Update: He took her to Bistro Bella Vita!  Wow, what a lucky girl!

Grinding grain in a mill:Getting hotter… but not hot enough yet.Some essentials:The cooler has been converted into a mash tun.  It all ends up in this conical fermenter… and now we wait!

She also picked out a new bottle of nail polish, for her date to a “fancy restaurant” (most likely Olive Garden) tomorrow night with her dad!  She’s getting all dolled up!

Brandy asked me for a quick portrait session because she is the illustrator for a children’s book – very cool!  The book is most likely going to be called “Mattie the Monarch”, and it documents Mattie’s migration to Mexico (She’s a late bloomer that lags behind and must make the journey all by herself.)  The author is Dr. Matthew Douglas, the zoology professor at Grand Rapids Community College.  They are planning on having some copies printed and available for purchase at the Frederik Meijer Gardens gift shop by March during the butterfly exhibit!  They are hoping to be published some time this year, which will allow them to distribute the book at additional venues.  They also plan on continuing with a few more books to make it a series.  I will definitely be on the lookout for this book when we visit FMG this year, because our kids love nature (and of course Lucy loves butterflies!), and anything that can teach them about the world around them is great in my book!  I am also really looking forward to seeing Brandy’s illustration work!

I asked Brandy to tell me what this opportunity has meant to her, in hopes that it would lend a little more insight about this lovely person I had the pleasure of photographing:
I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect job straight out of college!  I have always had an interest in the biological sciences, but my true passion is art.  I majored in Liberal Studies (emphasis in Environmental Studies) at Grand Valley. The philosophy of the program is centered on integration and a very holistic style of learning.  This project to me is integration at its best.  I have been able to utilize my talents, passions, and knowledge to create something that I am really proud of, and have also discovered a practical use for my degree (which can be hard as you probably know…). And, if nothing else becomes of it, at least I can say I have a great resume!  Dr. Douglas has given me such a great opportunity (as he has with many previous students), and has helped me see that my artistic talents can be useful. I am thankful for his help in so many ways.

Patrick and Leigh are a relaxed, fun-loving couple.  They both love the outdoors, and they love riding motorcycles.  They are caring and sensitive to each other and everyone around them.  They are in love, they are best friends, and they are a family, with six-year-old Hunter, who is a wonderful little boy with a sweet personality.  I was so impressed with him, how friendly and respectful he acted on what must have been a very long day for a little kid.  Obviously the people in his life are doing a fabulous job, and he’s going to grow up to be a good man, with great character, just like his daddy!

This wedding and reception were beautiful, and everything went so smoothly!  I also have to mention, I have always thought that Leigh was gorgeous… but as a bride, she was simply stunning!  The day was a celebration of family, heritage, memories, tradition, hope, and love.  There we so many touching moments, and it was a pleasure to be there from start to finish.  Leigh and Patrick, congratulations again!  I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you!

Exchanging gifts before seeing each other.A quick (but hidden) visit before heading to Fallasburg park for pictures. 

This bouquet was made by Leigh’s mom Sandy, who collected brooches and other jewelry from family members and friends… It is a beautiful heirloom and tribute to the amazing women in her life. 

We have snow!  So excited!!!

Gorgeous ladies!  Yes there is an airport near the venue, which is nice because the plane makes for a fun photo opportunity… but what is even cooler is that Leigh is almost done getting her pilot’s license!  I’m so impressed and in awe that she is doing that.  She’s a cool chick!  Leigh’s dad John seeing her for the first time in her gown. 

The plaid shirt pocket from Leigh’s grandpa – her dad’s dad – who is no longer with us.  He smoked a pipe, and a burn hole in the center of the pocket tells the story.  I think a lot of guests (including myself) got a little teary-eyed during John’s speech. Patrick’s ring is camouflage!  I love it.  Perfect for the avid hunter. THE OUTER VIBE kept the party going all night!  They are so much fun!  Not your average wedding band, that’s for sure.  They’re touring the Midwest now, check them out if you get a chance, you will not be disappointed!

I am always honored when someone chooses me to photograph their wedding day.  It’s one of the most important, happiest, and life-changing days of a couple’s life, and all I want is to give them my very best.  This wedding was a very special one to me, because the bride is a life-long friend, someone with whom I share many, many precious childhood memories.  Whenever I think back to all my favorite times as a kid: sleepovers, dancing and singing to whatever late-80′s music was popular, riding 3-wheelers, camping, bike rides to buy candy, going to movies, Grandville football games… Leigh is in the picture, and I have always kept those memories close to my heart.  I’m humbled she chose me to be a part of this big day in her life with Patrick!  Thank you again!

Youa and Will, I hope the next few weeks go by smoothly and quickly, although as I say that, I also want to you to enjoy this time:  time as a couple, as well the experience of pregnancy.  It’s pretty amazing.  Best wishes, and thank you again for making the trip from Lansing for this session, I’m so glad you did!  Here are some of my favorites from our session:

I think this one is my favorite: