Ica Images

Personal: California Diary

2012-01-27T14:12:00.000-08:00

It's been 1 week and 1 day since I arrived here in Calfornia.

Usually this is about the time I'm packing my bags again and ready to fly home. But with a week and a half left my suitcase is sitting awry upstairs in my dear friend's bedroom. I'm sitting here in the kitchen typing away in sneakers and my running clothes after my morning run ... helping my "lil sis" craft for Reinna's wedding while listening to Mumford and Sons. Nope, I'm not going anywhere any time soon, this truly is my second home.

Here's my California Diary according to instagram.

reinna.

mr. and mrs. Leong.

reinna.

hope.

baby bratchers

karen and joe from misha lulu and rubyellen.

{ate} sharyl.

I've done so much and have seen so many of my favorite faces.

My time here has been such a joy and blessing.

I know these next two weekends will be even more amazing!!

Just incase it seems like I don't miss home ... I really do miss home

but praise God for facetime and telephones, long trips like these would be so much harder.

Happy Weekend Friends

-with love from Sunny California.

12.31.2011

2012-01-02T12:48:00.000-08:00

WE'RE ENGAGED!!!!

I'm engaged to my very best friend, and all glory and praise goes to God

for bringing us here, and blessing my life with him.

I love you Tim Remo, with my whole heart.

It was the best New Year's Eve of my life.

Happy New Year Everyone !!!!

And to all our friends and family we love you all and are so blessed by your love and warm wishes.

{ Once I'm able to buckle down and share our story I will. I promise. }

Personal: Merry Celebrating

2011-12-31T10:47:00.000-08:00

I might be a little late, but hope you all had the Merriest Christmas with your nearest and dearest.

This Christmas may have been filled with many lovely presents, but as I think about this past year and the many presents I've been given in life, grace is the greatest gift I have ever received. God sent his only son Jesus, a baby in a manger to grow up sinless ... only to die on a cross to save me from my own sin. But the beauty is that His grace doesn't stop there. He shows His love and grace daily even when we continue to mess up. This year was consumed with a lot of growing up and a lot of grace so it's been the sweetest time of reflection during this holiday season.

That goes without saying Christmas was still filled with presents galor.

As well as cookie decorating at Christmas Parties.

And lots and lots of present making.

Like these little handmade beauties I crafted for some of the special ladies in my life.

Each handmade baggie contained a version of this awesome little headband I wore to a graduation.

I've been wearing this headband everwhere and love it so much.

Thank you pinterest for this tutorial!!

My Christmas was filled with one pretty awesome surprise ... my mom got me an iPod Touch!

I'm afraid to tell you all that this is my first ever iPod ... in life.

I know I'm pretty lame and way behind on technology but now I'm all caught up!

Funny thing is that me and my boyfriend's sister decided to get my boyfriend an iPod touch also.

Now we facetime and play words with friends all the time.

Another sweet part of this Christmas was celebrating with my little nephew, Noah.

Me and my family had a blast celebrating Noah's 1st Christmas, but we surely missed my brother-in-law as he worked Christmas Eve.

Thankfully he got to celebrate opening presents with us early Christmas morning which was all too fun.

Ok, let me just be one of "those" aunts for a second and end with a photo of my favorite little baby.

He's getting so big and oh-so handsome. I love him.

Well merriest New Years Eve friends!

Hope you all have a night filled with dancing, celebrating and time with those you love!

Personal: Trimming The Tree

2011-12-22T07:33:00.000-08:00

This season is moving along sooo quickly. I've been to California and back twice, and I'm still not caught up on blogging. But the holiday's stop for no one, so here's a little Christmas-ing that I've been up too.

A few weeks ago it was time to pull out my Christmas tree from underneath my bed.

We trimmed it with lights and ornaments,

with really good company.

And in about 60 seconds we were finished.

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, how lovely are your branches!

Lastly because this doesn't happen very often any more,

I love when friends come to visit and we have crazy dance/stash parties <3.

Teaser: Lyn & Matthew

2011-12-19T15:29:00.000-08:00

I'm blogging while flying once again, this time I'm headed home from California.

This weekend was a lovely one in southern California and I shot my last wedding of the year for my dearest {ate} Lilyn and her husband Matthew. Their wedding day was filled with lots of family, friends and lots and lots of love. I was thrilled to be there celebrating with family.

I love you ate Lilyn and I'm praying nothing but the sweetest blessing for you and Matt.

I'm soo glad to see you happy and come visit DC soon k. Love you!

Personal: 2011 Funumentary

2011-12-09T15:34:00.001-08:00

This year has been incredible.

Filled with ups and downs, growth and challenges, so much love and joy.

With each season that has come and gone this year has definitely made me a better person than the person I was a year ago. Both in work and play I've been so blessed by the people I've met, the friends I've made, the things I've learned, the places I've been and the journey God has taken me on this year.

Hope you enjoy my little funumentary of this amazing year.

Engaged: Melody & Ian {New York, NY}

2011-12-08T10:57:00.001-08:00

It takes but a $25-35, 4 hour bus ride from DC to NYC.

So when you give me a reason to visit, I'm generally not one to pass it up.

Back in September I spent a few days in the city with family and friends, visiting, catching up and working.

I went right to work after hoping off of the bus to do this super sweet engagement shoot for two of my dear friends.

Besides traveling to New York every so often, I also frequent going to LA ... where I know these lovebirds from.

These are my friends Julian {or Ian} and Melody.

Ian I've known since we were kids. We met the summer me and my sister stayed in LA for a month without my mom, I think I was only 11. And we've remained friends ever since. Miss Melody I've only know for the past few years, but I love her dearly and am thankful for such a wonderful sister in Christ.

Ian moved out to NYC to pursue his acting career just a little more than a year ago.

And though long distance relationships are hard, these two held it down and remained strong while being apart.

Melody is the stinkin cutest! I love this pretty lady.

If you know Melody and Ian you know how fun, laid back, and how silly they are.

Never a dull moment with these two,

and if your cheeks aren't hurting from laughing and smiling with them .. somethings wrong.

After running around Soho for an hour, we squeezed in a short audition for Ian

{I'd expect nothing less in the middle of a NYC photoshoot}.

Then we hopped on the subway and made our way to Brooklyn.

Brooklyn never disappoints.

Especially visiting D.U.M.B.O. for the first time.

It was incredible!!

Best view of the city I'd say.

Brooklyn gave me butterflies that day, so did capturing Ian and Melody.

I can't believe next month is their wedding already.

I'll be back and forth between here and LA in the next 3 months for 3 seperate weddings.

I have 3 different jobs for each wedding, a photographer, then a guest, then a bridesmaid.

And for Ian and Melody's I'll actually get to be a guest and party down. WAHOO!!!

Ian and Melody, I'm so blessed and overjoyed to have you both in my life.

Your encouragement, your prayers, your kindness, your love and your friendship always emulate the love of Christ. I know that where ever God leads you CA or NY, He has the greatest plans for you both in life and in marriage. And hey like I already told you ... if it's NY I'm only a bus ride away.

Love you both so much and I can't wait to see you two again.

Personal: More Christmas tunes

2011-12-05T22:24:00.001-08:00

How is it already December?

Well, here are more Christmas tunes to fill your December days with!

Wedding: Lenny & Leigh

2011-12-05T17:33:00.001-08:00

Time for another sweet wedding.

This beautiful bride is Leigh.

Her wedding day was wonderful, and her group of girlfriends were a dream to work with.

Gorgeous!

Not only is Leigh gorgeous, but her groom Lenny is her perfect mate.

They are such a beautiful couple.

These ladies were pretty fabulous, and sweet as candy.

They guys were easy going and great to work with as well.

After a beautiful ceremony we headed over to Old Hickory Gold Club for some sweet portraits.

I love when brides and bridal parties throw in their own picture ideas, especially fun silly ones!

Congrats Lenny and Leigh!

You love birds were simply a treat to take pictures of, making my job insanely eazy.

One of my favorite father daughter photos ever.

Lenny and Leigh your wedding day was incrediblely fun and I had such a good time getting to know your friends and family while capturing your big day!

I hope each day of your marriage is filled with love, and laughter!

Happy Tuesday Friends!

Wedding: Alex and Sarah

2011-12-01T19:09:00.001-08:00

Alas, time to finally catch up on some blog posts.

Starting with a sweet small town wedding.

This is Sarah, one of the cutest, sweetest, and tiniest brides I've ever worked with.

And those special ladies helping her in to her dress, well that's Mom and sister.

And this mister, is Dad.

Sarah is the oldest of 4 siblings, is adopted, and has one of the most loving families I've ever met.

While Sarah and her ladies got them selves ready for the day at her house,

The boys waited patiently outside with some Russian traditions up their sleeves.

In Russiah it's tradition to pay the family of the bride to see your bride on your wedding day.

{Why couldn't we do this for my sister's wedding .. Only kidding!}

So in holding up traditions, Alex {the groom} and his crazy fun group of groomsmen put all their cash together,

knocked on the front door and paid Sarah's siblings till they were satisfied then Alex finally got his bride.

Sarah's adorable baby brothers, and her stone-cold-fox of a baby sister all walked away with

{drum roll plllllllease ..... } One dollar each!

With that, Alex got is bride and Sarah got her groom.

I'm thinking it was the best $3 Alex has ever spent, ey?

So then up, up and away we went to the hilltops of Harrisonburg, Virginia.

The campus of Eastern Mennonite University is where we spent most of morning frolicking, playing and taking pictures.

And most of all having fun.

Honestly these guys were the silliest group of groomsmen ever. EVER.

Things like this happened all day long, and I enjoyed it.

But don't get me wrong, they were pretty hardcore too.

After all they did teach me "The Russian Smile" aka ... no smile.

Then back to the crazy.

Then back to the serious.

It was a balance of crazy-serious fun all day long. Just my style and my kindda people.

Alex and Sarah you are amazing for doing a first look, Russian traditions or not.

Thank you for being so creative, for setting aside so much time for pictures and for being so much fun to work with.

You guys made my job easy as pie. It's no wonder why I'm having such a hard time editing down the amount of pictures to post on this entry.

*First look, all the cool kids are doing it .. but even more importantly a first look always allows for more photos with less time constraint, in a more intimate setting on a wedding day. Wink wink *

Sarah and Alex, you guys are the cutest!

Alright ladies and gentlemen, cue the Viva La Vida / Love Story mash up!

Go ahead, press play .. we'll wait.

Seriously, just press play ... it'll help the story along, I promise.

And it'll get you swaying and nodding your pretty little head off to the beat.

Gosh, I'm getting goosebumps just reliving their wedding in my head.

Alex and Sarah were all butterflies all morning long on their wedding day.

The mood was light, laughter was always in the air and the moment their ceremony started ... well it was perfection.

The bridal party marched in first while the piano softly sang Love Story.

I could expect no less for Alex and Sarah's wedding day.

And as the notes quickened, and as we all hummed the lyrics under our breath

{Who could resist a little Taylor Swift?}

The anticipation made it's way to the tapping of our toes ...

{cue Viva La Vida!}

Then everyone turned to the back of the room, rose to their feet, and this tiny beaming bride and her

ever so proud father walked down the aisle with so much pep in their step it was just short of dancing.

Sniffles came from everywhere in the room I tell you. Even from behind my camera, yep I cried too.

The entire room was smiling from ear to ear and it remained that way through out the entire ceremony.

It was the kind of ceremony where you didn't want it to end.

It was the most emotional I've ever gotten at a wedding, everything was just beautiful.

You know that's love when everyone at your wedding is smiling and in tears, even the photographer.

Then the celebrating continued and off I went to capture some sweet little details.

And when I say sweet, I mean catch-a-cavity-or-two kind of sweet.

Sarah and Alex's friends and family all pitched in and baked these sweets for their big day.

Sarah's incredible and made more than 100 cranes for her wedding day!

During the reception there were more tears involved. A maid of honor speech with a referrence to Wicked's For Good,
always a tear jerker. A best man's speech full of smiles and lots of brotherly love from a best friend.

And lastly a speech made by Sarah's mom, in honor of Sarah's biological mother some where in South Korea who gave up her daughter
... blessing their family with Sarah. The love didn't stop there with the speech, but with a sweet gift of two handcarved ducks.

Sarah's mom looked up some Korean wedding traditions and made sure to embrace Sarah's heritage during her wedding day. The ducks are giving to newly weds in hopes to bring them blessings and children in the future. Each duck had to be handcarved only by an honorable man, who has alot of children. The ducks are placed in the newly weds' home and symbolizes their current state in their relationship for the household to see. If the ducks are facing beak to beak then everything is good. If the ducks are tail to tail that means they are fighting. Lastly each duck beak has a ribbon tied around it symbolizing submission to one another.

She had everyone in the room crying all over again, even the MC this time.

Alex and Sarah, your wedding day is one I will never ever forget. And I was soo blessed to have been a part of it and in the company of your amazing friends and family. The way you share God's love to those nearest and dearest to you, as well as those you just meet {ex. myself} is such a beautiful testimony. I can't say thank you enough for allowing me to capture your day, and thank you for your kindness and friendship. I know God has only the best in store for you two!

Let me wrap this entry up with my hands-down-absolute-favorite moment while working.

After Alex and Sarah drove off in their get away car, I turned to Sarah's mom and dad, thanked them for their kindness
and asked if I could get a picture with them though I just met them that day ...

Well I got that picture, and a whole lot of love with it!!

See my face {my not-so-pretty-been-working-and-crying-all-day face} ... it was the best surprise ever,
and this picture is now one of my favorites {despite how crazy I look}.

Teaser: Last Fall Wedding

2011-11-29T12:12:00.001-08:00

The nurse and the navy man.

Said I do.

With a spectacular wedding it self, and an absolutely awesome day after shoot,

This was one awesome wedding to close out the wedding season on the East Coast.

{ I do have one last wedding in California this year}

Congrats Meg and Charlie, I can't wait to share more from your big day!

Personal: Happy Christmas-ing!!

2011-11-25T12:28:00.000-08:00

Hi friends!

Hope you all had a spendid thanksgiving and ate till your heart's content!

Thanksgiving is now over {though there's much to be thankful for each and ever day} and Christmas is on it's way. I'm the kindda gal who despises Chrismas music before Thanksgiving. {I'm the one-holiday-at-a-time type of girl}. But now it's time to get my Christmasing on, and share some love with you all. Hope you enjoy some of these, they are some of my favorite Christmas/wintery songs ever!

Happy Christmas-ing Folks!

Personal: Giving Thanks

2011-11-23T20:58:00.001-08:00

Alot of times I feel like I don't have much to give,

but the one thing I can always give is thanks.

I have to give credit, where credit is due and first thank the one who made me.

I am nothing without the love and grace of my Saviour. Nothing.

I can't sit here pretending like all my success, or all my skills are my own doing .. because they are not. I am where I am in life because of a God who loves me. I simply make use of the things He's blessed me with, and make sure to never take those things forgranted {even though I still do from time to time}.

I am thankful for love.

I say this almost every year on my blog, but every year love truly is the one thing I am most thankful for in life. Love is the only reason I have a job because love and marriage go hand in hand. Love gets me through the day, the love of my family or my boyfriend or my friends. Love forgives me of my sin, no matter how terrible I can me {God truly is love}. And love for this job, it's a privilege to have a job I adore each and every day.

Before I go,

Thank you.

*** You = my friends, family, blog readers, twitter followers, fb friends.

YOU all keep me going. ***

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FRIENDS!

Events: Fabulous Frocks!!!

2011-11-19T11:09:00.001-08:00

Before I catch up on a million lost blog posts, and a crazy fun trip to California ... I've got one entry I must share about this weekend.

What's more fun than one beautiful, bridal gown?

An entire boutique full of them!!!

This weekend my friend and bride, Linda opened up her very own bridal consignment boutique in Alexandria, VA.

Fabulous frocks

The space is amazing, the dresses are nothing short of the best, and "opening night" was festive, fun and such a wonderful celebration.

Dresses. I'm a sucker for dresses. Short, long, white, colorful ... I was dying, everything was truly fabulous.

A little love goes out to my wonderful and handsome date, Tim.

Thanks for being my +1 and enjoy cupcakes with me dear.

I initially invited my big sis because if you know the two of us, we are constantly watching "Say yes to the dress" together. So any reason to be surrounded by amazing white dresses must be shared with her. But this mama is having a hard time being apart for her little baby Noah for too long. She's such a mom. :)

I love a good fancy Friday night,

Linda was an amazing host,

But over the past year she's been an even more fabulous bride and friend.

Linda thank you for inviting me and Tim to celebrate your birthday with you, and your shop opening. You've one of the sweetest brides I've ever had and thank you for all your love and support. If I wasn't a wedding photographer I'd want your job right now. Your boutique is just as amazing as I'd thought it'd be and I wish you the absolute best Linda!!!

To my brides, my lovely friends who are engaged, and even to any ladies looking for pretty bridesmaid dresses you must come down and visit Linda's shop! Tell her Ica sent you, she'd love that <3

Fabulous frocks of Alexandria, VA

Events: Identity Conference

2011-11-15T20:43:00.001-08:00

Inhale BIG breath .... Exhale.

This week has been one earth shaking week for me, from the inside out.

Attending Identity Conference had alot to do with it, more importantly so did great friends and an awesome God.

Tomorrow morning I leave sunny Southern California with a very full heart and a renewed spirit.

As crazy as most of my visits to SoCal are, this time around I tried to keep as low of a profile as possible {an impossible task I} to help clear the clutter in my mind and remain a sponge for every this conference had to teach me. And I did just that, but that doesn't mean I didn't get to squeeze in some fun on the rest of the days I was here. As usually, I will have to break down our adventures in separate entries but for now here are a few places to catch some of the action this week: are here and here.

Back to Identity, the conference was truly amazing ... everything I needed and more really.

The worship was beautiful, the speakers like Tim Sanders, David Jay and Rick Warren {to name only a few} were all inspiring and so encouraging. They even challenged me business wise, and heart wise to be better, do better and work harder. Blessed barely conveys how I felt by the end of the conference.

So what is my identity?

Well first and foremost I find my identity in Christ. He is my everything.

Secondly I do what I do, because of "the butterflies".

The butterflies I get being in love.

The butterflies I get seeing my clients in love and capturing that.

The butterflies I get taking pictures I love that have meaning and tell a story.

The butterflies I get watching each bride walk down the aisle towards the man she's about to call husband for the rest of her life

The butterflies I get when I see a groom cry tears of joy on his wedding day.

The butterflies I hope to give someone's daughter some day when she looks at her parents wedding photos and feel what I feel every time I see my own parent's wedding photos.

And the butterflies I get when I think about God's unmeasurable, gracious love for me, and His goodness in my life allowing me to pursue a career I love and cherish.

It's the butterflies. Ica Images is all about "the butterflies".

I can't wait to implement all I have learned in these following days, weeks, even years. And continue to bring "the butterflies" to my clients, my work and my day to day life.

A thanks to our new friend Nick for this photo, and who also did an awesome job shooting the event!

Lastly lots of love goes out to my one of my best friends Reinna for joining me in attending the conference, and for being such a beautiful friend, host, and confidant. She's about marry one of the greatest photographers I know {who happens to also be one of the greatest friends I know} and will be teaming up with him in his photography business. Ammmazing, I know God is going to bless you both abundantly.

I hope some of you come out and join me next year {it was free friends!} and definitely worth the 5 hour flight out here if you're from the East Coast. And do stay tuned for some California adventuring here on the blog. There was too much being had and many photos to share!

Happy Wednesday folks!

Personal: Baby Blues

2011-11-08T13:37:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my handsome little nephew Noah turned one month old!

One month, already! It was so fast and every day we go to visit him he gets bigger and bigger.

So in honor of his 1 month birthday, me and my mom made him a cake!!!

Dearest Noah, Your Grams and I love you soo much,

you're the only boy in the world we'd bake a cake for every month of the year.

Oh man, the faces this boy makes melt our hearts ... even the "I'm hungry faces" too.

This is his signature "I'm happy" face. Yup, that's Noah for you.

Having a boy in the family is new stuff for me, my mom and even my big sis ... the blue everywhere is still to grow on us. We missed Noah's dad as he went off to work during our cake party, but it's ok we made sure he brought some blue cupcakes to work to celebrate anyways!!

Little baby Noah, we love you chubs!!!

Giveaway: FREE Tunes For Tuesday

2011-11-08T12:10:00.000-08:00

Music, I love good music. I also love really good free music, who doesn't?

also ... I really love Me & Mr. Cassidy.

These guys are pretty familiar faces on my blog, and if you've taken a gander at my online portfolio you'd hear their lovely voices set the tone for my work. They are ammazing and their music makes me cry on a good day. Now what's the big deal?

Well Me & Mr. Cassidy is about to be a big deal {fingers crossed}. With a big important show this weekend they will be performing in front of some very important Sony Music Label Reps. Yep, only a year of working together this duo is already doing big things.

If you haven't heard of them before, or haven't heard their beautiful tunes here's a snippets of their album

Me & Mr. Cassidy Volume 1.

Between the two of them, Hope & Scott {Mr. Cassidy} have played along side or have shared the stage with some pretty incredible artists like The Makepeace Brother, Bushwalla, Jason Mraz {yeah ... still trying to wrap my head around that one}, Avasa & Matty Love ... the list goes on and on. I can only imagine where they'll in another year or two.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

But before they get too big they still haven't been heard by everyone. So to share the love of great music, and get their tunes out there,

I want to get Me & Mr. Cassidy's 1st album in your hands *** FOR FREE ***

All you have to do is like them, or tweet them, or blog about this. Simple huh?

1. Like Me & Mr. Cassidy on Facebook & leave a comment on this blog post telling me you did ... or

2. Like Me & Mr. Cassidy on Facebook & tweet me @icaimages telling me there instead

{please include @meandmrcassidy in your tweet also}

You will get their entire digital album for free, I've got 10 copies to share with you awesome readers!

OR Blog about this giveaway & leave a comment on this post with a link and email ..

If you want their actual CD instead, signed cover and all.

I'll be heading to California at the end of the week and can pick up 3 free copies from the duo themselves & send them your way as soon as I get back.

As for the digital copies, I'll be emailing out the albums as soon as I get them this week.

This giveaway ends Thursday at 12 pm pacific standard time.

Personal: First Time Guest

2011-10-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday I attended my first wedding as a guest this year.

I had a handsome date, I wore my heels and a pretty little dress, danced the night away and ate sweets galor, it was an amazing day.

But the best part was seeing our friends say I do and celebrating with everyone

the blessings God has poured over Mike and Meghan.

They both looked amazing and we love them so much.

Here's proof of our crazy dancing all night. I love my friends.

Cheers! To being wedding guest and fun filled Sundays!

Have a great week friends!

Teasers: A DC love story

2011-10-24T23:34:00.000-07:00

If you and the man you were about to marry were asked to pack up your lives, and move across the country for work ...

how would you spend your last day, your last few hours saying goodbye to the city where you fell in love?

You run around town like crazies, making out at all your favorite spots,

Soaking every ounce of the city in so that you don't ever forget it.

Then you call up a perfect stranger {me} as suggested by a friend {thanks Jeku}

to take pictures of you doing so.

Arlyn & Andrew meeting you two reminded me how much this job means to me and how important it is to capture your memories before they fade too quickly. Your care-free spirits and your willingness to spend your last few hours in DC with a perfect stranger {me} means more than you know.

In life there are many firsts and many lasts. Everything is fleeting, life is always moving.

If you aren't willing to roll with the punches, you're just sitting on the sidelines not playing in the game.

Seize the day my friends, and enjoy each day you are given.

Personal: My Nephew, My Heart

2011-10-24T21:56:00.000-07:00

Most days around here involve one sleepy little boy.

He's the talk of the town, the bees knees, and my oh my is he a heavy sleeper. He's the tiniest bundle of handsome I've ever seen. And though he does nothing but sleep and eat all day I can stare at him for hours and never tire of his beautiful face. I love my little Nephew, much more than I knew I could and man is he the sweetest smell in the whole world. My sister, the proud mommy is enjoying every minute with her new little man and is finally blogging over there, now when I'm not at her place I can be "keeping up with the" Limos {lee-moes} fam. Awesome.

Dear Noah,

I'm sorry I kiss you too much.

And take too many pictures of you.

You are just the cutest and I can't help myself.

I Love You,

-Your favorite {and only} Aunt

PS. I've got stories to tell you about your Grams' {"Hotstuff" a.k.a. my mom} when you get older, and how much she loves.

She's Speedy Gonzales when she knows she gonna see your face. You are loved little one, soo loved.

Inspiration: The sound of fall

2011-10-19T11:06:00.000-07:00

Most every one of my days has a soundtrack playing quitely in the background

For every mood, ever milestone and every season there's always a a new song.
Fall, well Fall is one of my favorites. The world seems to slow down as a single leaf falls from the sky and find it's place amongst those already on the ground. The air is new, and hugs seem to last a little longer to help those you love stay a little bit warmer. Yup, I love fall. Here are a few songs that keep me moving, keep me inspired, or keep me smiling this season.

Sometimes I forget how good, and how strong God's love is .. it's good to be reminded.
I'm a romantic at heart, this almost made me cry it's so beautiful. {Angie thanks for introducing me to Mindy Gledhill .. I'm in love}
Ingrid.Michaelson. No need to say more :)

Ellie Goulding, I'm addicted to her voice and this cover is goosebumps-amazing.

Zee Avi is simply one of a kind.

This is a breakup song, I know. But it's so fun and catchy and Sara Bareilles looks ammazing in this video. {One of my favorite tracks from Kaleidoscope Heart}
I hope I'm not the only who wants to now break into song and dance in a leather jacket at the local super market.

Me and Tim fell in love with his music the first time we heard him live. <3
His songs mean alot more than sweet melodies to us now.

What are you listening to this season?
I'm sure you all know some amazing music I've not yet heard.

Teasers: One of my 'bests' is marrying her best.

2011-10-18T21:37:00.000-07:00

Today was magical...

I got to shoot one of my best friend's engagement pictures.

She is engaged to her best friend and love of her life.

And to kick off this new season of their lives they started with photos.

I'm aching to share more. I love them.

Inspiration: Fall Frocks

2011-10-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

One of the many reason I love fall is the change in wardrobes.

It might just be me, but I think everyone looks better in the fall. I love seeing people wrapped in layers with a chill in the air that gives our cheeks a natural blush. And to be honest fall seems to bring out our inner Quinn Fabrays {well, last season's Quinn at least}. Quinn is always so put together but casual enough for the daytime, her stylist rocks!

So it got me thinking, since I love dressing up in the fall and am always looking for inspiration I thought maybe I could put together a few fall looks. I hope this even helps you love birds {well just the ladies} who are doing engagement photos this season. Just because it's colder doesn't mean you can't be colorful or have just as much fun with your outfits as you did in the summer.

I know ... I'm no style gurur and every person has their own style

but these are a few tricks that I keep in my back pocket and help me dress fun year round ... so I though I'd share them.

Yellow Jacket / Dress / Socks / Boots / Fedora / Braceletes

Two of my favorite tricks for fall and winter are .... a bright colored coat, and a timeless hat.

Every peacoat I've owned in the last few years have been a bright flash of color, fire red, green or royal blue. It's cold and gloomy most autumn days, sometime you need color in your life to liven you back up. Since it's cold you're probably going to wear a hat anyways, why not go for grandpa's structured fedora, or a little vintage cap you've been trying to muster up the courage to wear. Lastly a girly dress with tough boots, Hello Quinn!

Vintage knit top / Bangles / Skirt / Wedges

Maxi skirts in the fall = love.

Just because summer is filled with maxi dresses and skirts, doesn't mean you have to give them up in the fall. Pleated maxi skirts in bright colors = a happy fall skirt. And how about a pretty knit top instead of tanks or tees to take it from summer to autumn. Ooh or even a long wool sweaters, yeah I like that.

Scarf / Vintage Silk Top / Bracelets / Boots / Straight Leg Jeans

I live in vintage silk tees.

I have a collection of them in my closet and have never paid more than $5 for each {thrift stores/yard sales/ebay/etsy}. What I love is that they are dressier than your cotton v-neck without you doing a single thing, and they are so versatile. I have to stop myself most days from reaching for them because I wear them too much, can you say obsessed? But really they go with every skirt, shorts, and every pair for pants in my closet. Silk is perfectly airy and light for the summer but is also the perfect layer underneath a chunky wool sweater for the fall.

Vintage Silk Top / Straight Leg Jeans / Statement Necklace / Coat / Bright Pumps

Details. Details. Details.

I love silk tees so much, here's one more look that's just a tad bit dressier than the last outfit. And for the record, Cold does not have to be boring. Bright close toe pumps, a big statement necklace, and a coat with details to die for, those are just a few ways to add details to an otherwise plain jean and tee ensemble. ***If you are short like me, The Loft has the most amazingly cut pants/jeans all around. They have short lengths so you don't have to worry about hemming them.***

I guess that's it for now. I hope this helps and gets you all as excited as I am for your fall wardrobe. I'm a big thrift-er and yard sale lover {patience is key} but if online shopping is easiest for you, I've linked just about every item from these looks just in case you've fallen in love with some of these pieces.

Lastly if you want inspiration from the experts and not me, here are my two absolute favorite fashion blogs

Keiko Lynn

Kendi Every Day
{who wants to join me next month to do: 30 for 30 ???}

Happy Fall!

Wedding: Cristina & {Glen Echo, MD}

2011-10-10T13:58:00.000-07:00

Oh this wedding. This wedding was one of the most fun filled weddings I've ever shot. I was beyond blessed working along side Andrew and Carissa {of For You Love Me} with a venue I'd been hoping to shoot at for along time. I can happily say I've finally shot a Glen Echo wedding :)!!!

James and Cristina your sugar coated, fun loving wedding was amazing and congrats to you both!

Hello shoes, how you doin'?

It was a treat starting out the day in downtown DC at the Donovan House in Thomas Circle.

I have no words to explain how stunning Cristina is. She's breath taking.

And she was an awesome DIY bride to boot.

Bouquets, boutonnieres, table settings, name cards, you name it ... Cristina did it.

James and Cristina had a beautiful catholic Filippino American wedding ceremony,

But to save room for the details to come ... I'm gonna fast forward just a bit.

Oh Glen Echo.

While Carissa had the ladies, I had the boys and they were rockstars in their traditional Filippino barongs.

Ok, ready?

This was a reception I will never forget.

As the sun started to go down, we gathered in the bumper car pavillion for a whole lot of wonderful.

Cristina out did herself.

When the party started, the party really started. There was so much energy in the room and so much love in the air.

Every detail was perfectly planned and executed and soo much fun.

Their dessert bar was fantastic! Sundaes and Georgetown Cupcakes!!

I think everyone was on a sugar high by the end of the night.

I did not want this night to end.

But it did with a wonderful song by the bride and groom themselves.

Sigh, reliving that day through their pictures was just as fun the second time around.

Have a wonderful week friends

Personal: The Little Boy Who Changed Everything

2011-10-08T21:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning after a sleepless night in the hospital my big sister
edured the longest 11 hours of her life and gave birth to my beautiful nephew Noah.

Dear World, let me introduce to you Noah June Diongzon Limos.

He was 6.8lbs, 20 inches, born at 9:05am on Friday, October 07.

My big sis and my brother-in-law are simply overjoyed, head over heals in love with him and they're already wonderful parents.

Yesterday Noah changed all of our lives. Life is never going to be the same, it's going to be fuller, crazier and there's gonna be alot more cuddling going on.

To all the mothers out there: you all are the bravest , strongest women in the world.

I am so very proud of my big sister and though I was scared I am so honored to have been with her, Noah and Terrence every single step of the way. They don't call it labor for nothing, it really is hard, painful work. But my sister did it and I knew she could. She's a tough girl and proved that this weekend. The moment she knew she was going into labor the first thought that crossed my mind was "She was made for this." My sister is going to be and already is one incredible mother. Noah is not only going to be the coolest boy on the block, but with my sister and Terrence as his parents .. he is one blessed and loved little boy.

I love you sissy, Terrence and Noah ... you guys are my heart.

Noah, we've been waiting for you pumpkin ... I'm so glad you're here now.

All praise and glory goes to God for keeping both my sister and baby Noah safe and healthy through out the entire delivery and the last 9 months. This year has been a long journey for my sister and her growing family and it's only going to get more beautiful from here.

From one proud sister and aunt,

"Tita {aunt} Ica"

Personal: Identity

2011-10-05T14:28:00.000-07:00

It's fall! It's a brand new season. Wahoo!

I'm so thankful for such a full summer of fun, and weddings. Though it's been a rollercoaster of crazy, I'm thankful that with each season comes growth and change. Things can't stay the same forever nor should they and I'm learning to embrace each season as it come, when it comes. With this wedding season coming to a close I'm excited for what's just around the corner. Lots or regrouping, rest, reevaluating and lots of time to learn and grow.

I've been waiting all year long for the Identity Conference and now we're only a month away.

My flight is booked, my ticket reserved, but most of all my heart is ready.

I'm alot of things, a daughter, sister, friend, girlfriend, photographer, business woman, but at the end of the day I find my indentity in Christ. I am"rooted and built up in him ... overflowing with thankfulness {Colossians 2:7}." He's the reason I've been so blessed with this job that I love and the reason why I keep stiving to grow and be better.

We are each blessed with specific talents, passions and callings. The mission of Identity Conference is to help empower, and equip young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to continue to succeed and bring glory to God with their businesses. For months I've been hungry for something like this and now that I've found it I've gotta share. If you are in the Southern California area, or are able to fly out there next month {the weekend of the 12th} and want to join me and a few friends ...

... Register now!!! Like right now!

Because A. It's going to be awesome B. It's free.

Hope to see you guys out there, and if you do go please email me, or tweet me and let's meet up!

Engaged: Jennifer & David

2011-10-04T12:37:00.000-07:00

"Like a tall glass of lemonade when it's burning hot on a summer day, you're exactly what i need." - Jeremy Passion

So ... this has got to be one of my favorite shoots of all time. I had the most fun with my ammazing second shooter/assistant/boyfriend by my side and though the day was really hot ... work did not feel like work one bit. And to top it off Jennifer and David spoiled me rotten with their good looks, a venue to die for and the sun ... ohhhhh the sun!!! Hope you enjoy these pictures as much as I do.

They are so hot I could just melt!

It was sometime last year that I met up with David and Jennifer to talk photos, and though it was my first time meeting Jennifer ... I feel like I've known her for years. David and Jennifer feel like old friends of mine, a friendship well worn in and comfortable. But then again that's just who they are as a couple.

David and Jennifer love each other with a very comfortable, well worn in kind of love. They know each other so well, what the other likes and dislikes, what the other would say, feel or think ... before actually saying what's on their mind. They know exactly how to take care of each other and they always know how to have fun.

I'm so thankful that David and I met through our old jobs a few years ago. When we met he told me he was engaged to a pretty little Filippina and could tell I was Filippino too. We talked and even back then his eyes would light up simply mentioning her name. This guy was truly in love, and things haven't changed.

Geez .... You guys are such a beautiful couple.

We had an extra model during their photoshoot who loved the attention.

Fancy's her name, and modeling is her game, she was an amazing addition to our shoot.

I know what you're thinking it.

Jennifer really does have the best hair, and makeup, and clothes ... and my gosh she's gorgeous. She really is.

Only Badgley Mischka could make a dress that glamorous.

I dreamt about that dress for a few days after the shoot, it was that amazing.

Now for my favorite part of their shoot.

All their idea.

Jennifer and David you guys are tooo much fun and I love you guys to bits and pieces. You both, and your families are simply amazing for having me and Tim over for dinner and swimming after your shoot. {Yes .. we all jumped in after our shoot. Who could pass up that opportunity?} I can not wait for your wedding.

Some of the details: Location- Artemis Riding Academy / Makeup - Christina Miller {FB}

Teaser: So Much Love

2011-10-02T23:16:00.000-07:00

Today was filled with so much love, so many blessings and so much fun.

Carol and Rob your wedding was all kinds of wonderful, and your love for God and for each other has truly touched my heart.

I'm dying to share more ... I really am ... and soon, oh so very soon there'll be more on the way.

Have a great week friends!

Maternity: I'm going to be an Aunt any day now

2011-10-01T14:49:00.000-07:00

My big sis and her husband are preggers, and baby boy is coming any day now.

We're all super excited, most expecially my sister.

If there's one thing we've all been certain about is that my sister was made to be a mom. She's been babysitting since she was 10 and is amazing with children at any age. And though she might not feel it right now, she is one little hot mama.

Both her and Terrence are so excited preparing for their first little baby boy. They are nesting like crazy, setting up Noah's room for when he gets here and waiting patiently for his when he gets here.

Little baby Noah is such a blessed little boy and he's not even here yet.

I'm still soaking it in little by little that my sister & Terrence are having a whole person any day now. A little baby that'll become a bigger boy. One who'll probably play sports, or like trucks, or trains, or dinosaurs. A little boy who'll grow up to be a teenager, go to high school, who'll start liking girls {hopefully not too soon}, one day go to college .. or like his aunt, maybe not go to college and instead pursue his dream job ... only God knows his future. But what I know is that, that little boy is gonna be a whole person, who is going to be loved, blessed and cared for each and every single day.

Sister and Brother dearest, I'm soo excited for you both. God has blessed you both so much in your first year of being married, I know there are so many more blessings to come for your beautiful, growing little family. I know you both will be awesome parents and I love you three so much.

Wedding: Patrick & Michelle {Old Town Alexandria, VA}

2011-09-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

Finally .. Time to blog.

It's been a month or so of teasers and finally there's time to sit, blog and share. I've been so excited to share this special Old Town wedding. A special thanks goes out to my amazing second shooter Tina Leu {who doesn't give herself enough credit for being so awesome}, she did amazing and working with her is always such a treat.

Pat and Michelle are finally married. The only times we've seen each other have been at their friend's weddings and now it was finally Michelle's turn to be the bride and my turn to shoot her wedding.

The day was buzzing with excitement, laughter, and warm wedding wishes. I had butterflies.

You gorgeous babe!

Finally shot a wedding at the Athenaeum! I've been wanting to shoot at this beautiful little gallery in Old Town for the longest time, and it's finally crossed off of my list. It's beautiful, intimate, oozing of awesome natural light, and the garden is simply amazing.

My favorite candid of the day, Tina you rock!

Pat was quite dashing ... I must say bowties on grooms always make me smile extra big.

Fiance, to groom, to husband all in one day. It looks good on you Pat.

Bam! Married!

All I saw coming out of the ceremony were smiles galor.

My first and only wedding with only 8 bridesmaids, and 1 maid of honor.

Theses ladies were hot stuff I tell ya.

Shoes!

I love these guys.

^Brought to you by Tina Leu. Yep Ica Images loves her too.

Tina rocked alot of the detail shots :) .. wahoo!

The dancing was insane during their reception, and I loved it .. correction both me and Tina loved it. But for now I'll keep it to these two photos, for everyone's sake. ;)

Michelle and Pat your wedding day was so beautiful, and it's been so much fun getting to know you both over the years. I'm so happy for you both and I'm excited for all the love, and laughs and stories your marriage will be filled with. I love you both and congrats again!

Happy Weekend Everyone!

Featured: A pretty Proposal

2011-09-27T23:04:00.000-07:00

After months of waiting to share these photos ... they've finally resurfaced on Forget Me Knot Weddings' Blog this week.

Back in May two of my nearest and dearest friends, Reinna & Christian came to visit .. and get engaged.

It was quite a production and Christian really out did himself {he should really be a wedding planner/ wedding photographer}.

Read more of their story here, here, here, or here.

Congrats to two love birds and I can't wait to see you both again .. I love you two so very mucho!

If you aren't floored by their cuteness, and creativity ... stick around and watch their Save The Date!!

Sooo fun!

See the rest of their engagement photos here and have a great week folks!

Personal: I'm Back

2011-09-16T18:24:00.000-07:00

... from a wonderful week in New York.

I'm thrilled to be home after running uptown, downtown, in a cab, on the subway and beating up on my poor little feet.

But that goes without saying, I loved every second of it.

It's the longest I've ever been in the city and I'm excited I got to know it alot better

with the company of some really awesome people.

Hope you all have a great weekend and enjoy this lovely fall weather.

Teaser: Fall weather, Friday Wedding

2011-09-16T18:08:00.000-07:00

The air is crisp and cool, and full of love.

Today's wedding ceremony was quiet a treat.

Congrats Rachel & Keith!

Teaser: A California family shoot in Central Park

2011-09-13T17:42:00.000-07:00

Day 2 in The Big Apple working and having fun ... lots of fun.

Today was just as fabulous as yesterday, and my oh my was it sweet to spend my morning with this lovely little family in Central Park.

The Barretts are simply amazing.

Can't wait to share more.

Teaser: In a New York Minute

2011-09-12T19:33:00.000-07:00

Just as quickly as I get home from one trip, I'm on the next bus out of DC to NY.

I praise God for this adventure filled, busy season. And I also praise God for beautiful friends who've made this season that much more special.

I can't say I'm the first and only to shoot these two lovebirds during their engagement season, I have to give the credit to

one of my dearest friends Christian Cruz for shooting their incredible engagement pictures in LA.

But this story has two sides; half took place in California, the other half in New York.

I was honored to help my dear friends document their East Coast side of the story.

Which ever coast you land on Melody and Ian, I know the Lord's plan for you both are wonderful and great. I can hardly wait for your wedding!
I love you guys and man I can't wait to share more of your photos!!

Happy Monday Friends!

*Ps. I know I might be a day late. But we will never forget. {9.11}

Teaser: One amazing day.

2011-09-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

One beautiful couple, one amazing day, one beautiful wedding.

Happy Wedding Day Lenny & Leigh, today was simply a treat!

Travel: Sweet Georgia Peaches

2011-09-08T14:50:00.000-07:00

Late last month I took a trip down south with one of my favorite families to shoot a wedding and adventure around for a week.

We made a stop in Charlotte, NC; Columbia, SC; Kiawah Island, SC ... and finally our destination:

Savannah, Georgia.

The first night on the road we stayed in Charlotte and had dinner with my dearest Hope and a group of her highschool friends. Meeting these guys was a long time coming.

A lot of love goes out to my darling friend Hope. I love her to a million pieces and

wouldn't have done any of this without her.

I wish I saw more of you Kiawah Island, but we'll save that for another adventure.

Finally Savannah.

I've had this on going love affair with Georgia since the very first wedding I shot. I've been there every summer since, hopefully booking a Georgia wedding every summer from here until forever. It's my little paradise away from home; old oaks, historic buildings, sun, shore, and romance. And though it might not be everyone's favorite place in the world, Georgia has a special place in my heart and each time I go back I fall more and more in love.

Who did I go with?

Well this beautiful family of course. I love them so much.

Most especially these sisters.

Mariah, Jessica, Hope ... you three are simply the best and thanks for letting me be the 4th sister for a week.

I can't say much more about Georgia without just letting you take a look for yourselves.

Of course I went down there to work, but I sure did play, and dance, and adventure.

I was told to drop my camera and dance while shooting the wedding ... and of course I did. {With my bride and groom dancing behind me on the dance floor! Love love love this job.}

The day after the wedding was vacation time to the max.

Spent some time at the pool, and downtown on River Street shopping, enjoying as much of Savannah as possible.

If I could do college over again with endless money to spend ...

At the end of our Georgia adventures we went out for some Leopold's famous icecream.

All together Savannah was the perfect get-away. I can't wait to go back, and if you haven't been .. go.

Teaser: Today's sweet-tease

2011-09-02T18:11:00.000-07:00

Today's wedding was so fun, and so full of love I can't help but share some of today's goodness.

Can't wait to share more.

Teasers: A southern Wedding

2011-08-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was one of the most magical weddings I've ever been a part of.

Georgia, Georgia, Georgia ... you spoil me rotten.

Congrats to Neil & Jess!

Personal: In her shoes

2011-08-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

Hi friends, hope you are having a great week!

I haven't been around lately because I've been traveling every week since the beginning of August. I've been in and out of town and am currently writing this entry from the living room floor of this weekend's bride's home in Columbus, South Carolina. Try saying that 10 times fast. We're headed down to Savanna, Georgia late this evening with friends {my bride and her family} and I can't wait because you know I have a sweet spot for Georgia. Any ways earlier this month I spoiled my feet with this pretty new pair of heels in hopes that they won't disown me by the end of this wedding season from abusing them. We both love shoes, so let's pray I stay in their good graces.

Besides shooting weddings, I did something super brave recently. I finally mustered up the courage to sing {and play the guitar} at open mic night at Bloom Bars this week. I'm not spectacular at either but I love doing both. If you know me ... you'd know that I get really nervous really fast but reguardless I always get through. I still get nervous at every wedding I shoot but I push through it each and every time. This all happened thanks to a few of my loves who push me to live a little and I'm glad I did. Now would I ever do it again? I don't know, I nearly peed my pants from nervousness ... so we'll see. Maybe someday.

Lastly, on another note I had to make a quick shout out to my lovely friends Eddie and Melinda, my client's from last summer who just celebrated their 1 year anniversary. I just got an email from Melinda who shared a blog post of hers with the song her friends wrote and sung on their wedding day during their first dance. It's a moment I will never forget as a photographer, because I was sobbing like a baby behind my camera during the whole song in awe of their love. Here is their beautiful song. Happy Anniversary you two.

Happy Wednesday!!

Teasers: Growing Families

2011-08-12T11:06:00.000-07:00

My big sis is 7 month preggos. We're all super excited and I can't wait

to share all the photos from her maternityshoot.

And this little family has a special place in my heart.

Baby Cole has gotten soo big.

Happy Weekend to you all. I'm off to spend time with my own wonderful fam.

Personal: Random App & Retreat

2011-08-09T19:05:00.000-07:00

This past weekend has been quite a fun filled, restful, encouraging weekend and I'm kind of sad it's all over. After 3 years of missing out, I was finally able to join my church family on our annual church retreat.

We spent all weekend, fellowshiping, playing games, singing paises, enjoying God's creations, and most importantly spending time in God's word and falling more in love with Him. I feel renewed, and challenged by all I've learned. And I'm so excited for what God is doing in my life, how He is growing my heart for Him and His people.

1. My road trip buddies, my fam and little Gabby.

2. Spending time in God's word, and enjoying creations.

3. Scenes around camp. Camp Bethel, VA

Though I could blog a couple hundred photos from this weekend, this crazy fun app I got on my phone let's me sum up the weekend in 3 lovely photo booth strips. I'm totally addicted to this app from my {Windows} phone called photofunia {which is also a fun photo website}. Try it out, I'm sure you'll love it.

Another favorite shot I took with my phone this weekend. Happy week friends!

Engaged: Rachel & Keith

2011-08-04T18:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes love happens ...

when someone walks back into your life.

Meet Rachel.

And Keith.

He was interested, she wasn't. Till they meet again years later.

Sometimes love needs a second chance, time to grow. Or people need time.

Or sometimes it takes a double take for you to appreciate what you have in front of you.

And that's exactly what happened here.

Love takes you by surprise sometimes, and when it happens ....

you gotta grab it and hold it tight, because it might not come again.

They way she hugs him for just a second longer, or the way he looks at her and beams with pride,

you know that this love isn't going any where.

It's the kind of story that authors only dream up and jot down I tell ya.

{Side note* they're CAPS fans too! Be still my little heart :) }

Keith and Rachel, you have a beautiful, comfortable love ... thank you for sharing your story with me.

I can't wait to see the rest of your story unfold and for your wedding day to get here.

Congrats you love birds.

Maternity: Leslie

2011-08-02T15:07:00.000-07:00

First comes love, then comes marriage ... then comes a baby in a baby carriage.

{Well after a 9 month baking period of couse ;)! hehe

Meet Leslie, and her little one.

Just like every expecting mother, she was beaming with pride and love for her baby girl growing in her belly.

The sun came in a out of the trees sporadically that day but it was lovely all the same.

Seriously there's something in an expecting mother's smile that just oozes love. My older sister who is expecting is just the same, and it's something so beautiful and special, it's like you can see their love for their little one already growing.

And just because you're rocking a baby bump doesn't mean you have to give up on beauty. Leslie's just another example proving you can be just as fierce and lovely while expecting {and just wait for my sister, she's absolutely adorable preggos!}. If you ask me pregnant women are just about the most gorgeous women on earth because I know only God could use strong, and courageous women to bring children into this world, and still be so graceful with a baby growing in their belly.

Leslie you've made pregnancy look so chic!

To all you summer mama's out there you are beautiful and wonderful and you stay cool from this summer heat ok!

Leslie, thank you so much for giving me a call and having me capture this beautiful stage in your life. God has blessed you with the best job in the world, being a mother. I know you'll do a wonderful job as a mom and your family will be even more complete than it already is. Happy Baby Girl!!! And congrats!

Inspiration: Summer Smiles

2011-07-29T21:31:00.000-07:00

Things that have made me smile lately.

- mangoes ... lots of mangoes

- sweet music that keep's my feet tapping to the beat

- late night conversations about God with my best friend

- the Word

- raiding the {wedding} magazine rack at all the local Borders stores.

{***Brides I thought of you all, if you want to rack up on bridal magazines now's the best time to go :) ***}

- a fresh trim

- summer evenings spent with dear friends

Happy Weekend friends! Hope you're enjoy your summer!!

Teasers: Summer Love

2011-07-25T15:48:00.000-07:00

It's the summer of love, and awesome engagement shoots.

Happy Teasers :)

Engaged: Michelle & Patrick

2011-07-25T15:28:00.000-07:00

Meet Pat and Michelle, friends I made at the very first wedding I shot.

Both from the south, Pat is from originally from Georgia and Michelle from Alabama but call DC home.

Pat actually proposed not too far from where we did their engagement pictures, on a building over looking the capital.

In the last few years I've been able to travel with Pat and Michelle to 3 Southern weddings, all of which I shot. Each trip and each wedding was filled with fun and silly memories, I was thrilled that they too gave me a call to shoot photos of their love and their wedding.

Pat and Michelle I can see where you both get your big hearts and your kind spirits, it definitely comes from your families. And you're silliness and your love for life I can see rubs off a lot from the wonderful friends you have around you.

Your love is beautiful and it's been such a beautiful sight seeing your love grow and blossom over the years.

Thank you for allowing me to capture your wonderful smiles and your big love, and for allowing me to shoot your wedding day and allowing me to call your family and friends my own friends too.

Truth be told, Pat and Michelle are actually married now.

This post is just a little overdue but better late than never right?

Congrats again Michelle and Pat! I love you both and I can't wait to share your wedding photos!

Here's a little teaser from their Romantic Old Town wedding. Stay tuned for more.

Happy Monday folks, hope you're living up your summer :) !

Personal: Family Vacation

2011-07-22T12:21:00.000-07:00

Summer time = adventures with the family.

And just as we try to do ever year we set off for the beach, with my cousins,

my mom, big sister and a new addition to our trip this year was the boyfriend

{also baby boy bump over there} ... we were sad my brother in law had work all weekend.

It was a pretty sweet trip.

And utterly relaxing.

Dear Beach House you were a lot of fun.

Hope your summer had been just as swell. And Happy weekending folks!

Portraits: Holmes Family {Part 2}

2011-07-21T13:32:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago I got to spend a beautiful Saturday morning with a beautiful family..

Meet the Holmes Family, again.

They have a beautiful home and quite a beautiful back yard.

Tire swing included.

I don't know if you remember these guys. It's been a long time coming {2 years actually} since I last shot them, now we were finally able to finish the last leg of their "Christmas present" to their mom; a complete family photoshoot.

Two Christmas' ago, yes two ... the Holmes kids gave me a call to do a shoot for their family in two parts. First was photos of just the kids, the second part was portraits of the whole family after Christmas. Here are their parents and the reason for all these pretty pictures.

Even the lovely ladies of the Holmes' men are amazing, and complete this family like pieces to a puzzle.

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Holmes, your love is something so beautiful.

Your home, your family, and your kindness is contagious and I was so honored to be in your company.

Ps. Mrs. Holmes that blue wedding dress of yours is one of the most beautiful dresses ever.

Happy Thursday friends!

Engaged: Abby and Drew

2011-07-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

This is Abby and Drew. This was an extra sweet shoot for me because Abby is actually my boyfriend's younger sister, and a dear friend of mine. I love them both a ton and I'm soooo excited for their wedding ... but most importantly I'm so excited to see God bless them through marriage and all that He has in store for them down the road.

If you can't tell already, Abby is a total sweetheart. She looks the part, and she really is the part. Abby is the kind of girl you take home to your parents, the kind of girl you're proud to be friends with, the kind of girl who wins at everything, and successed at everything she goes after. The kind of girl who, by being in her presence, makes you want to be a better person. I'm not sure I've ever said this to Abby, but she's just that kind of girl and I'm beyond blessed to have her in my life. Plus she and my best friend kind of set up me and my boyfriend, so she deserves many thanks!

Her and Drew have been together for years now and met during highschool. Drew is truly her other half, he's silly and kind, sweet and giving and they both bring out the best in each other.

Me, my boyfriend, Abby and Drew have spent countless double dates with each other so seeing them together is nothing unusual. But going out and taking their engagement photos made it sink in that these two will be husband and wife by the spring time next year.

My fave.

Alright so story is that though these two met during highschool, they went to college together at the University of Maryland {College Park}.

And the mall in the middle of campus {right in the middle of the green field} is where Drew proposed.

Yup, can you say college sweethearts?

Drew and Abs I love you guys and I can't wait till your wedding.

Double date? hehe

Happy Weekend Friends!!!

Teasers: A weekend full of photo fun

2011-06-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

My weekend was jam packed with photoshoots, summer fun, and lots of lovely faces.

Here are a few teasers from this weekend.

Love.

There's lots of love to go around these days, and I'm smitten by it.

Teaser: Wedding white & Photographers galor

2011-06-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

The last wedding I did was too too wonderful, filled with beauty, love endless fun.

I've never felt more like a kid at a wedding.

Lots of love goes out to Carissa and Andrew {For You Love Me} whom I got to work side by side with this weekend. It was a joy to work with these love birds and even more of a blessing to now call them friends.

The fun doesn't end there...

That same weekend I met up with two very dear friends and amazing photographers at my favorite store just to catch up, share hugs and spend a few moments in each others company.

I haven't seen Kristen's pretty face in a while, and I haven't seen Julia in about two years it was a amazing to see them both after so long.

I love my friends. And Julia a little extra love goes out to you because we've missed your face around here ... even this here blog.

{Julia, Jessica and Kristen are still the ones to thank for helping me decide with "Ica Images" and helped me design my little logo. Ica Images would be nothing without these lovely ladies}

Hope your week is lovely friends!!.

Inspiration: Summer Tunes

2011-06-10T17:03:00.000-07:00

It's summer. {Ok, not technically .. but it feels like summer around here}

Here are some of my new favorite tunes that are on my summer playlist,

not to mention they all have the most beautiful, and simple videos.

If my pictures could sing, I'd want them to sound just like this...

Enjoy and Happy Weekend!!

Film: Life in Action {Lomography}

2011-06-07T23:14:00.000-07:00

Life's been moving quite fast lately. I'm trying hard to capture it before it passes me by.

Happy Wednesday friends!

Film: Navy Wedding

2011-06-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been truly inspired to shoot film again. It's definitely a lost art, and still one of my favorite things to do. Though I don't have my own dark room, nor do I have the resources to develop my own film, Target is my go-to place when I'm feeling extra creative and will develop my film for me. Woo-hoo Target!

Anyways ... this last wedding I shoot {the Navy wedding} I wanted to challenged myself to shoot not just digital, but to in film. Boy was I was nervous, but it was something I've been dying to try so I just went for it. Looking at my images they turned out pretty sweet, but now I know where I can make improvements and I'm going to keep at it till I'm satisfied.

You don't know what you can do till you try right? So I did. And here's what came out.

I shot all of these with my big sister's fully manual FM10 we've been Nikon girls from the start. It made me nervous that I really had to rely 100% on my manual skills because having no LCD screen to show me my shots felt like shooting blind. But it was exhilarating and worth it, I'm so glad I gave it a try.

I know alot of my digital shots are the same as these, but it's giving me somewhere to start and a place to compare and contrast. I can definitely see a difference with my digital shots and my film shots. To start, my digital shots are definitely "creamier" than my film shots, but I know what needs to be done differently with film to get the "creaminess" back.

*This is my favorite film shot by far. Her veil was too beautiful and "the blurriness makes the picture come to life" as Jose Villa would say and for lack of a better word.

There are two major things I know I can do differently next time, First is the film speed. I just grabbed what I had readily available to me in my camera bag, which was Fuji 400 colored film. Nothing fancy, I know. But now I know I'm going to definitely need something faster like Kodak Professional Portra 800 film or Fujicolor Pro 800z, which are also pricier but worth it. I bought a roll of the Kodak Portra 800 today so we'll see how that goes.

And secondly the lens choice. I decided to shoot with the original lens my sister got with the camera that day because I reserved all my prime lenses for my digital slr, which was my main camera. I believe the lens I used on film was something comparable to a 28-80mm 3.5-5.6 lens, but don't quote me on that. What I love about Nikon is that all the lens made in the last 30 years I believe are interchangeable with most if not all Nikon camera bodies {expect for full frame cameras/lenses}. So I know I'm able to shoot with my prime lenses on the FM10 and when I do I'll get back that creamy, shallow depth of field I love so much.

There are a few other things I could have done differently, and I know I can improve ... but this was a trial and error of sorts and my first go at shooting film in a long time. But with that said and done, I'm still pretty happy with how things came out.

Stay tuned because I'll be posting more film adventures as I continue to practice and re-learn my way around film. It's going to be a fun ride.

Ps. My apologies if this post seems a bit redundant with images, since I posted this ceremony already ... but thanks so much for sticking around.

Personal: Bridesmaid????

2011-06-02T15:18:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite friends in the whole world, Reinna and Christian are back in town.

They'll be here till the weekend, then they'll make their way up to Delaware to shoot a wedding.

Last time they were here, they got engaged...

{I know, I know ... pictures are still coming and they are worth waiting for, promise.}

But here's just one more spoiler from that special day back in May.

I love these two soo much and at this very moment while I'm blogging, they are sitting behind me on my bedroom floor wedding planning. Wedding planning. AHHH!! It's all so very exciting.

Last night my sweet friends asked me to be part of this wedding planning goodness in such a sweet sweet way.

I squealed, we squealed and now, I'm officially a Bridesmaid!!! Gahhhhh! Reinna I can't wait! And I 'm so blessed to be part of your wedding. God has been so, so kind in blessing and growing our friendship over the years. You are more than just a friend, you're a sister and I love you so much. All these years of talk about the future, I can't believe it's already here. We're definitely not kids any more, but I'm blessed that we are still so close, if not closer than ever.

It doesn't stop there. Christian, who I consider one of my nearest and dearest friends also, got me this beautiful book I've been wanting for some time {I just never got around to ordering it}. He tweeted about crying the moment he got the book himself, then last month showed me the book and let me soak in as much as possible. And now, he's gotten me my own copy to find inspiration from. Chris, you are too much friend. Thank you for always being so kind, and for always inspiring me, or sharing inspiration with me. Your proposal was beyond belief amazing, I know you and Reinna will have the most beautiful wedding ever.

My heart is full and I'm so blessed to have such wonderful friends.

As for my tummy, it's kindda empty. So off to the kitchen I go to cook up some Korean BBQ for these California kids. It's wedding season, and I love it!! Love love love it!

Happy Thursday friends!!

Personal: It's that time again

2011-06-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

Though summer hasn't officially begun ...

It's that time again for lingering daylight, warm nights, and ferris wheels.

Fun nights out with the family.

When west coast brothers come "home" again.

When ice cream is everywhere, and screams and laughter are heard from a distance.

Warm nights where sometimes you have to do some screaming yourself.

Hi mom!

Or warm nights seeing a loving married couple sit where a engaged couple once sat. It's hard to believe that it was already a year ago when I shot my sister and bro-ski's engagement photos at this same little spot. So much has changed since then, for one they are now preggos but they are also moving soon to make room for baby dearest.

What hasn't changed is sister's craving for deep fried oreos, just don't tell her doctor she was chowing down on that deep fried goodness. Hahah. These bad boys were so yummy, though I can't have more than 2 since they are so rich.

Yumm, yumm, and yumm.

It's spontaneous warm nights with the fam like these that start the summer off right.

Before I end this here .... I love them, my family that is. They love me for me, even when me isn't the best me possible. Even when I mess up {big or small}, or look crazy when I dance around when no music is playing. Through it all they love me. I love them so.

Engaged: Meghan & Mike {Washington, DC}

2011-05-31T18:08:00.000-07:00

Meet these two good looking college sweethearts Mike and Meghan.

Boy meets girl.

Besides love for each other, Mike and Meghan both love the Lord.

They both were very involved with Cru while at Maryland and will be continuing to serve in the ministry full time, together this coming next school year. It's such a beautiful thing to see couples like Mike and Meghan go into the ministry together.

Meghan you are such hot stuff!

Mike and Meghan also have a very sweet, fun love. It was a joy to shoot with them.

And it was a joy to shoot amongst the cherry trees.

I loved Meghan's flats so much I bought a pair for myself not long after :).

Congrats Mike and Meghan!! I pray for nothing but the best for you both in this new stage in your lives. I know that the Lord will continue to use you both mightily to help mentor and serve others, as you have been used before. Your testimony is such a blessing and I am so thankful that you asked me to capture your love and your lovely faces.

Wedding: Joseph & Christina {Naval Academy Ceremony; Annapolis, MD}

2011-05-30T09:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial day to you all!

In lue of this wonderful holiday and in honor of all the men and women who serve to protect us each and every day, I wanted to share this weekend's wedding with you. I had the incredible opportunity to shoot a beautiful, intimate military wedding. Hope you enjoy!!

This singular moment is one I will never forget, and helped me and my second shooter {My best friend, Em} get to know my bride and her wonderful family.

Christina, the bride and her sister are closer than close and share a bond that is so special. While Christina was doing her sister's Jenny's hair I asked who's older and Christina replied,

"I'm older, but she {her baby sister} is my role model."

Em and I fought hard to push away tears because we were so touched. After spending the whole day with their family you can definitely tell it runs in the family.

Now get ready for some Navy goodness.

Joshua, the groom graduated from the Naval Academy the day before their wedding and is now a Ensign and wore is whites to his wedding, it was incredible.

First look magic. He saw her, she saw him and they beamed.

Christina rocked her Texas pride with her incredible orange peeptoes. Awesome shoes make me smile.

After seeing each other for the first time that day Joshua took us around the Academy

to take more pictures, and I felt so honored and spoiled it was all so regal.

There ceremony was held in none other than the Naval Academy Chapel itself which was one breath taking sight.

And with 30 of their closest friends and family they said I do and became man and wife, or Ensign and wife if you will.

That last thing we did on campus was one for the record books. With special permission we were allowed to shoot in the Superintendent's garden. The Sup's garden was a treat for not just me, but a first time for the bride and groom and their immediate family also.

I'm still on a high from their wedding day I was so blessed and honored to have been part of it. Christina and Joseph's love is so precious and their wedding was the most perfect way to celebrate this holiday weekend. A awesome shout out goes to my best friend Em-em for being my 2nd and I love you for sticking with me the whole day.

*Stay tuned for their Baltimore reception,

yes Annapolis ceremony and Baltimore reception. It was just as grand and filled with just as much love if not more. It's too much goodness for one blog post so keep checking back friends. Happy Memorial day!!!

Us: Our dates

2011-05-26T18:38:00.000-07:00

I use to be better about keeping track of "us" here on this blog.

I want to do better ...

because the stories of "us" are just as important to me as your stories,

the stories you let me capture and share with the world everyday.

Us.

I love us. Our dates, our conversations and our silliness. I love it all.

A while ago me and the boyfriend went to Jammin Java to watch a show for his birthday present, it was amazing.

Kina Grannis!!!

Both the The Imaginary Friend and Kina Grannis were incredible, I love good music but I love good live music even better.

It was our first time hearing The Imaginary Friend, and let me just say we both instantly fell in love with his music, and he was such a sweetheart and is letting me use his music on my website {You'll be hearing it soon}.

Lastly we stuck around for a meet and greet to end out little date.

{Thankfully one of Tim's highschool friend took this picture for us to keep forever. My camera could be overwhelming for most people haha}

Hope all you love birds out there are enjoying your time with your special someone!

Personal: Dog Days

2011-05-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

My cousin's dogs are the cutest and they are my favorite.

Daisy

And Mac

They make me smile.

Happy Tuesday friends.

Personal: The Californians Came, so The Lying Began

2011-05-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

THE CREINNA!!!

It all happened so fast, they came, they stayed, they got engaged, then they went. It all sounds so simple, but let me tell you ... from where I was standing nothing was simple that weekend. Nothing. And it was brilliant.

Two of my favorite friends in the whole world, Reinna and Christian came to "visit me and my little family here in VA" but really they came here to get engaged. The lying began the moment they landed.

The night they arrived was the first hurdle we had to jump over, Christian was proposing the next day and Reinna already knew something was going down during this trip {hopefully a proposal}. So we had one night and one chance to throw her completely off so that she wasn't expecting a ring in Virginia.

We talked, planned and schemed and finally Christian had a brilliant idea to draft up an "Engaged to be Engaged" contract with Reinna's parents before getting here and reveal it to Reinna the night they arrived. A contract to be engaged? I know it sounds crazy, but it was a fool proof plan, seriously.

Ever heard of a Boyfriend Contract? No neither had I until my darling friends told me that their parents seriously made their boyfriends sign a boyfriend contract to set rules, and state intentions before courting their daughters, true story.

We got dinner ready, I helped set the mood and dimmed the lights in our dinning room then we were ready to get our lying on!

"HEY WHAT ARE YOU GUYS DOING UP THERE?" -Reinna

We came downstairs then it began.

Oh that face Chris. Up to no good, because see Reinna's? She screamed "I was dreaming about this last night", this meaning Christian proposing. But He lied, I lied, and we basically crushed her little heart.

It got serious, I hid my laughter, She bought it and it worked like a charm.

It was a crazy night having my west coast loves back in my hometown again. We hung out all night catching up on all the time we've missed since my last trip to their coast. Even if we only see each other 3-4 times a year, once we're together it's like no time has past and we pick up right where we left off. What I love even more is that regardless of what coast we're on, theirs or mine, it always feels like home. I've always thought that about California, it's makes me smile knowing that they too feel that about Virginia.

The night ended with talk about Christian's imaginary photoshoot he booked the next day.

It was the decoy for the plans he had set for the next day, the real reason for their trip. The real engagement, not just a contract.

Christian, you are truly a master of disguise and you pulled it off friend, I'm talking bout that towel .. haha.

I can't wait to share all about their real engagement, it was magical and

unforgettable and worth all the secrets, stay tuned friends. It's coming.

For now go send some love and congratulations their way:

Reinna and Christian

Inspiration: Vivian Maier

2011-05-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

I was up way past any normal sort of bed time last night because of photographs. Not just any photographs, but photographs that are so real, and honest, and brilliant I was literally brought to tears flipping through them. I don't know how I landed on her images, but last night was the first time I stumbled upon the photography of Vivian Maier.

*source

I was incredibly moved reading about her life and looking at her images,

it's really given me a new love and respect for photography and what I leave behind when this life is through.

Vivian Maier was no world class photographer in her time, she was a nanny, a care giver who simply roamed the streets of New York, Chicago capturing life as it happened all around her on her days off. She never showed her images with others, nor did she see her entire body of work in her own lifetime. This woman is incredible, I seriously want to cry I'm so amazed.

I think I just found my all time favorite, and if you haven't seen her work or know her story I hope you head over here

and find as much inspiration as I have from her body of work.

Ps. Now after seeing her work, and getting a taste of Jose Villa's Fine Arts book, I'm truly considering going film.

If not all film I'm definitely considering keeping film on me at all times now. I miss being in a dark room.