Jeff and Stephanie’s paths crossed when they were working at the OSU James Cancer Hospital.  Jeff is outgoing, loves interacting with people, is easy going, and yet also driven.  Stephanie is shy, sweet, and caring.  They are looking forward to February, 2014 when they’ll tie the knot!

As always, I love reading what couple have to say they love about each other.  This is what Jeff and Stephanie had to share…

Jeff: “Stephanie is such a caring person.  Her love for God, her family, and me is without a doubt over flowing. She honestly makes me a better man and makes me want to do bigger and better things in life.  I love the way we can worship together and challenge each other to be better.  She knows how to pick me up when I’m down–without her I’m not whole.  I love how she can be relaxed with me and can be such a cute nerd.  I’m glad to be able to marry my best friend and cannot wait to start our lives together.”

Stephanie: “I looove how he always wants to enjoy life, experience new things, his love for God, and how he challenges me to be a better person.  He’s open and super loving and makes me feel so special.  I love that we can laugh together, and when I’m grouchy or sad he finds something to make me laugh about.  He is amazing and is my forever.”

I’ve learned that some guys like being in front of the camera and others simply get their pictures taken because their moms want senior pictures. 🙂  While JB was probably in the latter group, he said he actually enjoyed his session!  That’s what I like to hear!!  JB was totally in his element for his session: country, boots, truck, 4-wheeler…the perfect place for his session where he’s comfortable and enjoys life!

JB, I hope you have a great senior year!  Trust the Lord to lead you on the ride He has ahead for your future!  Blessings.

I enjoyed spending a bit of time with Drew and Brittany to capture the “spark” between them. 🙂  Brittany loves glitter; in fact she even has the nickname “Sparkles,” so she had the idea of using glitter for some of their pictures.  Drew was a good sport and went along with the glitter plan even though they had glitter everywhere!

Drew and Brittany met at Kent State University and they say that Drew’s funny sense of humor won Brittany over.  They are both outgoing and fun-loving, and enjoy watching movies, relaxing by the pool and spending time their families.

Drew says he loves Brittany’s eyes and her smile.  He also shared, “I love how caring and compassionate she can be in my times of need.  I know that she would do anything for me.”

Brittany shared that she appreciates how Drew picks her up when she’s down.  She also said, “I love his smile and his laugh, especially when he laughs like a little kid, it makes me laugh even more.  I especially love the way he shows his love to me and my family.”

Derek and Ashley are planning an October wedding and chose a country setting for their engagement session.  They are fun-loving with a need for speed and adventure in life (how about a skydiving proposal–yep, Derek, I’d say that’s adventurous!)  They have big hearts that love to help others and competitive spirits that bring out the best in each other.

When I asked Derek and Ashley what they like doing together they said, “The easier question would be…what don’t we like to do together?!”  They enjoy being active outdoors, trying new things on their bucket lists, serving together in church, cooking up concoctions in the kitchen, and spending time with their friends and family.

When asked what they love about the other their answers were super sweet…see below!

Derek, what do you love Ashley?  “I love my fiancé so much!!!  She has the love of Jesus in her heart and that love shines through her actions every single day.  She is a go-getter with the determination to follow through with the goals that she sets for herself.  I love how she values time with family and friends.  She is an amazing communicator and she uses that gift to build others up.  I also love that we can pray together for guidance in our relationship and she places her full trust in the Lord’s plan for her life.  She also just happens to be the most beautiful woman in the world with her shimmering hair and contagious smile.  She is my best friend and I absolutely love her fun-loving personality!!!”

Ashley, what do you love about Derek?  “I love so many things about my Man!  I’d have to say one of the things that sticks out the most is his selfless love.  He puts the needs of those around him above his own.  He has a servants heart and the Lord’s love shines through him tremendously!  I love his humor and how it comes out in the most unexpected times.  He completes our family and brings so much joy to all of us.  I love his competitive and determined spirit! If he says he’s going to do something you better watch out, because he’s going to do it!  I so enjoy that he’s up for anything, even skydiving!!  My Man is a one of a kind and his heart for the Lord shines through time and time again!”

Joy is a SENIOR!!  I’m not quite sure how to begin telling you about this special person… Joy is truly beautiful inside and out.  She’s caring, compassionate, a good listener, an encourager, sensible, fun, has a bright smile, and is my niece! 🙂  I’ve had the privilege of watching Joy grow up and through the years I’ve seen her strong spirit and trust in God even when she was a little girl and battling cancer.   I praise the Lord for His healing in her body and direction in her life!

Joy, I know the Lord has special plans ahead for you…enjoy the adventure and trust His leading!

I like the quote Joy shared with me, “To love another person is to see the face of God.” ~Les Mis

 {Inniswood Metro Gardens in Westerville, Ohio}

Anthony and Ryann…great smiles and easy to be around.  Their engagement session…sunlight, flowers, unique nooks and crannies.  I love photographing couples that are in love!

As always, the couples can explain themselves the best.  This is what Anthony and Ryann had to say…Anthony, what do you love about Ryann?  “I love her kindness and generosity, as well as her passion for helping others.  Also, her love for animals!”  Ryann, tell me what you love about Anthony. “I love his giving heart and gentle manner. He’s also honest, loyal, and puts up with me! He’s the total package.”

Anthony and Ryann are planning a December wedding.  I am already looking forward to it!  Ryann told me she’s hoping for snow to take pictures outdoors–I would love that!

Inniswood Gardens has so many unique places. One such spot is the Secret Garden. Notice in the picture on the right that there are marbles in the mortar between the bricks.

This blossom smelled amazing!

I love snapdragons!

Stephen and Amber had a beautiful spring day for their wedding.  Amber was super organized and no detail went unnoticed, as you will see in some of the pictures below!  Stephen and Amber chose to take their pre-ceremony pictures in Marysville, which was a great setting.  An extra special touch to the ceremony was Stephen’s grandpa officiating the ceremony and performing the wedding vows.  The outdoor reception entailed many details, delicious food, and wonderful desserts!  Congratulations, Stephen & Amber!

Special thanks to Deborah Beachy of DGPhotography for assisting me for the day!

Stacy Troyer did a gorgeous job of styling Amber's hair!

Something old--a garter with lace from Stephen's grandma's wedding dress, Something new--Amber's wedding dress, Something borrowed--a hanky from Amber's grandma, Something blue--Amber's shoes.

Instead of the traditional lighting of a unity candle, Stephen and Amber braided a cord of three strands representing both of them and the Lord.

Wedgewood Country Club ~ Powell, Ohio

Thomas and Jacquelene are a great couple and I feel blessed to have been able to photograph their day!  The day started out rainy and kept us indoors for all of the pictures before the ceremony. 🙁  Thankfully, it cleared up and we were able to step outside for a few extra shots on the beautiful Wedgewood Country Club grounds!

As I’ve gotten to know Thomas and Jacqulene it is evident that they desire to honor God with their lives.  Just being around them is an encouragement!  Thomas and Jacquelene, I wish you the Lord’s blessing as you serve Him together!

Special thanks to Jenell Shrock for being my second shooter for the day!