An Artful Life

Featured In The Knot! Jen & Eric

2012-01-26T16:05:00.000-06:00

Juan + Karen: Post Wedding Session at the Modern Wing

2012-01-09T12:01:00.001-06:00

We love any opportunity to get together with our couples, so when Karen & Juan decided they wanted to do a post wedding session in the city we were thrilled! Post wedding sessions are so great for newlyweds...having candids of the two of you ready to embark on your new journey together and not having to worry about all the things couples' worry about on their wedding day.

Karen & Juan decided to have their shoot at the Modern Wing and since the weather turned out so nice, we were able to spend part of it outside. Who would have guessed that we would be so lucky to have such a gorgeous day in early January?

I love everything about this couple....so carefree and so much love for each other. We had such a fun morning with them and wish them all the best!!

First Day of the New Year

2012-01-01T13:25:00.000-06:00

The past few weeks I have been mentioning to Casey that I wanted to snap a few still images of him with no distracting backgrounds or colors...just him. This morning I woke up and thought today is a perfect day for a mini photo shoot.

Wishing You A Safe & Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T16:16:00.000-06:00

Its crazy that in a split second tonight another year will come to an end; the feeling of change welcomed. I know everyone says this, but this year went by so unbelievably fast. For the first time I forgot how old I was on more than once occasion. We set quite a few goals for ourselves this year, many were attained and some were even exceeded. It feels great to finally have a moment to re-evaluate the year and set our goals for 2012. Have a safe & Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays From New Orleans!

2011-12-25T19:25:00.000-06:00

Featured On Style Me Pretty: Erin & Justin

2011-12-07T11:29:00.004-06:00

Thanks to Style Me Pretty, all of the wonderful vendors, and Erin & Justin for allowing us to document their big day! Click the link below to read about Erin & Justin's garden wedding.

http://www.stylemepretty.com/2011/12/07/south-bend-wedding-by-melissa-hayes-photography/

To view additional images from the big day, http://blog.melissahayes.net/2011/09/south-bend-wedding-erin-justin.html

An Intimate Wedding: Karen & Juan

2011-11-21T14:04:00.000-06:00

Intimate weddings are such an absolute joy to document because it really highlights the emotions not only from the couple but their families and friends. It was such a joy to capture Karen & Juan's ceremony & reception this past weekend. With Thanksgiving just days away, I hope these images will showcase some of the things we all can be thankful for....friends, family, and love.

Stefanie & Matt Engaged!

2011-11-07T15:33:00.000-06:00

Having met during law school at Notre Dame and going back for many of the games, it was natural for Stefanie & Matt to want their engagement session to take place on and around the campus. We had a fantastic trip getting to know them both...hopefully you can get a glimpse into how fun and down to earth this couple is through this sneak peek of images. We're very excited for their August wedding at Sts. Volodymyr and Olha's Church & the Gold Coast room at The Drake!

Engaged! Meredith & Matt

2011-10-20T18:17:00.004-05:00

We had such a great afternoon getting to know both Matt & Meredith during their shoot and stopping through Old Town near St. Michael's which is where they will be getting married next spring with a reception at the Tower Club!

Natalie & Brandon Engaged! Part Two

2011-10-18T13:27:00.000-05:00

If you haven't seen Part I of Nat & Brandon's engagement session, be sure to check it out! http://blog.melissahayes.net/2011/09/natalie-brandon-engaged.html

Natalie and Brandon's first date was at Southport Lanes and it was a perfect spot to have part of their engagement session! I love the contrast from the Chicago Fire game in part one of their session to Southport Lanes and Lincoln Park in part two of their session....all locations having significance to them both.

Can't wait for their big day next fall!

Engaged! Daniela & Steven

2011-10-13T11:40:00.000-05:00

Daniela reached out to me to do an engagement session with her and Steven. Both of them being from California, it was nice that we had such a warm and perfect fall day for the shoot. Steven is in the Navy and is based here in Chicago. Daniela had sent me a link to her venue for their wedding in California and was hoping to find a location that would feel similar since they wanted to use the images for their save the dates. Morton Arboretum immediately came to mind! We had a wonderful afternoon getting to know Daniela & Steven and we wish you both a wonderful wedding this March!

Engaged! Erin & Tom

2011-10-10T13:20:00.001-05:00

It was late 2010 when Erin & Tom reserved their wedding day with us, which was definitely a great thing since June 9th has been one of our most requested dates in 2012! This week in Chicago has been perfect for engagement sessions with the changing leaves and warm temperatures. We had a fantastic afternoon with these two and are anxiously anticipating their nuptials next summer in Madison at the Overture Center for the Arts!

Engaged! Christine & Andy

2011-10-06T01:20:00.002-05:00

How cute is Christine? Absolutely adorable! One of the perks of Andy working at DePaul? Rooftop access with a gorgeous view of St. Vincent...where they'll be exchanging vows this fall with a beautiful reception at Newberry Library. Can't wait!

Engaged! Dana & Ben

2011-10-03T16:27:00.001-05:00

We had the perfect day of weather for Dana & Ben's session. Dana had flown in from Houston, Texas for the weekend, so I was keeping my fingers crossed that the weather would hold up! We had a great time getting to know both Dana & Ben...we're thrilled about their wedding this May and can't wait to share it with them!

Heritage Prairie Farm Wedding: Stephanie & Luke

2011-09-29T18:47:00.001-05:00

I love Heritage Prairie farm and it was truly a perfect location for Stephanie & Luke's outdoor wedding. The weather was all over the place that day with sun, rain, clouds, winds, and hail....yep, hail! We were so fortunate that somehow it all worked out. We were able to take all of the photos outside, the ceremony was outside, and just after cocktails started it started to rain again briefly. Guests were able to enjoy indoor dancing inside the tent or relax outside by a bonfire with blankets and chairs. One of my favorite parts of the night was the lighting of wish lanterns. All the guests had an opportunity to light the lanterns and watch them float away into the night. Stephanie & Luke did such an amazing job making this wedding unique to them, with the vibrant colors, tables categorized by vegetables, and who could forget the assortment of herb infused savory and sweet pies!

Thank you for asking us to be a part of your day Stephanie & Luke!! We wish you much joy and happiness in your new journey together!

Engaged! Natalie & Brandon

2011-09-26T16:03:00.002-05:00

About a month ago, I received an early wakeup call from my dear friend Natalie telling me that she had a photography "client" for me. Surely this was more than just any referral and from the excitement in her voice I knew Brandon had proposed.

Since then, there have been many talks of wedding plans including decor, dresses, and engagement photos. My Pinterest wall has been taken over by Natalie's pinned images....enough to fill a million wedding magazines!

As for engagement photos, my advice to couples has always been to try and think outside the box in terms of locations and since Natalie and Brandon both love spending some of their weekends at the Chicago Fire games, it was a no brainer that part of their session take place there.

We always have a wonderful time hanging out with the both of you and we are so excited for your wedding next year! Congratulations Nat & Brandon!!

Be sure to check back for part two of their engagement session!

South Bend Wedding: Erin & Justin

2011-09-16T11:55:00.000-05:00

I simply love outdoor weddings. The forecast had been calling for rain that day, but as we set out for South Bend the skies were clear and the sun was shining. Just before the ceremony began it looked like it could rain. The bride and her family decided that they were going for it! Luckily, the lovely people of Carriage House had the indoor area completely setup for the ceremony as a backup just in case it rained which gave them the freedom to wait just before the ceremony to decide if they were going to stick with the outdoor nuptials.

Erin & Justin's garden ceremony was an intimate and gorgeous affair. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktails and wood fired pizza straight from the outdoor brick oven. They were then lead into a beautiful tent filled with stunning arrangements created by Polly Mccarthy. I loved that there were trees inside the tent! Adorable rosemary trees framed the walkways to the entrance and greeted guests with their wonderful aroma. All the details made for such a lovely wedding unique to Erin & Justin. We have had an amazing time getting to know them! Congratulations to you both!

You can view Erin & Justin's engagement session in Michigan here.

Test Shoot: Factor model Cassandra

2011-09-15T11:30:00.001-05:00

Had an amazing time working with Cassandra from Factor models on this test shoot. Gowns and jewelry provided by Belle Vie Bridal Couture, florals by Pollen, makeup by Melissa with Sonia Roselli Makeup Studio

Working on something for part II from this shoot. Stay tuned!

An Epic Wedding: Jen & Eric

2011-09-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

Sometimes things just fall into place effortlessly. Our engagement session with Jen & Eric was just that...effortless (view their engagement session here). When it came time for their wedding, I wasn't surprised how well the day turned out...more specifically the candid session and group photos. Though I have to confess, I did do some scouting for locations earlier in the week, but no matter how much you plan things may or may not turn out the way you envisioned. As we made our way out for group photos, I told Jen & Eric of this spot that I had picked out.....an old Chicago Firehouse. To my surprise, I quickly learned that both Jen & Eric have family members that are firemen which made the location all the better. Its definitely going into my book of favorite photos! Hope you enjoy these as much as we do.
Congratulations Jen & Eric!

Glen Flora Country Club Wedding: Meghan & Greg

2011-09-06T17:33:00.003-05:00

Meghan has one of the warmest smiles of anyone I know. We've had a wonderful time getting to know both her and Greg during the engagement session which you can see here. This was one reception I definitely wished I could've been dancing amongst their friends and family....it was such a blast! The outdoor tent was perfect for the unpredictable September weather we had that day. Though the ceremony was originally set to be held outdoor, moving the ceremony inside made it all the more intimate for everyone.

We wish you both the best and we cannot wait to hear all about your honeymoon in Thailand!!

A Vintage Garden Wedding: Jessica & Coe

2011-08-30T16:39:00.002-05:00

While editing Jessica and Coe's photos, family and tradition were a common component throughout each image. Jessica and Coe were married in the same church as the bride's parents, her gorgeous vintage designer gown belonged to her mother, and a vintage garden themed reception to match. During the rehearsal, we noticed her parents wedding photo on the guest book table and thought it would be great to recreate that moment with Jessica & Coe in front of the church...you can see them side by side. I loved how they did a faux getaway in their mini cooper and then drove around to the other side of the church and met with their bridal party. After family photos is when everyone including the bride and groom actually made their way to the reception. We wish Jessica & Coe all the best! Thank you for sharing your day with us.

Our Anniversary

2011-08-24T11:41:00.000-05:00

Celebrating our three year anniversary today! I feel so lucky to have married such an amazing human being. Casey is without a doubt the most genuine and sincere person i have ever known and I'm eagerly anticipating all of our eternal years together.

Editing, designing, shooting

2011-08-15T18:34:00.000-05:00

Its been a busy summer and the last few weeks were no exception...editing, designing albums, and shooting. I just received some scans from a batch of rolls I sent out a week ago. I loved this particular photo from Nazihah's Mehndi a few weeks ago. You can view more photos by clicking here .

Though the summer is almost coming to an end, we're already booking for summer and fall for 2012! Only a few select dates remain and we are so excited for all of our fantastic weddings next year.

Engaged: Meghan & Greg

2011-08-15T01:45:00.000-05:00

E.E. Cummings wrote, "The most wasted of all days is one without laughter." I haven't met a couple yet that has made me laugh so much during a photo session. I love Meghan & Greg's sense of humor....and the way they can make each other laugh so effortlessly. It was the most perfect day for our engagement session together. We're so excited for their outdoor wedding just around the corner in September!

Engaged: Elizabeth & Jack

2011-07-31T23:43:00.003-05:00

Meet Elizabeth and Jack, one of the most adorable couples ever. I've had such a wonderful time talking with Elizabeth in our initial meeting, getting to know more about her and Jack, and also meeting her mom who is just as adorable. We had such a great time during their engagement session despite the heat...and what better way to cool off during our shoot than with an ice cream break! But the best part wasn't the ice cream. On the day of our photo session, it was one year ago that they were officially engaged!

Heshima Kenya Fashion Challenge

2011-07-28T00:59:00.003-05:00

The HK 2011 Fashion Challenge at Room 1520 was held to support the development of the Maisha Collective, a program of Nairobi, Kenya-based Heshima Kenya that trains and empowers young refugee women from Somalia, Ethiopia, Sudan, and the Congo to design, produce, and market a unique line of hand-dyed scarves. Founding members of the Collective were honored for their strength and hope, and for sharing their skills with so many.

The evening, inspired by Project Runway, brought together Chicago’s hottest new designers to create inspiring garments using actual scarves produced by members of the Collective. Designs were judged by the audience and a panel of Chicago style icons including Billy Dec, Christina Hanson, Matt Lorenz, and Bianca Alexander with hosts Lara Miller and Marcus Riley.

Congratulations to the Fashion Challenge winner, Jade Nguy, and the Audience Choice winner, Miriam Carlson.

To learn more about Heshima Kenya visit: www.heshimakenya.org

Engaged: Jen & Eric

2011-07-25T14:35:00.002-05:00

This was one of my favorite engagement sessions all year, not just because Jen and Eric are such a stunning couple but because I felt so inspired during our shoot. I've been thinking so much about all of the wonderful couples we've crossed paths with so far and each of their journeys and I loved learning about Jen and Eric's journey.

Its one of the best feelings in the world knowing that you are getting ready to write a new chapter of your life with this special person who is just as eager to write that chapter with you.

Our day together started out at one of their favorite local bars and made our way around the neighborhood. We stopped by their place to have a special guest appearance with Hudson....he is such a cutie!

We had a great time and the photos above will go in the book of all time favorites for me. Hope all of you enjoy them as much as we do! Be sure to check back in early September for a peak at Jen and Eric's wedding at Epic....can't wait!

Cultural Weddings: Nazihah & Saif, Part Three

2011-07-18T16:31:00.001-05:00

Last but in no way the least, the reception looked like it was a magical dream and Nazihah and Saif looked as though they had stepped out of an amazing novel. Ashyana's team did a phenomenal job at creating Nazihah & Saif's vision for the evening ceremony and reception. We had an amazing time and enjoyed every moment and thanks to all of the friends and families for their patience and cooperation during the portrait sessions.

Cultural Weddings: Nazihah & Saif, Part Two

2011-07-18T15:08:00.001-05:00

I don't think I will ever forget some of the words preached during this ceremony. It was filled with some of the most sentimental, heart felt messages I have heard at any wedding. Cultural weddings are some of my favorite to document....to witness the traditions but also because of how vibrant they are. We hope you enjoy a glimpse at some of the photos created from Nazihah & Saif's wedding day....be sure to come back for part three.

Congratulations to Nazihah and Saif, we wish you all the best!

Cultural Weddings: Nazihah & Saif, Part One

2011-07-16T21:27:00.005-05:00

Vibrant and Beautiful Muslim Ceremonies

2011-07-14T00:14:00.000-05:00

Indian ceremonies are one of my favorite to photograph. You can't possibly get enough of all the vibrant, beautiful colors, but the tradition is what resonates with me. I have been looking forward to Nazihah and Saif's wedding all year and I can't wait for you to see what's to come.

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T23:33:00.002-05:00

Life is a bowl of cherries!

2011-06-30T12:47:00.001-05:00

Life is a bowl of cherries but in this case a farmer's market basket...I am excited to announce that a selection of my food stock images can be purchased through Stockfood! You can view my portfolio here http://usa.stockfood.com/results.asp?lstfotogs=MHY.

Have a fantastic 4th of July!

Love & Art

2011-06-28T14:12:00.000-05:00

Chicago Wedding: Suzanne & Matt

2011-06-28T14:03:00.000-05:00

Engaged: Erin & Justin

2011-06-07T19:00:00.003-05:00

When I first spoke with Erin over the phone, her voice sounded so cheerful I couldn't help but to be excited about being asked to document her wedding this September in Indiana. When it came time to schedule our engagement session with her and Justin, she had asked if we could meet in Michigan to do the shoot. I loved the idea and the significance behind the location to them...since its one of their favorite spots to spend some time together.

We loved spending the afternoon with Erin and Justin and had so much fun getting to know them both. Congratulations on your engagement and we can't wait to see you both in September!

Chicago Wedding: Suzanne & Matt

2011-06-06T14:35:00.001-05:00

I remember when I first met with Suzanne and Matt last year....they told me they both went to Iowa for college, I told them Casey went to ISU...a few laughs later I knew we were a perfect fit to document their May wedding!

We scheduled their engagement session that fall, since its Suzanne's favorite season. The leaves and their neighborhood El stop made for a beautiful backdrop and Matt's humor shined through a few images at the lake as he pretended to dive off the pier.

Throughout the day of their wedding, we could see and feel the love that so many of their friends and family have for them...but most importantly the love and respect they have for each other.

Congratulations Suzanne & Matt! It was such an honor and we are thankful for you allowing us to share it!

Engaged: Anna + Charlie

2011-06-01T20:44:00.005-05:00

Wow, where do I begin? I should start by thanking Anna & Charlie for being so patient and flexible with their schedules...after having to reschedule our session numerous times due to rain. Considering they are both from sunny southern California, I really wanted to wait for a perfect and warm day and I am so glad we did!

I had such an amazing afternoon getting to know this sweet couple and how their journey together brought them to Chicago. I loved their casual and chic style during the afternoon transitioning into a night out on the town for the latter part of our shoot. At the end of the night, we absolutely had to celebrate! What better way to do it? Chicago style pizza from Piece of course!

We wish Anna & Charlie all the best for their wedding this summer at the Elysian Hotel, congrats you two!

Chicago Weddings , Suzanne & Matt

2011-05-29T19:50:00.000-05:00

...just us two

Engaged: Stephanie & Luke

2011-05-20T23:26:00.008-05:00

Its such a joy to see people glowing and happy that they've found someone that they want to spend the rest of their lives with. Watching Stephanie and Luke smile throughout our photo session brightened my day. Fog is a rare event here in Chicago and we definitely took advantage of the weather. I love the mood that it gives...ethereal yet romantic.

Two paths crossed in Chicago. One from the South...the other from the Pacific Northwest. I am so glad that our paths have crossed and I couldn't be happier to document their wedding this fall at Heritage Prairie!

Featured On Style Me Pretty

2011-04-20T22:46:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Caroline + Phil for being featured on Style Me Pretty today! Be sure to stop by Style Me Pretty to checkout more images from their fabulous 20s inspired engagement reception in Chicago!

Las Puertas de España

2011-04-20T12:32:00.001-05:00

The architecture in Spain is beautiful and romantic with intricate details everywhere you look. Exquisite, antique, soaring, double doors.

The first image of doors really stood out to me mainly because of the cheerful yellow wall in contrast to the vintage door.

I think the doors can also provide some insight to the diversity in Spain.

One thing is for sure, a building with an intriguing door is quite inviting, wouldn't you agree?

Our Last Stop, Madrid

2011-04-19T12:20:00.001-05:00

Overnight To Granada

2011-04-18T19:10:00.001-05:00

A Journey Through Valencia

2011-04-18T12:42:00.001-05:00

Barcelona, Park Guell

2011-04-15T14:04:00.001-05:00

Barcelona , La Boqueria

2011-04-15T07:06:00.001-05:00

Barcelona :: Sagrada Familia

2011-04-14T14:45:00.003-05:00

Traveling through Spain was one of the most amazing trips we've been on. Its definitely one of the most beautiful countries I have seen filled with so much history. La Sagrada Familia was absolutely breathtaking. We could have spent the entire afternoon there thinking about all of the intricate details inside and out. Gaudi's work is amazing and so inspiring. It made me think about the quote from Frank Lloyd Wright "I believe in God, only I spell it nature" because of how closely Gaudi integrates nature with spirituality. Hope you enjoy some of my photos....there are many more to come!

Calling All Chicago Brides: A Chance To Win A 5 Star Honeymoon and Be on TV!

2011-03-31T08:00:00.004-05:00

Exciting News!!!

TLC IS NOW CASTING IN CHICAGO!

Calling all Chicago Brides: TLC is headed to your city!

Want an opportunity to feature your big day on TLC’s highest rated wedding show and a chance to win a 5 star honeymoon? Well, if you’re getting married between April – November 2011 in Chicago, you’re in luck!

Traditional or over the top, unusual venues or event spaces . . .TLC is looking to feature ALL types of weddings:

Casting RIGHT NOW so please email ASAP: 4WeddingsChicago@semisweetproductions.com

Please include your name, wedding date, location, contact info and a picture of yourself with your soon-to-be hubby.

Engaged: Nazihah & Saif

2011-03-29T14:00:00.003-05:00

Nazihah and Saif have known each other since they were kids. How cute is that? Better yet their families have been great friends for such a long time, so I have no doubt their wedding this summer is going to be a wonderful celebration filled with so many emotions for their friends and families.

They did such an amazing job being cheerful and relaxed, despite the cold during their engagement session. We enjoyed learning more about them as individuals and as a couple, and realized we all shared an addiction for Chipotle! You can imagine the irony and surprise when Saif and Nazihah turned around to see an ad for Chipotle behind them during our shoot at the el stop.

Congratulations you two, we wish you all the best!

Fruits of Labor

2011-03-11T17:33:00.001-06:00

Chicago's winter can be quite long. Usually around this time of year I really start to miss the fresh fruit and veggies from our local farmer's markets. There is something so satisfying and natural about food straight from the source....its how food should be. I try to volunteer to shelters when I can, but I would also love to volunteer at a community garden this year. It would be great if every neighborhood had their own community garden or perhaps a rooftop garden.

Engaged: Caroline & Phil

2011-01-29T17:29:00.003-06:00

Martha Stewart Weddings

2010-12-28T16:45:00.001-06:00

Excited to see one of my photos in today’s Bride Guide on MarthaStewartWeddings.com

New York Weddings , Maya & Tristan

2010-12-13T19:18:00.047-06:00

Tristan & Maya's NYC wedding at 632 Hudson featured on Style Me Pretty!

http://www.stylemepretty.com/2010/12/09/new-york-city-wedding-by-melissa-hayes-photography/

We had such an amazing day in the West Village documenting Tristan & Maya's beautiful wedding. The weather turned out to be the perfect fall day for their photos at the Highline and 632 Hudson made for such an elegant and unique venue. It was great to meet all of their friends and family at the rehearsal party the day before to get acquainted with everyone. We wish them all the best as they start their new life as husband and wife.

Documentary Baby Photos: Piper turns one

2010-11-22T20:55:00.002-06:00

Chicago Weddings , Della & Bob

2010-11-01T18:47:00.004-05:00

Featured on Style Me Pretty! You can see Della & Bob's wedding day here http://www.stylemepretty.com/2010/11/01/chicago-wedding-by-melissa-hayes/

We've had such an amazing time getting to know Della & Bob during their engagement session, rehearsal, and through out their wedding day. Garfield Park Conservatory was such a perfect place for their wedding and we were lucky enough to have a warm fall day in Chicago. You can view more of their wedding day photos by clicking the link above.

Thanks to Style Me Pretty for the beautiful feature!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T17:47:00.002-05:00

Engaged: Suzanne & Matt

2010-10-20T19:52:00.026-05:00

Engaged: Maya & Tristan

2010-10-04T12:30:00.032-05:00

I met Maya & Tristan client and friend, Della. They are both from the east coast and met through mutual friends. During our initial meeting I knew this was going to be a fun couple to work with. I had the most amazing time with the both of them in Brooklyn. We spent the afternoon through a few different neighborhoods and had such an amazing time. We are anxiously anticipating their NYC wedding this fall at 632 Hudson!

Food , Quince paste & Manchego

2010-09-30T23:48:00.002-05:00

Engaged: Della & Bob

2010-09-26T11:09:00.051-05:00

Della and Bob are both originally from Chicago and met while living in NYC and are having their wedding at Garfield Park Conservatory in October with a second reception in Manhattan . They are such a wonderful modern, eclectic couple and we couldn't be more thrilled to document their fall ceremony. Towards the end of our session, we stopped in at Matchbox...one of their favorite bars (and mine).

Urban Test Shoot

2010-09-12T13:49:00.000-05:00

When we set out on our shoot I had one thing in mind. It was to capture that feeling when someone grabs a hold of your attention and though its only for a split second that person may standout in your mind. What was it about that person that made such a lasting impression?

A Crisp, Refreshing Summer Salad

2010-08-25T17:12:00.000-05:00

Watercress, heirloom tomato, and beet salad with a lemon/olive oil dressing. this is one of my favorite salads! the watercress has a black pepper kick to it and the heirloom tomatoes add sweetness and i love the texture of the roasted red beets. the lemon juice and olive oil blends everything together and really brightens the salad.

Recipe from The Kind Diet

Road Trip , Toronto

2010-08-09T16:22:00.037-05:00

Our spur of the moment road trip to Toronto was perfect for this weekend. We could not get over how impeccably clean this city is and best of all?...no tolls. No tolls! The highways are in perfect condition with not a single pothole in sight. Am I missing something? I have never seen so many recycling bins either. It seems the Canadians are doing everything right. Why haven't we implemented recycling bins on every street....why are not the streets of Chicago pothole free? No wonder Toronto was named one of the top cities to live.

Lovely Bakeshop

2010-07-08T16:05:00.002-05:00

iPhone Polaroids - ShakeItPhoto App

2010-07-02T15:41:00.000-05:00

Chicago Weddings , Ruth & Gerber

2010-06-24T14:53:00.002-05:00

A gorgeous, sun drenched day in June was the backdrop for Ruth & Gerber's beautiful wedding at Meson Sabika in Naperville.

SAIC Fashion Designer , Meeso Kim

2010-06-17T15:14:00.003-05:00

Series I: Abandoned

2010-06-15T07:54:00.010-05:00

After a recent trip to Granite City, IL I began to document the abandoned downtown area of this once thriving city. I always wonder what towns like this looked like in its prime and decided to do a series on abandoned areas. This is the first set and I hope to finish out this series and to post many more as they develop.

A Farm To Table Experience

2010-06-14T18:13:00.010-05:00

If you recall my original visit to Heritage Prairie, then you might remember the Farm Dinners I mentioned in my blog post found here.

I revisited the farm for a photo shoot opportunity during one of their farm dinners. Lucky for us the people at Heritage Prairie invited us to stay for dinner. The food was phenomenal! If you haven't visited the farm yet, I would highly encourage you to purchase your tickets for their next farm dinner now! To view details for their list of dinners click here.

Insight To The Image Of Humanity Blog

2010-06-08T01:28:00.007-05:00

I revisited Sarah's Circle today. You can ready about my first visit here. On my way there, I realized that my visits to provide portraits to the homeless were on pause for quite some time...mainly from being so busy with the launch of my new website.

I think at some point I started to get comfortable with approaching various non-profits and helping them raise awareness for their cause. I walked in feeling good about what I was doing as I normally do, even though at times I feel alone and even though I know that some people question why I'm doing this.

The staff there had announced my visit and that I was providing portraits for anyone that wanted one. Some people are really timid about having their photo taken...which is understandable. I don't know one person who isn't shy about having their photo taken (including yours truly). Surprisingly a lot of women were happy and excited to have their photo taken.

Then there was one woman who asked if she could have a more personal photo taken. She said that she wanted a picture of her hair. She started to get emotional as she tried to explain to me why she had this request. As she started to tear up she told me that she was finally getting her very own apartment. She said a photo of her hair would remind her of her struggles and how she looked during her last few days being homeless. She said she planned on shaving her hair off when she moves into her new place. Her haircut will be the mark of a new beginning and as she progresses in her new life her hair will grow back. My heart reached out to her and I began to take pictures of her hair.

Sometimes I think what I'm doing doesn't matter, but then I always meet someone that reminds me that it does.

Addie: Monique Lhuillier Spring 2011

2010-06-06T19:32:00.006-05:00

I am Soooooo in love with this dress from the Spring 2011 Monique Lhuillier Collection. If you know anyone getting married in this dress please contact me immediately! Maybe Casey and I can have a 2 year anniversary ceremony so I can wear it (I wish!)

Chicago Weddings , Ankit & Raksha

2010-05-31T14:32:00.013-05:00

We had such a wonderful time at Ankit & Raksha's beautiful wedding. We wish them all the best and are so excited for their future together. Congratulations again to you both!

Chicago Engagements , Shaun & Joy

2010-05-15T12:33:00.026-05:00

It was such a pleasure working with Kenny Kim on this engagement session for Shaun & Joy. This couple just glowed throughout the entire afternoon...over joyed with happiness. A perfect way to spend the day with such a perfect couple.

Food , Real Simple Magazine, blueberry & lemonade smoothie

2010-05-14T16:15:00.009-05:00

SAIC The NightWalk 2010

2010-05-12T09:25:00.007-05:00

I had the pleasure of joining a group of photographers at the 76th Annual SAIC Fashion Show this year.

On the runway were selections from Eunice W. Johnson's collection, Gary Graham's fall collection, and the best of SAIC student designs.

Meeso Kim's designs inspired from physical and mental aspects of androgyny in society was by far one of my favorites. Katie King also had some amazing pieces with her Chartreuse jumpsuit.

If you missed the show you can still catch a glimpse at the Runway Sale this Friday, May 14th from 10:30a.m. - 6p.m.

Chicago Weddings , Erika & Thad Say "I Do!"

2010-05-08T23:56:00.018-05:00

I thought I'd post a quick peek from Erika & Thad's beautiful wedding this weekend. Congratulations you two...I feel fortunate to have met you and to be a part of your day!

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