Sretan Bozic & Joyeux Noël!

I'm fully aware that our favorite jolly white-bearded man in red velvet suit is a deliberate creation of capitalism, and I'm generally among those who roll their eyes when Christmas merchandise hits the stores in late summer and consumerism is at its worst.

But…

I'm also the one who teared up last night watching my kids and nieces excitedly looking through the window as they heard the sound of Santa's sleigh arriving (go YouTube and bluetooth speakers!). Once they saw him walking up to our door, they panicked and ran upstairs to hide and peek, while [my brother dressed up as] Santa came in with a big bag over his shoulder (sewn last minute by my mom to fit the image), and took out their gifts one by one and put them by the tree. I clicked away with my camera trying so hard not to sob.

As a child in an interfaith family living in a communist Yugoslavia, my Christmas experience was very different than that of most of my American and Western European friends, or even my own children today!

Our Santa Claus was called Deda Mraz (transl. Grandpa Frost) and, in true socio-communist spirit, he came for New Year's, and dropped off gifts for children of all faiths. That part I’m 100% on board with, and appreciate so much today! But, we never left cookies for him, we never anticipated his arrival or even thought he was real, and we surely never worked too hard for that one modest gift he brought us. (Or did our parents never realize that using him as behavioral leverage was an option?)

Why in the world do I feel like I missed out, then?!

I guess that’s the beauty and the trap in being a parent… you have the opportunity to right all the previous generations’ wrongs… but you may ambitiously over-right them, if you know what I mean ::wink wink::!

Tonight I raise my glass to the spirit of fine-balancing, giving, of togetherness, and of childhood innocence and magic!

Merry Christmas, friends!

Alyssa & Jerred | Autumn Wedding at Double K Rustic Ranch | Dallas Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

The countdown finally came to an end, as did the week long stretch of rainy days.

Alyssa and Jerred’s dream of saying their vows in an open field on a warm and sunny December afternoon, and afterwards celebrating with friends and family inside a rustic barn, was no longer a dream!

(I mean… come on! These two have got to have some connections up there! The same thing happened the day of their engagement session, back in March!)

I cannot describe how honored I felt that they chose me to be their wedding photographer. I knew this would be a very meaningful and very tearful day ahead. So, with waterproof mascara and camera* in tow, I headed out to the Double K Rustic Ranch.

For a photographer, the wedding day usually starts with photographing all the details while the bride and groom are getting ready with their bridesmaids and groomsmen.

I love seeing how each bride chooses to pair her jewelry with shoes, flowers, and how all the little things come together. And the colors… and the textures…

Side note: just look at these GORGEOUS wedding boots, you guys! I couldn’t get enough of them!

Before I tell you anything else about this beautiful day, I need to introduce you to Stetson, Alyssa’s sweet little boy who stole Jerred’s heart, and gained a “bonus dad” on this special day! Keep scrolling for a tear-jerking moment between these two during the ceremony.

Those last minutes before everyone is done getting ready are some of the most emotional moments of the day… The reality of what is about to happen sets in. The bride and the groom usually have a meaningful moment with their parents. Heartfelt letters are read, thoughtful gifts exchanged… And then, the nerves are usually released with some good laughter and inside jokes with your bridesmaids and groomsmen.

But, nothing will bring you a more peaceful calm more than setting your eyes on your beloved one, touching their hand, or hearing their voice before you walk down the aisle.

It was time for the ceremony to begin…

In the first row, Alyssa and her family had saved a seat in memory of her big brother who passed away several years ago, but still has a tangible presence in everyone’s lives.

And here it is… my absolute favorite moment of the day!

Alyssa walked down the aisle with her Dad and Stetson, and as she approached, Jerred got down on one knee and held Stetson’s hand while promising to be his guide, best friend, and to love and protect him and his mommy with every cell of his being for the rest of his life. The ceremony had barely started, and the tears were already flowing in front of and behind my camera!

And then, the ceremony continued in waves of laughter and happy tears.

VENDORS:

Venue: Double K Rustic Ranch

Florist: MyArtbeat

Bride's and bridesmaids' dresses: David's Bridal

Groom’s and groomsmen’s attire: Men’s Wearhouse

DJ/PhotoBooth: Bust A Move DJ Services

Cake & Dessert: Gigi's Cupcakes

Catering: Gepetto's Pizza Truck

Invitations: PenelopesPaperPantry

Kelly Family | Dallas Family Photographer | Session at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

I woke up just a few minutes before my 5am alarm, feeling fully rested and ready to take on the day! I got my gear ready for my session, had my cup of jasmine tea and breakfast, walked my dog out to do her thing (which she did, in under two minutes - new record - woohoo!), got in my car and headed out to meet this sweet family for their sunrise session!

As I got there, the birds were chirping, the rising sun was peeking over the hill and through the tree branches, a light breeze was blowing, and everything was just right! And you're thinking, "Riiiight?! But then, what happened next?" Nope, this is not that kind of story! The birds kept on chirping all throughout our session, the sun kept shining, and sweet little Keira modeled happily clutching her sidekick, Sweetie the Penguin, and giggling until the very end! 

Okay! Okay! One bad thing did happen! The breeze died down. Because, it's summer... in Texas.

There are some days when I want to pinch myself to wake myself up from moments like this when everything is going right, and I'm fully living in the moment soaking in its awesomeness, and immeasurably grateful that I get to do, not one but, two most awesome jobs for a living! (For those of you who don't know, other than a photographer, I'm also a full time high school teacher.) I am blessed to have the most amazing clients, and the Kellys just joined my tribe!

The connection between these three is magical! Keira is a lucky lucky girl with two parents who absolutely ADORE her, and light up just talking about her. There is so much joy in this season of life of this sweet family, and it shows in every hug, in every hand squeeze, in every look.

Sooo.... I'm just going to come right out and say that I will forever be envious of this set of Keira's photos (below), because at two years old - I couldn't get Olivia to stand still long enough to capture anything but a blurry line showing the exact escape route from my camera, and I it seems like the same fate awaits me with Evan!

But, you guys, how adorable is THIS little munchkin?!

When I met Cammie and Paul, about ten years ago, the first thing that I noticed about them is how sweet and loving they were to each other, and to this day, that impression hasn't changed. They both pretty much turn into mush the moment they come near each other! 

Cammie and Paul, thank you for trusting me to preserve the memories of this special and fleeting moment in time with your baby girl and each other. My heart is overwhelmed with so much happiness for you!

Until next time :) 

Kasey and Matt | Klyde Warren Park Engagement Session | Dallas-Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

As she opened her first Valentine's Day gift from her amazing boyfriend of almost a year, Kasey saw a planner in which he marked their pre-planned monthly dates. Little did she know that Matt was arriving to the next date he planned at the Dallas Arboretum with a ring in his pocket! He proposed to her on top a hill overlooking White Rock Lake, her favorite spot. 

After their very special date, they headed to Matt's sister's house for her surprise birthday party, while Kasey was calling and sending messages to her friends and family to share the exciting news. When they arrived her father opened the door! Kasey scanned the room seeing the excited faces of her own family and friends, and realized she had just walked into her own surprise engagement party!

For four years they walked the same halls at their alma mater ACU, they attended the same church, even socialized in the same circles, but hadn't met until after graduation, at a friend's wedding. She was a friend of the bride, and he was a friend of the groom. The stars aligned at the rehearsal dinner, and as they were finally brought to the same table, there was no turning back. They fell in love in a big Texas-sized way over the course of the next year, and now they're planning their BIG DAY! 

The morning of their engagement session, bright-eyed, wide-smiled, and looking very classy, they walked hand in hand toward me as we met up at the Klyde Warren Park in the center of Dallas, a stunning location for engagement portraits. 

We anticipated clouds and rain, and instead got a beautiful sunny morning and gorgeous soft light! Thank you, Texas weather, for being so unpredictable! 

Kasey and Matt are so sweet to each other... So many of these moments you see in their engagement photos were undirected impromptu kisses and hugs. Those are always my favorite moments from every session!

Their chemistry is undeniable.

Their love is kind, and gentle, and their happiness is infectious.

And they laugh together, a lot! Matt teases Kasey for being particular about not letting her foods touch on a plate, and she points out that he always makes funny faces when taking photos together. 

These lovebirds are also foodies who love exploring new restaurants, they play in the same kickball league, and love being crafty and making things for their future home. They love city and nature equally, and wanted that to reflect in their engagement session as well.

Kasey and Matt, thank you for trusting me and asking me to be your engagement and wedding photographer! 

I feel incredibly lucky our paths crossed, and I cannot wait for your wedding next spring! 

Livie is ONE! | Fort Worth Family Photographer | Session at Texas Christian University

We blinked, and sweet baby Olivia Grace turned ONE! 

Livie should hold the title of the most easy going and even tempered one year old :)

She's just moments away from starting to walk, but not walking is no hindrance to this little busy bee! 

Family sessions are always fun with this wonderful bunch! They hold a very special place in my heart!

Baby Olivia is my daughter's namesake, so I will forever be biased! Emily, this gorgeous Momma, is my former coworker. She loves her tribe fiercely, and the moment she meets you, she instantly makes you feel like you've been friends forever! Emily's older daughter, Natalia, is my former student! Natalia is the kind of student that you naively think your classrooms will be filled with before you officially become a teacher, and the kind that keeps you in the trenches when you're having a tough day and doubting your life choices. I've asked Emily and Pete for their secrets/instruction manual/friendly tips, and they refuse to take any credit for raising such an awesome human. Pfff!

And Pete is the kind of Dad and Husband that daughters brag about to their friends and teachers, and wives gush over at work and on social media. He is one-liner kind of funny, he's everyone's rock, and the girls clearly have a very special bond with him. 

And, of course, what could be a more exciting way to mark the first birthday than getting your first taste of CAKE! This was not just any cake, but a gorgeous strawberry flavored, pink and gold sparkly cake, that this super talented former-baker Mommy made for her littlest love!

Happy birthday, baby girl! You're adored more than you'll ever know! 

Barrett Family | Fort Worth Maternity Photographer

There's an inherent calm that comes with a second pregnancy that most moms feel. You've survived the first child's infancy with your sanity (mostly) intact - that alone gives you the kind of confidence that nothing else can! You've also grown as a woman, as a partner, you've learned to not sweat the small stuff any more... Ok! Ok! I'll re-phrase! ... you've gotten better at not sweating the small stuff, you've become more trusting of your instincts, you're more patient. 

I met up with this sweet family for an early (early!) morning session to beat the Texas summer heat, and catch some beautiful light on top of a hill in Fort Worth. Katy is a friend of mine, and although it's not their first time in front of my camera, I think it's my favorite session that we've done thus far! This feeling may not last long, considering that the next time will be not that far off in the future, as her baby girl is joining us earthside in a few short weeks! Can't wait to meet you, baby Libby!

The connection between this momma and her first boy is undeniable! He's been quite excited about baby sister's arrival, and preparing by swaddling and holding his stuffed animals. Can't wait to see him in the role of a big brother!

Ava | Southlake Tween Photographer

Meet Ava, one of the sweetest, most poised, and drop dead gorgeous tweens I've ever met.

The first time I met her was about two years ago when I was photographing her family, and I could tell right away that underneath that first layer of the politeness and shyness, there was a fun, sassy, and incredibly thoughtful girl. As I chatted with her and her mom a bit more over time, I found out that my hunch was spot on! She's all those things, and so much more! She's a passionate animal-lover, she's a creative who writes, plays, and records her own music, and she's a loyal friend! 

 And in less than a month, as she becomes a Bat Mitzvah, she'll be a tween no more!

Happy haaappy 13th birthday, sweet girl! 

Alyssa and Jerred | Arbor Hills Engagement Session | Dallas-Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

She opened a gift box he had given her, only to find a note from him asking to walk a little closer to her, and a pair of Nike shoes (sidenote: she loooves them). The relationship started, love bloomed... Then, last summer, on Alyssa's birthday, Jerred gave her another gift in a box at a dinner with her family. And, in the box were *white* Nike shoes, and a note saying: "So... just wondering... can I walk just a little closer... till death do us part?" and he got down on one knee and asked her to be his wife! 

These two lovebirds laugh a lot together, and they're so gentle and sweet with each other. Their connection is undeniable and their happiness is contagious!

Alyssa says that the thing she's most excited about when it comes to her wedding day is getting to marry her best friend! 

Their favorite thing to do is spending time with their baby boy, and staying at home for movie nights (now that's my kind of date!). As sweet as they look together, these two are super competitive with each other when it comes to arcade Basketball and Air Hockey. 

The love and admiration between these three sweet souls is palpable! 

And we ended our session just as the sun was setting, giving off this glorious golden glow! Ahhh I couldn't get enough of it! Arbor Hills Nature Preserve was truly the perfect choice of engagement session location for the feel they wanted their session images to have. 

Alyssa and Jerred, it was so much fun hanging out with you, laughing together, and getting to know each other better. I'm beyond honored to be your wedding photographer, and so excited for your big day in December at the Double K Rustic Ranch!

Davis Family | Magnolia Ave Fort Worth

This sweet family is always a joy to photograph! I say always, because they've made quite a few appearances in front of my camera over the years! As it is with all families with small children, it's fascinating watching the family dynamic change over time, and as a photographer, I'm ready for anything! Baby Ava is a chatty and F-U-N two year old, made of equal parts of sweetness and mischief! She loves hugging and kissing Mommy, riding on Daddy's shoulders, and is easily bribed with ice-cream! I absolutely love her energy!

Ava was definitely the star of this session - as it should be! 😉

Whenever I photograph families with young children, I always try to take cues from the little ones to decide what types of poses will work best, or if posing is even an option. With my own kids, it's not even worth trying haha! It's important for me as the photographer to find a way to work with them, instead of trying to get them to work with me! It also puts the parents at ease to know that there are no "expectations".

And then... what I get is pure emotion, and magic!

One thing that I suggest to all the parents when photographing family sessions is to carve out a couple of minutes for just the two of you! For most couples (especially parents!), the last time they stood in front of a photographer alone was their wedding day! It's important to remember - wedding days, baby births, and graduations are not the only memories our life is made of! The every day you is worth capturing and preserving in memory as well! 

Alicia and Aaron | Wedding at Harwood Terrace Baptist Church and Colleyville Center

In her toast to the newlyweds, Katie, Alicia's maid of honor and childhood friend, jokingly described Alicia as helplessly indecisive. But, as it turns out, there was no indecisiveness when she met Aaron! After friends and family questioned who was the new boy showing up in her Facebook feed, without hesitation she declared he was THE ONE!

Their eyes twinkle when they look at each other, and their love for each other is palpable! 

Congratulations, lovebirds! I wish you the most wonderful life together! May you always look at the each other the way you did on your big day!

VENDORS:

Ceremony: Harwood Terrace Baptist Church

Reception: Colleyville Center

DJ: Jeff Burris with Black Tie Sounds

Bride's and bridesmaids' dresses: David's Bridal

Florist: Terri Koontz

Cake: Texas Star Bakery

Barrett Family | Mansfield Family Photographer

I'm bringing the busy fall season to an end with this family of three and their fun Autumn sunset session in Mansfield. It was an evening of lots of giggles, tickles, running around... and graham teddies :) :) :) 

And of course, I love to end a family session by letting the kiddos go free while Mom and Dad get a few photos alone, because it is often the first time they've had professional portraits done, just the two of them, since their wedding! (Uhmm... totally guilty!!)

Warcup Family | Fort Worth Family Photographer

I can't get over how dreamy Fort Worth looks early in the mornings at this time of year! Nothing warms my heart more than clients who are up for a sunrise session on a weekend to capture the most beautiful morning light! 

Meet the Warcups! The love between these two parents is tangible, and their parenting and multitasking skills left me in awe! While I turned out around to switch my lenses, they managed to change clothes, hand out snacks and water, supervise running around, dust dirt off kids clothes, and regroup with everyone in the right spot. And... I am a really quick at switching out my lenses! Pure magic - this pair, telling ya!

After some time at the park, we ended the session in downtown Fort Worth, my favorite place in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. I have yet to find a place with this kind of balance of old and new, modern and historical, AND this much charm and friendliness all in one place!

Anderson is ONE! | Roanoke Family Photographer

It's been such an honor watching this baby boy grow through my lens! I can't believe how fast this year flew by and baby Anderson is already celebrating his first birthday and entering toddlerhood!!! 

He's not walking yet, but don't let that fool you - this boy is f-a-s-t! And he is everywhere, getting into everything! Just when he realizes he's gotten into trouble, he flashes the biggest smile and disarms you. Can't blame him, it clearly works!!! 

His sister, Kennedy, couldn't let him have the spotlight to himself, so she took over while he was getting ready. This little girl loooves the camera! And, clearly, the camera loves her too :) Kennedy is just the sweetest girl!

Hedbergs are a beautiful family inside and out! Sessions with them are never short on fun!! 

Goodbye Summer!

Our summer shenanigans are coming to and I'm already getting sad and nostalgic, looking through endless photos I took of my two babies! They're changing so fast!!

Isn't it strange that it makes me sad that Olivia no longer mispronounces some words?! She used to call herself Vivia for the longest time, so I called her Vivia as well. Yesterday, she was very upset with me for not saying her name correctly! "No, mommy! It's O-O-O-livia!"

And Evan hasn't even celebrated his first birthday yet, and the boy is already waddling through the house! He's getting into everything, imitating his big sister whatever she does, and torturing our dog Lola by dragging her by her ears instead of the leash. She's a good sport and doesn't even flinch! 

Goodbye Summer! You were good to us! 

We played, we napped, we swam, we napped, we read, we napped, we went to the zoo, we napped some more. Now back to alarm clocks, no naps for adults, and brushing my hair every day! :) :) :)

We'll be back at it in 10 months again! 

Suzanne and Brian | Arlington Vow Renewal

"Oh, isn't she stunning", Brian said to me as he glanced over at his gorgeous bride. Fifteen years later, their love is deeper. Their bond is stronger. Their devotion is unconditional. Proclaiming their commitment to each other again,  in front of their closest family and friends was a deeply meaningful act. 

Suzanne and Brian, thank you for the honor of documenting this beautiful day in your life! Your presence brings such joy to everyone around you! I wish you 115 more of gloriously happy years together! Cheers!

Perez Family | Dallas Bishop Arts District

They say, "If you don't like the weather in Texas, wait five minutes!" So I waited.

In the days leading up to this session, I slowly morphed into a meteorologist, checking weather forecasts, and excitedly watching the rain chances drop as the day of our session approached... aaand what a gorgeous sunny morning this turned out to be!!

You see, Leila is one of my dearest friends, and I'm always looking forward to the opportunity of having her beautiful family in front of my lens. Our times together are always filled with good conversations, lots of laughter, and toddler squeals. We wouldn't have it any other way! 

Leila and Adrian, I am so honored to have documented a few fleeting moments of this special time in your life! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Baby Virginia | Denton Newborn Photographer

I believe babies make the best art. I find myself drawn to simple, timeless, naked baby photos, with neutral colors and minimal props. Every now and then, an entire black and white newborn session is just what my soul needs.

Baby Virginia, you're mommy's and daddy's dream come true! It was wonderful meeting you!! 

Hedberg Family | Southlake Town Square

Julie and I connected through a Facebook group for local businesses months ago, and have been talking about doing this session for a while. I was so happy the weather served us perfectly, and it didn't hurt that this adorable group of four is super photogenic as well! 

A family session doesn't need a special occasion. It's a session celebrating family, fleeting moments, and togetherness. And, the Southlake Town Square was just the perfect spot for it, with all its fancy urban looks and small town feels!

Meet the Hedbergs.

Sieminski Family | Grapevine | Holiday Mini Sessions

Leila Reem! This sweet toddler's only child status is about to expire, so let's soak in this cuteness before her baby brother tries to steal her spotlight! I mean... he can surely try! But, judging by the oohs and aahs she gets everywhere she goes, her spotlight is safe.

Colón Family | Trinity Park - Fort Worth

Every now and then, you need to have a family session just because! Because it's time to replace the family photos on the walls in your home, because your kiddos still think you're cool, and don't mind grinning big and taking pictures while you smother them in hugs and kisses, or simply because you want to always remember that time you had matching NY Giants shirts.