January 04, 2015

Nelson + Kristen [Lancaster Session]

January 04, 2015/ Ashley

Alaska’s wilderness holds a special place in Nelson and Kristen’s hearts. They both attended University of Alaska in Fairbanks but hadn’t crossed paths yet. After a Christmas break in Lancaster, Nelson flew back to Alaska and sat next to Kristen’s roommate. After the flight, she told Kristen about this cool guy on the plane who Kristen would “totally dig.” They met shortly after that, when they (both geography majors) were in the same classes. They’re crazy about each other, and it’s so evident. This adventurous couple lived for three years in a dry cabin with no indoor plumbing. They've both won axe-throwing contests(!!) They're avid XC skiers, canoers, bikers, and love dog-mushing races in Alaska!

Last summer Nelson and Kristen tied the knot in Alaska and are living in the fantastic city of Boston. I’m so glad they wanted a “just because” photo session while they were here over the holidays. To capture their love for the outdoors, we decided on a Christmas Tree farm which was the perfect setting.

They're so natural and easy-going with each other One of my favorites. You guys are too cute!

Nelson has played guitar for YEARS and has never had a picture taken with one…we had to fix that! And Kristen, you're stunning!

Mugs from their hometowns (in Alaska and PA).

Nelson's grandmother created this quilt as a wedding gift to them. So cozy!

We ended in downtown Lititz which was decorated so festively.

December 15, 2014

Shane + Sara [Lancaster Engagement]

December 15, 2014/ Ashley

In 2009, Shane was a groomsman in his friend’s wedding. He noticed a pretty bridesmaid (Sara!) from across the room, though they didn’t have a chance to speak that evening. Besides, the timing wasn’t right: Sara was dating someone else at the time. Several years later—in 2012—they both ended up at a summer cook-out. It was hosted by the same couple whose wedding they were in. Luck was on their side, and they were both single this time. They talked the night away and the next week, Shane asked her out for sushi. And they've been inseparable ever since.

One of their favorite past-times is traveling, so this Fall Shane completely surprised Sara with a proposal at a vineyard in New York overlooking a lake. I’m excited to celebrate with these two when they tie the knot in May.

I enjoyed getting to know this sweet couple as we meandered around the beautiful property of Sara’s friend. They’re so easy going and it’s easy to see they adore each other. I am so thankful when my clients trust me when I say crazy things like, “Ummm guys, trust me on this one…can you stand here in this holly tree?” Sometimes the simplest backgrounds can make the loveliest shots.

One of my favorites from the session. Sara, you are stunning!!

And you can tell Shane just adores his girl.

So much joy, you two! My other favorite.

December 03, 2014

Tia + Zach [Lancaster City Engagement]

December 03, 2014/ Ashley

It was moving day for 13-year-old Zach and his family. As he unloaded things into the new house, he noticed the cutest girl (Tia) helping his sister unpack. Although they would not officially meet until they were in college, he recognized there was something special about this girl... Fast-forward five years. Zach’s parents and Tia’s parents hosted a Super Bowl party together, and Zach happened to be home on break from college. These two met that night and discovered all that they had in common. Several days later, they went on their first date—to Prince Street Café, seen below. Many more dates in Lancaster City ensued, as their love deepened.

One evening this Autumn, Tia and Zach were walking around the city as they frequently do. They ducked into Prince Street for drinks, and Tia had no idea Zach had something up his sleeve. A waitress walked over to their table and handed Tia a package that Zach had prepared for her. In the package was a book, a movie, and a hand-written letter from Zach (all these items related back to their first date at this very spot.)

Later in the evening, they were passing Tellus 360—a spot where they’ve attended numerous concerts together. Zach nonchalantly suggested checking out the rooftop area.

He led her onto the roof, and they stood gazing at the city that had become so dear to their relationship. Zach handed another letter to his girl, in which he expressed his love. When Tia glanced over at him, he was on one knee asking an important question : ) They’re planning a May wedding, and I can’t wait!

This couple braved 20-degree temperatures for this shoot!! I love that we photographed them at significant spots downtown—places where they’ve created memories together. Wait until you see the adorable pics as they painted pottery!

Special thank-you to Kristen who did a beautiful job with Tia’s makeup. (Brides, she's an amazing makeup artist!)

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Reminiscing about their first date. Where their love began.

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They radiate such joy! We dashed across the street for a few shots in front of the Fulton Theatre, where they love watching musicals.

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I'm glad they didn't think I was crazy when I suggested photos on top of the parking garage. I just knew we'd capture some dazzling sunlight. Thankfully, Tia is a graphic designer so she understood when I was raving about the sunset!