Willow Tree Photography

Emily & John: Married

2011-08-04T06:29:00.001-07:00

Emily & John's wedding was the beginning of our wedding season, and I don't think things could have possibly started off any better. Emily chose to get ready and have her first look at the absolutely gorgeous home of the Grabill family. The Grabills welcomed us with open arms, and we instantly felt like we had made new friends. It is much the same with Emily & John, whom I often forget we met as clients. It feels like we have known them forever. We were also excited to spend time with Mary & Shane who assisted in the planning process and officiated at the ceremony. The blessings of these friendships, the beautiful locations, and the excitement of Emily & John's special day finally being here made for a truly memorable occasion. Emily & John, thank you for choosing us to photograph this important day in your lives. We will forever cherish the memories, and we hope that you will cherish these images of the abounding love and joy on your wedding day <3.

I love the little touches that make each day unique, like Emily's wedding TOMS. She remarked that she got comfy wedding shoes, and a child in need also got a pair of shoes.

The First Look sequences are my favorite. I love the excitement, romance, and beautiful images.

It was alternating between glaring sun and rain during portraits, but we had great options at the Grabill home.

The wedding party made quite an entrance into the reception.

A sweet ending to the night.

Kristen & Dustin: Married

2011-08-01T13:40:00.001-07:00

Dustin & Kristen's wedding day was classy and joyful. We thoroughly enjoyed being surrounded by the humor and kindness of their family and friends while documenting the meaningful ceremony, romantic and playful portrait time, and festive party (you should have seen the Szenderski brothers break it down). The toasts of the bridal party were a testament to Dustin and Kristen's character and their sweet love story. Thank you for allowing us to document this beautiful part of your story and for your kindness throughout the process.

Korbin: 4 years old

2011-07-01T09:06:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Ryan got to go play downtown with one of our favorite little guys. This is our fourth portrait session with Korbin, and he has been so much fun every time. I love these images because they show his adorable personality. Tiff and Marshall, thank you for continuing to allow us to capture these fun moments in Korbin's life. I hope they will allow you to always be able to look back on these sweet years.

Jessica & Patrick | Married

2011-05-17T06:55:00.000-07:00

When I think of Jessica and Patrick, I think big smiles, flirting, tenderness, kisses, and encouragement. At both their engagement session and on their wedding day, they were so in love and truly enjoyed one another's company. Patrick's calm and steadfast nature compliments Jessica's bubbly and slightly less structured personality. Ryan and I loved spending this gorgeous fall day documenting Jessica and Patrick's first day of their new life together. Thank you to the amazing families and wedding party for a joyful celebration.

Neuenschwander Family Portrait

2011-02-09T07:48:00.000-08:00

Ryan and I were delighted to spend New Year's weekend at Saltfork Lodge with our extended family. Aunt Sharon asked us to photograph her family while they were all together, and Ryan and I took a brisk morning hike to find a location. We finally found this quaint stone cabin along the water's edge. Hopefully they have all forgiven us for the long, freezing hike uphill. Here is my favorite image from this very quick shoot.

So many people I love in one picture!

Angie & Logan: Married

2011-01-27T08:54:00.001-08:00

I am completely smitten with Angie and Logan's thoughtful, unique, and romantic wedding day. I loved how they chose for the day to reflect their values. The details and moments of the day were infused with compassion, simplicity, and sincerity - three of my favorite characteristics in a couple and a wedding celebration. I will never forget brushing away tears to photograph the processional, breathing in the sweet pine scent during the ceremony, and escaping barefoot into the quiet woods for a few portraits with the bride and groom. Angie and Logan, thank you for allowing us to capture these memories and for being the kind of people that I am proud to call family and strive to be more like.

I loved the handmade bags and jewelry that Angie gave to her bridesmaids.

Simple yet stunning bridesmaids dresses that can be worn again.

I loved this ceremony spot nestled among the trees.

Angie and Logan donated to clean water projects in honor of their guests and had a "Coins for Clean Water" well that the children enjoyed dropping pennies into.

Taco salad bar, sundae bar, and cupcakes made up a savory and sweet menu.

Jeff & Julie: Married

2011-01-27T07:56:00.000-08:00

With another new addition to our family this year, I got behind on my blogging. I'm hoping to get caught up before next wedding season, and today I would like to share some details, moments, and portraits from Jeff and Julie's wedding day. Jeff and Julie's day seemed so familiar to me as I was shooting, and I quickly realized that many of the details, colors, and locations felt similar to my own wedding. Jeff and Julie began the day getting ready at Calvary Baptist Church, and the wedding celebration was held at the Amish Door Banquet Center. We felt so at ease photographing this sweet couple among their kind friends and family members. Jeff and Julie, we are a little more complete for having met you this past year. Your kindness has touched our hearts, and we can't wait to watch your family grow and blossom in the future.

Jeff and Julie's daughter, Olivia, is one of the cutest and funniest little girls I have ever met.

I loved these pictures of her grandparents that Julie attached to her bouquet. One of the prettiest and most sentimental details I have seen.

Whitesmith Fall Family Portraits

2010-12-14T07:04:00.000-08:00

One of the rare joys in life is meeting a kindred spirit. I met Mindy on Mother's Day this year at the home of a mutual friend, and I was instantly at ease. I knew I had met a friend that I could trust, talk freely to, and grow with. I have been equally as blessed by the time I have spent with her two Adams. I am looking forward to starting family traditions and watching our families grow together. Ryan and I were honored to photograph them for their Christmas card this year. Mindy and Adam, thank you for choosing us to document your love. Paula, thank you being our friend and mentor and for bringing us all together. We love you more than words can describe! Now onto some portraits.

I think the amount of love that baby Adam feels is evidenced by that gorgeous, constant smile of his.

Cockrill Family Fall Portraits

2010-12-12T10:56:00.000-08:00

The Cockrill family fall session was a very special session for Ryan and I. Ryan and I have known Mary and Shane since high school, and they are two of the most encouraging, kind, and sincerely faithful people that we know. Shane is the pastor at Abundant Life Christian Fellowship, and we look forward to spending some time there this winter. I saw the phrase, "People Loving People Like Jesus Would" on their website this morning, and I thought it was very fitting of Mary and Shane's testimonies. The newest addition to their family, baby Elijah, has added even more light to Mary and Shane's life, and we were blessed to spend an evening this fall photographing the three of them. Thank you Cockrills for being so delightful. You fill our hearts with joy!

L.O.V.E.

P.R.E.C.I.O.U.S

E.L.I.J.A.H.

Emma & Austin

2010-12-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

Ryan and I have had the pleasure of photographing many members of the Ramer family this year, and we will be catching up on blogging them this week. On this occasion, we did some portraits of Austin and Emma at Doug and Sharla's beautiful new home. We loved getting to know these sweet little souls and finding fun backgrounds and props to use in their yard. Thank you so much for inviting us to spend this pleasant fall afternoon with you.

Christmas Giveaway

2010-12-06T07:24:00.001-08:00

Need a little bit of inspiration and holiday cheer? Check out the huge Giveaway and Sale at the Soulographer Blog for Photographers http://www.soulographer.com!

Boivin Family: Fall Portraits

2010-11-27T17:18:00.000-08:00

The Boivins are enthusiastic football fans, and Marshall is a volunteer at the Pro Football Hall of Fame so they decided it would be a fitting location for a portrait session. It was a quick session due to the chill, but I think we were able to capture some cute shots. Tiffany, Marshall, and Korbin, it was great to shoot with you again. Here are a few of our favorites. Happy Holidays!

Abby & Brandon: Married

2010-11-24T07:31:00.000-08:00

In my blog post of Abby and Brandon's engagement session, I predicted their wedding day to be full of kindness, charm, wit, and style. I looked forward to their day all summer, and it did not disappoint. The wedding was held at the home of Abby's parents, and I am in awe of the things her father has built there. Seriously, they may find me moving my furniture into their carriage house some day. I love every detail that Abby, Brandon, and their families put together for their day, and I especially loved witnessing this most amazing chapter in Abby and Brandon's love story. Abby and Brandon, we feel so lucky to have been a part of your day. We love you and pray for many blessings in your future. Here are some of our favorites from your sweet, stylish soiree.

I believe Abby created their awesome wedding logo and theme. I am supremely jealous of her design talent.

The first look always produces some of my favorite images of the day.

This is the porch of the home that Abby and Brandon will be restoring with the help of her father. Amazing!

My favorite image of the summer.

Sisters!

I LOVE this structure that Abby's father built for his girls' weddings.

One of my favorite moments from the day was when Abby and Brandon braided this rope, along with their grandfather, to signify becoming one.

I love this shot Ryan captured of Brandon singing to his bride.

Best. Appetizers. Ever.

Thank you again for allowing us to be a part of your beautiful day.

Kristi & Erich: Married

2010-11-18T16:29:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things about photographing weddings is witnessing and documenting how each couple brings their own character to their wedding day. Kristi and Erich's day was characterized by meaningful moments surrounded by their friends and family members. Their actions and intentions throughout the day were calm, thoughtful, and spirit-lead. Kristi and Erich, Ryan and I truly enjoyed being a part of your beautiful and anointed day.

Preparation and the ceremony took place at the New Life Tabernacle.

Erich wrote a beautiful letter for Kristi before the ceremony.

Kristi and Erich prepared a number of slideshows for the ceremony including their growing years, love story, and engagement. This is Kristi and her father watching a slideshow of their years together.

The reception took place at the Amish Door in Wilmot.

Erich and Kristi's friend and family are as kind and fun-loving as they are, which makes for a fun day of work.

It rained during portrait time, so we were thrilled when Erich and Kristi took some time to venture outside during the reception when the weather cleared up a little.

Blaylock Family: Fall Portraits

2010-11-15T14:28:00.000-08:00

Ryan and I met the Blaylock family at Kristi and Erich's wedding this summer, and they contacted us after for some fall family portraits. We spent the evening with them at Jackson Park, where we enjoyed photographing both posed portraits and some candids of the fun they have together. As usual, Ryan found a new friend in sweet little Lance. All three children were so polite, well-behaved, and kind to one another, which made the session even more enjoyable. Thank you for a fun evening. Here are a few of our favorites.

Kerry & Eric: Married

2010-11-09T06:34:00.000-08:00

Ryan and Eric have worked together for many years at Home Appliance Co. in Massillon. Over the years Eric has become like family, and we love that Kerry is now a part of our family too. We were honored to document their wedding day in Massillon this summer. Kerry started the day off at Mia Bella Salon, where Nikki and her girls did an awesome styling job. Kerry was simply stunning. We then moved onto Central Presbyterian Church for a sweet first look, a few portraits, and a beautiful ceremony. Their reception at Shady Hollow Country Club was full of love and laughter. Here are a some of our favorite moments from the day.

Jessica & Patrick: Engaged

2010-11-05T08:33:00.000-07:00

Jess is the little sister of Ryan's best childhood friend, and I can only imagine the torment she endured from Ryan and Jon together. Many years later, we were thrilled when she asked us to photograph her wedding. When I first asked Jessica if she had anything in mind for her and Patrick's engagement session, she mentioned that she loved fall colors and that they enjoyed the Summit County Metroparks. We were excited about this because we love to explore new trails with our couples. As we hiked and chatted, Jessica and Patrick told us a little about their love story. Jess worked with Patrick's sister, and she insisted that Jess meet her brother. Her intuition was right, and they quickly fell in love. We hiked (up about 500 stairs) to the spot where Patrick proposed to Jessica, and she giggled when she told us that she doesn't remember anything about their hike after he proposed. I love that they chose such a meaningful setting for their session. Jessica and Patrick, we loved our fall hike and capturing these memories for you. We can't wait to spend the day with you NEXT WEEK!

Lecon Family Fall Portraits

2010-11-02T07:41:00.000-07:00

The Lecon family was the first of our fall portrait sessions this year. They did a great job setting up a fall scene at their beautiful home. It seemed like a quick session due to the chilly babies and the Browns game calling to the men ;), but we had a great time and love the results! Thank you so much for inviting us to your home to document this special time in your lives.

Aren't they an adorable family?!

Hallie & Eric: Married

2010-10-31T20:38:00.000-07:00

I knew Hallie many years ago when we used to whisper and giggle together in youth group. We lost touch after Hallie graduated, but I never forgot her spunky and adorable personality. We reconnected last year as photographer and bride, and Ryan and I loved documenting Hallie and Eric's gorgeous wedding day. Hallie and Eric, we were honored to capture these memories for you. Your day was one of the highlights of our summer. Please, let's not go ten years without seeing eachother again!

We started off the day prepping at Embassy Suites in Beachwood.

The ceremony was held at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Gates Mills.

Unfortunately, the three hours we had planned for portrait time after the wedding were cut very short by the sweltering heat. Fortunately, Hallie and Eric were fun, romantic, and comfortable in front of the camera during the few minutes we did have!

Aren't they gorgeous?!

Cooling off at Bar Louie in Legacy Village.

Back to Embassy Suites for a great party! We truly enjoyed spending time with Hallie and Eric's family and friends.

One last shot to end the night.

Mia: 18 Months

2010-10-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I have had the pleasure of photographing Mia four times now, and it has been so fun to see how she has grown and changed each time. On this shoot, I loved seeing Mia use her baby sign language, light up at her mommy and daddy's singing, squeal with laughter when daddy chased her, and thoroughly enjoy every minute of her first time in a bouncy house. Melissa and Dan, thank you so much for inviting us to capture these memories for you. I loved every minute of it as usual.

Logan: Six Weeks

2010-10-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

Baby Logan was born on 8-9-10, and we had the honor of photographing him at six weeks old. His mommy, Kristi, is a former colleague of mine from FRS Physical Therapy Clinic. Throughout the years of working together, she also became a role model, confidant, and one of my biggest supporters. She was always there to help me get a little more organized, never forgot a single story I told her, and always listened enthusiastically to every little detail of photography information I was studying . While I love the new path I am on now, I will always miss sharing stories and laughs with Kristi and the rest of my Fulton Road family. When Kristi and I met, I was just a 21 year old newlywed with multi-colored hair and a nose ring, and our friendship blossomed as I became a slightly more "middle american" (I love you Paul) looking mommy of four. Finally it is Kristi's turn to be a mommy! I have been waiting to meet little Logan for a long time, and I hope he will be a part of our lives forever. We love the three of you and had a blast visiting. I have to give credit to Ryan for many of the shots that I love from this session.

Luke and Kristi are so cute together. I think his new nickname for her is "SP" for "Super Parent".

I love Logan's bright blue eyes and gorgeous auburn hair.

Evelyn: 21 Months

2010-10-20T16:01:00.000-07:00

My niece Evelyn is one of the biggest blessings in my life and also one of my favorite subjects to photograph. Since Evie's last portrait session, she has learned so many new things, but my favorite new thing is hearing her say"Aunt Goga". We thought a summer garden portrait session would be a good fit for her since her mommy (my sister-in-law Natalie) has made a tremendous effort over the last two years to learn about and commit to an organic lifestyle. I am continually impressed at the lengths she has gone to become more earth friendly and to provide a healthy lifestyle for her family. We love you guys and hope you love these images of your sweet Evelyn.

Thank you Aunt Juanita and Uncle Dave for allowing us to photograph at your beautiful home.

Emily & John's Quailcrest Farm Engagement Session

2010-10-18T09:35:00.000-07:00

Somehow Emily and I managed to attend the same high school and university and even live on the same street for a number of years without ever meeting. Luckily, our paths finally crossed as photographer and client, but I was quick to realize that I would be honored to call Emily a friend as well. I left our first meeting feeling blessed to have spent time getting to know such a kind young woman that I have so much in common with. Our second meeting, for this engagement session, was just as much fun. We loved meeting and joking with John throughout the day. Here are some of my favorite shots of the way John and Emily spent time together - relaxing, playing, and laughing. Emily and John, thank you for your graciousness. We cannot wait for your wedding day sure to be filled with even more love and laughter.

Claire: Six Month Fall Portraits

2010-10-05T08:14:00.001-07:00

Ryan and I loved spending time with Claire and Nancy at Claire's six month portrait session. Claire was already sitting so well on her own, which made it fun to explore their beautiful farm setting with her. She enjoyed playing with and chewing on the cornstalks, grass, pumpkins, and flowers. I love the interaction between Nancy and Claire in these portraits. Claire loves her mommy's singing, and I can tell Claire is the light of Nancy's world. Nancy is such a laid back and practical mommy. Claire is lucky to be surrounded by such a great family. Nancy, thank you for inviting us to your beautiful home. We hope to keep in touch about all of the new things Claire is learning!

Niehaus Family Portraits

2010-09-25T22:51:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has already been a year since our last portrait session with the Niehaus family. Last year we enjoyed some time in the gardens at the OARDC, and this year we opted for capturing some family fun at the Children's Garden at Monument Park. We loved visiting and playing with some of our best friends on this beautiful summer morning. Thank you for your unending love and encouragement. I am already deliberating whether to go urban or studio style for the next session. Can't wait to spend time with you again soon!

Meet Blake Charles

2010-09-13T04:32:00.000-07:00

We have a new nephew and a new love! Blake Charles was born in June, and we had the honor of photographing him at a little over a month old. We have been praying for Blakey since long before he was born, and it is so much fun to finally see his face and hold his little hands. He is growing so fast, and we haven't gotten to see him nearly enough. I have a feeling I will be looking at these pictures a lot until I get to snuggle him again. Congratulations Jeneia and Ernie. We will always be here for Blakey, and his cousins can't wait to teach him some of their tricks. We love you!

Shannon & Jamie: Engaged

2010-09-12T08:29:00.000-07:00

I loved this session for a number of reasons. I loved spending the perfect summer morning at the Wilderness Center. I loved photographing Shannon and Jamie in an environment that is comfortable and meaningful to them. And most of all, I loved getting to know them better. Shannon and Jamie are fun, active, intelligent, and authentic. Being the naturally curious person that I am (which Ryan calls nosy), I loved hearing about their first date, their jobs, the type of movies they watch, and about their rugby and belly dancing adventures. They are so natural together, and I enjoyed watching how their interactions alternated between feisty and tender during the hike. Shannon and Jamie, thank you so much for the opportunity to document this milestone in your life. We wish you a lifetime of fun, romantic hikes together. We would love to meet up sometime to hike with you and catch up!

Michelle & Sam: Engaged

2010-09-12T06:59:00.000-07:00

We have been communicating with Michelle via email for close to a year, and we were excited to finally spend time with her and Sam at their engagement session. They were up for Ryan's suggestion of exploring some areas around Portage Lakes, as it turns out Sam has spent a lot of time boating there. We started out at the Tudor House and then moved on to the docks and the beach. Their affection for one another made our job easy and fun! Michelle and Sam, you are both so adorable. Thank you for your kindness. We had an awesome evening with you and can't wait for the wedding next month!

Stephanie & Chad: Married

2010-08-26T18:03:00.001-07:00

"I remember having a dream long long ago about my wedding... and it is weird because the man I was marrying didn't have a face... and then when I met Chad that face got filled in finally with his. The ceremony was outside and I was holding pink flowers. I never thought this dream would come true. Ever." These words are straight from Stephanie's blog, and I think they are so romantic. Chad is Stephanie's dream come true, and I know she is his as well. Steph and Chad were originally going to elope in Maui because they didn't want all of the attention that a wedding brings. They are such a humble, laid back couple that they just couldn't imagine the typical wedding day production. Eventually they decided they really wanted to have their family present and planned a small, intimate wedding on Steph's sister's beautiful farm. They created a day that matched their personalities perfectly. There was no grand entrance or even an aisle. Stephanie and Chad simply mingled with their guests until it was time to start the sweet, emotion-filled ceremony. Afterwards, their closest family and friends enjoyed Old Carolina Barbecue, lawn games, and sparklers. It was a perfect summer evening, and Ryan and I were honored to document and be a part of such a lovely day. In fact, it was one of the highlights of our summer. Steph and Chad, we love you both and look forward to seeing what comes next in your beautiful story together.

I loved watching Stephanie piece together her own bouquet - her pink flowers.

Once Chad arrived, it was time for them both to get ready.

We were able to squeeze in a few portraits before Stephanie went back to putting all of the perfect details together.

Onto the ceremony full of love and emotion.

Stephanie is an artist (I can't wait until her online shop opens), and she did an amazing job styling and creating a vintage feel for the reception. She worked so hard, and it paid off.

Time for a few more portraits around the farm. I'm including a few from the first spot because I know Ryan and I have different favorites.

Steph was stunning!

I hear the Tabellions don't like to have their picture taken, but Chad was so natural and patient around the camera all day. I just love his smile.

Back to the reception for some fun.

Peyton: 18 Months

2010-08-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I were thrilled when Peyton's mommy contacted us to do an 18 month portrait session. We loved photographing Peyton at one year old, and we were excited to spend time with her again. She is blossoming into the incredibly smart, vivacious, and sweet little girl that we knew she would be. And to top off all of those traits, she got her parents' good looks. She is cute as a button, and we loved singing, dancing, and chasing her around for an afternoon at her grandparents' lovely home. Seriously, I would love to just set up a studio in their backyard and use all of their amazing antiques all the time! We could have photographed Peyton all day, but sadly the session had to end sometime. We hope to see her again soon!

Heather & Danny: Married

2010-08-04T13:30:00.000-07:00

Danny & Heather had a beautiful springtime wedding at The Massillon Women's Club. Some of my favorite parts of the day were the quiet moments between Heather and her mom while they were getting ready, a sweet first look, and the loving way that Heather and Danny looked at one another all day. It was evident that they were truly happy to be married. Heather and Danny, thank you so much choosing us to be a part of your beautiful day.

Kristi & Erich: Engaged

2010-07-31T11:45:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I enjoy photographing engagement sessions because it is a great way to get know the couple better before their wedding day. We love to find out where each couple met and hear about their love story. This, hopefully, helps the couple to feel more comfortable with us on their special day and allows us to get a better understanding of the types of images they would like to have. Kristi indicated at our initial meeting that she likes fun portraits, and we found this to be true at the engagement session. We spent a great evening climbing trees, swinging, sharing icecream cones, and even riding in laundromat carts with this fun-loving couple. Kristi and Erich, thank you for a truly joyful session. We are looking forward to your beautiful wedding!

Sneak Peek

2010-07-26T21:22:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little sneak peek of some images coming to the blog soon! This little guy Cole didn't want to sit down and pose at all so we just had to chase him around! And look at those eyes!

And I found this on a memory card and just had to share it! She is probably going to be mad at me someday for things like this. Oh well. Worth it!

Brandon & Abby: Engaged

2010-07-22T21:24:00.000-07:00

"Abigail and Brandon have fallen in love, and as their adoration grew deeper, it was obvious that these two were meant to spend the rest of their lives together." This is printed on the fabulous wedding invitation I received in the mail today, and I thought it was the perfect description of Brandon and Abby's sweet love story. They are planning a meaningful ceremony at the home where Abby was raised, and we can't wait to spend the day celebrating with them. I know the day will be filled with their kindness, charm, wit, and style. For their engagement session, I planned a romantic summer picnic. Of course this meant that we ended up battling rain and wind for most of the session and even had to change locations. We have our fingers crossed for slightly better weather on their wedding day. Abby and Brandon, we are honored that you have chosen us to document this special time in your lives.

Korbin: 3 Years Old

2010-07-22T20:47:00.000-07:00

We first had the opportunity to photograph Korbin at 18 months old, and we fell in love with him then. We were excited when his family contacted us to photograph him again just before his third birthday. He has grown up so much, but he still has the same contagious grin, soulful eyes, and adorable personality. Korb, you melt my heart!

Springtime Family Session

2010-07-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I have so much fun spending time with the families we photograph. On this particular day, we loved documenting the affection between parent and child, the sweet innocence of little Tori, and the unbridled laughter and personality of Cooper. I hope that these pictures will help Katy and Rick remember the blissful days of having a young family. I, for one, will always remember Ryan diving off of the OARDC stairs and rolling down the hill repeatedly just to see Cooper laugh! Thank you for a lovely afternoon Katy and Rick!

Erin: 2 Years Old

2010-07-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

Erin is one of those children that reminds me to try to see the world through a child's eyes. She is such a smart little girl who loves to explore and learn. She can talk so well considering she isn't even two yet, and she is just exploding with personality. I loved spending time with her and her beautiful mommy, Charlene. I hope my little ones have the pleasure of playing with her some day too!