Award Winning Boston Wedding Photographer

Award Winning Boston Wedding Photographer serving Boston, Cape Cod, Newport and New England. Celebrated for her empathetic understanding, meticulous organization and impeccable time management, Deborah brings a distinctive collaborative approach to her craft.

Travelogue : Disney Princess Half Marathon

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It's been a week since we returned home from our trip away to sunny Florida and the land of the Mouse. Good too, because it took a little bit of time for me to digest the trip and all the amazing things that we did together as a family. The main reason for us heading south was so that I could run my first half marathon, the Princess Half, at Walt Disney World. You can read a little bit more about the story behind that here. Seven months of training lead up to this trip and I truly cannot believe that experience has come and gone. It was more than anything I could have ever imagined, the best organized race I've ever done and a morning that was incredibly FUN.

The race itself was challenging. While it's most flat, it's LONG and straight and at time a narrow course. The race also begins at 5:30am, forcing you to set an alarm for 2:45am or earlier. I'm SO not a morning person so this middle of the night wakeup call threw me for a loop. Add in the oppressive humidity (I've been running in sub 20 degree weather) and my body didn't know what to do. Regardless I pushed along and while it wasn't easy I was so EXCITED to be running the race I had been training for, almost since giving birth. It was a surreal experience and I'll admit that when I thought about it during the course I cried, just a little;).

To celebrate my 30th birthday, which happened to fall on the day of the Half, Dave and I managed to sneak away a few days before and a few days after the race to enjoy the parks and resort together as a family. I've grown up going to Walt Disney World so to be able to share that with my little boy, well it was just an amazing experience. And while I know everyone says he might not remember it, we were amazed at just how much he enjoyed it! Jonathan being the people person that he is, couldn't get enough of the sites, sounds and a never ending amount of people to flirt with. Everywhere we went Jonathan made a friend. Including a stubborn little baby girl who didn't want his attention. Undeterred Jonathan babbled and batted his long eyelashes till she turned and smiled. Dave and I just about died.

Overall it was an incredible trip, the first "real" vacation for us as family. It will be at trip I think we'll talk about for years to come. Nothing is more special thank creating memories with your family, I will treasure these memories for the rest of my life!

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Baby on grass in front of Walt Disney's Wilderness Lodge

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Planning a Walt Disney World Wedding? Let's connect at deborah@deborahzoephoto.com to chat about how we can work together to photograph the wedding of your dreams!!

Around The Table

A baby truly does change everything and in our marriage that couldn't ring more true. We suddenly have a new schedule, new priorities and new ways of doing things. One of those things being dinner.

In our old home our dining room was separated from the living room by the kitchen. It was tucked away, dark and really the only time we used it was when we hosted Thanksgiving. We often ate our dinners in the living room as we watched the nightly news. And in our defense most of the time it was because we were utterly exhausted but really that is no way to cultivate connective-ness with your spouse.

Fast forward to today. New home, new baby. Now we make it a priority to eat together almost every night, sitting down at a table, in the kitchen. There are placemats and dishes and glasses of water. No iPhones, iPads, or computers are allowed. The tv is often off, and if it's not, it's tucked away with the news on to gives us something to discuss.. And while it doesn't seem like it might, it's made a huge difference on our relationship.

As our baby munches on his dinner or just loudly plays in his high chair, Dave and I talk about our days, get caught up on life and just reconnect with one another. Because don't work together, we have extremely different daily lives and it's incredibly important for us to connect, even just for half an hour each day, and pull our lives back together.

Often, this time around the table is filled with laughter, smiles and pure joy. It's a reminder of all the things that we give thanks for, especially our precious family. It's a time where we can be vulnerable with one another and discuss the things that really matter. Does that mean I never talk about the grocery list or our upcoming travel plans or how Jonathan spit up on me 100 times that day? No, of course every day life is included. But the heart of this time to be with one another, cultivating togetherness.

In your own relationship, find that time. What is your "around the table" moment? It doesn't have to be dinner, it could be a midday coffee break, early morning prayer time or that afternoon phone call. The heart behind the time you make for each other is to demonstrate that the other person matters, that you care about their life, and that you desperately want to connect and grow together. It can be challenging and you may need to sacrifice something in order to make it happen. But make it happen. I bet you'll find that "around the table" moment becomes one that is precious and an important part of the day!

Winter Willowdale Estate Wedding | "Let's Give Them A Wedding"

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At the beginning of January a friend and fellow photographer, Shannon, posted about her clients needing to cancel their wedding. They had just found out that Erick, the groom, was very sick and they couldn't afford both a wedding and his aggressive treatments. Upon hearing the news, Shannon desperately wanted to do something to help. So she enlisted the help of Facebook and reached out to vendor friends seeing if they could possibly donate their time, services or art to help make Erick and Jennifer's dream wedding, not a cancelation, but a reality.

What happened next was simply unbelievable. What Shannon coined as "Let's Give Them A Wedding" went viral and wedding industry peers from New England, across the country and even across the globe began pouring in offering to donate their services. They, like Shannon, were deeply moved by Erick and Jennifer's story and wanted to do whatever they could to help. It was simply amazing to watch what started out as a simple "plea" on Facebook, in a matter of days turn into something so much bigger.

Before Shannon had a date nailed down I offered to assist and second shoot if she needed anyone. Knowing that she had hundreds of other photographers offering the same thing, I waited for Shannon to make her choice for the team that would be best suited to her style and for Erick and Jennifer's needs. I was absolutely floored and honored when Shannon contacted me to see if I was available. I was overwhelmed to be a part of something so special and I immediately jumped on board. Along with the talented Steph Stevens we rounded out the photography team. There was also an amazing team of videographers, Jeff Brouillet Films, capturing the day as well. Check out the incredible day of video here.

If you'd like to read more about Erick and Jennifer's story you can click here. And if you'd like to see Shannon's take of the day, make sure to head on over to her blog to see her beautiful images. For the most part, I'd like the images to do the talking so I'll leave you with Jennifer and Erick's lovely day at the incredible and graciousWillowdale Estate. If you'd like to see the list of amazing vendors from the day, make sure to scroll to the bottom of the post.

Florals from Whim Events at Willowdale Estate

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Bride before ceremony at Willowdale Estate

Winter wedding details at Willowdale Estate

Jennifer and Erick, I was honored to have been a small part of such an amazing and moving experience. I hope that you were blessed beyond measure and had a day more magical than anything you could have imagined. Your love is infectious and it is a joy to witness and I'm so glad that your day wasn't canceled. Instead it was a beautiful reality!!Organizer and Lead Photographer : Shannon Grant

Venue: Willowdale Estate

Event Design & Coordination: Whim Events

Videography: Jeff Brouillet Films

Second Shooters: Steph Stevens & Deborah Zoe

DJ: Scott Rosenthal of Cape Tunes

Photobooth: The Danger Booth

Rentals: Petersons Party Center

Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists: Jeni Teran, Karrie Welch, Hilary Warner, Janeen Jones

Officiant: Kathie Nutter

Paper Suite: Strawberry Small Works Studio Cake: Frederick's Pastries

Bridal Dress: Velace Bridal

Bridal Headpiece: Jannie BaltzerGroom & Men's suits: Sposabella

Custom Cake Topper : Danielle De Luna

Addt'l Donations: Pink Polka Dot Events & Couture Wedding Design

Debbie Runs Disney

Princess Half Marathon Weekend Is Finally Here!

I began running in high school when, 60 pounds overweight, I decided to join the track team. Not such a smart move on my part! Maybe it was empathy, maybe he saw something in me, but the track coach told me I should look into joining the weight team, ya know, the people that do the field events. Every day we did lifting and running and it was during this time that my appreciation for running took it's hold. I lost 60 pounds and found an athletic side of myself I never knew existed.

Running has been a part of my life ever since. I'm by no means a "runner" but if given the choice, I like to lace up and head outside. In 2007 I ran my first 5k and have loved being a part of races ever since. During that time I've had this crazy dream of signing up for an out of state race and running my first half marathon. I never thought that I'd actually run a half marathon, but it was fun to dream. Fast forward to this past June. I turned to Dave and sheepishly asked if I should sign up for the Princess Half. The farthest I've ever run was six miles, so I really didn't know if it would be such a good idea. Plus, I JUST had a baby and had not run in nine months. Much to my surprise, Dave immediately said YES, and he's been my biggest cheerleader ever since! The race lands on my 30th birthday this year and I couldn't think of a better way to ring in such a milestone than with my husband, my baby (and 26,000 other runners;)) by my side!

Training has had it's ups and downs over these last seven months. As wedding photographers know, it can be near impossible to work out, especially during the wedding season. Add in a growing baby, moving, and getting the flu twice in a month, and at times my training took a bit of a hit. But despite each set back, I've pushed on and have continued to run longer distances than I ever have before.

We leave this weekend for our mini family vacation and for my first half marathon. There will be no blog posts, no emails, no computer, as I plan to take a REAL non working vacation! If you'd like to follow along during the weekend and during the race, I'll be posting lots over on Facebook and Instagram (#debbierunsdisney).

I cannot believe that this weekend is here, after months and months of planning, dreaming and training. I'm nervous, but equally as excited to cross that start line and let all these past months melt away over the next 13 miles! Oh, and I promise to try and bring back some sunshine with me;)!

Copley Square and South End Buttery Engagement Session

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We are in a never ending winter here in the Northeast, or at least that's what it feels like. Yesterday we were slammed AGAIN with a batch of snow making our total count, well, A LOT. But despite my hatred for the cold and those pesky white flakes, I have to admit that there is a beautiful charm to Boston after some freshly fallen snow. We lucked out with just that, an abundance of winter charm in the city for Emma and Paul's engagement session this past weekend. Following another storm, the city was dusted in a blanket of white.

Emma and Paul live and work in and around the city. It's also where Paul proposed (in a candle lit suite at the Fairmont!) Fittingly, Emma wanted to revisit some of the spots around town that are meaningful to the two of them. We spent the afternoon exploring the city while Paul and Emma did their best to stay warm with lots of snuggles and laughs!

We started our time together at the Boston Public Library, one of Emma's favorite spots in the city. We meandered around Copley Square and tried our best to stay warm!! It was COLD on Sunday, so we popped in to one of Emma and Paul's favorite spots, the South End Buttery for some coffee and treats.

Emma and Paul, I had a great afternoon with you as we wandered the streets of Boston visiting some of your favorite places. I can't wait to celebrate with you this spring -- Enjoy your images!

Boston Public Library engagement session

Fairmont Copley Square Engagement Session

Snow Day

Again...

It's snowing. Again. By now I've lost track of how much snow we've accumulated over this winter. But now it's just down right depressing. Ok, it's kinda pretty but still where is the SUMMER?! On top of all this cold and snow our family was struck with the flu for the second time in a month this past week. Needless to say there hasn't been much blogging happening. We're all feeling much better but I've feel a bit "behind". I'm using today's snow as an excuse to get things DONE.

Hard to believe that a week from tomorrow we'll be in sunny Florida...more on that soon. But for now I'm going to cozy up with my blanket and some coffee and get to work. Happy Snow Day!!(Are you someone that enjoys the snow, can you please give me a good reason WHY?!;))

Matt & Lucy Married

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A L'Andana Grill Winter Wedding

Over the holidays I had the immense pleasure of second shooting for the dream team (and our dear friends!) of Summer Street Photography. Lucy and Matt had a deliciously (LITERALLY) lovely wedding a L'Andana Grill in Burlington with the most darling winter accents, fitting for their December wedding. (I was told by Kendra and Matt to be prepared for some delicious eats at the end of the night and the chefs at L'Andana did NOT disappoint!) Lucy and Matt welcomed me in with open arms and made both Matt and I feel appreciated and cared for. It was a delight to be a part of their day and I'm so grateful and honored to have been asked by Kendra and Matt to tag along.

As a main photographer, there are a limited amount of opportunities to second shoot throughout the year, in fact this was the first time in a while that I had the opportunity to second shoot. Creatively, it was a wonderful outlet to take a few risks, try some new things and really stretch my artistic muscle. Matt and Kendra are amazing photographers and I was excited to create beautiful images to add to their client's portfolio. Matt gave me free reign and trusted me which allowed me to photograph the day with out limitations. A dream combination for a photographer!

Bride getting ready for her L'Andana Grill Winter Wedding

Bride reads note from Groom before her winter wedding

Bride gets into dress before her L'Andana Grill Winter Wedding

Bride and Groom before L'Andana Grill Winter Wedding

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Moment between daughter and father before walking down the aisle

Catholic winter wedding ceremony in Stoneham

Wedding reception details at L'Andana Grill

First Dance wedding reception at L'Andana Grill

Lots of stunning details, a fresh coating of snow and some delicious eats. Grab your favorite drink and scroll through these images from Lucy and Matt's lovely winter wedding!!

Product Highlight | Signature Album

As you probably already know I feel passionate about Wedding Albums and allowing couples to have tangible memories from their wedding day. I am passionate about taking wedding images and presenting them in such a way that preserves and celebrates the wedding for generations to come. And though we live in a digital world where things are increasingly done and "enjoyed" online, there is something truly magical about holding your wedding album in your hands. There is just something about taking singular images and putting them together as a story. Oh you bet I could go on and on!

Today I wanted to share some of my favorite spreads from albums (recent and past). Almost from the beginning I have turned over the designing of wedding albums to a professional. I'm a wedding photographer, not a designer, and I wanted to make sure that I was giving each album the attention and care that it needed. That meant hiring a professional designer to artfully and personally create custom designs for each couple. I couldn't be happier with my designer, Erica from the Summer House. She is the perfect fit and creates beautiful and incredible designs with my images for my clients!

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If you'd like to read more about the album design process click here. Today, is about sharing with you the beautiful designs that have been created for couples over the years. I'm absolutely giddy when I write this because I just can't wait to share them with you! So without further adieu, sit back and enjoy some lovely designs and be transported through each spread. Designed by The Album Design.Designed by The Album Design.Designed by The Album Design.Designed by me!Designed by The Album Design.Designed by me!Designed by me!Designed by me!Unless noted all designs are artfully created by Erica at the Summer House. She is absolutely incredible and a joy to work with. If you're interested in learning more about outsourcing your album design feel free to email me with questions or to contact Erica!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Today is my Mum's birthday!! I won't divulge how many years young she is and she's probably cringing right now at the fact that I'm devoting a whole blog post to her! But what can I say, I love my Mom!

It's been fun this past year to watch my parents become grandparents. I remember before we were pregnant my Mom would often say, "I'm too young to be a Grandma!" But after Jonathan was born, it's safe to say, she (and my Dad) fell in love! Grandma, or rather, Gammie, is quite the fitting title for her, a role she fits right into!

So if you're feeling inclined, leave her a message, a birthday wish in the comments! Happy Birthday Mom!! I love you (and Dad too!), I'm so grateful for you!!

Marriage Mondays : Your Best Advice

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At the end of 2013, I decided to revive the Marriage Monday series here on the blog. As many of you know I am passionate about healthy and thriving marriages and wanted to combine my desire to see couples growing with my passion for photography. Any surprise I'm a wedding photographer? I'm in the business of marriage so to speak! There is so much out there about marriage, ranging from great advice to horror stories, a mix bag of words. It can be hard to find clarity when thinking about and preparing for marriage.

While this blog is not meant to be the final word on the subject, I did hope that I could use this platform to help encourage and inspire couples with inspiration and stories on marriage. Hence the series was revived and I'm excited for what this next year holds!

For this month's Marriage Monday I reached out to several friends who have been married a varying number of years. From a newlywed to a seasoned married woman, I asked each person to share the best piece of advice they have been given or have learned over their years of marriage. We're all a work in progress, but I felt that there was real wisdom shared here and I hope that their words can give you encouragement no matter what stage you're at in your marriage or engagement.

Marriage, no, RELATIONSHIPS, are hard work. But as you can see from the responses below, it is a relationship that is certainly worth our time and our effort. There is joy in the journey of walking hand in hand together through life's ups and downs. Read on to see what they had to say!

Kendra, married 4 years

Wife to Matt

Mama to Evelyn

Photographer

"A successful marriage is a continuous one, and most married folks figure this out pretty quickly. A thriving marriage takes much more effort, and this is where the work takes place. I love to work. It gives me purpose and makes me feel satisfied when I know others are benefited from my efforts. When Matt and I first got married we were a little intimidated by other people who told us that marriage was a lot of work. The truth is, it *is* a lot of work, but that's not a bad thing. Working on our marriage means not taking one another for granted. It means listening the other person when we don't feel like listening. It means holding hands when we walk on the sidewalk. It means saying no to a social obligation from time to time so we can cook dinner together and talk about our future over a glass of wine. It means throwing up the towel on our daily plans when our daughter needs both of us at any given moment. Working on our marriage takes time, patience and a lot of really worthwhile work."

Grace, married 11 years

Wife to John

Mama to Isabella and Mark

Writer

"One of the images that has stuck with us most is about conflict. When a dilemma comes up, it's not 'me vs. you,' fighting about the budget or a miscommunication, it's 'us vs. the problem.' We're together, on the same team, and the problem is out there. Sometimes it even helps to physically sit on the same side of the table (eye contact can be a little intense when you're mad!), and say the cheesy-but-true words, 'I'm on your side. We're a team, and we can figure this out together.'"

Alicia, married 9 months

Wife to Adam

Wedding Photographer

"Give 110% of yourself, unconditionally, every morning of every day of every week of every month (we haven't made it to the years yet!). Even when you might feel like giving up or don't feel like your spouse deserves it, give and serve 110%. It makes the world of a difference!"

Danielle, married 7 1/2 years

Wife to Chris

Mama to Caleb

Writer/Mom/Physical Therapist

"The best advice my husband and I ever received came from my Mom. She had a challenging life with many surgeries and medical procedures and passed away suddenly in March 2009. On our wedding day, she told us no matter your circumstances, always work together, and work hard for one another. Through all of our ups and downs, I always draw strength for her simple truth: marriage is so worth the hard work."

Katelyn, married 3 years

Wife to Michael

Mama to Bokeh;)

Photographer

"My best piece of advice for newlywed couples would be to stop comparing your marriage to everyone else's relationship! Your marriage is never going to look like your best friend's marriage or your sister's marriage. It's yours and it's unique. Expectation management is key to a great marriage!! I learned this the hard way. I would advise all newlyweds to talk about what they expect from one another.. especially the first year! Our first year of marriage I realized that my expectations about our new life together were really different from Michael's. Life became a lot more enjoyable once we learned how to talk about our expectations and manage them in a healthy way!"

Sue, married 35 years

Wife to Pete

Mama to Three, Grandma to 5

Administrator for a UK Charity

"When setting out on married life it's the big things we think about. Where will we live, might we go abroad? Will we have children, how many, boys or girls? Can we afford to buy a home? 35 years on and looking back it seems to me it's the 'small' things that have built our marriage. Honesty in the little things; kindness through difficulty; smiles, hugs and cups of tea; being the first to say 'sorry' and the last to criticize. When we said 'I do' to each other, we had no idea what those 'do's' would involve or cost. But, looking back over the past 35 years the things that 'cost' me the most have paid the best of dividends!"

Debbie, married 7 (almost 8!) years

Wife to Dave

Mama to Jonathan

Photographer/shower singer

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"I'm not sure if it is advice but one of the greatest things that has helped our marriage thrive over the years has been laughter. My mom would attest that she can make me laugh, even when I'm raging mad. She must have taught this trick to Dave because he has this uncanny way of making me burst out laughing, even if I don't want to be. Laughter is what has kept our friendship alive and has given us great joy, through the good times and the bad. We enjoy each other. We delight in each other. And while our relationship is not perfect; we still annoy, hurt and frustrate each other, laughter has been the medicine to bring us back together when we drift off course. Life is too short to take so seriously. I pray that our marriage brings us many smiles (and belly laughs) for the rest of our lives."In marriage related news, our church will be hosting a one day marriage retreat. I wish we could go! Get more info here.

Four Seasons Chicago and Salvage One Wedding

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Earlier this month I had the honor to work alongside my friend and fellow photographer, Emilia Jane, as her second photographer. I had been looking for an opportunity to work in Chicago (we have family and friends out west) and I absolutely LOVE the city and couldn't wait to shoot a wedding there! When Emilia invited me along, I jumped at the chance and our family made a working vacation out west!

I could not have been more excited to learn that we'd be capturing Katie and Joe's wedding at Salvage One, an incredibly unique wedding venue in an antiques warehouse! While the ceremony and reception were held at Salvage One, we began the day at the Four Seasons in downtown Chicago. With incredible views of Michigan Avenue, the day started off in style as the maids and gents got ready.

Bride and Groom getting ready at the Four Seasons in downtown Chicago

Bride and Groom have a First Look at the Four Seasons in downtown Chicago

Bridal portraits at Salvage One in Chicago

Wedding decor at Salvage One in Chicago with florals by Pollen

Winter wedding ceremony at Salvage One in Chicago

Winter wedding reception at Salvage One in Chicago

I was with Joe as he prepped for the First Look. Joe was gifted a unique piece of art from one of his groomsmen, I loved it!Katie gifted Joe a little surprise and his reaction was priceless!Katie's reaction to Joe's thoughtful wedding present : images of their pups!Because temperatures in Chicago average on ARCTIC the first weekend in January, Emilia chose the beautiful lobby of the Four Seasons for Katie and Joe's First Look. It was perfection.Following the First Look we hopped a school bus (how fun!) to Salvage One for more portraits and the rest of the day's festivities!I absolutely adored these metallic dresses for the maids!A favorite from the day!Of course we had to use this sign...when in Chicago:).After the sunset we got to work capturing all the lovely details and florals scattered about the top floor of Salvage One. Time to get married!!What an epic First Dance and twirl across the floor!How adorable is Katie with her Dad?!Equally sweet is Joe with his mom. Venues : Four Seasons and Salvage One

Dress : Vera Wang

Florals : Pollen

Catering : Hearty Boys

Jonathan's First Year

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Nine Months Old

Wait, what?! I have a NINE MONTH OLD?!! I don't believe you.

Jonathan is nine months old tomorrow. Excuse me while I try to catch my breath. I mean I should believe it because this little one is fast approaching toddler-ness and has kissed his baby days behind him. He discovered at the beginning of the month how to pull himself up and now can't stop. In fact he'd rather get himself stuck than admit defeat and we often find him standing because he can't figure out how to get down. He crawls, practically RUNNING across the floor and we are simply left in his dust as we chase after him. He's cut two more teeth with two more on the way and I'm pretty sure he weights a TON. A metric ton. Long gone is my baby boy.

Every so often however, he gives me a little glimpse of that baby boy I love so much. Like the other day when he took a rare nap on my shoulder. I think I melted into a million little pieces. While I love to see Jonathan learning and growing my heart aches for those moments when he would sleep in my arms and rest on my shoulder. But then again I get to sleep through the night now, I guess it's all give and take;).

He is quite the giggler, always smiling and pulling you in. He loves you, immediately and he's not afraid to show you just how much he cares. I hope he never looses that. It's his best quality, making others feel good, simply because he can. Rock on Jonathan.

As Jonathan barrels his way towards his FIRST BIRTHDAY I'm desperately trying to memorize his face, his mannerisms, his personality, his essence, the way he is RIGHT NOW. Thank goodness for iPhones and Instagram. While social media can be used entirely too much for one's own good (pointing finger at self), as the days FLY by I'm grateful for the time capsule that is the internet to immortalize just how precious these moments are.

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Gosh, I just love that little boy!!And well, because you know I'm a sucker for these shoots, I couldn't help but share a few outtakes from our little time together this morning:)! If you'd like to see more, click here to see Jonathan's First Year month by month : Month One, Month Two, Month Three, Month Four, Month Five, Month Six, Month Seven, Month Eight, Month Nine, Month Ten, and Month Eleven.

Winter Willowdale Estate Wedding | Debbie & James

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When I first "met" with Debbie over Skype to talk about her wedding day, the first thing she mentioned to me was that if she was going to get married in January then she wanted a winter wonderland. And despite the crazy weather New England can create, I thought for sure that would happen. Wouldn't you know it snowed over two feet just two weeks before her wedding day. But then it was 50 degrees and it all melted away. No more winter wonderland. It even rained Saturday morning, dashing all hopes for snow.

Ah, New England weather is unpredictable though and as it rained that morning, something magical started to happen. The rain slowly turned into snow!! And not just any snow, the biggest, fluffiest, snowiest flakes you have ever seen!! It started and didn't stop until late Saturday night. Debbie most certainly got her winter wonderland!!

Debbie and James were married in Willowdale's atrium, underneath a beautiful birch chuppah and in front of their dearest and closest friends and family. With tears they recounted how they first met, how they fell in love and how they promised the rest of their life to each other. It was emotional and beautiful and a joy to witness.

A snowy winter wedding at the Willowdale Estate in Topsfield

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Bride in gown near window at the Willowdale Estate

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A snowy First Look at the Willowdale Estate in Topsfield

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bouquets by Dogwood Floral at Willowdale Estate

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Of course the night could only be capped by Willowdale's famous house made cookies!

freshly baked cookies, a tradition at the Willowdale Estate

Thank you so much for allowing us to be a part of such a special day!! We absolutely adored meeting your loved ones and celebrating with you!! Enjoy your images!!

Venue : Willowdale Estate

Photographer : Deborah Zoe Photography

Floral Design : Dogwood Floral

Entertainment : Greg Gates

Stationary : Chelsey Emery Design Boutique

Dress : Casablanca

Cake : Konditor Meister

Makeup Artist : The Makeup Artists

Second Photographer : Lauren Termini

Sick Day

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The Flu of 2014

I had a full blogging schedule, a full to do list and one toddling baby to take care of this week. But on Saturday, right before I was to shoot my first wedding of the 2014 I felt HORRIBLE. I had been feeling ill since our trip to Chicago, but had started to feel better the day before. Yet as midday came around on Saturday I knew things where not on the mend. The day wore on I got worse and worse. Praise God I was able to make it through only to come home and find out I was running a fever, suffering from the worst case of chills and was sick as a dog. Saturday turned into Sunday, Sunday into Monday, Monday into Tuesday. I didn't leave the bed and if I did, I made my way straight to the couch which led me straight back to our bed again.

What is a small business owner and Mom to do when they are sick?! Have an incredible support team. My hubby, my parents and our lovely babysitter, all helped to take care of Jonathan while I slept or brought me my computer so I could answer a few emails and write a blog post about how I've been sick;).

I'm feeling so much better today, ready to take on that to do list and run after our kiddo. Plus I'm learning all over again what it means to take things with a touch of grace, things don't always have to go as planned and that is ok.

I'll be sharing a LOVELY winter wedding with you soon but for today, I'm calling it a blogging sick day;)! Have a great Wednesday everyone and remember take your meds... salvage one chicago wedding photographer deborah zoe photography west town antique wedding.jpg Image from the LOVELY Chicago wedding I had the pleasure of second shooting with Emilia Jane (see her amazing new site and post here.)

Product Highlight | Signature Album

It seems like I've been sharing a lot of album posts lately! The end of the year saw MANY albums orders going out which mean't lots of albums coming in. I absolutely LOVE sending albums off to clients. While wrapping some up for delivery this past December, I took the opportunity to snap a few images of the beautiful albums.

Clients are always curious about what final albums look like, so I'm happy to share REAL client albums here on the blog to give readers an idea of size, color and design. If you're interested you can read more about the design process here and my love affair with my album company, Madera, here.

We'll start with a few images of Melissa and Jon's GORGEOUS Deluxe Wedding Album from their summer wedding at Regatta Place this past August. How cute are they?!The introduction page to Christy and Jamie's Signature Album from their Boston Celebration this past summer.James and Debbie ordered an Engagement Album from their session at the historic Seven Gables this past fall. Up next, is Sarah and Eddie's quant seaside affair at the York Golf and Tennis Club. This is Standard Wedding Album.I love how tiny the gutter is on these albums allowing the album to lay completely flat, now matter what page, when opened. Whether you're a past or currently client and are looking to create an album from your wedding day, email me at deborah@deborahzoephoto.com to get started!!

Traveling With Photo Gear

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Tips on Keeping Your Equipment Safe and Secure

This past week I had the pleasure of traveling for work and for fun!! Last December a dear friend and fellow photographer, Emilia, invited me to Chicago to second shoot with her (check out the beautiful wedding here). I was beyond excited because I absolutely LOVE Chicago and have been dying to photograph a wedding there. Our dear friends and family also live in the area I brought the hubs and babe along too.

Since this was a semi work trip it meant that I not only had to bring along luggage and our baby gear, but my photo equipment as well. While this was the first time I've traveled with a baby it wasn't the first time I've traveled for business nor the first time that I've flown with my gear. It can be a bit nerve wracking if you've never flown with your photography gear before so here are some tips to get you from here to there with peace of mind.

Use The Right Bag

If you're going to fly, you're going to need the right bag to transport all of your important gear. My rule of thumb is to have all of my gear, if possible one me at all times. I use the Think Tank Airport International V2 bag for all of my traveling (and on the wedding day). That bag can hold two bodies, all my lenses and flashes as well as all my batteries and any equipment accessories I might need on me like the hyperdrive (Plus I can also shove some flying needs like magazines, water, and an iPad in it too). It's sized to be a carry on bag and has fit in every plane I've flown in. The key to this bag is that it can be used as a carry on meaning that I can have my gear on me and in my sight at all times.

Never Check Your Gear (if you can avoid it)

If you can avoid it, never, ever, check your gear. We all know how baggage handlers throw, crush, and abuse luggage. Can you imagine what would happen to your gear if you checked your bag?! Not to mention it could all be lost! I shudder to think of the thought. Be proactive in helping your gear stay safe and protected and use carry on sized bags that fit either under the seat or above so. And another rule of thumb, place your bag directly above your seat, if you can. Call me obsessive but I like knowing where my gear is at all times.

Be Prepared

ANYTHING can happen while traveling. Even if you plan on using your equipment bag as a carry on sometimes it can be checked. For example, the plane might be too small for your bag or the flight might be full and all the space taken. If possible, keep your body, your cards, a spare battery and as many lenses as you can fit, and shove them into another bag you have with you. That way you minimize the amount of gear that will be out of your possession while on the trip. Or if you can gate check the bag, you'll lessen the amount of hands the bag has to go through before it can be back in your care. Additionally, if you can get a seat up near the front, you'll be able to board the plane ahead of other passengers diminishing the likely hood that precious overhead bin space will be taken up by bags. (Or you can travel with a child under two like us and received priority boarding, what what!!) We love flying jetBlue, as they always have lots of space, and the cheapest non-stop flights for this scaredy-cat who hates to fly.

Travel Light

When I can I try to travel with as little as possible. Instead of bringing large light stands with me to Chicago for example, I used these collapsable ones. And instead of bring every lens I owned, I try to pick the most versatile lenses I could. This allowed me to keep everything to one bag and it kept me from killing myself with heavy bags and clumsy accessories. I could move quickly without holding up my husband, the baby or other passengers. If I am traveling VERY lightly I use this Kelly Moore bag which can hold my gear, a laptop, an iPad and any flying needs I may have like water and snacks.

Insure

It probably needs to go without saying but if you plan on doing ANY traveling, even just to local weddings, insure your gear. You've spent hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on your equipment, and it's worth the investment to have it insured PROPERLY. Make sure that your equipment coverage is specific and covers you for out of state and out of country travel. Make sure that you understand the ins and outs of your coverage (what is covered, what is not) so that in the case of an emergency you know that you are protected. And as a side note, if for some horrible reason you ever loose your gear or it is stolen, find out where you can rent gear while you are traveling. You never want to have to say to a client that you are unable to work because your gear has been stolen or lost. I love working with Hill & Usher for my business insurance needs and feel safe and secure as I travel.

This past trip was a an experience to say the least. But with the help of my amazing husband, we made it through security, boarding, deplaning and baggage claim with little stress and NO missed bags or missing gear! Hurray!! I was so proud of our success I made the hubs take a picture with all our bags and baby. Badabing, badaboom!

Milwaukee Art Museum Family Portraits

Meet The Schmidts (Again)

Last week we had the opportunity to travel to the mid west for work. I was there to help my good friend and fellow wedding photographer Emilia photograph a wedding in downtown Chicago, but since we have family and very dear friends in the area we took a few days on either end of the weekend and made a vacation out of it!

Family Portraits at the Milwaukee Art Museum

married couple at the Milwaukee Art Museum

While we were up in the Milwaukee area I offered to take some updated family portraits for the Schmidts, who you may remember from their family sessions seen here and here. The kids have grown up and we had a blast spending the morning together and taking pictures along the way. I thought I'd share a bit of the fun we had together, because lets be honest, we have the cutest kids in the world;)!! So sit back and enjoy the adorable-ness that ensued at our trip to the Milwaukee Art Museum!Ya know, because we're basically family:)Isn't my Godson handsome?:)Julia is an expert breakdancer!These two have been through a lot in the last six months. I love how much they love each other.

Jonathan's First Year

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Eight Months Old

Jonathan celebrated his eight month birthday on December 30th. Oh eight months, what changes you have brought! Jonathan grew like a WEED, seemingly overnight. His personality shines through these days too and I'm happy to say he is one smiley, bubbly, baby boy. At Christmas he pulled himself for the first time and now things everything is good to pull on. He even sits himself up while alone in his crib.

With the introduction of two teeth and two more on the way Jonathan has started to find his voice, babbling away and often saying "Dada!" Sometimes he will give me clues as to the little man he is becoming, and it just about makes my heart burst. I swear I fall more in love with him every day!!

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Eight months, that's closer to one year old. I'm not sure I can handle that. Long gone is my baby BABY baby boy and quickly approaching are his toddler years. When people say that this age is a lot of fun, it's true. I think for now I'll try to keep this age in my mind forever.I probably took about two frames of Jonathan on the run, that is until he rolled over. He constantly on the move these days!! If you'd like to see more, click here to see Jonathan's First Year month by month : Month One, Month Two, Month Three, Month Four, Month Five, Month Six, and Month Seven.

Brandon & Katherine Engaged

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An Endicott Park Engagement Session

When Katherine originally contacted me about shooting her wedding, one of the first things she mentioned was her desire for a winter wonderland engagement session. Though Katherine and her fiance no longer live in the New England area (they are students finishing up degrees), she has a strong connection to this part of the country. It's where she grew up and she absolutely loves New England in the winter. While I often proclaim my hatred for snow, I will have to agree that New England is truly magical after a first snow.

New England is all famous for it's up and down weather though, and there was simply no guarantee that we'd have a white snowy landscape for their session. No matter, we pushed ahead, created a Pinterest board and start to think about all things wintry, like boots, and mittens and hot cocoa. And then wouldn't you know, the day before their session is snowed over 20 inches!! Talk about timing. Katherine, you certainly got your winter wonderland!!

I met Katherine and Brandon at quaint Endicott Park in Danvers, a childhood favorite for many in the area including Katherine and I! It was absolutely stunning as we quickly found lovely places to shoot within the property. But even better than a lovely backdrop was Katherine and Brandon. Often I tell couples that it will take a little while to find their groove as we work through the session, but not these two! Immediately Brandon and Katherine felt at ease with each other and in front of the camera and it made my job so incredibly fun! It was a joy to watch as these simply enjoyed being together. Their love is infectious and they are joy to be around!

I cannot wait for their WARMER wedding this coming May in Rockport, but for now grab your hot cocoa and snuggle in for one charming winter wonderland engagement session!!

Endicott Park Winter Engagement Session Deborah Zoe Photography

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hot cocoa and couple winter engagement session

JCrew inspired winter engagement session deborah zoe photography

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Endicott Park in winter deborah zoe photography

winter bouquet from Whim Events for engagement session deborah zoe photography

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engagement session deborah zoe photography

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That barn was perfection!Adorable, am I right?!Since it was nearly 0 degrees, hot cocoa was an absolute must!Obviously, eskimo kisses are the best way to stay warm:)!Looking good Brandon!I loved this red blanket Katherine brought, perfect for snuggling!They had an audience...I love this one!Katherine has such style, I loved the outfits she picked for their session!I have to give a huge shout out to Moira of Whim Events, who created this lovely bouquet that fit perfectly with Brandon and Katherine's session!Katherine you are simply stunning!Of course I have to give a HUGE shout out to Moira from Whim Events who create this darling bouquet that complimented Katherine and Brandon's session perfectly!After a quick outfit change we headed back out into the cold for some more portraits before the sun disappeared.I LOVE this one!Another favorite of the day!These last few are some of my favorites, you can't beat some white fluffy snow!!I love Katherine's engagement ring which Brandon designed himself!Venue : Endicott Park

Florals : Whim Events

Wardrobe : JCrew, Talbots, Mikimoto, United Colors of Bennington, Banana Republic and Eddie Bauer

Marriage Mondays

The Yearly Marriage Review

In 2013 I started a blog series titled Marriage Mondays, with my aim to encourage married and engaged couples alike with stories, experiences and advice that have encouraged and inspired me in my own marriage throughout the years. And for the first half 2013 I was very good about keeping up with the series until our son was born. After his birth blogging was very difficult to keep up and so this series took a back seat.

Throughout the year though, I have always held a dear place in my heart for Marriage Mondays. Healthy and thriving marriages are something that I'm passionate about and incorporating that into my blogging and business model is very important to me. I want to celebrate marriage, encourage newly engaged couples and equipped married couples to live happy, healthy and thriving marriages, all while taking pretty pictures!

As I thought about the new year I was determined to revive Marriage Mondays but I had to do so it in a way that I could do it well. What that looked liked was changing the Marriage Monday series from every Monday to just one Monday a month.

And so, to kick off a new year of Marriage Monday's I'm sharing about a Year End Review that my husband and I "conducted" over the Holiday break. He brought up the idea of doing something like this after reading an article in the Wall Street Journal so in his eyes, it's cool;). We took advantage of a car ride up to New Hampshire over the holidays to hash out our year together in 2013.

We had never really done something like this in our seven plus years of marriage and despite what I thought it was actually quite therapeutic! We discussed what worked, what didn't and what we we're looking forward to in 2014. And after the year that we've had with it's many ups and downs, challenges and joys, it was a needed task to take inventory on our relationship, where it was and where it's going.

A few of our What Worked:
-- The biggest theme we came across as we discussed our marriage this year was teamwork. From pregnancy, to the birth of a child, to late nights with a newborn, to a growing infant, to running a business, to selling, buying and moving a home, to living life together, we were faced with many challenges (and joys) this year. We worked together not only facing and conquering each hurdle but strengthening our relationship as well.
-- We planned well this year. We made goals and worked through actions to make them happen.
-- We set boundaries for our family, our time and our relationship with the hope that these boundaries or guidelines would strengthen our core family and marriage.
-- Our friendship. Both Dave and I were pleasantly surprised to look back on this year and see a friendship that has continued to blossom and thrive.
-- I felt an overwhelming amount of support from Dave this past year, especially as I thought about my pregnancy and the birth of Jonathan.

A few of our What Didn't:
-- While boundaries are one of the things that worked, it is an area that still needs to be worked upon. We are still finding our groove as a family unit and are still learning the things that are appropriate for our family and when we just need to say NO to things, events, and people.
-- Our communication was an up and down struggle, certainly because we were TIRED. We need to learn how to communicate better when we are upset instead of falling into old habits.
-- Relational intimacy had a tendency to be forgotten, especially when we were in the midst of late night feedings and diaper changes. We're looking forward to more quality time together in the coming year, hopefully with a baby who likes sleep 12 hours at night;).
-- Our faith plays a huge role in our marriage but this year, as we dealt with the arrival of a baby, our jobs, and moving, spiritual leadership took a back seat. Dave and I will be seeking to be more proactive in finding ways to inspire and encourage each other in our faith this year.

A few of our What's Next? Our S.M.A.R.T goals. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely):
-- We will be meal planning and grocery shopping on Sunday evening, for four healthy meals a week.
-- We will be doing quarterly marriage check ins as we have enjoyed this process! They will happen on the first of the month.
-- We will be reading one marriage book together this year, most likely at bedtime. We're looking into The Meaning of Marriage. I'd like to start this winter and finish by Jonathan's birthday.
-- We are looking into ways to serve at our church as a couple, as a family and as individuals.

Having never done something like this, I could say that before we took part in our Year End Review, I never really saw the benefit of doing so. But afterwards I can safely say that it will become an integral part of our relationship, we even discussed doing a mini check in quarterly. One of the biggest ways that we can help our relationship grow, mature and blossom is to foster open communication with each other and to carve out a singular path to walk on together. The Year End Marriage Review is a fantastic way to do so, as it allows each person to express their thankfulness, their concerns and their dreams for the future. Doing this activity not only gave us something to talk about together, but it also put our minds and hearts on the right track when we thought about our relationship. Since our marriage is one of, if not the most, important parts of our lives then it deserves the time and review.

We tried to keep it lighthearted and offered heaping amounts of grace and gentleness. (Though I will admit talking through What Didn't Work was a little rocky). At the end of our car ride as we reached Dave's parents, we were smiling. We hugged and thanked each other for this year. A year that has brought so much change to our relationship and family. I can truly say that we are very excited to see where 2014 will bring us, as a couple and as parents! Our Marriage Year End Review, an idea that helped us to both see how much we have to be grateful for in each other and who we are together.
Marriage Encouragement on Marriage Mondays Deborah Zoe Photography

Award Winning Boston Wedding Photographer

Travelogue : Disney Princess Half Marathon

Around The Table

Winter Willowdale Estate Wedding | "Let's Give Them A Wedding"

Debbie Runs Disney

Copley Square and South End Buttery Engagement Session

Snow Day

Matt & Lucy Married

Product Highlight | Signature Album

Happy Birthday Mom!

Marriage Mondays : Your Best Advice

Four Seasons Chicago and Salvage One Wedding

Jonathan's First Year

Winter Willowdale Estate Wedding | Debbie & James

Sick Day

Product Highlight | Signature Album

Traveling With Photo Gear

Milwaukee Art Museum Family Portraits

Jonathan's First Year

Brandon & Katherine Engaged

Marriage Mondays

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