Tabitha and Todd ~ St. Petersburg Wedding Photographer

I loved Tabitha and her mom, Kim, from the moment I met them. The wedding was planned within weeks of the date. And as I sat down with them for the first time over a cup of coffee I realized that I would be seeing them sooner than later, as the wedding date was 17 days away.

Family, and closest of friends gathered outside the Don CeSar to witness Tabitha and Todd's wedding. It felt like a family reunion and wedding combined. Everyone stayed after the ceremony to pose for pictures and catch up with loved ones whom they hadn't seen in years. That is the beautiful thing about a wedding. It not only brings two lives together but in most cases, family members and long lost friends together. Finally the crowds dwindled and all that was left was Tabitha, Todd, and I. And boy did we have a blast. Tabitha brought her sass to the table and was willing to do anything in the pictures. And Todd, being the awesome sport he was, went along with all of the ideas. I really enjoyed this couple and their family. Tabitha and Todd, thank you so much for letting me into your lives, I really enjoyed being a part of your special day. Much Luck and Love in Your Future.

Back To Reality ~ St. Pete Beach Wedding Photographer

I have always been the girl who wants nothing to do with anything besides the beach, especially when it comes to vacation. My idea of getting away is, ironically enough, going to a different beach, and testing out their sand and relaxing environment. It was slightly out of character for me to decide on a trip to Maine, however, my dog was allowed to come with me, and I couldn't beat the accommodations. I must admit, the scenery took my breath away. And apparently, I couldn't have picked a better time of year to visit. The earlier summer months brought endless weeks of rain, and only now, did the locals begin to praise their summer in Maine.

I had an amazing trip and hope to get back soon. I can only imagine how gorgeous their Fall is going to be. The foliage will probably be insane due to all the rain. Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the trip including two from the beautiful St. Anne's church in Kennebunkport, Maine. My dad swears I'm going to get married there. I can only laugh at comments like that and continue to live in the moment, and for the most part, the beach.

Out Of The Office ~ August 19th - August 27th

It happens to the best of us. We work, and work, and work. But once in a while it becomes super apparent that you need to step away from all that working so you can appreciate other things that life has to offer. That being said, I'm excited to announce, I'm going on vacation!!! My dog and I will be getting out of town and retreating to a much more cooling environment....Although I'm sure anything is cooler than Florida in August :) However, there is alot to blog about when we get home including the beautiful wedding of Tabitha and Todd, an engagement session with Dallas and Rob, and a beach wedding with Jenny and Kenny. Here are some sneak peaks at their events and stay tuned for September's blogs.

Congratulations Dana and Randy ~ Tampa Wedding Photographer

Saturday, August 2nd marked the beginning of a new season. Florida summer. Yes, it gets well into the 90's by May, however you don't feel the dead head until around August. Sure enough, August 1st, I walked outside and was bombarded by oppressive heat and humidity....and it was only 9 a.m. I was slightly nervous that Dana and Randy's wedding might be the same scenario weather. However when the ceremony started I felt this breeze lightly grazing the beach. It was refreshing enough to enjoy being outside. Dana and Randy were married in a beautiful setting outside of the Don CeSar Beach Resort. There, they were surrounded by their closest friends and family members. It was a beautiful wedding and gorgeous sunset. I even got a little chuckle when Randy said the temperature wasn't so bad. They were too blissful to notice anything else but each other. Dana and Randy, congratulations and make sure to keep that bliss with you wherever you go.

Dancing ~ St. Petersburg Wedding Photographer

I love to dance. Ever since I can remember, if there was music within ear shot I would be dancing...or at least bopping my head to the beat of the song. That being said I love to capture moments during the reception when people let loose, dance, and truly become themselves. It's so freeing.This point typically occurs when the stress of the day is winding down, and the consumed beverages from the cocktail hour have kicked in. No matter if it's the first dance, or 500th dance, whether you are leading a group or just kicking it by yourself, dancing is a liberating experience. The pictures below are some of the dance sessions I was able to capture from Amy and Michael's wedding.
"Dance like no one is watching. Sing like no one is listening. Love like you've never been hurt and live like it's heaven on Earth."
Mark Twain

Amy and Michael ~ Tampa Bay Wedding Photographer

I stepped out of my car. The sun was shinning bright and hot. As I lugged my camera equipment through the heat and humidity, sweat dripping down my brow, I couldn't have been more excited that Amy and Michael's wedding ceremony and reception were taking place inside. They married July 25th, 2009 at The Don CeSar Beach Resort. Amy and her family had been sick the entire week prior to the wedding. But cough and congestion was not going to hinder a thing. Amy powered through without hesitation. We were able to get some amazing shots both inside and out. What a wonderful event to be part of. Amy and Michael I wish you nothing but the best together, thank you for letting me be a part of your special day. And a special thanks for the wonderful Jennifer Fitzsimmons, amazing wedding coordinator and owner of a Friend of the Bride, as well as Chad Whelan, owner of Digital Wave Video Productions. Lots of laughter and enjoyment all the way around.

Rehearsal Dinner ~ Black Palm Restaurant

Friday, July 24th I had the pleasure of joining Amy, Michael, and their family at the Black Palm Restaurant in Pass-a-grille. For it was there they held their rehearsal dinner. Spanish style music serenading the guests as the wine and food flowed freely. The service was spot on and the environment was warm and friendly. It was a great way to ease into the weekends worth of activities. The very next day I joined them again for a full days worth of shooting as Amy and Michael married at the Don CeSar. Wedding post coming soon. For now, here are some of my favorite shots from the night.