.
Photo booths = FUN

Some behind the scenes fun.

Light girl’s first wedding.  Isn’t she cute?!  She was so giddy and excited.  Love it.
The incognito ladies in black chatting about the MASTER PLAN to tackle and achieve the BEST wedding photographs EVER.  Success, I must say.
The sniper.
We’re hot.  Even when we walk.
What can I say?!?  I’ll do anything to make you laugh!
Roberta’s shot is now the groom’s profile image on Facebook.  Blah.  She wins.
Sameday wedding slideshow played on my 27 inch iMac at the reception.  SO AWESOME.  Everyone LOVED it.  And the bride and groom went home with a flash drive of the pictures.  How cool is that?!
Oh, just hangin’ with my girl.

Light Girl (Ana), you rocked out your first wedding.  GREAT JOB girlie.  Love you bunches!

Dude, photobooths are awesome. Fun bride and grooms…more AWESOME.  Fun photographers….QUADRUPLE AWESOME!

Thank you so much for trusting us with your wedding photography.  It was a true honor being there.  We wish you both the HAPPIEST life ever.  Congrats Mr. & Mrs. Sullivan!

Fabulous Vendors…

Reception and Ceremony Site- Franklin Park Conservatory Bride’s Garden and Veridian
Caterer- Creative Cuisine
Cake- Sauer Cakes
Flowers- The brides wonderful aunt- Shelia Wiens with her new business Livvy’s Lillies
DJ/Band- Paragon Music
Ceremony Music- Dennis’ friends, the Rensink triplets Jake, Nate, and Alex
Hair and Make up- Aveda Salon and Merle Norman
Rehearsal dinner- At the bride’s parents house- Melvin’s BBQ and skyline

Fabulous Music….

Processional – Wagner Bridal Chorus
Recessional – Mendelssohn Midsummer Night’s Dream
Grand Entrance- Forever by Chris Brown
First Dance- The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra
Father/Daughter- I Loved Her First by Heartland/The Time Warp!
Cake Cutting – Cut the Cake by the Average White Band
Last Dance- New York, New York

Fun Questions…

What was the most memorable part of your day?
Bride- When my two favorite men, my dad and my groom, hugged and cried
when he gave me away- tears of joy!
Groom- Watching my beautiful wife walk down the aisle.

What was your favorite detail?
Bride- The flowers. I loved them, they were beautiful, and am so
happy to say my wonderful aunt did it all!
Groom- The fact that nothing fell apart. We thought at least some
minor disaster/situation would pop up, but everything went so
smoothly!

If you could do it all over, would you change anything?
Bride- Nothing! Almost everything went the way we planned, and even
the little mistakes are something we can laugh about.
Groom- No.

Any advice for future bride and grooms?
Bride- Don’t stress. It’s an amazing day if you just relax and enjoy it!
Groom- A year and a half long engagement is great – if you want to
stress about wedding planning details for a year and a half.

Where did you go on your honeymoon?
Bride- Puerto Vallarta. Too bad we didn’t know it was rainy season
Groom- Seattle … I mean, Puerto Vallarta. It rained EVERY day but
we still had a lot of fun.

There are those people who you just have that feeling about.  You know, the ones you just know are good people.  Sarah and Josh are these people.  Inside.  Outside.  All sides.  Beautiful, good people.

They’ve been together for many, many years.  And, finally, they have one love shared by two hearts.

Your day was gorgeous and a perfect depiction of your love for one another.  Thank you for opening your hearts and letting me capture it all.  Much Love!

I love her smirk. A little look to see her wedding gown being tied up her back. Just lovely.

Now this girl knows how to look stunning in a gown!

I’m super duper excited when a couple sees each other before the ceremony. Sarah and Josh wanted plenty of time for photos and to enjoy their day, so we trampled the streets of Troy, finding all the good crevices of the city. Oh so fabulous!

Roberta’s idea. I dig it.


So we are having a grand time in an alley when I hear a train. I’ve ALWAYS wanted to shoot a bride and groom with a moving train. As soon as I hear it I yell, “let’s go”. This pregnant girl ran so fast, let me tell you. I wanted to find this train! They probably thought I was a loon when I yelled, “just stand there and make out”. I got my shot. The one I’ve been waiting for. Crazy or not, it was SO worth the sprint!

I think they are laughing because they just realized their photographer is a loon.

Sarah, you are STUNNING!




Ohhh, how I love the purple shoes.



This unique little shop was gracious enough to let us use some fun masks to complete this shot. LOVE!



And I love the alleys in Troy!


Along with this hilarious bridal party.

I love this shot. Check out Sarah’s sister in the back. Hehe.

Just stating the obvious. This rocks.







This is all Josh.

This little man wants to grow up to be just like his Uncle.



Here comes the bride.

Roberta captured this.  This right here is priceless. A proud proud grandma and a tired tired little ring bearer.

All the hottest photographers sit at table 31. Yeah, I said it!

This was the knife Sarah’s parents used to cut their cake back in 1974. Sarah and Josh’s names are engraved beside her parents…and her father says her sisters will be there someday too. How neat.

Beautiful details. A treasured locket with the couples name.

Ha. Sarah’s sister-in-law wants nothing to do with catching the bouquet. That beverage was much more important!

But Sarah’s sister makes the BIG catch!

Okay, I love my clients! Especially when they include me in their special day. Check out this AWESOME mad lib and “Crystal Jo Foto” shout out!

We had a rockin’ good foto booth! Thank you to Tasha for running the “booth”. You can find these hot photographers right here at table 31.

Oh for fun. Some behind the scenes…

Hey, what’s an f-stop again?

Roberta, she’s flexible. Crystal Jo, she’s just cool. And pregnant. See Pixie popping out?

Here’s Tasha. Rockin’ your socks off.


A surprise slideshow for the couple. Their wedding pictures!

To view the gallery of ALL the wedding images when they are ready, click HERE. You will be updated via email when the gallery is ready.  Yay!

I really can’t say enough awesome things about these two people. They are funny, they are sweet, they are charming, they are beautiful (inside and out) and they love each other tremendously. The entire day was FILLED with this love.

I asked them to describe their wedding day in one word.

You know what they said?  Musical, Magical, Lutheran. That is not really one word but that was really how the day played out.

They vowed their lives to one another at Lord of Life Lutheran Church.  Following the musical, magical and lutheran ceremony, was a fun-filled evening at La Scala.

Now let’s check out these beautiful photographs and let them tell the story of the fabulous day….

This guy right here, this guy is gettin’ hitched.


My girl, KK, came out to shoot with me. She’s been really busy this summer being a fabulous mommy to her two little angels. I can say she has been missed dearly. And her lovely shots.. like the one above and below.


A bride putting on her gown is probably one of my favorite moments during a wedding day. Look, she’s glowing.

Look at this little fella. He’s so proud to wear his little tux and matching all star shoes!

A bridesmaid made it an extra AWESOME day for Emily. She gifted the bride her favorite ice cream. Hello, awesome!

Here comes the bride!

Their first look at one another. Love it!

Just have a HUGE bridal party and they can easily decorate the church.


I think it is so touching when loved ones are involved in the ceremony. It happened several times on this beautiful day. Here is Bret’s mother joining the happy couple as they exchange rings.


All Stars. A GORRRGE wedding gown. Super cool.

The groom serenaded his bride.

She was all smiles.


Check out Bret’s face here. Priceless.

He’s such a character!

Ohh la la.

Emily is beautiful. Bret is hilarious. That’s really a great combo if you ask me.

And, they need no direction. This is all natural. All love.

Orange nails, blue flippys.

I heart pocket dresses!



Mmm..cake.

Caught red handed.




Smashing of the cake. Another favorite moment of mine. And the groom asking me to follow them to the restroom to get the cleanup.

We set up a BLAST of a “photobooth”. A special thanks to Tasha for running it. Here we are…rockin’ it out. Tasha, KK, and yours truly.





Hilarious.


The lovebirds.


And…one more shot of the All Stars. Because they rock!

Congrats newlyweds.  I wish you a lifetime of happiness and love!

To view the entire gallery when all the images are posted, pre register HERE.

As y’all know, we’ve had some record high temperatures lately.  I have to say a HUGE HUGE thank you to Anita, Sean and their entire bridal party for trucking across the Park of Roses, ignoring the heat and having a blast with us.  We had a great time…sweat and all.

Anita and Sean said “I do” at a beautiful church in Upper Arlington.  Following the nuptials was a fan-TABULOUS ride in a TROLLEY to the Park of Roses where we were joined by all of the wedding guests for a beautiful reception.

Congrats guys! May life bring many truckloads of awesomeness!

Beautiful beautiful bride. I just love her hair!

Since she was a little girl, Anita has been dreaming of having her photograph taken in front of this stained glass window on her wedding day.

The pastor giving the couple their own set of keys.

The getaway trolley!

To view the entire gallery when the wedding pictures are ready for viewing, click HERE.

Yay MacGregors!

What a stress free day.  I love it when a bride is soooo carefree and relaxed.  Meagan and Joe got married in a beautiful sanctuary in Powell followed by an awesome, elegant reception at Bridgewater.

Okay.  I have some reminiscing to do.

I met Joe and Meagan through Jess and Matt.  Matt is Meagan’s brother.  I shot their wonderful wedding last fall.
Check out Jess and Matt HERE
This day was a little different from Jess and Matt’s. Different venue, different flowers, different cake BUT… same results: happy family, beautiful surroundings, and two amazing people that will spend happy ever after together.

Here’s the start of scarlet and grey.  Go Bucks!

Here comes the bride…

Twins. Dressed to the nines! Earrings, hair bows, little dresses and tights. Matching bracelets. I’m in love!


Meagan’s dad loves this! We did this at Matt’s wedding too. Cracks me up every time. Run Joe!


Meagan gave her father a lovely gift when she walked down the aisle. A photo of her in her bridal gown with some baseball gear. Meagan’s dad loves baseball. The bridal shoot is HERE.

So happy!

O-H-I-O

Isn’t he pretty?!


Check out these AWESOME cufflinks!

Time for some fun!



A lovely slideshow of the couple played at the reception. Makes me smile ear to ear when I see images I’ve taken for all to see!
Joe and Meagan had such a fun engagement shoot.
Engagement HERE



Hilarious. Meagan’s sister gifted Joe a pair of his own boxers he left at her house. That is how often Joe is there.


Joe is a football coach. Meagan is a volleyball coach. It was only appropriate for the best man to blow this whistle during his speech.


Joe and Meagan were joined by two little ladies during their first dance. It was OH-SO adorable!


Father/Daughter dance. About halfway through, other father/daughters were invited out to the dance floor. Meagan’s sister joined in.

Congrats to Joe and Meagan! To view the entire gallery when the images are ready for viewing, click HERE.