Welcome!

Welcome to the NEW blog!! 
 
I know you're probably wondering where you can find more posts! To see more, just head on over to the old blog at www.deborahzoephoto.com/blog where you can see more weddings, engagements and portraits. And maybe a picture of Maya too;)  
 
This is the new home of the Deborah Zoe blog so after you're done exploring make sure to head back here!  
 
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Change. Change can be scary but it can also be exciting. And in this case it's VERY exciting! There are some big changes coming to Deborah Zoe Photography and fingers crossed I'll be announcing the news over the next summer months! If you want to be the first to hear make sure to sign up for the newsletter! As a newsletter subscriber you'll get exclusive access to news about specials, giveaways and more. Sign up here!

In the meantime I want to hear from YOU! What would you'd like to see in the newsletter? Updates, images, tips and tricks? Voice your choice in the comments below! Happy Thursday!

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Bowties, Bunnies and Photobooths

Many couples ask if I am opposed to their having a photo booth at their wedding. I think perhaps they feel it might interfere with my job or that it would some how conflict with the coverage of the day. But secretly every time the word gets mentioned, inside I do a little happy dance. Because honestly what's more fun than a photobooth? And after a long day of shooting all I need is some bunny ears, a big bowtie and a little bit of laughter to remind me that I love what I do. And that I (and Coco) look pretty darn cool while doing it.

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So do I mind photobooths at weddings? Ehh, I think the proof is in the pudding... ;)

A Weekend At The Lake

This weekend we packed up the dog, our "weekend at the lake" gear and hit the open road. We were off to Maine (middle of no-where Maine to be exact) to spend a few days with my sister in law and her husband for their annual Memorial Weekend Celebration. Steph and Tom have been asking us to come up to their lake house to celebrate the holiday for several years now and this was the year we finally were able to make it happen! 16 people, 5 dogs and lots of laughs make for one memorable weekend! The boys went fishing, the girls sun bathed and read. We played card games and went for walks. I even manged in a few runs. In general it was a weekend of relaxation with a "do whatever you'd like" attitude. It took a bit, but by the second day we were able to sit back, kick up our feet and relax.

As a small business owner it can be hard to make boundaries for yourself. It's easy and often justifiable to work day, night, and weekends without much differentiation between real life and business life. What can be even harder is giving yourself permission to put the work down, to step away, and to have some time for yourself.

But every time I make the time to carve out space in my life for Dave and I, I return more refreshed, more ready to tackle the work, more excited to do what I do. So while it was hard for me to "let go", I did my best to allow myself to relax and enjoy a weekend full of friends, family and DOGS. I hope you did too!

Maya was SO excited to hit the open road, feel the wind in her fur and ride free! ;)

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Schoodic Lake is one of the prettiest and best kept secrets of Maine!

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Nothing beats some good ole s'mores!

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There is nothing more peaceful than watching the sunset on a calm lake with a cool breeze blowing in the air while the loons sing to one another.

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Playing peek a boo with Maya... she won. :)

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Relaxation is copious amounts of Vitamin D and fruit salad!

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After a long walk with the dogs they zonked on the deck.

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Are you obsessed with Instagram or just want to see an obscene amount of photos of Maya? Join me @deborahzoe !

Rob and Rachel's Fort Point Channel Engagement

Rob and Rachel LOVE the city. More specifically they love BOSTON. It is after all where they met, fell in love and are beginning their life together. Meeting through a mutual friend in the city, Rob and Rachel began dating right away and have been together ever since. And Boston has continued to be an important part to their relationship. It is amazing how a place can play such a huge role in the relationships and memories we form!

Last week I met these two urbanites in South Boston and spent the afternoon walking the neighborhood that they call home. All with the stunning Boston skyline as our backdrop! In fact they'll be getting married in South Boston in the fall! It was exciting envisioning their day was we explored this part of the city. I can't wait for September Rob and Rachel! Enjoy!

To view more of Rob and Rachel's images, click here.

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Many thanks to The Music Bed for providing the music for Rob and Rachel’s slideshow “Upside Down Umbrella” performed by Us and Our Daughters.

Tom and Denisa's Wedding at Goddard Chapel at Tufts University

Last Thursday, Denisa and Tom were married at Goddard Chapel on the campus of Tufts University. Tom and Denisa wanted to marry on the campus where they fell in love. It was a small affair attended by close family and friends but yet the afternoon was bursting with love for the happy couple. It's hard to explain, but it was such an amazing afternoon. This day wasn't about an over the top wedding, but instead it was about a couple and their love for each other. There was a beauty in the simplicity of it all.

Congratulations Tom and Denisa! On not only your wedding day but graduating as well! Here's to many happy years together!

To view more of Tom and Denisa’s images, click here.

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Many thanks to The Music Bed for providing the music for Tom and Denisa's slideshow. “Hold Onto My Hand” performed by Peter Groenwald featuring Madi Diaz

Ceremony | Goddard Chapel at Tufts University

Reception | Sabur Restaurant

Officiant | Reverend Noah Evans

Wedding Dress | Oleg Cassini, David's Bridal

Hair Stylist | Amal Niccoli

Groom's Attire | Military Dress

Wedding Love : Consider An Uplugged Wedding

Have you considered having an unplugged wedding? In this day and age of technology overload perhaps it's even hard to consider this idea. How could you ask your guests to put down their cameras, their phones, their tablets. Is it possible? When Dave and I were married six years ago the idea of an unplugged wedding never crossed our mind. Mostly because the popularity of smart phones had not yet happened. We never had to worry about technology being a distracting factor in our wedding.

But today, as we know, it's a whole different story. People Myself are addicted to their smart phones. I don't think I could go an entire day without logging in, taking a picture or checking my email. And it doesn't just stop at work. Our addiction has crept into our every day lives, including weddings.

If you're considering an unplugged wedding, I highly suggest you check out this article. It's the most comprehensive article that I've read on this idea. As the author states, an unplugged wedding is not for everyone, but they do make a pretty strong argument as to why it's an important idea to think about when it comes to your wedding.

From a wedding photographer's perspective, I can tell you that I am a HUGE proponent of unplugged weddings. Some of the images in that article demonstrate the frustrations that we can deal with as photographers. Guests interfering with moments, guests getting in the images, guests standing in the aisle or in front of the photographer. It's pretty difficult to get emotional, meaningful images of your guests during your ceremony when their faces are hidden by an iPhone.

If you are worried about your guests interacting more with their phone or camera than with you, think about the ways that you can encourage them to put the technology down and enjoy the day!

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Who Is Zoe?

I get asked all the time if Zoe is my last name. But my mother would proudly tell you that Zoe is NOT my last name, but my middle. And you know that I'm in trouble if mother utters my first and last name together "Deborah Zoe!". Funny that has become my business name! Zoe was my great grandmother. I never had the chance to meet her but I've heard lots of stories of her life over the years from my family. I love that she was the inspiration behind my middle name. It's something that I've cherished for my whole life. I loved getting quizzical looks and curious questions whenever people saw the Z in my name. It was unique, it was different, and  liked that.

So when it came time to pick a business name I knew that Zoe had to be a part of that. Deborah Zoe. Deborah Zoe Photo. It had a ring to it. And while my official business name is now Deborah Zoe Photography it still has that something that I like. No one else is Deborah Zoe, just me. How cool.

Below is a picture of my great grandmother Zoe. Its one of the only pictures that I  have seen of her. It's in a locket that was given to me by my grandmother. I've had it since I was young and would often open and close the locket, looking at the picture inside. Who was this woman that I shared a name with? What was she like? Did she have a streak of rebellion in her like me? Did she like her name? (Where did she get that hat?;))

I feel that I owe a lot to her! She gave me my name and the name of my business! Her name is what makes my name unique. Isn't it amazing how people can live on through you?! Thanks Grammy Zoe for passing along your awesome name to me. I love it!

Before I head out, I do feel the need to make a bit of clarification for all of you out there:) My business name is Deborah Zoe. Not Deborah Zoey. Like my husband says, no one calls Joe, Joey. Deborah Zoe. That's me!

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A Preview of a University Wedding and Chic City Engagement

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So much goodness is head your way this week and I can't wait to share more! First up will be Denisa and Tom's intimate and beautiful ceremony at Tufts University, followed up by Rachel and Rob's chic city engagement session! For now I'll leave you with a tease of a sneak peek but be on the look out later this week for more! Enjoy!

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Who I Am.

I'm quiet.

But once you get me talking I don't stop.

I talk with my hands.

I might hit you for emphasis or squeal with excitement.

I laugh a little too loud.

I have bright red hair.

I wear my heart on my sleeve and have never been able to hide my emotions.

I love being athletic. But athletic I am not.

I'm not thin. I'm pleasantly plump.

I love my husband and our little animal family.

We live simply but we live life to the full.

We are surrounded by friends and family who we love dearly.

I am blessed to work with some of the most amazing people in the world.

I love chocolate and salt. Too much.

I love Kate Spade and Coach and Sperry's and Target.

I believe in Jesus and God and miracles.

I care to much about what people think of me.

But then I don't care at all.

I'm shy, timid and an all together wall flower.

But then again, I'm outgoing.

I'm a contradiction through and through.

Love me or hate me, this is who I am. And little by little, I'm learning to embrace it all.

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Photo credit  Justin & Mary.

Phoenix Room Wedding in Newburyport

Ceremony | First Religious Society

Venue | The Phoenix Room

Florals | Flowers by Val

Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist | Portsmouth Spa

Bridal Attire | Madeleine's Daughter

Groom's Attire | 125 Bridal

Transportation | Moonlight Limo

Entertainment | Steve Estabrook

Videographer | New English Video Productions

Wear To Work

One of the BIGGEST challenges I have documenting weddings HAS to be knowing what to wear! How does one go about looking cute, matching the professionalism of their brand all while being comfortable and flexible enough to document a wedding?! Last year I had a horrible time dressing for weddings. I always felt so frumpy and mismatched and quite frankly was embarrassed to show up on a wedding day! I was determined this year to have a more polished and professional style when it came to dressing for a wedding day. I've scoured the malls, online, even thrift shops to find outfits, shoes and accessories that are stylish AND reasonable for working in. And do you know what I've discovered? There isn't a whole lot out there! Where are the working woman clothing lines? Where are the comfortable shoes that last all day that don't look like orthopedics?! Where are the tops and bottoms that don't make you sweat?! It. is. a. challenge. BUT I have made SOME headway in this area and I thought I'd share my discoveries with you in an effort to help us ALL dress better for weddings! Let's face it, we want to be cute, stylish and professional all while being comfortable. And while it's been a hard mix to find, here are some of my steals and deals that have actually passed the test!

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It's May and that means it's starting to get hot! Gone are the days of sweat free, frizz free and makeup running free shooting! The summer months are always a challenge to dress for. But I find that a pair of pencil capris and a light top help to alleviate any signs of "running around like a mad woman!" First up are my cropped pants that I purchased in the winter from the Loft. With just the right amount of stretch I can easily move around. My top is from Talbots.  I usually wear some sort of color and this gold tone is the perfect muted shade. Hair is up with tear drop earrings from a wedding I was in! Finally the shoes are Cole Haan nude wedges. Cole Haan's have Nike Air technology in them which makes the shoes pretty comfortable and wearable all day. Since I was breaking them in, half of the day I was in my flats but I plan on wearing these as my go to wedding shoes! What do you wear on a wedding day? What makes you feel cute, professional AND comfortable? I'd love to hear!

Wedding Love : More Than Just A Color

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I have a confession. More often than not you'll find me on any given Sunday sitting on the couch recovering from my wedding hangover with my new favorite guilty pleasure: My Fair Wedding with David Tutera. I some how stumbled on this show one day and was immediately hooked. David shows up to one lucky Bride's home, takes over all the planning of her wedding day, rethinks all the details and creates a magnificent event for the Bride and Groom! Who wouldn't want an accomplished wedding planner coming and taking over your wedding?! Sign me up for our vow renewal!!

As I've watched the show I've started to think about what it takes to plan and execute a successful wedding day. One where the theme and vision match the tiny details that make up the day. Often times I think Brides become overwhelmed with all the things they need to pull together that sometimes their vision can get lost in all the planning. And how DO you plan an event that is a reflection of who you are but that is also entertaining and FUN for your guests?

By no means am I a wedding planner. But from my experience as a wedding photographer and once being a Bride myself I've found there are a few tips that I feel help pull a wedding together that I think every Bride should keep in mind when executing the overall vision for their day!

1. MORE THAN JUST A COLOR. I would say that a wedding theme needs to be more than just a color palette. While a color palette is necessary to help make detail choices, a successfully executed wedding experience needs to be more than just complimentary colors. Brides need to have a specific VISION of a theme and experience that they want for their wedding day. Through that vision a Bride can make better choices for a more cohesive style. For example, pink could be a great color palette for a wedding, but the color alone will not be a unifying factor. Be specific with that vision even if it sounds ridiculous. You'll be glad you did as that vision statement will be your guiding force as you move forward in your planning!

2. MAKE IT PERSONAL! Make your wedding personal by creating a theme in which all your details and elements can be based around. And I don't just mean using childhood pictures to create that personal touch (while those are adorable and cute:)). Think about what you enjoy as a couple, what makes up who you are and base a THEME around that. Then that theme will dictate all of your details and element choices. For example, if you love the great outdoors then a rustic barn wedding might be for you. You could have rustic flowers, soft lace accents, touches of plaid, burlap and yarn, perhaps all within an actual barn! That theme would be a representation of who you are as a couple and the things that you enjoy while at the same time giving your guests that experience to enjoy WITH you. So think beyond just the pictures of you and your fiance. Make your actual details and design choices a reflection of YOU!

3. APPLY TO THE SENSES. SIGHT, SOUND, SMELL, TASTE, TOUCH. Have you ever thought about how these senses all work together to create an overall experience? Think about what your guests will be experiencing when they attend your wedding. What will they be smelling? What will they be hearing? What will they be eating? What will they be seeing? What will they be touching? How will your elements and details all tie together through these senses? Think of beautiful flowers that also have a strong (delightful;)) smell. Think about the music choices guests hear during the cocktail hour. Think about how the food will be prepared and served... I could go on and on!

4. LIGHTING. Use lighting to create a mood for your reception. Lighting is SO important when it comes to creating a mood and ambience for your guests. Candlelight, uplighting, spotlights, you name it, you can do it. If you do decide to use a specific source of light to create a mood for your reception don't just go half way. Make sure you go all out (whether that is candles or uplighting etc). For example, a single candle will not create that intimate, romantic feel you may be going for. However, entire tables lit with varying shapes and sizes of candles will immediately transform any room. Uplighting is also great for setting the mood, especially when your room is being photographed. It adds just enough interest and contrast to the room. Make sure that what ever you do is a fully thought out and executed idea. Go all out for that one of a kind feeling!

5. THE TABLE! I think one of the hardest things to visualize when planning out your reception is how your tablescapes will look. The tablescape is one of the most important elements of your reception and the unifying factor for ALL your wedding details! This is where your guests will be seated and what they will be experiencing for the majority of the wedding. It undoubtedly will either make a great impression or be forgettable. Remember to think about the SCALE of your table and your table scape. If you have large tables that seats 8 or more people and you place a small centerpiece in the middle, the table will look disproportionate and out of scale. When photographed the table will look empty. Use varying sizes of vases, candelabras, and other elements to create a MULTIDIMENSIONAL centerpiece. This doesn't have to be expensive, you could use all candlelight for example. But just make sure that it is a complete though out table scape that appeals to the senses and that applies to the scale of the room and table. Also think about your linen choices. A simple white table cloth might be nice, but it can also make the table look empty. Think about adding colorful napkins, sheer overlays and other linen elements to break of the monotony of the table and to create interest and contrast. Finally remember the chairs! It may sound silly but the chairs are what pull the whole look together! They are the most repeated element in the entire reception and will certainly set the tone of the space. Any easy way and affordable way to dress up any chair or table for that matter is to add ribbon, simple flowers, or a linen covering!

6. DON'T BE SO LITERAL. Don't feel pressure to be so literal when it comes to executing your theme or vision. Instead think about using your details to COMPLIMENT your location or your theme. For example, if you are getting married at the beach think about HOW the beach makes you feel! Light, airy, crisp, clean, soft. Think about the colors you see at the beach. Blues, peaches, pinks, greens. Once you have that THEN start beginning to plan your details. Just because you're at the beach doesn't mean you're relegated to just starfish and seashells. Use the feelings and the colors that you experience at your location to dictate your details. You're guests will get an immersive experience and your wedding will have a more cohesive and elegant feeling. I would say this to be true about any place you are getting married. Think outside the box and use your details to compliment and reflect your location and theme!

Like I mentioned, I am NOT a wedding planner and I would HIGHLY suggested working with one who can help you pull all of these elements together in style and unity. If you're budget does not allow for a planner, make sure to do your research. The details, entertainment and location of your wedding day are what are going to TELL the story of your love and wedding day. Use them to reflect who you are to bring together a day neither you or your guests will forget! If you'd like to be connected with a planner or just want some advice on your detail choices, I'm always happy to help couples in their planning! I also have LOTS of inspiration over on my Pinterest page so make sure to follow along! (Warning: I sure do love pinning CAKES:)!)

Below are some video clips of My Fair Wedding with David Tutera. Here David shares some great tips on how to pull a wedding together through the smaller details that I thought would be super helpful to you Brides out there! Happy Planning!

David walks through a Parisian inspired wedding and how that VISION dictated all of the details that they pulled together.

David shares how the table settings related to the overall experience of the reception.

In this example it was the actual wedding venue that set the tone for the rest of the wedding. Because the venue was so over the top dramatic the details needed to fit that.

Finally, while this is referencing a Gothic themed wedding, I think this video offers the most valuable tips on how to throw a fabulous wedding that has a cohesive feel and style. Brides can certainly apply what he is saying about a Gothic theme to their own wedding.

Kenny & Megan's Wedding At The Bedford Glen

As Megan walked down the aisle there was not a dry eye there. From Megan's grandmother, to father, to mother, to Kenny, tears of happiness and joy fell. It was a beautiful moment, just one of many from their wedding day. Warmth. Generosity. Love. If I were to use words to described Kenny and Megan's day it would be exactly that. The day was overflowing with those three characteristics. Everyone was happy, excited and honored to watch as Kenny and Megan said "I Do." Kenny and Megan thank you for welcoming me in on such an important day of your life. I was honored to be there to document those moments for you. I hope you'll be able to relive your day and memories through these images!

To view Kenny & Megan's images when they are available, please visit here.

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Many thanks to The Music Bed for providing the music for Kenny & Megan's slideshow. “Color In Stereo” performed by Moonlit Sailor.

Ceremony and Reception : Bedford Glen - DoubleTree Hotel

Officiant - Melinda Drew

Photographer -  Deborah Zoe Photography

Florist - Madison Floral

Wedding Dress -Liv Harris via Vows Bridal Outlet

Hair Stylist - Kate Bolduc of Drapoel Salon

Groomsmen Attire - Men's Wearhouse

Bridesmaid Attire - David's Bridal

Cake Designer - Montillo's Bakery

Entertainment - Michael O'Neil of MCO Productions

Videographer - Adam Cerro

Photobooth - Classic Photographers of Woburn

15 Years Later

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15 years. I've known Courtney now for 15 years. I can still remember the first time I met her. We were in eighth grade and she had just moved from Iowa. She was the new girl and everyone wanted to be her friend, including me. But back then (and still today) I was crazy shy. Like don't speak to anyone kind of shy. But with Courtney I didn't have to worry about that, because this girl is NOT shy. She'll talk to anyone and make them feel like she's known them her whole life. And that is exactly what she did. It's what I love most about her.

Our friendship started in eighth grade and has continued on through the years. On Sunday, along with other amazing ladies from her life, I stood by her as she said "I Do." The day was filled with LOTS of reminiscing, some roasting and of course celebrating. I cried LOT. It was just a beautiful day and gave me time to think about the past chapters of my own life. Towards the end of the night, as Courtney and (her HUBBY!!!) Dave sped away for a honeymoon in Bali, I had a chance to chat with her family. As my friend Liz and I said goodbye, Courtney's mom said something that stuck with me. "How wonderful it's been to celebrate with you girls over the years!" And we both agreed, it's been so wonderful.

You see Courtney, my friend Liz and I have been friends for 15 years. In fact there are several girls from those early middle school days that have continued to be a part of my life. We've had our ups and downs. We've had peaks and valleys and our friendship has grown, matured and changed over these years. Our wedding pictures all have each other in them. Our families have all celebrated with us as we headed into marriage. A testimony to how we've always been there for each other when it's mattered most.  I can't imagine what my life would look like without them.

So on Sunday, a cheesy as it sounds, I cried thankful tears for friendship and the love and support that friendship brings. These girls will forever be a piece of the story of my life.  Someday I'll be able to share these images with my children and encourage them to be the kind of friends that these woman have been to me.

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Wedding Love : Organizing The Big Day

I'm an over organizer. I organize every inch of my life, probably to the point of annoyance. I like organize EVERYTHING, admittedly because it gives me a sense of control. An unorganized junk drawer will drive me bananas. Speaking of which, ours needs some help... So at every wedding, without fail, you'll see me with my tan manila folder. The folder that I can't live without. This is the folder holds all the information I could ever possibly need in regards to your wedding day! It's wedding day organization central for me! It keeps me sane as the wedding day starts to swirl and helps me stay in control for my clients.

Two of the most important documents in that folder are the wedding timeline and the list of family portraits. I carry two copies of these documents, one for me and one for my second photographer. Throughout the day we are referencing these pieces of paper to make sure that we're on track and that were not missing a beat!

As you can see, it's very detailed, especially the timeline. Down to the hour and half hour I know exactly what is going on throughout the day. That way if you or your bridal party have any questions about when anything might be happening I can quickly let them know! It also helps us move quickly through different parts of the day, let's us know if something ran late and gives me an overall view of how your wedding day will look. I never leave home without this piece of paper.

When it comes to the family portraits, I'm just as organized. There are SO many people to keep track of that if I didn't have this list I have NO idea how we'd even accomplish getting this portion of the day done. I find that this makes our time together SO much more pleasant and things move much more smoothly and quickly. Before the wedding day, the bride and groom finalize this list and also include the names of all family members involved. From a customer service perspective, this is huge. Instead of rattling off "Mom, Dad, Brother" I can call out people's names, look them in the eye, and be PERSONABLE with them. This goes a LONG way to ensuring a GREAT time together during this part of the day!

So yes, I'm an over organizer. But I find that my bride and groom's would rather me OVER organize than not organize at all. It helps me to be a better photographer and gives you a better overall experience to know that everything is in control and taken care of! I'd love to hear from you if you're a past bride or if you're wedding is just around the corner! Did you find this to be helpful for your wedding? How can I help make your day run as smooth as possible?!

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A Preview of Kenny and Megan's Wedding at Bedford Glen

I think it's safe to say that today I am suffering from a wedding hangover times two. That's wedding photographer lingo for a double header: two weddings in one weekend. On Saturday I was a wedding photographer. On Sunday I was a bridesmaid. Cue dramatic moans as I hobble around the house;) Saturday was a mix of emotions for me. It was the BIG day for one of my favorite couples, Kenny and Megan, but it was also the rehearsal dinner for one of dearest and oldest friends. Admittedly, I thought about what it would have been like to have gone, to not be working. But if there was any doubt about what I was doing on Saturday it was quickly erased by the warmth, generosity and friendship of my clients.

Because on Saturday I wasn't just another vendor, I was treated like a friend. I was greeted by hugs, and smiles and love from not just Megan and Kenny but by their friends, their family, their guests. And as I watched Kenny's face well up with tears as he watched Megan walk down the aisle, I knew that in that moment I was exactly where I needed to be. Yes, I missed out on lobster, beer, and a good roast of my friend at her rehearsal dinner. But I couldn't have imagined a better reason not to be there.

Kenny and Megan, thank you for welcoming me in on your wedding day with such warmth and love. It truly was an honor to watch as you said your vows, as you cried sweet tears of happiness, as you were surrounded by the love of your family and friends. Days like Saturday are the reason why I love what I do!

I hope your enjoy your sneak peek, I promise there lot's more to come on Thursday! Enjoy!

To view more of Kenny & Megan's images, click here.

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Megan had LOTS of bling to spice up her wedding day!

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An adorable first kiss under purple pom poms!

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J'Adore : Running Gear

*Edited to add: The winner of their very own copy of The Brand Called You is Tiffany! Make sure to email me Tiffany!*

It's May and that means that warm weather is JUST around the corner! Actually it's been pretty warm all winter... we've been spoiled and I've spent many a morning and evening enjoying some amazing runs outside without freezing my butt off!

Yes, I'm a runner. I know, It probably don't look like it at first glance but I really enjoy running! I considered myself a casual runner, as I'm pretty slow, don't run long distances and have NO aspirations to run competitively. But all the same, running has been a part of my life since high school and I love lacing up and hitting the road!

Since we're heading into the warmer months and many of us will start running more, I thought I'd share the things that help me J'Adore running and look good doing it! Because, after all, we all know getting out there and moving is so much easier when you look cute!

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1. Runkeeper App. I couldn't live with out the Runkeeper app! I can play my running playlist and get five minute updates on how far I've run, how fast I'm going and what my overall pace is. It's such a great way to stay accountable when out for a run!

2. Victoria Secret Headband. I stumbled on these headbands and fell in love. When you have hair like mine, you need something that will keep the fuzz out of your face!

3. Old Navy Running Capri. I love working out in capris. They give me just the right coverage over my legs and core and are super comfy. Who would have thought Old Navy would make my favorite pair?

4. Brooks Running Shoe. I love these sneakers! For someone who has NO arch, these shoes provide great support and comfort!

5. Nathan Portable Water Bottle. This water bottle is a life saver, even on small runs!

6. Nike Tank Top. I stumbled on the pink version of this tank top at Marshalls. It's SO SO SO soft, stretchy and comfortable.

Who else out there likes to run?! Have any gear you can't live without?

Patrick & Elizabeth's Engagement at Wagon Hill Farm in Durham New Hampshire

Is there anything more adorable than a love story that begins in kindergarten?! I think not! Fondly Liz and Pat described that, "They got along OK. They carpooled, shared best friends and played tag. Patrick had Cooties and Liz was a trouble maker. When kindergarten ended they split paths. Liz pursued her dream of becoming the pink power ranger and Patrick expanded his parking lot soccer skills to the field." Fast forward to adulthood and Liz and Pat are planning a wedding and purchasing their first home! The story of their love is one of distance, separation, and lengthy phone bills. But no matter how far apart their lives seemed to take them, Liz and Pat always found their way back to each other. Clearly a sign that no matter what, it was just meant to be!

Liz and Pat will be married in an outdoor ceremony at Curtis Farm in July. Wagon Hill Farm in New Hampshire was of course perfect backdrop for their engagement session, a wonderful compliment for their rustic inspired wedding! And despite the ticks and the cool breeze we managed to have a beautiful afternoon together! I know I've said it before, but at the risk of sounding cliche, I truly love each of the unique couples I work with! I work with the best people, who are truly beautiful on the inside and out. I'm so grateful that what I do places me in the paths of these special people and even more grateful that I get to witness one of the most important days of their lives. Liz and Pat are no exception to this. They are amazingly genuine people who I now call friends! Liz and Pat, thank you for giving me a peak inside your lives! Can't wait for July!

To view Pat and Liz's images click here.

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Many thanks to The Music Bed for providing the music for Liz and Pat's slideshow. "I Want You" performed by Zerbin.

The Bookworm Club : Brand Called You

It's May. I know. I've dropped the ball. Perhaps it was a lofty goal to think I could read a book a month. Especially when it comes to business books. Often when find myself taking days and days to digest the information I've just read. That being said, I don't see this being an every month series like I had originally hoped it would be. Right now I'm going to play it by ear, especially as I move into wedding season. I hope you understand as I readjust The Bookworm Club schedule just a bit. It will continue to be regular series on the blog as I find them helpful and believe that books are meant to be shared and enjoyed! Reading will help us grow together! This month, I'd like to share with you The Brand Called You by Peter Montoya with Tim Vandehey.

I've just started to poke around this interesting book, and so far I've already taken three pages of notes! I won't say that the information printed on these pages is anything ground breaking or info that I haven't heard before. Instead that same information is processed in a completely new way, with a set of next steps at the end of each chapter. It takes that familiar knowledge and propels me forward by encouraging me to get out there and do what I've just read. Now these are the types of books I want to be reading!

The Brand Called You title is pretty self explanatory. It's a book all about creating a brand based around YOU and the unique characteristics and attributes that you bring to that brand. Down to every last detail your life and your brand should be a direct reflection of WHO you are, the kind of work you want to do, and the people you want to work with.

I'm such a geek for this kind of stuff so of course I'm enjoying every word. But beyond the information, the book is written in such a down to earth, tangible, get out there and DO IT, kind of way. I feel like the words jump of the page. The simple text juxtaposed with the end of chapter action plans are a formula for success. I would HIGHLY recommend reading this book if you find yourself building a brand OR wanting to readjust your business goals.

Here are some of my favorite take-aways in the first few chapters. I'm eagerly awaiting to dive into the next part of the book, but I'm trying to take it piece by piece, making sure to truly digest each piece of knowledge!

-- "..you can have a public persona that stands for something clear, powerful and compelling in the minds of the people you come into contact with." - In everything that I do as a businesswoman I am trying to connect with customers. I try making sure that they understand who I am, what I do, and what I stand for, so that they can either connect with me or move on. It's definitely a work in progress but the more time you are in your business the more clear this persona becomes.

-- Specialize, specialize, specialize. 'Nuff said.

-- " Use your brand to communicate that unique things you do that create value, from creativity to specialized experience to comfortable chairs." -- What do you do as a business that is unique, that creates value? Each of us does something different and we should be capitalizing on those things.

-- "Most great brands are built through sheer persistence and repetition. There's no magic bullet, just a lot of work and smart decision making." -- This is my favorite quote so far. I think they have hit the nail on the head here. Often we want things to just work immediately, we want to see a strong, successful brand right away. But the reality is, it takes time. We need to build trust in our audience and our customers. The only way to do that is to be consistent and persistent in your message over a long period of time.

I definitely think that this book is worth taking a look at. If you are just starting out, building a brand or re-branding your business, let this book be your guide along the way!

*As always I'm giving away one copy of The Brand Called You to one lucky reader. All you have to do to enter is leave a comment below. The winner will be announced on Friday. Happy Reading!*