Krista and Joe were married in July at the Marion County Courthouse in downtown Fairmont, West Virginia.  The reason behind their selection of the courthouse was an homage to Krista's grand father who was a criminal attorney in Marion County for 40 years.  He worked many of his trials in the very room that Joe and Krista started their wedded life together.  In another tip of the cap to those who paved the way, the officiant for the wedding, who is now a Marion County Judge, interned under Krista's grandfather at the start of his career.

Exchanging vows at such a special venue elevated the perfection of this wedding beyond what we could have ever imagined.  Krista and Joe are, quite literally, picture perfect and completely smitten with each other.  From the tasteful and sometimes tearful details to the absolutely awesome reception this wedding was one that will go down in Kuirsta + Seth history.

Check out just some of the highlights below.  Be leave a comment and share the love with Krista and Joe!  Congratulations you two!

Ceremony Venue: Marion County Courthouse, Fairmont, West Virginia

Reception Venue: Waterfront Place Hotel, Morgantown, West Virginia

Florist: Blooms Florist

Dress Designer: Casablanca from MB Bride

Cake: Cindy's Sweets and Delite-ful Treats

Wedding Planner: Deborah Matthews from Waterfront Place Hotel

Videographers: Pathway Media Productions

Catering: Waterfront Place Hotel

DJ: Marino Brothers

Photographers: Kuirsta & Seth LLC

Invitations: Artisan Ink Custom Invitations

VENUE: Lakeview Golf Resort and Conference Center

WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Thomas

DRESS: Allure Designs from The Vow Boutique

CATERING: Lakeview Catering

DJ:  Jason Knight

PHOTOGRAPHERS:  Kuirsta + Seth LLC

FLORIST: Marilyn Hatfield-family friend

CAKE: Almost Heaven 

Eeeekkkkk!!!!!

Today we're introducing another recently added member of our team! GORGEOUS Miss Tara!!! Some of you might remember Tara from last year, when I first met this stylish, fun, and happy-go-lucky girl!!! She killed it during her senior session, where I instantly fell in love with her upbeat, genuine personality, and fresh style.  So I knew that she was somebody that would be a great addition to our brand and team.  

Our mantra these days is to LOVE what we're doing, and have fun while we're doing it.  We're surrounding ourselves with like-minded people with a positive outlook on life.  I don't know about you, but I LOVE TO LAUGH and have fun.  I want to enjoy every second of every day.  So choosing someone like Tara to assist with styling during shoots was a no-brainer.  She's a gorgeous girl, inside and out, with great style.  Plus, she rocks at demonstrating the "sassy" face.  Bonus points!  Lol.  No for real, this girl is AMAZING!!!!

Here's a little about Tara, her style, her experience with K + S, and what she's bringing to the table.

1.  What/who inspires your style?

I'm going to admit that I was white-knuckling my camera the entire shoot.  If you've ever worked with me you've probably witnessed a few falls, or almost falls.  Lol.  I have a tendency of walking backwards without looking, and I almost always trip on something.  Here though, there is no room for error.  Hence the white-knuckles. Luckily, we all made it out safe and sound! 

I have worked with Kari and Dustin a few times now, and each time surpasses the last.  They are a photographers dream! I mean, love just pours out of them! I try to explain this type of couple to people, when I'm asked "what is your favorite thing about photography?".  The answer is simple. I LOVE capturing a couples love for one another!  It is one of the most beautiful things ever!  And when you add an epic location to the mix.....it's taken to a whole new level of AWESOME!

Seriously, this couple couldn't have been more perfect.   I'm slightly obsessed with them.  It is so obvious that they are madly in love with one another.  High school sweethearts, small town love.... I mean cue Kenny Chesney.   

These two were insanely adorable with each other, and that makes me even more excited for their wedding day!!!!

I've been dying to share these images for some time now.  This gal is such a doll! She's genuine, gorgeous, and has such a sweet and fun personality! And not to mention her style is amazing!  If I could do sessions like this everyday, my life would be made.  

So....GUESS WHAT?!

We've added a new member to our team, and her name is LATISHA! And she's pretty flipping rad.  

One of the things that I told myself I was going to be doing this year was shooting more of what I love.  I LOVE good style! I LOVE fashion! I LOVE bringing out that raw beauty in my clients.  So when this idea of having an assistant/personal stylist at my side during sessions first popped up in my head, I was like....OMG, why didn't I think of this sooner!  So we scheduled a shoot, for our Meet Me Monday blog series to showcase her fun personality and killer style!   

Here's a little about Latisha and what inspires her when putting together different looks.

Walking into this wedding we knew that it wasn't going to disappoint.  The venue it's self was simply magnificent.  From the beautiful blooms of peonies that filled the brides bouquet, to her stunning, tulle dress, everything was so gorgeous.  We loved the clean white and gold decor, with tiny accents of a blush pink.  

Kelly and Alan we are so honored you picked us to document your big day! Congratulations!  Your wedding was beyond perfect!!! 

Venue: Carnegie Music Hall

Florist: Gidas Flowers

Dress: Watters- Anne Gregory Brides

Cake: Parkhurst Catering

Catering: Parkhursta Catering

DJ: Partytime Productions

Invitations: Artisan Ink Custom Invitations

Photographer: Kuirsta + Seth

We're baaackkkkk, and we have a brand new set of seriously, stunning seniors, rep'n our brand! Early on this year, we were on the fence about putting together a 2015 senior rep team. However, after much thought, we decided we had to have one! We had such an amazing experience with our 2014 senior rep team that we couldn't imagine not continuing the tradition.  

This years team is a DREAM! We absolutely LOVE and adore each and every one of our seniors!  Their genuine, upbeat, personalities and killer style are one of a kind.  We couldn't have asked for a better group to represent our brand.  This year is going to be AMAZING, and we can't wait to continue to work with these five, fierce seniors!

Once again, we teamed up with the fabulous Tuscan Sun Spa and Salon for hair and make-up by their top stylists. If you're familiar with our senior packages you know then that, we offer this service with our top two packages.  This service, is what takes our senior experience to the next level. 

As an added bonus, we are now also including an on-location stylist to help with styling outfits and shoots, such as this Kate Spade themed senior promo shoot.  Our two newest additions to our team are Tara and Latisha, and they will be introduced in our up-coming Meet Me Monday blog posts.  

So without further ado, here's our 2016 Senior Rep Team!!!!!!

PS A big shout out to everyone who helped with this amazing shoot! You all rock and we couldn't have done it without you!!!! Thank you so so so much!!!!!

A+A married in front of their closest friends and family on a Friday afternoon in Fairmont, WV.  Although it had rained throughout the afternoon, the skies parted just as the ceremony concluded as if Congratulations were being sent from above.  From the time April and Andrew approached us to shoot their wedding to the hug before our departure, we were instantly captivated by their love for one another.  

Congratulations April & Andrew! Your wedding was beyond beautiful! 

Venue & Catering - Heston's Farm

Dress- Davids Bridal

Cake- Cakes With a Personal Touch

Band- Buds Collective

This wedding was one for the books.  Gorgeous venue, gorgeous couple, gorgeous weather (with a touch of sprinkles to cool us all off)....it really couldn't have been more perfect.  PS Lauren, you were glowing the entire day and made such a stunning bride!!! 

Looking back at this wedding, one of the things that immediately stands out in our memory of that day was how welcoming Luke and Lauren's family and friends were, we instantly felt like we gained another family.   

Congrats you two!!! Your wedding was perfect in every way!!! 

 24+ hours after I had went into labor, and two weeks ahead of schedule, Greyson Cooper Williams graced us at 3:04am on March, 6th, 2013.   Those two days will go down as the two most hectic, exciting, scary, and rewarding days of my life.

It was the last snow storm of 2013. I remember waking up at 2:30 in the morning realizing (or assuming) my water had broke, contractions were steady, and I had this feeling that it was time.  I however, didn't want to go into the hospital just yet, so I laid back down.  At 7:30 AM I was still having contractions, so I shook Seth awake.  His reaction was priceless.  "Really? I don't think you are, but we can call the doctor and check just in case."  The call to the doctors office resulted in us coming in to make sure I was indeed in labor. "We should probably bring the hospital bag." I remember adding.  "I don't think we'll need it." Seth said confidently.  His famous last words.  The doctors confirmed that I was indeed in labor.  

Side note: Not only was I pregnant with Greyson, but my sister-in-law Jenna, was pregnant with twins.  They were due a month later then Greyson.  It was a running joke that we would end up delivering them on the same day.  Wouldn't that be something? Our small family, growing from no grandkids, to three all on the same day.  What a story that would make.  Jenna actually had a regularly scheduled appointment that day, and we received a call of congratulations and excitement from my brother-in-law, Jack, while they were on their way.

Fast forward to hour 5, Pitocin was prescribed to help speed up my delivery.  (And by the way, everything said about pitocin holds true.  It sucks!) The next 5 or 6 hours were the worst.  Contractions intensified, but Greyson just wasn't ready.  Then I made the decision that changed everything.  The Epidural.  I will never forget the relief that came over me.  Ahhhhhhh.  I could finally breath and I even took a nap!  We updated friends and family on the progress of our little blessing, and were as happy as a clams. 

8:00 PM rolls around, and we receive a phone call that Jenna was going to have an emergency C-Section by 9:00 PM.  

Wait...  What?!  

Yes, you read that correctly. I remember thinking, "There's no way she's having the twins before I have Greyson." 

Keep in mind, I'm at Mon General, it's the last snow storm of 2013, and Jenna is at Ruby Memorial, separated by a half a mile, as the crow flies.  The whole situation is straight out of a Lifetime movie.  My mother and father-in-law, Becky and Jack, were beyond elated and most likely overwhelmed, driving back and forth between hospitals, checking in on us both as we prepared to welcome three new lives into this world.  My parents, who reside in Northern Michigan, started the 9 hour trek to West Virginia.  They were about 4 1/2 hours away.

I was in the early stages of delivery, when the official announcement of the twins arrival was given:

Reagan Grace Williams & Aiden Jackson Williams, born at 10:22 PM & 10:25 PM, respectively.

By that time I was 19 hours into labor.

After 24 1/2 hours of labor, we welcomed Greyson Cooper into this world.  At 3:04am, on March 6th 2013, our lives changed forever.  Love that only a parent can know rushed over us.  Although, we thought we were prepared to have a baby, once we saw that 7 lb 3 oz miracle, all that we thought we knew and had learned flew right out that hospital window.  We were the proud parents of this little fella, and were about to embark on a journey with the greatest gift God gave man, a child.

So in the end, Greyson was born approximately 4 1/2 hours after his cousins, Reagan & Aiden, on March 5th and 6th.  We had one, they had two, and Seth's parents got three grand children in less 5 hours.  Wheew!  What a couple of days.  Oh, and just to make it even more special, Alana Pratt, second cousin to Seth, was born just two days before on March 4th.

Greyson has been such a blessing!  He always keeps us on our toes, and we never knew how much we could love someone!!!

Happy "almost" 2nd Birthday G!

Malinda, a Bridgeport High senior was super easy and fun to work with, and came into her session prepared with a few creative ideas of her own. One of the things that I encourage seniors, or really any client of mine to do, is to think of things to incorporate into the session that are unique to them.  It's a sure fire way to create a custom experience with photos that hold the most meaning. 

She was wanting something a little different, so we went to Stonewall Jackson for her senior session!!  With a mix of soft colors, floral patterns and a dash of her sassy school spirit, this senior session is sure to please!

I know they normally stink, but hopefully this blog will provide a little break from the mundane.  Today's blog is the second in our Meet-Me-Monday series.  We are going to introduce one member of our ever expanding team each Monday.  Last week you learned about the boss, today you will learn twenty facts about the other half of of Kuirsta + Seth.

1. My wife encouraged me to start taking photos with her a year after she started Kuirsta Marie Photography.  I have always liked taking pictures, but not until I began to learn about the technical side of photography did I catch the shutter-bug.
2. I was born in Columbia, South Carolina.  My family and I lived there until I was 5, and then moved to West Virginia.  The Mountain State adopted me, and I've been a die-hard Mountaineer ever since.
3. I graduated college with a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems.  
4. I have milked cows at my father-in-law's farm in Hersey, Michigan, and I loved every minute of it.
5. I love to deer hunt, but not for the reasons some may assume.  I enjoy the quiet beauty of the woods, connecting with nature, and the opportunity to provide my family and I with food the way those that came before us had to.
6. I love baseball!  I started playing when I was 3, and am still up for a game anytime.
7. I have worked full time since 2006.  Almost a decade as a technical professional.
8. My wife taught me how to play volleyball, and she says I have "Go-Go Gadget Arms".
9. I have a family of six: Myself, My son, Greyson, My wife, Kuirsta, and our three dogs: Oz (Lab), Marley (Shih Tzu), and Tripp (Golden Doodle)
10. Being prepared make me happy.  (i.e. Having flashlights, batteries, and a plan)
11. I'm in the fourth month of growing my man-beard.  8 more to go.
12. I love weddings.  The father/daughter and mother/son dances are my favorite.
13. My son could make me laugh if I had just broken all of my appendages.
14. I lettered in three sports my senior year of high school: Football (Quarterback), Baseball (Center-fielder), and Basketball (Forward)
15. I have one sibling, an older brother, who I still hang out with weekly.
16. My parents have been married for 37 years.
17. Kuirsta and I will have been married for four years on July 9th of this year.
18. I was Scared.To.Death to be a father, but once I became one I couldn't even remember what it was like not to be one.
19. I like to ask questions and learn about people and their stories.  
20. I am a happy man.  I've been blessed with a life that I don't deserve, and I owe that all to God.

A little teaser: this isn't the last you'll see of Tara.  

This girl is hilarious!!!! Not to mention a bombshell!!!! I absolutely LOVE working with her.  

If you haven't figured it out yet, I absolutely LOVE working with seniors!!!! They're so fresh-faced, full of life, and excited for their future!!! So many endless possibilities lie ahead of them.  It's such an exciting time of their lives.

This stunning girl is a high school senior at Bridgeport High.  Jessica's personality was so fun and her style was on point!  

But I've got some time on my hands, so I figure I'll take it one session at a time, and catch up during my slow season.  

So here it goes!!! We'll start off with one of my favs.  Miss Bre.  A Fairmont High senior, and also one of our 2014-2015 Senior Reps.  She's such a gorgeous girl, inside and out!!!! It was such a pleasure working with her and getting to know her sweet personality!!!! 

1. I fell in LOVE with photography as a child.  I was that little girl running around snapping pictures of anything and everything.  Using my little sisters and brother, and all my friends as models.  I'm pretty sure I even dressed up a cow or two.
2.  I'm a farmers daughter.  Born and raised in rural North Western Michigan.  I've milked cows, learned how to drive using a tractor, played hide and seek in a corn field, and once brought my prize cow to school for show and tell. (Yes it's all true. This girl has country roots.)
3. I was in spandex for 14 years of my life, playing volleyball, 4 of which were throughout college.  
4. Dt. Mt. Dew is King.
5. Salsa is my ketchup.
6. Skinny Caramel Macchiatos and back massages are the way to my heart.
7. I have the cutest little boy eva!! His name is Greyson Cooper, and I never knew I could love someone so much!
8. My husband, Seth and I met while serving at Cracker Barrel in college. 
9. I graduated college with a BA in Elementary Education.  Went on to teach as a long term Special Ed. teacher, until I made the decision to pursue photography as a full time career. 
10. I LOVE to laugh.  A lot.  I'm not afraid to make a fool of myself.  Prepare yourselves, your session will be nothing short of entertaining.
11. I'm addicted to LIPSTICK! Currently bright pink or a deep purpley pink.
12. I will splurge on a beautiful pair of boots or Big Star Jeans.
13. I didn't get the "Crafty Straathof Gene", so everything I pin on Pinterest will 1. never happen, or 2. I will pay someone to do it for me.
14. Tripp (Goldendoodle) and Marley (Shih Tzu) are my fur-babies.  
15. I'm extremely bashful.  But don't let it fool you, once you get to know me, I won't shut-up.
16. My first car was an '89 Ford F-150 farm use truck.
17. Traveling the world is a must.  I love taking in the beauty of other countries and their cultures.
18. My favorite food to snack on is pistachios.  
19. I was named after a woman from Germany.
20. This is no-brainer, but I absolutely LOVE my life, family, and job! 

Hope you enjoyed learning a little about what makes me, me!

I'm still swooning over their GORGEOUS woodsy engagement session.  The light, their love, and their adorable dog Mooch, all make this session beyond perfect!

This is my second time working with Kari & Dustin, and once again they rocked it!!!!!

I absolutely LOVE the way they look at each other.....the way they hold one another....their laughter, smiles, kisses, and embraces.  It's pretty apparent that they are head over heels in love with one another. 

Kari & Dustin, we LOVE you guys and can't wait for your wedding!!!!

Krista and Joe are the cutest together!! I absolutely LOVE these two!!! We had such a great time strolling the streets of downtown Fairmont for their engagement session.  They're so in LOVE, and the way they look at each other is just beautiful!!!! 

Ooooooohhhhhhhhhh I have a feeling next year is going to be FULL of seriously STUNNING weddings!!! And I can't wait!!!!!! Yaaaayyyyyyy!!!

Kelly and Alan are another one of our 2015 bride and grooms! Their wedding is going to be held at the Music Hall of Fame in Pittsburgh.  And we are beyond excited!!!!

After seeing and shooting their engagement session in downtown Pittsburgh, our minds are reeling with ideas!!!! Pittsburgh is such a cool city!!!! And these two lovebirds are just as awesome!!!!  Needless to say, we can not wait for this wedding!!!!!

Kaci, a Bridgeport High senior, came to me wanting her session to represent her passion for ballet.  She was my first client ever wanting a ballet inspired session, and I can't express how much fun it was to work with her!!!

PS I am now obsessed with dancers!!!! ;)  

Kaci, you rock!!!

We were so blessed to be a part of Nick and Marissa's union.  The love they share for one another, and the love that their families surround them with is an inspiration.  There was a point during the reception where I looked around the room and all I could see was smiling, laughing and that, ever-present, LOVE!  Couples dancing closely, children clinging to Mom and Dad's legs, laughter, and kisses; it was so powerful that it brought tears to my eyes.  Nick and Marissa, couldn't have been surrounded by a more loving group of friends and family.  What a beautiful sight to see.  A day when two families became one with an abundance of joy and love all around.

Each and every day (while editing) I am reminded at how blessed we are by our brides and grooms.  We are so very thankful when you choose us to document such a momentous day.   

Marissa and Nick, we wish you nothing but the best!!! 

We weren't sure what to expect when we were asked to shoot Alancea and Jons elopement, but we're open to almost everything, so we said heck, why not?!  

She graced us in a gorgeous flowy gown, and a beautiful handmade broach bouquet, and looked absolutely STUNNING!  While Jon wore a sharp, black, pinstriped suite, looking very Leonardo-esque.  

Their intimate exchange of vows easily became one of our favorites.  It was simply lovely.  

Enjoy!

She's my second East Fairmont Senior, and she knew how to rock it!!! Check out those EYES!!!! OMG they are to die for!!!!

She wanted some fun urban locations, so we decided to free-style it and just wander around Fairmont in search of inspiration, and came across several unique locations.  

Enjoy!!!

She earned her Premium Package session through our referral program for being a senior representative, and as an added bonus also received complimentary hair and make-up by the super talented Megan from Tuscan Sun Spa and Salon in Fairmont, WV. 

This STUNNING girl is a blast to work with, and knows how to pick locations!!!  We ventured out into the backwoods of West Virginia for her senior session.  The entire trek out to the 'waterhole', I wondered what type of location it would turn out to be, and much to my surprise it is probably one of my favorite spots I've ever shot at! It was beyond PERFECT and GORGEOUS!!! And so much fun!!! 

Enjoy!

This particular wedding was my kind of wedding!  All country, and lace.  

It was so GORGEOUS!  And to top it off we absolutely fell in love with the bride and groom.  They are such a sweet and fun couple to work with.  

Kaila and Brian are high school sweethearts, and it was completely obvious throughout the entire day how in love they are with each other.  I think my favorite moment was when Kaila stepped out onto the aisle.  Brian's reaction with his best man holding him was priceless.  The look in his eyes said everything.  Someone stated it best saying that he is one of the lucky ones. He gets to marry and spend the rest of his life with not only someone he loves, but with his best friend.  

Enjoy!!! 

But first..... a little taste of the gorgeousness that took place a few weekends ago in Morgantown.  

HMUA: Amanda Kriston

Therese is one of my beautiful cousins.  When she had asked us to be their photographer, I was elated!  I couldn't wait to photograph their wedding.  Being a photographer sometimes means missing these moments with my family, but when I'm asked by a family member to be the photographer, I get the chance to be there and celebrate with my family as well, which is amazing.

Erik and Therese were so much fun to work with, and are such a beautiful couple!  We loved spending time with them and the rest of my family.

Enjoy!

Of Course, I have to sneak in a few of my handsome little man, Greyson with his Aunt and Uncles from the wedding.  :) I absolutely LOVE how happy these two are together!!!!  Aren't they GORGEOUS!? I just love my family!!! Such a wonderful pair!!! It was so nice getting to spend time with them.

Now onto more important issues.....I'm not sure if you all know it, but we LOVE working with senior guys!!

This handsome guy is Brandon from Fairmont Senior.  Such an all around great guy!! And tons of fun to work with!!! 

Enjoy!!!

If you know either of them, you know what kind of love I'm talking about.   It is magnetic, and spectacular.  The kind of love that gives you goosebumps, and makes your heart happy.   It's BEAUTIFUL, raw, and pure.  

Everything, and I mean everything about this wedding was perfect and gorgeous.  All the details, the bride, the groom, the bridal party, the barn, the ceremony....The ceremony! Don't even get me started on the ceremony! Jacob Johnson, you my friend, know how to make a girl swoon.  If you didn't have the pleasure of attending, then you missed one of the most memorable exchange of vows I've witnessed to date.  This boy sang his own vows to the tune of "I Wanna Grow Old With You" off of the Wedding Singer, and had melted all our hearts.  (I've actually cried several times now, once at the wedding, and then several other times trying to write up this darn thing, because of how beautiful their love is for one another).  

This wedding was simply GORGEOUS!  I can recall when Aftyn asked me to be the photographer, and she gushed about how she wanted a barn reception, vintage vibe, lace details, the whole nine yards, and I couldn't wait for the actual wedding day, because I knew it was going to be insanely beautiful and perfect just like the two of them.    Congrats you two, this was indeed a perfect wedding!!! 

Wedding Details:

Hair & Make-up: Helena DeYoung's Hair Outreach

Church: St. Philip Neri Catholic Church 

Reception Venue: Edgar Farm Place

Catering: Pere Marquette Catering Company

Decorations: Buttons & Branches

Flowers: Shelly Mix

Ceremony Dress: Maggie Sottero

Reception Dress: Shareen Mitchell  

Bridesmaids Dresses: J Crew 

I feel so blessed to be able to be apart of such beautiful weddings!!  I loved everything about it, from the venue to the bouquets!!! And especially the couple!!!  They are such a wonderful pair!!! I love how natural they are with each other!!! They're so in love and it shows in every single image!!!

I must say that I've been very excited to blog about this one in particular!!!  There were so many firsts for me!!! Bride & groom portraits later in the evening.....chairs to use with the bridal parties....gorgeous outdoor area for portraits....

This year, my BIGGEST goal was to rock EVERY single wedding.  I wanted to walk away with images that a) represented my style well  b) told their story and c) were also creative and insanely beautiful.

I'm always pushing myself to do better.  I believe it's the athlete in me, that I can't turn off. There's always something that I either want to learn more about, or do better.    

Michael and Heather's wedding, proved to be ANOTHER SUCCESS.  I walked away feeling good and proud that once again this year, I rocked it, and then some.  

Wedding Day Vendors-

Venue: The Fairmont Field Club

Cake: Bake N Memories

Flowers: Main Street Shoppes/ Perenial Floral

Catering: Say-Boy Restaurant

Tent/Chairs: Lamberts Winery

Dress: Classic Bridal

Things that make my heart happy.

1. When clients value photography.

2. Clients with good taste.

3. Clients that are truly in love.

4. Clients that share with me things that represent or inspire them.

5.  When clients trust my vision artistically.

6.  Clients that can let loose, have fun, and enjoy the session.

7.  Did I mention when clients value photography. ;)

All of the above will make any session/event spectacular! And these two lovebirds embody all of the aforementioned.  

I just knew coming into this session that it was going to be AMAZING and GORGEOUS!!  We were able to use several different locations both woods and fields.  There was tall grass, a weeping willow, beautiful light, and of course a STUNNING couple!!! If only you could imagine the thoughts running through my head while I was shooting....sssswwwwoooooonnnnnn....Let's just say that it was PERFECT!!!! These two naturally rocked it, and nailed what I had envisioned for their session.  We laughed....again because I am insanely hilarious... ;), they cuddled, nuzzled, and shared little moments with each other.  And in the end, the final product is pure perfection.  

You would never guess that Kaila was nervous about her engagement session. They were naturals in front of the camera.  And I may or may not be pretty darn hilarious...or out of my mind tired from the wedding the night before... I'm going to go with hilarious though. I am known to make a fool of myself here and there, just to lighten the mood, ease nerves, and generate those gorgeous smiles, I know exist.  

One of the key things to keep in mind about KMP is that we want to capture how it feels, not just how it looks.  Anyone can take a picture, but when you choose us, you're choosing a set of photographers who care about the experience, the moment, the feelings, and the beauty in it all.  

Enjoy!  

Details~

Flowers: Passiflora

Cake:  Lisa's Sweet Shop

Venue:  The Shrine in Parkersburg

Hair: Kelli at Harner Hair Co.

Make-up:  Amy N. McCoy Make-up Artistry

Wedding Event Designer: Little Black Dress Events

Seriously, aren't they the cutest family ever?!! And Isaiah!!! Oh my goodness that little man is sooooooo handsome!!! We met up at a park in Morgantown, played with bubbles, had some fun on the jungle gym, and managed to get some pretty sweet pics.  I LOVE it when the session is all about having a good time, and this adorable family did just that! 

Enjoy!

This past year has been one for the books.  This experience has been a dream come true, and just goes to show that if you want something bad enough, it can and will happen.  I absolutely LOVE my job.  I am a dreamer, and now, I'm a do-er.  I've always wanted and dreamed of more, sometimes way more then I could reach.  In the past I wouldn't have tried so hard to reach for those things just out of arms length, but then The Blink Conference happened.  I took so much a way from Blink, not just knowledge, but new friends, a new outlook, inspiration, confidence, and faith.

I have been wanting to try something like this for a while now, but didn't have the confidence to ask for what I wanted.  With the help of my husband, inspiration from Blink, and newly found confidence in myself and company, I went for it.  I reached out to Tuscan Sun Spa and Salon, shared my idea, and then BOOM, the ball was rolling.  I was ASTONISHED, and so excited for what was to come, because I knew exactly how AWESOME it was going to be!

The one thing I wanted to convey with this program was that KMP is not just about pictures, it's about the experience, and process. I want to spoil my clients before, during, and after the session!  I want to offer an experience that exceeds all expectations.  

Cue Tuscan Sun and their awesome stylists.  

The stylists and I met a week before to discuss and plan looks for each of the girls.  Amanda even put together a "look" board.   Everyone was excited the day of, maybe not bright eyed and bushy tailed, but definitely excited.  

One of the things that I LOVE most about Tuscan Sun is the atmosphere.  I love the high end decor and elegance, the confident, knowledgeable, and trendy stylists, and the little things they do to make you feel so comfortable.   Teaming up with them was clearly the right choice.

This was a success. PERIOD.  

Thank you Tuscan Sun Spa and Salon, my Senior Reps, and Holly (who stayed around and helped with things at the shoot).  You all are helping this dreamer do-er, get it done.

After the first set of girls' hair and make-up was finished, we headed out to some land that we were graciously allowed to use for this epic shoot.  And the magic began.

I'm always anxious before sessions about how my clients will react in front of the camera, and today was no different except that there were seven clients, instead of just one.  While they were at Tuscan, I was able to get a feel for their personalities, and vise-versa.  But there are always some that will surprise you.  Laramie, a North Marion up and coming Senior, was one of those little surprises.  In the salon she was quiet and reserved, but once the camera was on her, she turned into this fierce bombshell.  Completely, taking this shoot to another level.

And then there is Andrea.  A future photog in the making, from Bridgeport High.  This girl and THOSE EYES! Seriously STUNNING!  At this point, I couldn't believe that we could be so blessed with such gorgeous girls, and not only are they gorgeous, but they are also the sweetest!    

Cheyenne, a GORGEOUS East Fairmont soon to be Senior, came in confident!  I absolutely LOVE how open-minded she was during hair and make-up.  Our vision for her was a bit different, with more of a "flapper" inspired look, and she rocked the heck out of it!!! AND those LIPS!!! I'd die to have lips like hers!!!

These girls and their confidence blew me away!!!

Once we finished up some individual shots, we decided to get some small group shots and they nailed it!!!  

The second group of girls came in strong as well.  The Gisele-esque Breanna, from Fairmont Senior, stepped up first to start the second round of individuals, and to say the least she rocked it!!!  I love how comfortable she is in front of the camera.  

Our next STUNNING senior, Jessica, from South Harrison, came in and undeniably killed it.  Her quiet, but fun spirited personality shined through once the ice broke.  I was even able to catch some seriously fierce looks, between giggles.  

Next up was the ever so gorgeous Eden, a soon to be senior at Fairmont Senior High. This BOMBSHELL and her personality had me laughing from start to finish.  By the way, her outfits were on point.

Brodi was another pleasant surprise.  This drop dead gorgeous girl is an up and coming senior at South Harrison, and even though she has this super sweet personality, this girl and her million dollar smile was super fierce and fun!!

Throughout the entire day, and I know the girls will vouch for me,  I was swooning over the images I was able to capture with these girls!! They came into this experience wholeheartedly, trusted in my vision, and allowed me to capture their true beauty.  I can honestly say that I am over the moon with the finished product.

And it wouldn't be a TRUE KMP experience if we didn't have a little fun!!!! ;)

So GORGEOUS!

Simply STUNNING!

It was so hard to pick my favorites!  

Finally a whole group shot!!! Which turned out FABULOUS!!!!

 KMP Selfie!!!

KMP team huddle!!!

Love this group of girls!

Overall, I would have to say that for this being our first ever KMP Senior Rep Team, it's going to be extremely hard to beat this years group of girls.  I absolutely fell in love with each and everyone of them, and cannot wait for their personal senior sessions.  So if you are a 2015 Senior looking for a photographer, and know one of my girls, pull them aside and ask them what the KMP experience is all about. We've also put together a behind the scenes video that showcases how it all goes down.  Check it out here!

One of the first people I met when I moved to West Virginia was Whitney.  We were assigned to be not only teammates, but roommates at Fairmont State College (yes, I know it's a University now).  I remember the first time I talked with her over the phone.  :) Her tough southern accent threw me for a loop (haha...I know what your thinking....southern accent...I'm from Michigan...any person south of us has a southern accent).  I could tell she was a go-getter.  She explained to me that she was running hills and weight training with her dad over the summer to prepare for her first year of college volleyball.  I, on the other hand, had just finished my first year of college volleyball at a Junior College near Detroit, and dreaded all the running and weight training that was ahead of us.  Needless to say, I wasn't as excited, and the whole "running hills" thing, kind of scared me (come on, I'm a flat lander).  

I remember the day well when we met for the first time at Morrow Hall, before heading to the Feaster Center for physicals.  We were both surprised to find that neither of us was what we were expecting, and we still to this day get a kick out of it.   Our time spent together in our dorm room and house brought many good laughs, crazy nights, loads of funny stories, and an everlasting friendship.

I have to admit, I got a little misty eyed at the end of their wedding night, and might be shedding a few tears as I type this (don't judge ;)).  

Whitney and her family are amazingly, wonderful people.  I mean, walk into their house and feel like you've known them all your life, type of people.   If you've had the pleasure of knowing them, you understand. They were basically my second family, and took such great care of me.  I am so grateful for their kindness and love they showed me over the years, and also very thankful to have met them. So naturally, I felt very honored to have been chosen to document their wedding day.

Before I go on about how beautiful their wedding day was, I think it's necessary to share a moment I had with Whitney months before their big day. I don't think I told Gabe this, but when they first met, I asked Whitney one night, when we were playing volleyball "if he was the one?", and without hesitation, Whitney looked at me and said "yes, I've never felt this way about any one."   :)  

This is it folks.  The real deal.  These two are truly in love, and it shows! Their wedding day was perfect and beautiful, despite the rain! And yes, it rained, but that didn't effect either of their spirits.  They embraced it.  We had quite the experience getting all the formal pictures done though.  It involved garbage bag ponchos, drenched outfits, and tons of umbrellas.  But everything turned out perfect! And I think you'll agree!!!! 

Congrats Whitney and Gabe!!!!! We are so happy for the both of you!!!! And thank you again for picking us!!! We enjoyed every second of it!!!

Enjoy!!!!!

I couldn't wait to post images from this styled senior session!  This girl ROCKED it!  She is my FIRST senior to take advantage of our Premiere Senior Package, that includes hair and make-up from the AMAZING Tuscan Sun Spa & Salon stylist, Amanda Kriston.   This is something that I've been wanting to offer my seniors, since I began this journey.  My vision was to pamper my clients, and offer them the opportunity to come into the session feeling more beautiful, confident, and at ease.  And Amanda does just that.  She is seriously AMAZING! I am the type of girl to travel 400 miles to get my hair done (no, seriously...), because I'm that picky about my hair, but Amanda has changed that.  

I met Amanda my first year shooting weddings, and initially loved her personality and style.  Because I'm one to give anything a try at least once, I booked an appointment with her.  Clearly, she nailed it.  So I decided to throw out my idea of including hair and make-up with my senior sessions, and she LOVED it, and the rest is history!  She has now assisted me with a few different types of sessions, and I'm so so soooooo happy that I got up enough nerve to reach out to her about styled sessions.  

If your interested in learning more about our styled sessions, I'll be posting a testimonial from Kelsey later this week.  

Enjoy!