three

So… I am a little behind on blogging, but I have good reason! My son was born back in October and we have been busy loving on our two littles. I am back from maternity leave and ready to share.

My little Violet turned three back in November and I’d like to just brag on her for a moment. I took these back in November and she has grown even more in these past few months. She turned three, became a big sister, and a preschooler.

So many emotions run through me when I look at her gorgeous face. She made me a momma and she makes me a proud momma everyday. She is so independent, smart, sassy, sweet, sassy (as the day is long), and funny! Vi is a problem solver through and through, she is always trying to put things in their place, find the right fit, and trying new angles. I really love that a one of her new favorite things is jigsaw puzzles. It’s really cool to watch her work them and do them with her.

These are a few of her favorite things: unicorns, kittens, tiny little toys to hold onto, being our official chocolate taster, baking, school, jigsaw puzzles, restaurants, spicy drink (sprite), Incredibles movie, recognizing the letter “V” everywhere, road trips, spaghetti, anything pink, jumping in puddles, swinging, going to the mall and zoo, ballet, paw patrol (Marshall & Rubble), burritos with chips and salsa, and getting her brother to laugh.

Watching her become a big sister just melted my heart. She is so sweet and caring with Arlo. Seeing them play and interact together bring me more joy than they will ever know. My heart is so full! Vi can get Arlo to laugh and he hears her voice and will start looking for her now. Uggh, the best! I am so excited to see them grow together.

Happy Birthday Violet, we adore you and wish you many more wonderful birthdays to come and may the dear lord bless you! <3

Source: ave23photography.com

Elizabeth - Senior

Wishing my senior pictures looked more like this! Liz rocked her senior session and picked some awesome looks that she absolutely owned! It was an absolute joy to get to know and work with her! Such a natural, fun, smart, confident, and beautiful person inside and out. Liz, I wish you a wonderful senior year and volleyball season! You with out a doubt will go on to do big things! 

Source: ave23photography.com

Krazen Family

Oh the places she'll go! This adorable family of three just celebrated Quinn's first birthday, isn't she gorgeous! Happy Birthday sweet girl! It was a joy to capture their love for one another and play with Miss Quinn. I wish Dan and Erin luck in telling this sweet face "no" in the near future. She kept resting her little hand on mom and dads during family shots and it just melted my heart each time. Nothing sweeter than seeing your little ones hands and fingers reaching for you and hanging on! Que the baby talk and heart swells! <3

Source: ave23photography.com

Chapman Family

Who can resist a good sugar rush? I love seeing littles react to their smash cake. Some dig right in and some hate the mess! Even better is the look they sometimes give their parents like "Is this a joke, can I really eat it?" Haha, Celia definitely gave the look. Her two older brothers were so good about holding off, but we chuckled when were told they could dig in after she was done. What do you think Celia thought? Someone may or may not have enjoyed it being on her feet. Scroll down to see for yourself...

As per usual, I had a wonderful time capturing this beautiful and sweet family. These boys are smitten with their little sis and their game of peek a boo will melt your heart! Celia has some awesome body guards, play mates, and best friends. Can't believe she is already ONE. Time needs to slow down! Until next time Chapmans, stay exactly the way you are... awesome and fun! :)

Source: ave23photography.com

Trout - Maternity

Right before three become four.... Congratulations Trout family, I am over the moon for you and your sweet bundle of joy! Big brother Bryor will most certainly enjoy a partner in crime or should I say a partner in play... racing monster trucks no doubt. I can just see all the wrestling matches, forts, and battle calls that will fill your home. No better sounds in the world. It still feels like I was just capturing Leah & Zach's wedding and then Bryor's newborn pictures. I love my job... another blessing... seeing the joy and excitement as couples grow a family and then add to that family. The excitement and anticipation is shared by all, I CAN NOT wait to meet your little man in September! 

Source: ave23photography.com

Knack Family

I always have a blast capturing the Knack's and this time was no different. I left our session with a lot of fun new memories, a watermelon dum dum sucker, and an awesome new nick name... "fancy"! Check out how cute they are! Barry & Danielle, thank you for letting me capture your family over the years, it has been an absolute pleasure! I still remember Granger's first session a few years back. Those curls and eyes stopped me in my track and look at how handsome he has grown. Kensington is just as adorable with her gorgeous smile and crinkled nose...gah these two! They are also as sweet as they are cute, I think you'll agree after you scroll. 

Enjoy a few of my favorites from the Knack family... 

Source: ave23photography.com

Danny - newborn

I've never seen a big brother more smitten! It was the sweetest thing to watch Joey love on his brother. Danny, I'm fairly certain, feels the same way after witnessing some sleepy smiles while he heard his brother play nearby. Joey loved helping and watching! He even preferred to have a front row seat while enjoying his lunch in his highchair nearby. He was happy to get baby brother a pacifier, ask how he was, and even stop his play session to go see and check on his brother. I'm pretty sure he was checking to make sure Danny wasn't still in my basket as I was packing up to leave. What a sweetheart! <3 Danny hardly made a peep as he watched and hung out with us for a few awake shots and then drifted off to sleep. It was such a joy to work with these little guys, and by work I mean snuggle!

Congratulations Steve, Sarah, and Joey! Little Danny is so lucky to have you and vice versa! <3

Source: ave23photography.com

David & Katie - 5.26.18

I've been busy this spring with weddings and capturing the love between some beautiful couples. I actually have a little break between now and my next one in September and then I will be taking my maternity leave in October! We are so ready for our little guy to arrive!

I had the pleasure of photographing David & Katie's wedding at the Franklin Park Conservatory (The Wells Barn) and it was a gorgeous celebration full of laughter, happiness, and even a little rain for good luck! I tend to have a few favorite moments with my couples and for David and Katie, two particular moments stand out. To me, "first looks" are wonderful intimate moments shared between the bride and groom before their ceremony. It's a chance to be alone and celebrate, cherish, and enjoy one another before they walk down the aisle to a room full of their favorite people. It's in those tender moments that I tear up... every single time! A "first look" is often the only time the bride and groom get to just enjoy each other without being surrounded by all of their guests. If you are on the fence about a "first look" I encourage you to think about it and ask other brides about their experience. I had one myself and I LOVED having those moments alone with my Husband and wanted him to see me first before guests and even family. I would do it again in a heart beat. It didn't diminish the big walk down the aisle, but intensified it as I got to stare again at the love of my life. My second favorite moment was when Katie called David into the bridal suite right before the ceremony for a quick hug, kiss, and few words of love and support. David and Katie, there is no doubt you two were put on this earth to be together. Congratulations, you are such wonderful, kind, and loving individuals and are so perfectly paired as a couple. Enjoy the new adventure that awaits you together and I can't wait to see where it takes you! They are spending their honeymoon making a big move and help me in wishing them all the luck in the world in their new home! <3

Please enjoy some of my favorites from David & Katie's special day! 

Hotel: Renaissance Downtown Columbus

Ceremony/Reception: Franklin Park Conservatory - The Wells Barn

Coordinator: Sarah Mynes

Source: ave23photography.com

Brian & Rebecca - 5.19.18

It's all about the details these days. They make each wedding personal and unique. The details in this wedding were so sweet, thoughtful, and carefully crafted. I always love seeing them come together after months (and in their case distance - sates away) of planning. They certainly didn't dissapoint. The bride created these beautiful origami balls to decorate the tables with (I immediatly knew I wanted to use them for a few ring pictures), her mother sewed her wedding dress hanger sleeve, and her grandmother sewed the ring pillow. Aren't they gorgeous?!? And don't get me started on the delicate gorgeous lace and tulle gown. Ooo La La!

Congrats Brian & Rebecca! It was a beautiful day that I adored being part of and celebrating alongside you both and your family and friends. Thank you for the honor and pleasure!

The happy couple is now off to France to celebrate again with her side of the family. Wishing you two a wonderful trip and a lifetime of happiness, you're a beautiful couple inside and out!

Source: ave23photography.com

Kimber - newborn

Let them be little... I always forget how little newborns are compared to my 2.5 year old. Help me in welcoming this little nugget of perfection, Kimber Kay! Isn't she a doll! She was a dream to cuddle and capture as she snoozed away through basket and wrap changes. All I heard were little squeaks and sighs as she dreamt away. Aren't those the best sounds, I just could have sit and stared at her all day. Excited to see Kimber grow and her personality shine. Congrats Nikki and Jason, she's absolutely beautiful! <3

Source: ave23photography.com

Stefan & Erin - 4.7.18

It is truly humbling when friends ask me to photograph their wedding. To be behind the scenes and see all the little wonderful intimate moments they share together along with their family and closest friends is a an honor and privilege. Congratulations Stefan and Erin, you both looked absolutely stunning and truly are a perfect pair. I'm so excited to see whats to come in your new journey together. 

Stefan and Erin love hiking, gaming, and being outdoors. As you'll see, The Grand Barn at the Mohicans was the perfect setting for their happily ever after. The details were gorgeous and provided by Perfectly Planned Weddings & Events and Madison House Designs. It was a beautiful day and event.

Source: ave23photography.com

Charlie - Newborn

Happy one month birthday Charlie! His little grin is so contagious, don't you think? 

In home newborn sessions are so wonderfully intimate, comfortable and personal. I love seeing and capturing their rooms and them in their cribs. It never gets old to see them look so tiny in there! Big brother had to pop in and check on his little brother a few times too, such sweet moments I can see happening now until forever. Charlie, you've got a great big brother in Graham and I think Graham will enjoy his sidekick and rebound buddy. ;) 

I couldn't be happier for my sweet friends Nick and Katie! Congrats you guys, I'm so excited for you and can't wait to watch your little men grow and see the adventures they have together. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me into your home once again to capture your beautiful family, it was a joy to spend time with you all and get to meet Charlie. Lots of love and hugs!

Source: ave23photography.com

Mira - Newborn

I can already picture these two playing dress up, swapping secrets, and sharing some afternoon tea. Mira has one amazing big sister and Bella couldn't be happier have a little sister. Bella was my little assistant for the day, with every "coo" she asked if baby was ok and was quick to retrieve her pacifier. I think the love between siblings is the sweetest thing and to watch these two was an absolute joy! Little Mira welcome, you are so loved already! Even her fur sister Rizzo wanted in on the family portrait. Thump Thump <3! Congrats Sean & Christi, you have a beautiful family and I look forward to watching your sweet girls grow and become the best of friends as well as sisters. Enjoy all the wonderful new snuggles!

Source: ave23photography.com

Madeline - Newborn

Help me in welcoming sweet baby Madeline! Doesn't she just give you baby fever!?! Madeline was such a delight to photograph. She slept like a dream, barely made a peep (other than those sweet baby coos and sleepy sounds), she has the coolest parents, and she hates to be cold (totally feel ya girl). :) 

Greg & Jessica, I am so so very happy and excited for you guys, many congratulations!! Madeline is absolutely breath taking. I can not wait to watch her grow up and see her little personality develop. Parenthood is the hardest, most amazing joy I've ever felt and I know you guys are going to be fabulous parents. Enjoy all those wonderful new snuggles and give her an extra one for me! <3

Source: ave23photography.com

Wade + Hannah - 10.28.17

The day started off with snow and ended with an "I Do"! It was a magical day celebrating two sweet friends. Congratulations Wade & Hannah, you were an absolute joy to capture and celebrate with. Their love and excitement was felt by all! I'll admit, I'm not a big cryer, but there were a few moments that made me tear up. One being their "first look" and another when Hannah walked down the aisle to Wade, and their new life together. First looks are so wonderful and intimate and then the walk down the aisle is so powerful and moving.

Cheers to the happy couple, I wish you both all the joys in life!  Love and hugs! <3

Source: ave23photography.com

Violet - 2 years

In TWO the Wild

Our little explorer is TWO! How is this even possible?!? I didn't think this year could go faster than her first, but it sure did. Somehow, I woke up to a toddler going on 15. It's always "I do it" and "no mommy". I am so NOT ready for this stage to be over. Snuggling her a little tighter today. 

Vi loves to climb EVERYTHING and recently has even climbed out of her crib and into a toddler bed. It doesn't stop there, she can open her door, so I often am greeted with her climbing into our bed around 6:30am, or "mommy, wake up, I'm hungry". Takes after her momma, always ready for a meal/snack! ;)

Some of her favorite foods include any Italian dish, chocolate chip pancakes, sweet potatoes, popsicles (you gotta hear her say it though), shredded cheese, apple sauce, pretzels, cookies, eggs, cheese toasties, and Chocolate pudding "chocolate cake". Vi loves going on walks, exploring, reading in "mommy daddy bed", running from me in the store and putting things in the cart (aka shopping at Target), all animals (but especially dogs), bubbles, cooking, painting, watching Paw Patrol, Dory, and Moana. She even started singing and dancing, which is just awesome and so much fun! We can't seem to get in enough trips to the library, park, and zoo. 

I could go on and on about my sweet, smart, gentle (most of the time), bossy, sassy, cuddly, ornery (as all get out) little girl. Vi, you are our world and have us wrapped around your finger. I'm pretty sure she knows that already! :) One look at her, with those emotional eyes and chubby cheeks, and I well up with love, pride, and tears of joy! It is an absolute honor to be your momma baby girl! <3

P.S. Is there anything cuter on little girls than denim and knee socks? Something about this classic look gets me every time! <3

Source: ave23photography.com

Corbin + Silvi - 9.16.17

Some weddings just take your breath away and this was certainly one of them. Corbin and Silvi, you are so sweet and adorable together! I was so happy to be a part of their wedding day and loved celebrating with them and their families. Thank you for welcoming me in like family you guys, it was a beautiful day and I wish you lifetime of wedded bliss! I can't wait to see where this wonderful life takes you two together, enjoy the adventure! <3

Ps. Don't they look like they just stepped out of a magazine!?! 

Source: ave23photography.com

Nicholas - newborn

Why hello handsome, pleasure to meet you! Nicholas is up on the blog! Full warning, cuteness overload! <3

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Aiden - Newborn

Aiden is a little over one month old already. Each new stage is so amazing, but why does it have to go so fast. WHY? Let them be little! <3

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Celia - Newborn

Late nights spent editing are worth it when you get to stare at a face like this. Those lips, cheeks and sweet rolls have me all "awww"... *Cough "baby fever" cough*... you too?

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